The Fish and Hog

For guests looking to explore beyond the resort areas and enjoy a more local, laid-back side of the Big Island, The Fish and Hog in Waimea makes a relaxed and memorable dining outing. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, smoked barbecue, fresh seafood, tropical cocktails, and homemade desserts, it’s the kind of place where guests can settle in comfortably after a scenic drive through the Kohala countryside.

The atmosphere feels casual, friendly, and genuinely local — a nice change of pace for guests who enjoy discovering different parts of the island during their stay at Hale Mele.

About the Experience

Located in Waimea along Hawaiʻi Belt Road, The Fish and Hog is a full-service restaurant and bar offering a mix of barbecue favorites, fresh fish dishes, tropical cocktails, local beers, and house-made desserts. The restaurant is designed to feel approachable and comfortable, with separate dining areas that create a welcoming, relaxed experience for couples, families, groups of friends, and multigenerational travelers alike.

From Hale Mele, the drive typically takes about 25 to 35 minutes, depending on traffic and your exact route through the Kohala Coast and Waimea areas. Many guests enjoy pairing the outing with a scenic drive through Waimea’s rolling hills, paniolo country landscapes, local shops, or nearby farmers markets earlier in the day.

The atmosphere is casual and unfussy, making it easy to linger over dinner, share plates together, or enjoy a slower evening away from the busier resort areas. Guests who appreciate locally loved restaurants with personality and warm hospitality often enjoy the relaxed energy here.

The Fish and Hog is also proudly women-owned and LGBTQ+ friendly, creating a welcoming environment for a wide variety of guests visiting the island.

Why Guests May Love It

• A relaxed local dining experience outside the main resort areas
• Scenic drive through Waimea and the Kohala countryside
• Comfortable atmosphere that works well for families, couples, and groups
• Fresh seafood, barbecue, tropical cocktails, and homemade desserts in one place
• A welcoming, community-centered environment with a laid-back Big Island feel

Helpful Tips

• The restaurant does not accept reservations, so arriving a little earlier for dinner can help reduce wait times
• Current hours are typically Thursday through Monday from 11:30 AM to 8:30 PM, with closures on Tuesdays and Wednesdays
• Waimea evenings can feel cooler than the coast, so bringing a light sweater or jacket is helpful
• Parking is generally straightforward, though busier evenings may require a short wait
• Guests are encouraged to confirm current hours and dining policies directly with the restaurant before visiting, especially during holidays or seasonal schedule changes

Hale Mele Note

For guests spending several days on the island, The Fish and Hog offers a nice opportunity to experience a different side of the Big Island beyond the beaches and resorts. After a scenic drive through Waimea and a relaxed meal together, many guests enjoy returning to Hale Mele for a quiet evening, ocean air, and a slower island pace that makes the day feel complete.