In Town for IRONMAN? Here Are 8 Tasty Options for Healthy Meals in Kona
Find healthy places to eat in Kona with this handy guide.
It’s that time of the year when elite athletes from across the globe test their mettle in the annual IRONMAN competition. Recent changes to the race format have seen the competition split between Kailua-Kona for the women’s competition and Nice, France for the men’s. But even as the competition sizes down, plenty of people from around the world will be visiting Kona for the event, and they’re going to need to eat. And while local-style food can be rich and indulgent, for those who are training or otherwise trying to eat healthy, there are some great options for healthy eating in Kona.
While there are tons of great options if you’re venturing further south toward Captain Cook or north toward the big resorts, these options can all be found near downtown Kona for your convenience. While most of these places don’t typically need reservations (except for a few of them), expect lots of places to be packed this weekend. Check in advance to see if you can make a reservation, but be sure to keep multiple options in mind in case everyone has the same idea.
Note: One big change to the downtown Kailua-Kona area is that Coconut Grove Marketplace, a popular spot for dining, nightlife, and beach volleyball, now charges for parking.
Island Lava Java
Roasted Veggie Omelette with fresh fruit.
Photo: Laurie Lyons-Makaimoku
While it may not be known for healthy food per se, Island Lava Java creates some stunning and tasty dishes using fresh, island ingredients. Paired with great views and creative cocktails, it’s an excellent choice for brunch on the lānai (veranda).
What to try: Island Lava Java has partnered with Canyon Bicycles for a special “House of Champions” menu featuring pancakes, breakfast burritos and scrambles, and a Crowley-Sunshine Oatmeal Brulee that looks very intriguing. This special menu is also available for take-out.
Note: Due to the race, no reservations are available on Saturday – seating is available on a walk-in basis only.
75-5801 Ali‘i Dr., Kailua-Kona, (808)327-2161, islandlavajava.com
Pau Hana Poke
Brown rice and edamame are some of the options to create healthy poke bowls.
Photo: Courtesy Pau Hana Poke
If you’re planning a beach picnic, you’ll need to make a stop at Pau Hana Poke (also the perfect place to stop after the airport). Offering up some of the best, freshest poke in Kona, Pau Hana creates beautiful bowls full of vibrant colors and ocean-fresh flavors. The parking can be a little challenging, so leave a little extra time to find a spot.
What to try: Diners can find brown rice on the menu when building their poke bowls, along with an array of sides including kimchee and kimchee cucumber. Take advantage of some of the more unique items like abalone and octopus.
73-5617 Maiau St., Kailua-Kona, (808)315-7952, pauhanapokehi.com
Journey Cafe + Sweet Journey Soft Serve
“The Journey” flatbread featuring a variety of vibrant vegetables.
Photo: Courtesy Journey Café
Journey Café is all about giving you the hearty, plant-based foods that you’re looking for. The café offers take out and delivery options, as well, but dining in is your best bet if you need something a little sweet after your meal. Next door is their sister café, Sweet Journey, that dishes up vegan soft serve.
What to try: There’s a lot to like about this menu, including a lof exciting choices for those who are vegan and/or gluten free. Don’t miss the opportunity to try something made with ‘ulu (breadfruit) flour like their garlic knots or go for the full experience with “The Journey”—‘ulu sourdough topped with zucchini, eggplant, kale and cherry peppers.
75-5729 Ali‘i Dr., Kailua-Kona, (808)731-7194, journeycafebigisland.com
Umeke’s Fish Market Bar & Grill
A large menu and diverse drink selections makes Umeke’s great for groups.
Photo: Courtesy Umeke’s Fish Market Bar & Grill
Get your poke and seafood fix at Umeke’s at their new(ish) brick and mortar location. You can find lots of fresh, local ingredients at Umeke’s with fish sourced from local fishermen, as well as local-kine faves like kalbi ribs and loco moco. This is a great spot to start a night out with a tasty meal, a pint of local beer and some live music most Sundays through Thursdays.
What to try: Grilled fish tacos give you a healthy option that feels a little indulgent, while six different choices of poke can top a tasty bowl. Umeke’s also offers platters that make great options for larger groups. If anything can tempt you to indulge for the weekend, the Hawaiian Rockefeller lūʻau oysters offer a quick bite of decadence with oysters broiled with taro leaves, garlic butter and coconut milk.
74-5599 Pawai Pl., Kailua-Kona, (808) 238-0571, umekesrestaurants.com
Island Naturals
Island Naturals offers an array of fresh food and produce.
Photo: Courtesy Island Naturals
If you have any dietary restrictions (vegan, gluten-free, etc) or if you’re just looking for healthy foods, fresh produce and other grocery items, Island Naturals is the go-to spot on Big Island. If you’re staying at a place with a kitchen, you’ll definitely want to stop here to get provisions for making a few of your own meals. For a quick lunch, stop by the sushi bar or peruse the grab and go deli items—they’re all filling and tasty.
What to try: The deli case offers some great grab and go options including tofu-based dishes, sandwiches and more. Don’t miss out on the fresh-made muffins featuring island flavors.
74-544 Makala Blvd., Suite 1, Kailua-Kona, (808)326-1122, islandnaturals.com
Herbivores
Vegan jackfruit nachos are indulgent and healthy at the same time.
Photo: Courtesy of Herbivores
Herbivores is owned and operated by a mother-daughter team who are vegan. They offer up plant based comfort foods, bowls, pizzas and breakfast. The restaurant is a little unusual—a kiosk in the middle of a parking lot with a few tables and chairs scattered around that makes it a good option for take out, but don’t let the surroundings fool you, you’ll find plenty of tasty dishes here.
What to try: For an island twist on classic dishes, try the taro burger made with a patty from Kauaʻi or the jackfruit burrito topped off with cashew cheese.
75-5722 Hanama Pl., Kailua-Kona, (808)331-4372, herbivoresvegancafe.com
Loko Wraps
Açaí bowls are big and tasty—and the Mauka Bowl is a great option.
Photo: Courtesy of Loko Wraps
The portions are known for being large at this tasty wrap spot featuring island style Mexican food. It’s a build-your-own style place where you pick your protein (including kalua pork and jackfruit BBQ), format (wrap, bento box, quesadilla, etc),and add-ons including sauces and other toppings.
What to try: Though “wraps” are part of their name, don’t miss out on the açaí bowls that are both delicious and filling. The Dragon Bowl is both gorgeous and full of all those fantastic antioxidants that you find in pitaya.
75-5595 Palani Rd., Kailua-Kona, (808)895-7872
Hungry Honu Smoothie Bar & Cafe
A variety of smoothies and sandwiches make for a great, quick lunch.
Photo: Courtesy Hungry Honu Smoothie Bar & Cafe
Brand new to the downtown Kona food scene, Hungry Honu serves up quick, light meals in a comfy setting. The prices are great, and the menu is diverse enough that everyone can find something to eat. In addition to pick-up options, they also deliver in some areas. Note that Hungry Honus is closed on Sundays.
What to order: Melt-in-your-mouth sandwiches, tropical smoothies, and Kona coffee drinks have thrilled customers so far. The Mud Pie Latte made with Kona coffee is definitely worth a try on your cheat day.
75-5719 Aliʻi Dr Ste 1D Kailua-Kona, (808)830-9682, hungryhonu.com
