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30 Best Gluten-Free Restaurants on the Big Island

Looking for the best gluten-free restaurants on the Big Island of Hawaii? Whether you’re visiting with celiac disease, a gluten intolerance, or you simply feel better avoiding gluten, this guide has you covered.

I also have gluten-free guides for other islands:

• 32 Best Gluten-Free Restaurants in Kauai
• 50 best gluten-free restaurants in Maui

The Big Island is, well, big: it’s larger than all the other Hawaiian islands combined, and that means a lot of ground to cover. The good news is that almost every region has solid gluten-free options, from dedicated gluten-free kitchens in Waikoloa to oceanfront poke shacks in Kona, farm-to-table dining in Waimea, and food trucks in Hilo.

I’ve organized this list by region so you can easily find gluten-free food no matter where you’re staying, whether that’s Kailua-Kona, the Kohala Coast, Waimea, Hilo, or Volcano.

Who am I? I’m glad you asked! My name is Amy, and I’m a travel agent specializing in honeymoons and Hawaii vacations. More importantly to the topic at hand, I have Celiac disease, so I’m strictly gluten-free! I’ve also helped many clients with Celiac or gluten intolerance, along with other dietary restrictions. Contact me today for help with your Hawaii vacation – gluten-free or not!

A car is an absolute must on the Big Island. The drive from Kona to Hilo alone can take close to two hours, and many of the restaurants on this list are an hour or more apart, so plan your route with that in mind. Make sure to grab a rental from Discount Hawaii Rental Cars!

Dedicated and Best Gluten-Free Restaurants on the Big Island

If you have celiac disease or are especially sensitive to cross-contact, these are the safest bets on the island since gluten isn’t part of the equation.

1. Racha Thai

Address: 68-1845 Waikoloa Rd, Waikoloa Village, HI 96738 (also a location at 67-1185 Mamalahoa Hwy Ste E112, Waimea, HI 96743)

Racha Thai is a fully gluten-free Thai restaurant with locations in Waikoloa Village and Waimea. No gluten is served whatsoever, so this is one of the few places on the island where a celiac can order almost anything on the menu without worry. The curries and pad see ew are favorites.

2. Tenkatori

Address: 74-5533 Luhia St K4, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 (also 811 Laukapu St #1, Hilo, HI 96720)

Tenkatori specializes in Japanese-style gluten-free fried chicken, made in a dedicated gluten-free fryer with gluten-free flour and soy sauce. With locations in both Kona and Hilo, it’s a rare treat for celiacs craving crispy karaage or chicken katsu without any of the worry.

Best Gluten-Free Breakfast, Juice & Bakery Spots on the Big Island

Start your day off right with these gluten-free-friendly breakfast spots, juice bars, and bakeries.

3. Island Lava Java

Address: 75-5801 Ali’i Dr, Building A1, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

One of the restaurants I was asked to include, and for good reason: Island Lava Java is a Kailua-Kona institution right in the Coconut Grove Marketplace. The menu has gluten-free items clearly marked, the staff is knowledgeable about celiac needs, and the garden scramble and gluten-free fish tacos are both excellent. It’s a great spot for breakfast with an ocean view.

4. 808 Grindz Cafe

Address: 75-5660 Kopiko St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

This cozy breakfast spot is a local favorite for pancakes and omelets, with gluten-free options available throughout the menu. It’s takeout-only and closes by early afternoon, so get there early for the best selection.

5. Hungry Honu

Address: 75-5719 Alii Dr Ste 1D, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

Hungry Honu is a casual cafe with fruit smoothies, 100% Kona coffee, and all-day breakfast, plus gluten-free pizza and sandwiches. It’s a convenient stop if you’re staying along Alii Drive and want something quick that won’t leave you feeling sick.

6. Journey Cafe Big Island

Address: 75-5729 Ali’i Dr C-106, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

A vegan cafe where almost any dish can be made gluten-free on request, including crepes, acai bowls, and tacos. The dairy-free desserts are a nice treat if you’re missing soft serve or ice cream while traveling.

Best Gluten-Free Restaurants in Kailua-Kona

Kailua-Kona is the main hub on the west side of the island, and it has the largest concentration of gluten-free-friendly dining.

7. Kamana Kitchen

Address: 75-5770 Alii Dr Suite 2-3, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

Another must-include! Kamana Kitchen is an excellent Indian restaurant where most of the menu is naturally gluten-free. This is a personal favorite of mine, and has been for years. 

8. Kona Inn Restaurant

Address: 75-5744 Alii Dr Ste 135, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

The third restaurant on my must-include list, and for one big reason: the mai tais here are the best on the Big Island. The food is only okay, but the staff is knowledgeable about gluten-free dining. Even if you don’t eat here, it’s worth a stop for a mai tai and to watch the sunset. 

This is also one of the best happy hours on the Big Island. 

9. Da Poke Shack

Address: 76-6246 Ali’i Dr Ste 101, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

This tiny takeout poke shop has a cult following, and for good reason: there are usually four or more gluten-free poke options along with several gluten-free sides. Just stick to the poke made without shoyu if you’re sensitive, or ask which ones use gluten-free tamari. Expect a line, but it moves quickly.

10. Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill

Address: 74-5599 Pawai Pl, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

Umekes sources its fish from local fishermen and offers several varieties of gluten-free poke alongside other fresh seafood dishes. It’s a relaxed, casual spot that’s popular with locals, so it’s a great way to eat well away from the more touristy strip.

11. Kai Eats + Drinks

Address: 75-5776 Ali’i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

This oceanfront restaurant in downtown Kona has a dedicated gluten-free menu and a staff that’s careful about cross-contact. It’s a lovely spot to watch the sunset over a cocktail while you eat.

12. Broke Da Mouth Grindz

Address: 74-5565 Luhia St #110, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

For a taste of local Filipino-Hawaiian comfort food, Broke Da Mouth Grindz offers a gluten-free menu alongside its famous garlic chicken and adobo plates. It’s not a dedicated gluten-free kitchen, so mention your needs when ordering.

13. Bianelli’s Pizza & Pasta

Address: 78-6831 Ali’i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

If you’re craving pizza, Bianelli’s offers gluten-free crusts alongside vegan options, with well-reviewed Neapolitan-style pies. It’s a nice change of pace from poke and plate lunches.

Best Gluten-Free Restaurants on the Kohala Coast (Waikoloa)

The resort area along the Kohala Coast has several gluten-free-friendly spots, many of them clustered around the Kings’ Shops and Queens’ Marketplace.

14. Lava Lava Beach Club

Address: 69-1081 Ku’ualii Pl, Waikoloa, HI 96738

One of the restaurants I was asked to include, and one of the most beautiful spots on this whole list: Lava Lava Beach Club is a toes-in-the-sand restaurant right on Anaehoomalu Bay. They have a gluten-free menu with options like fish and shrimp ceviche on a crispy tostada and salads with vinaigrette. It’s not a dedicated kitchen, and the fryer isn’t gluten-free, so stick to the marked items, but the sunset views make it worth a visit regardless.

15. Foster’s Kitchen

Address: 69-250 Waikōloa Beach Dr Ste C01, Waikoloa, HI 96738

Foster’s Kitchen has a long list of gluten-free options and a dedicated gluten-free fryer, which is a rare and welcome find. The fried fish and gluten-free chocolate cake are both worth ordering.

16. Pueo’s Osteria

Address: 68-1820 Waikoloa Rd Ste 1201, Waikoloa Village, HI 96738

This Italian spot offers gluten-free pasta on request along with a cauliflower gluten-free pizza crust, which is a treat if you’ve been missing Italian food on your trip. Call ahead to make sure they have it available the day you visit.

17. Roy’s Waikoloa Bar & Grill

Address: 250 Waikoloa Beach Dr #E01, Waikoloa, HI 96738

Chef Roy Yamaguchi’s flagship Hawaii Regional Cuisine restaurant has a gluten-free menu and staff who are well versed in food allergies. It’s a great choice for a special occasion dinner on the Kohala Coast.

Best Gluten-Free Restaurants in Waimea & North Kohala

The upcountry town of Waimea (also called Kamuela) and the North Kohala district are home to some of the island’s best farm-to-table dining.

18. Gill’s Lanai

Address: 54-3866 Akoni Pule Hwy, Kapaau, HI 96755

The last of my must-include spots! Gill’s Lanai is a casual roadside eatery in the charming town of Kapaau, serving fresh, locally sourced fish, Big Island beef, and other scratch-made favorites.

The staff is knowledgeable about fryer cross-contamination, and the fish or pork tacos are not to be missed. It’s a fun stop on the drive around North Kohala.

19. Village Burger

Address: 67-1185 Hawaii Belt Rd, Waimea, HI 96743

Village Burger uses pasture-raised Hawaiian beef and offers gluten-free buns, with fries cooked in a dedicated fryer. It’s a great lunch stop if you’re exploring upcountry Waimea or heading toward Waipio Valley.

20. Merriman’s Waimea

Address: 65-1227 Opelo Rd, Kamuela, HI 96743

The original Merriman’s, this farm-to-table restaurant from chef Peter Merriman has long been a favorite for special occasions. They can adapt most dishes for gluten intolerance and celiac disease, and the menu highlights local produce and ranches. Reservations are recommended.

Best Gluten-Free Restaurant on the Hamakua Coast

The scenic Hamakua Coast between Hilo and Waimea is dotted with small towns and roadside stands.

21. What’s Shakin’

Address: 27-999 Old Mamalahoa Hwy, Pepeekeo, HI 96783

Tucked along the Onomea Bay scenic drive near the botanical gardens, this family-run smoothie stand and cafe offers gluten-free options including dishes served with gluten-free corn tortilla chips. It’s a refreshing stop on the drive between Hilo and the Hamakua Coast.

Best Gluten-Free Restaurants in Hilo

Hilo is the Big Island’s largest town and has a thriving, walkable downtown with several gluten-free-friendly spots.

Don’t miss my post with 20 things to do in Hilo.canva

22. Pineapples Island Fresh Cuisine

Address: 332 Keawe St, Hilo, HI 96720

Pineapples has a separate gluten-free menu with a wide selection of gluten- and vegan-friendly choices, plus live entertainment most evenings. It’s not a 100% gluten-free kitchen, so there’s some potential for cross-contamination, but the menu options are plentiful.

23. Hilo Bay Cafe

Address: 123 Lihiwai St, Hilo, HI 96720

This waterfront restaurant overlooking Hilo Bay has a dedicated gluten-free menu and a lovely setting for dinner. It’s a favorite among locals for a reason.

24. The Booch Bar

Address: 110 Keawe St, Hilo, HI 96720

The Booch Bar serves house-made kombucha and organic nitro cold brew alongside a menu designed with vegan, vegetarian, paleo, and gluten-free diners in mind. Gluten-free items are clearly marked, and the staff double-checks before food comes to the table.

25. Ken’s House of Pancakes

Address: 1730 Kamehameha Ave, Hilo, HI 96720

A 24-hour Hilo institution, Ken’s is the kind of old-school diner that’s been feeding locals for decades. Ask your server about gluten-free options when you arrive, since the menu is large and not everything is marked.

26. Cafe Pesto

Address: 308 Kamehameha Ave #101, Hilo, HI 96720

While the gluten-free pizza and pasta aren’t on the menu here, Cafe Pesto offers gluten-free stir fry, risotto, and fresh catch seafood in a comfortable downtown Hilo setting. It’s a solid choice if you’re craving something a little more upscale.

Best Gluten-Free Restaurants in Volcano

The village of Volcano, just outside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, has a surprising number of good dining options for such a small town.

27. Cafe Ono

Address: 19-3834 Old Volcano Rd, Volcano, HI 96785

Set in a beautiful garden estate, Cafe Ono is a vegetarian cafe with a daily vegan and gluten-free special, and everything on the menu is marked GF or vegan. It’s only open Friday through Sunday for lunch, so plan accordingly if you’re visiting the national park on a weekend.

28. Thai Thai Bistro & Bar

Address: 19-4084 Old Volcano Rd, Volcano, HI 96785

This family-run Thai restaurant has a wide variety of curries and noodle dishes, many of which are naturally gluten-free or can be made so on request. It’s a cozy, warm option after a chilly day exploring the volcano.

29. Lava Rock Cafe

Address: 19-3972 Old Volcano Rd, Volcano, HI 96785

A laid-back, affordable spot for breakfast or lunch near the park entrance, Lava Rock Cafe has been a Volcano Village staple for years. Let your server know about your gluten-free needs, since the menu isn’t extensively marked.

Best Gluten-Free Restaurant near Ka’u

The Ka’u district, on the southern tip of the island, is mostly known for coffee farms and the long drive between Volcano and Kona.

30. Punalu’u Bake Shop

Address: 95-5642 Mamalahoa Hwy, Naalehu, HI 96772

This famous bakery and visitor center, often called the southernmost bakery in the United States, offers gluten-free brownies and peanut butter coconut bars, and sandwiches can be made on a lettuce wrap or corn tortilla. It’s a fun roadside stop if you’re driving the long way between Kona and Volcano.

Tips for Eating Gluten-Free on the Big Island

Always mention celiac disease or a gluten allergy when ordering, even at places with a gluten-free menu, and confirm cross-contamination practices, especially for fryers.

Because the island is so large, plan your meals around whichever region you’re exploring that day rather than driving long distances just for one restaurant.

Reservations are recommended for popular spots like Merriman’s, Roy’s, and Lava Lava Beach Club, especially during peak season.

Gluten-free restaurants on the Big Island

I hope this list of gluten-free restaurants on the Big Island helps you plan your trip. The Big Island has so much variety, from the resorts of the Kohala Coast to the small towns of Hilo and Volcano, and there’s truly something for every gluten-free traveler.

If you want to work with a travel agent who really knows what it’s like to eat gluten-free in Hawaii, I’d love to help you plan your Big Island vacation or honeymoon! You can contact me to learn more.

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More Big Island Travel Tips:

• 15 free things to do on the Big Island
• Kona Coffee Farm Tours
• The 10 best farm tours on the Big Island of Hawaii
• 25 best things to do in Kona

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