Peaceful dinner at Cafe Pesto's
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Hilo's Bay Front is populated by a variety of businesses and small mom and pop shops down the strip, yet after walking the whole length of it, you may just find yourself parched and hungry.
Luckily at one end of the main walking strip, you can treat yourself to a delightful meal at
Cafe Pesto's. As soon as you walk in the door, the low lighting within the restaurant allows for the natural sunlight to filter through the various windows during the day, looking out towards the street; beyond that, a beautiful sunset if you time you visit just right. At times, there's a solo guitarist or musician playing familiar yet soothing tunes the help set the mood for the up coming meal.
The front of the restaurant has a full bar that can serve up their speciality drinks of margaritas, martinis, etc., or if you prefer, there is a selection of caffeinated drinks such as espressos, lattes, mocha, the works. Stools are set up at the bar for singular sitting where you can catch a glimpse of the chefs hard at work or the tranquil setting in the main dining area for two or more people.
The food served at Cafe Pesto's is a mixture of Italian food as well as dishes that add flavors and ingredients one would expect to find in Hawai'i. One such dish, the Mango Glazed Chicken, is a char broiled chicken breast, still moist and lightly glazed with mango chutney served with a side of mashed potatoes and local vegetables and topped off with Pahoa corn relish.
The dessert selection is impressive as well but the Creme Brulee is the only one served within town. The custard is very light and creamy with a hint of vanilla yet the caramelized sugar melted and cooled on top ties the whole dessert together with a just the right amount of sweetness. There is also a selection of Lilikoi Cheesecake and other delectable desserts.
The experience at Cafe Pesto's was peaceful and the food delicious. The price ranges from $3- $20 and up depending on what course of the day and entree but the experience is well worth it and this is definitely the place to visit if you want to treat yourself to something good.
Personal Recommendation: The Taro Soup is delicious but don't be put off by the exotic purple color.
For more info:
Cafe PestoP.O. Box 44392 • Kawaihae, Hawaii 96743
South Kohala Coast • Kawaihae Shopping Center (808) 882-1071 • Fax (808) 882-1459
Historic S. Hata Building • On the Bay, Downtown Hilo (808) 969-6640 • Fax (808) 969-4858