Shoutout to the parking lot worker who had just 2 available parking spaces left who let us park there last night! For future reference when you walk inside the Volcano House do not stand at the first line upon entering if you have reservations for The Rim. You have to turn left, pass the gift shop turn left again and go through the doors. The hostest will be to the right. You can also call and reserve ahead of time. Shoutout to Rihannon the hostest. When I finally found the right place to check in. She was able to setup our table for 5 very quickly! While we waited we went outside and took pictures of the volcano and with it! Once our table was ready I got a text and headed back to Rihannon who sat us directly in front of the volcano! Thank you, Rihanna for your kindness, quick service, and friendliest. You made my family's night and this was my family's favorite part of the trip so far. Thank you Once you go through the doors and turn left you will see a door outside. This is where you can go to take absolutely incredible pictures ans videos of the volcano. Soup of the day was filling and had a delicious coconut curry sauce with meat.The bone marrow appetizer was good, but cooled quickly. My daughter's loved their Volcano House Pesto Pasta and Truffle Infused Mushroom Mac. Husband enjoyed his Seared Kona Kampachi. The chef's fresh catch of the day was scrumptious. The fish was cooked perfectly with a slight cruch on the outside and flaky inside. The bok choy was ok, but the coconut sauce on the bottom and side of rice really made it that much better. The coconut sauce was savory with a coconut aftertaste that gave it just a slight sweetness. The white chocolate guava cheesecake tartlets were the perfect way to end the meal. They weren't too sweet and the perfect size. Guava flow was also perfect to sip with the view of the volcano. Thank you, Landon. You were a fantastic, energetic, and funny server. My family really enjoyed you!
Overview
Located in the heart of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, The Rim offers a unique dining experience that blends breathtaking views with delicious food. Nestled on the edge of the KΔ«lauea caldera, this restaurant provides a perfect spot for visitors to unwind after a day of exploring the park's volcanic landscapes. The atmosphere is relaxed, inviting, and distinctly Hawaiian, making it an ideal place for a memorable meal surrounded by nature's beauty.
The menu at The Rim is a true reflection of its surroundings, offering a range of local ingredients that showcase the best of Hawaii's culinary traditions. From fresh seafood to island-inspired dishes, each item is crafted with care and attention to detail. One standout dish is the seared ahi tuna, which captures the essence of Hawaii's oceans, paired with a tangy citrus glaze that balances the rich flavors of the fish. For those looking for something more hearty, the braised short ribs are a must-try-tender, flavorful, and perfectly complemented by mashed sweet potatoes.
In addition to the food, The Rim also boasts an impressive drink selection. Local craft beers and island-inspired cocktails are perfect for sipping while watching the sun dip below the horizon. Whether you're a fan of a refreshing mai tai or prefer a glass of wine from their curated list, the drinks at The Rim add to the overall experience. The laid-back vibe of the restaurant allows guests to relax and savor their meals while taking in the stunning views of the park.
What truly sets The Rim apart is its location. Being situated within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park means that diners can enjoy a meal with unparalleled views of the surrounding natural wonders. The KΔ«lauea volcano, with its active lava flows and dramatic landscapes, provides a truly one-of-a-kind backdrop. This makes The Rim not just a place to eat, but an experience that immerses you in the beauty and power of nature.
For those planning to visit, the service at The Rim is top-notch. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share their knowledge about the park and its history. They are more than happy to recommend dishes and drinks based on your preferences, ensuring that your dining experience is as enjoyable as possible. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a frequent guest, the service is consistently excellent, adding to the overall appeal of this remarkable restaurant.
Many visitors have praised The Rim for its combination of great food, excellent service, and unforgettable views. Reviews often highlight the relaxed, yet elegant atmosphere, as well as the quality of the food. With its unique location and the stunning scenery, itβs no surprise that The Rim has become a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Whether you're stopping by for a casual lunch or celebrating a special occasion, the restaurant offers something for everyone.
Good to know
Service options
β Outdoor seating β On-site services β Takeaway β Dine-in β DeliveryHighlights
β Fast service β Fireplace β Great beer selection β Great cocktails β Great coffee β Great dessert β Great wine list β Serves local specialtyPopular for
β Breakfast β Lunch β Dinner β Solo diningAccessibility
β Wheelchair-accessible car park β Wheelchair-accessible entrance β Wheelchair-accessible seating β Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
β Alcohol β Beer β Cocktails β Coffee β Comfort food β Healthy options β Small plates β Spirits β WineDining options
β Breakfast β Brunch β Lunch β Dinner β Dessert β Seating β Table serviceAmenities
β Bar on site β ToiletAtmosphere
β Casual β Cosy β Historic β Romantic β Trendy β UpmarketCrowd
β Groups β TouristsPlanning
β Brunch reservations recommended β Lunch reservations recommended β Dinner reservations recommended β Accepts reservations β Usually a waitPayments
β Credit cards β Debit cards β NFC mobile paymentsChildren
β Good for kids β High chairs β Kids' menuParking
β Free of charge street parking β Free parking lotPhotos
Location
Reviews
We visited the restaurant after watching the lava eruption in Episode 34 and trekking the Iki Trail! It was a perfect day with lava, delicious food, and friendly service. The staff's Aloha spirit touched us, and they even took some wonderful family photos. We'll definitely be back again next time we visit the Big Island!
The food was delicious, the staff were lovely, and the view was great. Unfortunately, it was raining the day I went so I couldnβt see much of the volcano. The steak I ordered was cooked well, and I really liked it. Everything I ordered was delicious.
This restaurant was incredible. It overlooked the crater and had such a great atmosphere. The servers were attentive and nice and the food was absolutely incredible. The price was fair and it was overall great experience. Afterwards we went for a 2-mile hike on the path around the rim which was also very neat.
Where else in the world can you have a delicious meal sitting on the edge of an active Volcano. Volcano House is the place the "locals" go for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a spectacular view.
We were not staying at the hotel but visited for dinner. We drove from our Airbnb in Volcano Village. βImportant Note on Driving: The drive involves roads with almost no streetlights. We arrived around 5:00 PM when it was still bright, but it got dark by 5:40 PM, and by the time we left after 7:30 PM, it was pitch black. If you are anxious about driving in the dark, I strongly recommend going for lunch instead, or staying at the Volcano House. (Once you pass the National Park gate, the hotel is very close, so that part is fine. Parking is available on-site or across the street). βThe Experience: The food was delicious, but the view was the real highlight. Dining while watching the orange glow of the crater is a breathtaking experience you likely won't find anywhere else in the world. The atmosphere felt like a pristine mountain lodgeβa perfect mix of elegance and friendliness that made us feel very relaxed. βLocation Tip: Be careful not to mistake the location. It is not the casual place right in front of the entrance. It is the fine dining restaurant located to the left, past the lounge. The front desk staff mentioned that many people get confused, so keep an eye out!