# Best Restaurants in Waimea, Big Island
The last decade has seen Waimea, Big Island soar from a quaint, island beach town to one Hawaii's most coveted tourist destinations. The idyllic floury white sand of Hapuna Beach coupled with a feature in Hawaii magazine has put the Waimea area on the map. Tour buses and Waimea vacation rentals see tourists flocking here in droves for an opportunity to frolic in the Kohala Coastline and like any top tourist destination, people demand to eat!
Below you'll find some of the best places to eat in Waimea, many of which are uniquely Kailua. Aside from a few fast food joints, California Pizza Kitchen, Pieology, you're not going to recognize most menus here so live a little. We'll go out on a limb by saying you're not the type to play Russian Roulette and with that, we've aggregated our top picks for the Best Restaurants in Kailua in 2020 and have broken them down into categories to service organize your cravings. Loosen your belt and enjoy!
Fine dining options in Waimea
- **Merriman's Big Island** | 65-1227 Opelo Rd B, Waimea, HI 96743
This restaurant is owned by Peter Merriman, one of the founders of Hawaii Regional Cuisine. Merriman's uses locally sourced ingredients and offers a variety of dishes that reflect the diverse flavors of Hawaii. Their macadamia nut crusted mahi mahi is a must-try.
Red Water Cafe | 65-1299 Kawaihae Road, Waimea, HI 96743
An elegant dining establishment offering a fusion of American, European, Pacific Rim and Island-Style Cuisine. They are known for their use of locally sourced, fresh ingredients.
Menu: http://www.redwatercafe.com/Menus.html
The Noodle Club | 67-1185 Mamalahoa Highway, A106, Waimea, HI
While not "fine dining" in the traditional sense, The Noodle Club is a local favorite and serves up some of the best noodle dishes on the island, with gourmet touches and a focus on local, organic ingredients.
Big Island Brewhaus | 64-1066 Hawaiʻi Belt Rd, Waimea, HI 96743
Though it's more casual than a traditional fine dining restaurant, it's a must-visit in Waimea for any beer enthusiast. They serve up their award-winning beers along with Mexican-inspired food, often using local ingredients.
Menu: https://bigislandbrewhaus.com/online-menu/
Online Orders: https://www.toasttab.com/bigislandbrewhaus/v3
Blue Dragon Coastal Cuisine & Musiquarium | 61-3616 Kawaihae Rd, Waimea, HI 96743
Although it's a little drive to the coast, the Blue Dragon offers an interesting menu with locally sourced ingredients, a unique ambience, and live music.
Menu: https://www.bluedragontavern.com/evening/
Online Orders: toasttab.com