The Rim

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. ​Important 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). ​The 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 lodge—a perfect mix of elegance and friendliness that made us feel very relaxed. ​Location 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!

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.

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!

The food was delicious, the staff were lovely, and the view was great. Unfortunately, it was raining the day I went so I couldn’t see much of the volcano. The steak I ordered was cooked well, and I really liked it. Everything I ordered was delicious.

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!