Cafe Pesto Hilo Bay — Restaurant in Hawaii

Title: A Culinary Odyssey at Café Pesto - A Harmonious Blend of Tradition and Innovation

As I stepped into the inviting embrace of Café Pesto, it was evident that I was about to embark on a dining adventure unlike any other. The restaurant's comforting ambiance promised a feast for the senses, and it did not disappoint.

Kaliko, our server, was the quintessence of professional hospitality. He brought to our table not just dishes, but an engaging narrative of flavors and ingredients that enriched our dining experience. His recommendations were spot-on, reflecting a deep understanding of the menu and a passion for gastronomy. Kaliko's attentive service was seamless and personalized, ensuring that our evening was both enjoyable and memorable.

The star of the show, without a doubt, was the Thai chili pizza. Under Chef Casey's culinary artistry, a dish was born that redefined my concept of pizza. The crust was a study in contrasts: crunchy yet yielding, a perfect foundation for the innovative toppings. The Thai chili sauce was both sweet and fiery, a testament to Chef Casey's skill in balancing flavors and creating a pizza that could stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the best I've tasted in Italy’s famed pizzerias.

Yet, amidst these bold flavors, the seafood combo risotto held its own as a standout dish. It was a harmonious blend of oceanic treasures and earthy, creamy rice, each spoonful more delightful than the last. The seafood was impeccably fresh, the risotto was cooked to precise al dente perfection, and every element on the plate came together under Chef Casey's deft hand to create a dish that was both comforting and luxurious.

Café Pesto's offerings were a tribute to its name, with pesto playing a subtle yet significant role across the menu, adding depth and freshness to each dish it graced. The quality of the ingredients shone through in every bite, a testament to the kitchen's high standards and Chef Casey's commitment to excellence.

As the evening drew to a close and the last bites were savored, it was clear that Café Pesto had provided more than just a meal—it had delivered an experience to be treasured. Kaliko's expert service and Chef Casey's culinary wizardry had combined to create an unforgettable evening. For those who seek a dining experience that is as much an adventure as a meal, Café Pesto stands out as a beacon of exceptional cuisine. I left with a sense of anticipation for my next visit, confident that it would be just as extraordinary...

This place is a rip-off! We were vacationing in Big Island and decided to have lunch here. We had to wait a while as we didn't have a reservation. I told my spouse, lets go somewhere else, but she wanted to eat here due to the recommendations. As I am a vegan, we asked if they had any vegan items and the waitress, Sarah, mentioned that you can select "create a pizza option" remove the cheese and meats and add vegetables. I was under the impression the additional items were just going to be the cost of the pizza. The usual price was $16.00. They charge me $26 for a 9" pizza (no cheese or meats). I explained to the waitress, that I wanted only veggies and it I had asked for a few additional toppings minus the cheese and meats. Also, they initially messed up the order and had to redo it. She said, that's not how it works. If she had said that earlier, we would have walked away. She said she will talk to the manager. But the bill was not adjusted. They were not interested in making the customer happy (I guess they have enough business). Also, the mojito that my wife ordered was diluted and tasted more like water.

If the owner of this establishment is reading these reviews, you need to tell your staff to treat the customers with respect (order #1531510). The pizza most probably cost them a few, and charging the normal prize of , but I will not recommend this to anyone else nor visit this place ever. I have had similar issues (being vegan and dining out is not easy) in Texas, and the restaurants always make it right.

I would rate this as my worst dining experience. The biggest disappointment of our wonderful vacation in Hawaii. Mahalo!

Update: 5/16/20: I just checked my Credit Card statement, and the Cafe has refunded $20 for the pizza. I am still keeping the rating as 1 star as the restaurant should have done this when I was paying the bill. Anyway, it is good to know that they fix the issue...

I ordered a salmon alfredo, my brother got a burger. Ordered garlic bread which was great! Then their smoked salmon pizza was also really good too! The strawberry smoothies was really good! Salmon alfredo was good too(could do without the sun dried tomato its very potent, if anything less of it or perhaps some kind of sauce/ incoporate that into a pesto and add that in, call it the cafe red pesto😂), the burger though... my brother said the bun was tough and too crispy. The waitress we had was good(dont know her name, maybe she said it i forgot) but we for sure was well taken care of, we had multiple workers check on us and they all did fantastic! For what you pay per head($20-30+) this is almost vegas quality service!

The only thing i have to say is maybe change the yelp app reservation thing its kinda inconvenient especially for those like myself who never use yelp, we have to download it. Keep it on our phones, and wonder if i should keep it or delete it for a month or so, only to delete it and when i want to come back to Pesto id have to re download it... kinda weird, not too much of a inconvenience but just saying it is weird.

Overall i would highly recommend! The front of house staff here is VERY polite and friendly and when you think about it thats your first impressions right? And also your last. Service is key to a sucessful restaurant and Cafe Pesto is a very successful one at that.

Cafe Pesto is your go to place for having a good night or afternoon out for family or really good friends. Thank you to the owner(s). Every cent i spent as well as tip was money VERY...