Sometimes, it’s fun to go somewhere with a peppy vibe and an upbeat atmosphere. It’s a bonus if the venue has great food and a nice bar, too. Such is the case with Pineapples in downtown Hilo.
Conveniently located just one block up from the Hilo Farmer’s Market on the corner of Mamo and Keawe Streets, Pineapples is always bustling. It is housed in a remodeled building, charmingly adorned with… pineapples.
I love the fact that it is open-air—but Hilo being Hilo, it’s a good thing that it’s covered. Even on a rainy day, it has a casual, easygoing ambiance.
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Having eaten there several times for lunch, dinner and pūpū, I’ll tell you about some favorites.
Sometimes, I just order a pūpū and a drink. I find their appetizers are a good size, such as the Nui Nachos ($11) or the Crispy Spring Rolls ($10).
If I could duplicate the Lemon Macadamia Chicken ($18) at home, I’d be really happy. The sauce is described as a lemon macadamia beurre blanc, and it’s lick-the-plate good. It is served with vegetables and either Garlic Mashed Potatoes or Jasmine Rice. (I love the potatoes with it.)
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I’m also fond of the Classic Caesar Salad ($12), which you can get with either chicken ($16) or fresh fish ($18).
My husband likes their Island-Style Tacos with fresh catch ($14).
If you haven’t tried a hamburger with grilled pineapple, now’s the time! Pineapples’ chefs serve theirs ($14) with ham, two cheeses and a teri glaze. You won’t leave hungry.
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At a “work lunch,” recently, I tried the Beet and Goat Cheese Salad ($12)—and definitely recommend it. You cannot “beat” those locally sourced roasted beets, served with arugula.
Service, at each of my visits has been attentive, helpful and efficient. There is a daily specials board worth checking.
There are local beers, as well as imports; there is also a good wine list and a full bar.
Pineapples is a fun place to meet friends, take out-of-towner, or just relax and people-watch. Check it out!
Pineapples is on the corner of Mamo and Keawe Streets in downtown Hilo, at 332 Keawe Street. Parking: Street. Very close to Hilo Farmer’s Market and bus terminal. Open Tuesday–Sunday, 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday; open until 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Closed Mondays. Phone: (808) 238-5324. Casual attire.
Pineapples’ Classic Caesar Salad. You can get with either chicken or fresh fish. Photo credit: Marla Walters
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