Nestled along the Kona-Kohala coastline on Hawaii Island, the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is taking culinary tourism to exceptional new heights. With a renewed focus on sustainable practices and a deep reverence for Hawaiian culture, the resort has launched a range of elevated dining experiences that blend hyper-local ingredients with international cooking techniques—offering guests a taste of Hawaii that’s both authentic and globally inspired.
Located just 10 minutes from Kona International Airport, this iconic oceanfront resort is not only a luxurious getaway with more than 200 rooms and suites, but also a hub for innovative gastronomy. From on-site aquaculture to partnerships with over 160 local farms, the culinary ethos at Hualalai is rooted in sustainability and respect for the island’s natural abundance.
ULU Ocean Grill: Hawaiian Soul Meets Pan-Asian Technique
The resort’s flagship dining venue, ULU Ocean Grill, showcases the heart of Hawaii’s culinary tradition with a modern Pan-Asian twist. Led by a team of world-class chefs, ULU’s menu features flame-grilled, wok-fired, and locally sourced dishes that pay homage to the Big Island’s diverse flavors. Guests can expect to indulge in signature creations such as ahi tuna Wellington, Kona crab noodles, and charred octopus, all crafted with seafood freshly harvested from local waters.
ULU has also earned recognition from the 2025 Wine Spectator Awards of Excellence, reinforcing its status as one of the premier dining destinations in Hawaii. The wine list pairs beautifully with tropical-infused dishes, while its oceanside setting makes every meal feel like a celebration of the island itself.
The restaurant is more than a dining room—it’s a sensory experience. Diners can enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific while watching chefs in action in the open kitchen or seated at the vibrant sushi bar. ULU also regularly hosts special culinary events, including local chef collaborations and seasonal tasting menus.
NOIO: Japanese Precision with Island Freshness
For a more intimate, elevated sushi experience, NOIO—a stylish second-floor lounge—is the resort’s answer to omakase luxury. Serving dinner from Wednesday through Sunday, this exclusive venue blends traditional Japanese techniques with the freshest Hawaiian seafood. Menus change frequently depending on daily catch, and each omakase journey is curated to highlight the natural purity of the fish.
NOIO’s atmosphere is sophisticated yet laid-back, enhanced by an artisanal cocktail menu of more than a dozen signature drinks. Each cocktail is designed to complement the clean flavors of the sushi, from delicate sashimi slices to torched nigiri served with Hawaiian sea salt.
The lounge offers a peaceful ambiance above the resort grounds, making it an ideal spot for a romantic evening or a serene culinary escape. With expert chefs and a deep respect for Japan’s culinary traditions, NOIO sets a new standard for sushi on the Big Island.
Beyond the Table: A Luxury Resort Committed to Sustainability
What distinguishes Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is its holistic approach to sustainability. Approximately 75% of its ingredients are sourced from local farms, ranches, and fisheries on Hawaii Island. Guests can even tour the on-site Punawai Pond, where the resort cultivates its own oysters and shrimp in partnership with resident marine biologists. This closed-loop aquaculture system exemplifies how luxury and environmental stewardship can coexist.
The resort’s commitment extends beyond food. Guests can enjoy eco-conscious spa treatments, participate in cultural immersion programs like lei-making and ukulele lessons, and explore protected tidepools guided by on-site naturalists. Golf enthusiasts can tee off at the Jack Nicklaus-signature Hualalai Golf Course, while fitness fans can take advantage of an ocean-view gym, tennis and pickleball courts, and an award-winning wellness center.
And for travelers looking to experience the island’s marine beauty, the resort offers a suite of ocean activities—from snorkeling with manta rays to canoeing traditional outrigger canoes along the Kona coast.
An Immersive Hawaiian Culinary Journey
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, the culinary journey at Four Seasons Hualalai offers more than just a meal—it’s a flavor-forward exploration of Hawaii’s culture, land, and sea. The resort’s seamless blend of local sourcing, world-class technique, and environmental care elevates every dish to an experience.
From the fiery woks of ULU to the delicate knives of NOIO, every plate tells a story of Hawaii—its people, its flavors, and its future. For travelers seeking the ultimate farm-to-table experience in paradise, Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is a must-visit destination on the Big Island.
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