When the Cutter Automotive Galleries team finishes up a long day and is looking to unwind with a delicious meal and friendly atmosphere, we know Hawai‘i has plenty of options, which is why we'd like to recommend some of the 2016 Hale ‘Aina Award Winners, picked by readers of Honolulu Magazine: 

Best New restaurant

Livestock Tavern came to Honolulu in the fall of 2014 and has been growing in popularity ever since, offering a trendy, warm atmosphere, and great food. You’ll see people come there regularly to enjoy great sandwiches and soups, or one of their famous beers or wines. It’s a great place to go, and you’ll want to keep coming back for more. 

Best In O’ahu

Alan Wong’s is by far the best restaurant to go to for fine dining on O’ahu. This year marks the tenth time Alan Wong’s has won a Hale ‘Aina Award. It ranked eighth in 2006 on America’s Best 50 Restaurants by Gourmet Magazine, and earned a spot on Food & Wine Magazine's "The GO List: 293 Hottest Restaurants in the World" in 2008. Chef Alan provides a menu inspired by Hawaii’s diverse ethnic cultures and ingredients from here on our islands.

Best In Maui

Lahaina Grill has also won several Hale ‘Aina Awards, 23 to be exact, along with being ranked one of the top restaurants in the United States. You can enjoy a variety of fine dining options, from seafood to steak, and you can’t go wrong with anything you choose.

Best In Kaua‘i

The Beach House Restaurant is a fantastic place to go to for a great atmosphere and great food. It is right on the beach, and there is often live music. It's perfect for romance or fun, and of course, you’ll love every delicious dish from the shrimp to the Softshell BLT sandwich.

Best On the Big Island

Merriman’s Waimea Has been a Big Island favorite for over 20 years, and has even expanded to Maui and Kaua'i. Chef Peter Merriman created a delightful “farm to table” menu, using only fresh ingredients for his dishes such as the Big Island Grass Fed Beef Burger or the Merriman’s Original Wok Charred Ahi. Merriman’s is a beautiful place with equally beautiful food.

Our staff is excited to continue checking these restaurants out, they're just a few from the list, but no matter where you go in Hawai’i, you'll find phenomenal dining options with swirling aromas and local flair in every dish.

Whether you come in for lunch or dinner, by yourself or with a large group, you’ll find a good time every time you walk through the doors of our favorite food stops. Stop by, sit down, and savor every bite. Maybe we’ll see you there!

Image credit: Livestock Tavern and Lianne Rozzelle