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Moon and Turtle

4.6
·491k reviews·,

A hyper-local Asian-fusion gem in Hilo, celebrated for its ever-changing menu of vibrant, fresh seafood and produce dishes.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

CrowdLow
Interior

Moon and Turtle

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A hyper-local Asian-fusion gem in Hilo, celebrated for its ever-changing menu of vibrant, fresh seafood and produce dishes.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"It's a corner of culinary paradise and arguably the best spot in Hilo."

TIP

Reservations Essential

This popular spot fills up quickly due to its intimate size. Book your table well in advance!

Embrace Family Style

The restaurant recommends eating family-style, sharing dishes as they come out for a convivial dining experience.

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Quick Facts

Closed·Opens 5:30PM

Cuisine

Asian-Pacific Fusion

Price

Mid-range

Phone

(808) 961-0599

Address

51 Kalakaua St, Hilo, HI 96720, USA

Insta-Factor

Medium

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hyper-Local & Vibrant Bites

Hyper-Local & Vibrant Bites

Experience fresh, locally sourced seafood and produce transformed into creative, hyper-local dishes with an Asian-Pacific flair.

10 Best Restaurants in Hilo, Hawaii’s Hidden Culinary GemGoogle Review+1
Smoky Sashimi for Dessert?

Smoky Sashimi for Dessert?

An unexpectedly delightful dish that's so satisfying, some diners even order it for dessert! A true culinary adventure.

10 Best Restaurants in Hilo, Hawaii’s Hidden Culinary GemGoogle Review
Intimate & Convivial Atmosphere

Intimate & Convivial Atmosphere

Enjoy an intimate dining experience with warm, attentive service, perfect for sharing dishes and enjoying a convivial meal.

Google Review+1
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Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Just two tired moms remembering who we are outside of motherhood. Love you, @Janel Jabilona #momlife #momsoftiktok #momtalk #nightout #momsnightout #bigislandeats #hilo #hawaii #hiloeats #bigisland #lifestylecontent #friendship
@sayshac_
65 likes • 1.2K views

Reservations Essential

This popular spot fills up quickly due to its intimate size. Book your table well in advance!

Embrace Family Style

The restaurant recommends eating family-style, sharing dishes as they come out for a convivial dining experience.

Moon and turtle restaurant in downtown Hilo.reservations required.
@mylei808
8 likes • 97 views

Check Daily Specials

The menu changes frequently based on fresh, available ingredients. Check their Facebook for daily updates.

Signature Cocktails

Don't miss trying their unique signature cocktails, which are highly recommended for an exceptional experience.

Tips

from all over the internet

Reservations Essential

This popular spot fills up quickly due to its intimate size. Book your table well in advance!

Embrace Family Style

The restaurant recommends eating family-style, sharing dishes as they come out for a convivial dining experience.

Check Daily Specials

The menu changes frequently based on fresh, available ingredients. Check their Facebook for daily updates.

Signature Cocktails

Don't miss trying their unique signature cocktails, which are highly recommended for an exceptional experience.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Moon and Turtle is a highly acclaimed Asian-fusion cafe in Hilo, lauded for its incredibly delicious food made with fresh, local ingredients and its intimate, welcoming atmosphere. Diners rave about the creative, flavorful dishes and attentive service, with many calling it a standout dining experience on the Big Island. While the small size necessitates reservations, the overall consensus is that it's a must-visit destination.

"Loved everything about this place. What a Hilo gem. The place was cute and clean. The owners Mark and Sunny were kind and the staff we're very friendly. Everyone in this restaurant helped each other out. Always water being poured, tablets being cleaned just really exceptional service (a well oiled machine). The food was absolutely fantastic. A new experience for the pallet. I would highly recommend if you are in Hilo... there's a reason it's been in business for 12 years. Make reservations ahead of time."

Jensen Jones

"Great dining option in downtown Hilo offering a blend of traditional flavors mixed with dinner international influences.
Book a table in advance.
Good to share dishes. Cocktails are worth a try, too."

Nick Denis

"Everything at this restaurant comes from the big island of Hawaii! I have been here more times than I can count and have never had anything that tasted short of amazing! Every time someone visits me in Hilo, I have to take them here. Make sure to make a reservation before you go! It's a small restaurant and seating is limited."

Kyle Wicomb

What People Like

Incredibly delicious and creative dishes
Fresh, hyper-local ingredients
Warm and attentive service

What People Dislike

Limited seating, requires reservations

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, reservations are highly recommended and often necessary due to the restaurant's small size and popularity.

TikTokGoogle Review

Yes, the menu changes daily or frequently based on available locally sourced ingredients.

Restaurants in Big Island10 Best Restaurants in Hilo, Hawaii’s Hidden Culinary Gem

The restaurant recommends eating family-style and sharing dishes as they come out from the kitchen.

Google Review

Diners frequently praise dishes like the Smoky Sashimi, Mushroom Risotto, and Market Fish.

10 Best Restaurants in Hilo, Hawaii’s Hidden Culinary GemGoogle Review

Yes, Moon and Turtle offers signature cocktails like 'The Silk Road' and 'Lychee Press' that are highly recommended.

Google Review

The waiter was knowledgeable about Celiac needs, and certain menu items are gluten-free. It's best to inform your server.

Google Review

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Hilo native, chef Mark Pomaski, can be credited for drawing attention to the town by way of Moon and Turtle, a Pacific seafood-centric spot serving up some of Hawaii's most hyper-local and vibrant bites—with a “less is more” mentality. Chef’s Smoky Sashimi is so satisfying, diners have been known to order it for dessert, while Salty Fish Fried Rice with Hilo farmers’ market vegetables and anything with heart of palm (sourced from OK Farms, a mere two miles down the street) should not be missed. End with the lilikoi pie fromPapa'a Palaoa Bakery and you'll leave a happy camper.

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Run by Hilo-raised, mainland-trained Tedd and Mark Pomaski, and Mark’s wife, Soni, the restaurant uses local ingredients and immediately captured the hearts of local diners. The menu features simple, quality food, like Hawaii Island caught fish, greens from Kekela Farms and whatever’s fresh at the Hilo Farmers’ Market, then elevates it into dishes that dazzle with contemporary techniques and presentations. 51 Kalakaua St., (808) 961-0599.

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If there’s a special occasion restaurant in every town, Moon & Turtle is Hilo’s. Far from stuffy or fancy, this downtown spot made the trip even better by delivering on solid shared plates with a little bit of Hilo flair. From the plump heart of palm gyoza ($7), deep-fried and drizzled with a spicy crema, to the crispy chow fun ($24) with shredded beef gravy, I couldn’t stop loading up.

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