A Deep Dive into Waiʻoli Lounge’s Dinner Menu: Beyond Happy Hour Pupu 

When the sun dips low over Hilo Bay and the breeze from Coconut Island begins to stir, the energy at Waiʻoli Lounge transforms. Located in the heart of the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, Waiʻoli Lounge is more than just a scenic watering hole—it’s quickly becoming one of the best dinner spots in Hilo, offering a casual yet elevated dining experience that moves well beyond its popular Happy Hour pupus.

Whether you’re searching for the Waiʻoli Lounge dinner menu, planning your night out with visiting friends, or curious about the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel restaurant menu, here’s an inside look at the standout dishes, creative cocktails, and must-try menu highlights that make Waiʻoli Lounge an essential part of your Hilo evening.

🔥 Savory Stars: Signature Dinner Plates

While Waiʻoli’s Happy Hour offers incredible value, the full dinner menu from 2:30pm to 9:00pm is where the lounge truly shines. Here are a few favorites locals and travelers alike keep coming back for:

Prime Rib Lovers Delight  

Messy, meaty, and full of flavor. This sandwich is a carnivore’s dream—shaved prime rib stacked generously and served warm on a fresh hoagie. Whether you dip it in au jus or enjoy it as-is, it’s an unmissable signature.

The Wai‘oli Smash Burger  

A local take on a classic. This double-patty burger is made with Hawai‘i grass-fed beef, smashed and seared to perfection. Topped with American cheese and all the classic fixings (lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles), it’s easily one of the best burgers in Hilo. Add sautéed mushrooms or bacon to turn it up a notch.

Fresh Catch Poke  

If you’re after a lighter island-style dinner, this Hawaiian-style poke with ahi tuna, sweet onions, ogo (seaweed), and roasted ‘inamona (candlenut) is perfect. It’s a taste of the ocean in every bite, and one of the most searched items for a reason.

French Dip / Cheesesteak / Italian Beef  

Waiʻoli’s trio of shaved prime rib sandwiches offers a variety of bold flavors:

• French Dip: Served with rich house-made au jus.

• Italian Beef: Spicy giardiniera adds a peppery punch.

• Cheesesteak: Mushrooms, onions, and provolone for that Philly-style finish.

You can even customize with extra au jus for $2. These hearty options showcase the kitchen’s talent for pub-style comfort food with an island twist.

🥗 Not Just Meat: Lighter Fare & Sides

If you’re craving something refreshing or vegetarian-friendly, the Local Field Greens salad with papaya seed dressing is crisp and sweet, while the Veggie Burger, featuring grilled Beyond patties on a brioche bun, is a satisfying plant-based pick.

Appetizer-style options like Pocho Clams (with Portuguese sausage and white wine butter) or Baked Fries (cheddar, bacon, green onions, and sour cream) are ideal for sharing—or hoarding for yourself.

🍹 Sips to Savor: Cocktails and Beers

No dinner at Waiʻoli Lounge is complete without diving into the Signature Cocktail list, which reflects the same creativity as the food:

• Matt’s Coconut Island: A coconut-lime twist on the Long Island.
• Sarah’s Koloa Espresso Martini: Made with Kaua‘i coffee and Koloa rum—perfect as a dessert pairing.
• The Wai‘oli: A melon-forward Blue Hawaiian-style cocktail, tropical and vibrant like the setting.

And if beer’s more your thing, try the Draft Flight to sample local brews like Volcano Red Ale or Overboard IPA. For wine lovers, Waiʻoli stocks approachable favorites like Josh Cellars Cabernet and Chateau Ste. Michelle Chardonnay by the glass or bottle.

🍨 Don’t Skip Dessert

End your evening with a sweet bite:

• Fudge Brownie with Vanilla Ice Cream – a gooey indulgence.

• Creme Brulee with Berry Compote – elegant and island-fresh.

• Or go light with locally made sorbet or ice cream.

Why Waiʻoli Lounge Is a Standout Hilo Dinner Spot

Waiʻoli Lounge strikes the perfect balance: comfortable but elevated, scenic but relaxed. Whether you’re searching for “prime rib Hilo,” “best dinner Hilo,” or “restaurants in Hilo dinner,” this spot satisfies with creative, crave-worthy food and well-crafted drinks. The lounge’s view of the bay, paired with attentive service and a menu full of surprises, makes it more than just a hotel bar—it’s a local gem.

So next time you’re craving more than just pupus, dive deeper into the Waiʻoli Lounge dinner menu. You might just find your new favorite Hilo restaurant.

📍 Waiʻoli Lounge at the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel
Dinner Service: 2:30 PM – 9:00 PM Daily
Located on the lobby level with bay views and live music