The island of Hawaii offers a wide range of spots when appetites call for a nice, big juicy burger boasting the freshest ingredients — its nickname is the Big Island, after all. For a bite out of the isle’s heartiest patties — whether a meat lover, vegetarian or vegan — pull into these stops as your top choices during your island-hopping staycation.
1. Annie’s Island Fresh Burgers
79-7460 Mamalahoa Highway, No. 105,
Kealakekua
324-6000
anniesislandfreshburgers.com
Located in South Kona, Annie’s Island Fresh Burgers presents bites that satisfy all palates, piled high and loaded with the finest island meats to crisp meals of the island’s purest veggies. Owners Annie Roesler and Josh Levenson operate the burger joint with a mission to feed Hawaii and its visitors with only fresh local and organic produce, in addition to grass-fed, island-raised beef. Just take a look at its menu that lists enticing selections like the undeniable meat lover’s favorite, The BBQ “South Point” Burger or The Ultimate Classic Burger. Vegetarian and vegan options also call to hungry patrons with The Good Karma Burger — a large grilled portobello mushroom as the patty — or The Taro Burger. FILE PHOTO
2. What’s Shakin’
27-999 Old Mamalahoa Hwy., Pepeekeo
964-3080
Instagram: @whatsshakinbigisland
What’s Shakin’ is truly a charming retreat that will rejuvenate the mind and palate with its lush, hilly surroundings and clean, refreshing menu. While this eatery is best known for its fresh fruit smoothies, there are also food options to dig into. When it comes to burgers and sandwiches opt to munch on Tasty Turkey Sandwich, Rockin Roast Beef and the Ultimate Garden Burger, all piled high with island-grown ingredients. FILE PHOTO
3. Huggo’s On The Rocks
75-5824 Kahakai Road, Kailua-Kona
329-1493
huggosontherocks.com
Elevate your getaway with a meal along the pristine Kona coastline at Huggo’s On The Rocks. Wildly popular for its happy hour, visitors and kamaaina frequent the open-lanai restaurant also for its lunch and dinner. With a menu complete with nearly a dozen burger and sandwich options, customer go-to pickings include the Ahi Burger, Hot Roast Beef Sandwich Au Jus, Mauna Kea Burger with blue cheese, or the Kilauea Fire when looking to kick things up a notch with some welcomed spice. FILE PHOTO
