3rd time on the BI. Much improved food experience over last year. My 10 favorite dishes/items were, in order:

1. Seiji's Sushi (Kona): Sashimi course, Omakase
2. Randy's Huli Chicken (Keauhou): Whole Chicken
3. Seiji's Sushi (Kona): Agedashi Tofu appetizer, Omakase
4. Randy's Huli Chicken (Keauhou): Banana Bread
5. Nui (Hilton Waikoloa Village): Squid Ink Seafood Pasta
6. Broke Da Mouth Grinds (Kona): Garlic Shrimp
7. Hilo Siam Thai (Hilo): Red Curry with Seafood
8. KPC (Hilton Waikoloa Village): Ribeye Steak
9. L&L (Hilo downtown): Mixed BBQ Plate (chicken, kalbi, beef)
10. Pau Hana Poke (Kona N)

Honorable mention: Hawaiian papaya (everywhere). How did I miss this cheap gem in my previous visits?

Impressions:

• Seiji's Sushi and Randy's Huli Chicken were the clear favorites. I don't see any mention of Seiji in this thread, but we loved the Omakase (fresh fish flown from Japan), the intimate environment (<10 customers at any given time), and chatting with the owners.
• Tried Canoe House again. Good food, consistent execution, but food is short of great for me. Maybe victim of high expectation. The highlight is the lobby at night, then the outdoor setting, and food last.
• Was surprised by some great food at the 2 dinner restaurants in Hilton Waikoloa Village. Was there to burn Aspire resort credit, walked away with happy tummy.
• While Canoe House didn't have my favorite dishes, it scores high in consistency and service. At other places such as Hilton, the gap between the best and worst dishes are high.