Keei Cafe - Kealakekua

A fantastic local gem for upscale dining in the backcountry of the Big Island.

My husband and I are in our mid-20s, and honestly, we felt out of place because there seemed to be at least a 40-year age gap between us and the other diners. It seems like a great spot for retirees. I ordered the rabbit dish, but I didn’t enjoy it at all. My husband had the fajitas, and they were just okay. We had to wait a long time for our food, and while it was decent, it wasn't worth the price. I don't think we'll be returning.

We make a point to visit Keei every time we're on the islands. It's a charming family-owned restaurant that offers dinner service. The atmosphere is always relaxing and welcoming, tucked away from the usual tourist spots. Each night, you'll find that half of the patrons are regulars, which speaks volumes about the quality of the place.

The food exceeded expectations. We started with the eggplant rolls and had the seafood pasta and daily catch 4 mahi mahi with a mango wine sauce), followed by the mango cobbler and macadamia nut pie. Everything was excellent. I was certainly surprised that the vegetable medley wasn 't some sad combination but a wonderful combination that was perfectly cooked. Our server, Keana was excellent as well!

Bobby has been doing this for years. Never a disappointment. Fresh, local food with Aloha! Duck breast with fresh local veggies and Ono with organic greens! Oh so Ono!!! A wonderful experience!