Suggestions
Explore the featured selections!
KOREAN CREAM CHEESE GARLIC BREAD
SOUTHWESTERN CHICKEN
SANTE FE CHICKEN
SIMPLE CLASSIC
About
Cafe Pesto Hilo Bay
Welcome to the vibrant culinary world of Cafe Pesto Hilo Bay, where every dish tells a tale of local ingredients and heartfelt cooking. Nestled on the scenic Kamehameha Avenue in Hilo, Hawaii, this charming cafe is a haven for food enthusiasts seeking fresh flavors and a cozy atmosphere. The restaurant's commitment to locally sourced ingredients shines through not just in their salads, but in every culinary masterpiece they craft.
Upon stepping through the doors, you are greeted by a warm and friendly ambiance that sets the tone for an unforgettable dining experience. The knowledgeable staff prides themselves on their hospitality, ensuring that every visit feels special. Diners rave about the delightful crab cakes, with their crisp panko crust that perfectly encases tender crab meat, served with a light honey miso vinaigrette. Whether you're there for a light meal or a full-course dining experience, you will discover a menu bursting with flavor.
One can't talk about Cafe Pesto Hilo Bay without mentioning their wood-fired personal pizzas. Each pizza is crafted with love and care, utilizing the freshest ingredients. Try the Luau pizza topped with kalua pork and grilled pineapple for a taste that defines island life. Or perhaps the Southwestern Chicken pizza inspires you with its cilantro pesto and chipotle BBQ—a true celebration of bold flavors.
For those who crave something on the healthier side, their salads are a revelation. The Blue Caesar with Hirabara romaine and blue cheese might just redefine your salad experience. With every bite, you’ll appreciate the unique balance of flavors that ensures you leave feeling satisfied yet light. It's not just a meal; it's nourishment that respects your body's needs.
And let’s not forget the exquisite selection of desserts. The Creme Brulee and Tropical Dreams locally made ice cream are perfect sweet endings that highlight the cafe's dedication to quality. Each dessert is crafted to delight and, much like the rest of the menu, celebrates the best of what Hawaii has to offer.
As customers express, "the food nourishes without compromise"; this is a philosophy that defines Cafe Pesto Hilo Bay. From its welcoming atmosphere to its innovative dishes, every meal is a memorable experience that keeps patrons coming back. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this cafe is a must-visit destination that promises to tickle your taste buds and elevate your dining experience.
So, gather your friends and make your way to Cafe Pesto Hilo Bay. You’re in for a treat! Don’t forget to call ahead at +1 808-969-6640 to reserve your spot at this beloved Hilo gem.
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ We spontaneously stopped by for a light meal. After a friendly welcome a nice table was assigned to our group of 4 adults. The waiter was very friendly too. We ordered crab cakes and they were cooked to perfection, delicicously yummy. A restaurant we can highly recommend when visiting the Hilo Bay. ”
“ Ordered the Korean cream cheese garlic bread, fish and scallops with mas potatoes, hibachi chicken risotto. Spot on, delicious. Would go here again. ”
“ . For lunch, I had the rosemary chicken special with a red wine reduction. The chicken was perfectly tender, and the sauce added just the right amount of depth without feeling heavy. Despite the bold flavors, I felt no discomfort just light, energized, and fully satisfied. Dinner was equally impressive: the dynamite fish sauce and scallops. This dish was vibrant and flavorful with a creamy tang, but again, no pain, no bloating, no sluggishness. If anything, I felt more awake and clear-headed afterward. Both meals were beautifully balanced not just in taste, but in how they made me feel. For someone navigating gallbladder and liver issues, this was a rare and very welcome experience. Highly recommend for anyone looking for food that nourishes without compromise. ”
“ A very pleasant surprise! I received a gift card as a birthday present and went there yesterday for the first time. The service and food were excellent! I got the steak and it was perfect along with the tasty potatoes. We love crab cakes and try them wherever we go and these were some of the BEST! Crunchy outside and very tasty crab inside-and the included salad was excellent. I was skeptical about the Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread but I'm so glad we got it, Delicious! There was a smell of a wood fired pizza oven in the air so I'll definitely go back and try the pizza. ”
“ Everything I tried was absolutely amazing, I highly recommend the Rose cocktail named after the bartender Rose, who was also an absolute dream! The BLT Pizza is a real surprise, super tasty. The risottos were incredibly creamy, the Blue Caesar salad with blue cheese was an added flavor explosion I was not expecting but really enjoyed. The fish sandwich was absolutely perfect and I had a really hard time deciding whether I would get that or try something else on the menu every single time I visited. It was fresh perfectly cooked, all of the flavors were well balanced, it was a really well executed sandwich. Everything I tried was excellent. ”
“ Super cute place. The food is interesting and delicious. The drinks are right on. Enjoy! We went with the coconut calamari, barn mi, risottos and pasta. Awesome. ”
“ What a great surprise and wonderful dining experience. The staff is friendly, the food delicious, and there was no wait when we went (around 2:30). We had the risotto and a sandwich and both of us agreed it was easily some of the best food we had on the island. Highly recommend giving it a try if you are in the area. ”
“ We always make a stop in Hill to eat here. Their Bhan Mi with sweet potato side is amazing. My go to order. The place itself has a very cool retro vibe. The service is always friendly and fast. ”