GREAT EATS HAWAII: FAIRMONT ORCHID

FAIRMONT ORCHID - HAWAII

1 N. KANIKU DRIVE

WAIMEA, HI 96743

808-885-2000

https://www.fairmont.com/orchid-hawaii/

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g2312116-d113123-Reviews-Fairmont_Orchid-Puako_Kohala_Coast_Island_of_Hawaii_Hawaii.html

https://www.instagram.com/fairmontorchid/?hl=en

https://www.facebook.com/FairmontOrchidHawaii/

I love the Fairmont Orchid on the Big Island of Hawaii but I don't like the high price for the rooms. Rooms are bland and a bit dated. Good thing we spent very little time in the room because the grounds, beach and pool are beautiful. In fact stunning. Cannot beat the sunsets and evening beach views here. Like being on your own little island. We upgraded to the Gold Level which has a private lounge and concierge. With COVID-19 protocols in place, I would not recommend spending the extra money for Gold Level. Normally with private lounges there are breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets, complimentary drinks including alcohol and snacks. This lounge had very little and everything had to be handed to you and be individually boxed. A glass of wine set you back $12 too. Total waste of money. Service is excellent though with the staff always greeting you and making sure you are happy. Dining here is expensive like the rooms. The Halekai restaurant is ocean/pool front and a beautiful place to enjoy lunch or dinner. The menu however is quite limited. We had the Poke with Avocado ($19). Probably the most bland and tasteless Poke I have ever tasted. The Chicken Wings with Sesame and Soy ($18) were sticky good but I would have preferred a little heat or Buffalo Wings. The Fresh Catch Sandwich ($28) was pretty basic and might be the most expensive Fish Sandwich we have ever ordered. Dinner at Browns Beach House is always good and the views and location cannot be beat. Sitting outside at sunset here and enjoying a drink numbs the pain of the high prices. Food and service are both excellent. I went for the Venison and loved it despite the $56 cost. The Onion Soup ($16) was unique and delicious. Served with cheese filled dumplings. Everyone enjoyed the entrees here. My Daughter loved the pool and jacuzzi during the day and night. Evenings by the pool and lagoon here are magical with stunning sunsets, colors and a feeling of total relaxation. Don't bother bringing pants, fancy shirts or clothes to the Fairmont Orchid. Dress is casual with shorts, t-shirts and slippers being the standard.