we're also local, though hawi hicks, not from kailua. but we're also picky.

while the big island alan wong's may not be as good as the one on oahu, it's still pretty darned good.

we have not found great japanese food on the island, but we're in japan every other month, so we're even more picky than most.

big island grill and kona mixed plate are our two standard local-style lunches. we also like bale in the kona coast shopping center for really good vietnamese sandwiches on as fresh and crusty mini-baguettes as you'll find on the pac rim.

we have not tried "kay's kitchen on mamalahoa," but thanks for the recommendation.

in waimea/kamuela, we find merriman's the kind of place one takes visiting parents, and much prefer aioli's next door; which can vary, but occasionally does something wonderful. but, for simple lunch, we just go to the thai place by the kta.

and, of course, we are fond of the local hawi joint, the bamboo, especially nights john keawe is playing and hope dancing.

and, as folk have said, konaweb has a diverse restaurant review system.