Some of the best places have no ambiance at all. Take Hamura's Saimin Stand, off Rice Street in Lihu'e. This place doesn't need ambiance. Everyone — including prestigious culinary organizations like the James Beard Foundation — knows it serves the best saimin and lilikoi pie around. The diner received national recognition earlier this year when it was honored by the Foundation as one of eight eateries in the country known for excellence and preserving America's culinary heritage and diversity.

Down the street, Rob's Good Times Grill, which is mostly a neighborhood bar, serves a mean wasabi burger.

Vegan lovers should try the Blossoming Lotus in the Dragon Building in Kapa'a. The food is hard to describe, but you can be sure no animal products are used. While you're in Kapa'a, try Coconuts for ambiance, Kintaro for good sushi and Pau Hana for fun.

On the South Shore, Roy's Po'ipu Bar & Grill and the Beach House Restaurant are good picks for fine dining. The ocean view from the Beach House is splendid, as is the view from La Cascata in the Princeville Resort.