Having lived on Maui for many years, I am happy to report on some of my favorite (affordable)eateries. You already mentioned Jawz Tacos in Kihei (they also have a truck farther south based out accross from Makena Beach).
Lunches at any of the 3 Cafe O'Lei's will be decadent and yet friendly on the wallet. The Wailuku cafe (on Market street by Ia'o Theatre)sees mostly the local working crowd; the cafe located on theg rounds of the Maui Dunes Golf Course offers great views of the lake on course and part of the west Maui mountains in the background; and the Kihei branch is upstairs in the rainbow mall. Try the french onion soup (yes, I know it seems strange to order soup in warm Hawaii- but trust me) - the delicate puff pastry topping melts in your mouth. I'd avoid going for dinner when the same dishes (with a slight variation) double in price.
Stillwells Bakery on Kaahumanu avenue in Wailuku offers amazing sandwiches, salads and soups to be finished off by one of their fresh made deserts that will most definitely make an indelible mark upon your memory. All the breads and deserts are fresh baked. I highly recommend the Reuben, chicken salad, or crab cake sandwiches. Try the bread pudding for desert.
For local kine grines -Da Kitchen can't be beat. When ever anyone would visit me- our first stop from the airport was always Da Kitchen in Kahului near the airport on Hana Highway (going toward Wailuku). The Kalua pig is THE BEST! Get a take away box or you won't be able to eat dinner later.

Moana Cafe on Baldwin in Pa'ia town is a sleepy cafe that has kitchy art covering the walls, and on most nights hosts local live entertainment. You will never taste a burger so delicious (and I am a burger snob)- they use Maui cattle. The chef may even come out to convince you that you should try it medium rare because it is so fresh- and if you do- you will NOT be dissapointed. This is another place that has friends of mine asking "what was that place with the amazing burgers?" They also boast a tasty variety of vegetartion options, seafood, and pastas.
I could go on- but these are my favorites. I hope someone else gets to delight in these tasty treasures, and keep some money in their pockets because they did so.

Posted By Kirsten Janca on October 7, 2009, 2:48 PM

The BEST place to eat in the Big Island [with lots of delicious choices for vegetarians like me] is the KeEi Cafe. 808-322-9992. It is much closer to Kona than it used to be [it was in Kealakekua aka Captain Cook]. Call them, reserve your time-slots for dinner, and enjoy. Most entrees are below $20.00 and vegetarian stuff is below $15.00/entree.

Bapcha

Posted By Bapcha Murty on October 7, 2009, 6:04 PM

On Maui in Kannapali area, try C.J's cafe/restaurant for breakfast and lunch. Chef has been on Food Network and his Pineapple Fried Rice is a MUST! Great prices, lots of choices. They even pack lunches if you're going to make a day trip to Hana

Posted By denise on October 8, 2009, 11:13 AM

My favorite place is Merrimen's in Kamuela on the Big Island. Gourmet and Extraordinary. Check out Gallery of Great Things right across the street while you are there. The best gallery on the island, in my opinion. Food and Art -perfect afternoon upcountry

Posted By jeann on October 8, 2009, 11:21 AM

Great post by Kirsten, but I don't see the Aloha Mixed Plate on Front St in Lahaina. The typical Hawaiian food is reasonable and the outdoor seating and view Killer!! Try it!!!

Posted By Susan O on October 8, 2009, 12:06 PM

On our honeymoon this past July my husband and I took a friend's recommendation and splurged on a nice dinner at Mama's Fish House. It was quaint yet beautiful, on its own little white, sandy beach. The food was absolutely one of the best meals we have ever had. Their macadamia crusted mahi mahi stuffed with lobster, crab and maui onions was succulent and amazing. It was fairly expensive by a young newlywed's standards, but we were on our honeymoon and wanted to spend a little on ourselves. They say the menu changes daily but some things are more consistent. We ended up going back a second time before we had to leave to get the mahi mahi again and it was still there.

Their menu even tells you who caught the fish and where!

Posted By Sharilyn on October 8, 2009, 1:34 PM

These places sound yummy

Posted By Linda on October 8, 2009, 3:03 PM

The Gazebo in Napili is great for Breakfast and go to Charley's in Pa'ia if you want a good burger.

Posted By Brad on October 8, 2009, 3:30 PM

Just returned from my fourth vacation in Hawaii...stayed at Aston (Resort Quest) Waikiki this time...I would stay here again and recommend it to everyone! Best food finds were -
1. Duke's on the beach at the Outrigger Waikiki: $12.95 lunch buffet featured three hot entrees, made to order ceaser salads, and fab salad bar w/fresh fruit...everything was delish!
2. My must do each trip - Keo's Thai Restaurant - north end of Waikiki were Kalakaua & Kuhio meet.
3. Legend Seafood Restaurant in Chinatown for Dim Sum. 100 N. Beretania Street.
Tip: Print Frommer's walking tours for Waikiki & Honolulu...they're free, they're accurate and easy to follow and get you away from the crowds!

Posted By gogoddess on October 8, 2009, 3:32 PM

What about Kauai? There are lots of great deals here and tons of things to do that don't cost a penny. Here are a few:

- Stay ocean front on Kauai's north shore for 25% off regular rates at Hanalei Colony Resort.
- Hanalei Gourmet, great lunches and a full bar with reasonable prices.
- The Tahiti Nui in Hanalei, best mai tais on the island, total local crowd, live music most nights.
- Tour both of Kauai's Tropical Botanical Gardens.
- Hanapepe Art Night, every Friday night.
- Monster Taco, Koloa Wed, Thur, Fri, Sat. Excellent, huge fish tacos!

Posted By Susie on October 8, 2009, 3:38 PM

Kaka'ako Kitchen in Honolulu at Ward Center has great comfort food with a fusion twist.

Posted By Julianna on October 8, 2009, 4:15 PM

On Kauai's North Shore three terrific casual dining spots come to mind as great deals. Polynesia Cafe in Hanalei's Ching Young Center has terrific fresh ahi dishes, kahlua pork sandwiches, and a selection of good Mexican entrees plus Lappert's ice cream. It's outdoor dining appropriately advertised as "gourmet food on paper plates" and you can bring your own beer or wine. Another is the Kilauea Fish Market, just off the lighthouse road in Kilauea -- their ahi wraps (with fresh veggies and a wonderful light sesame sauce) are to die for! Finally, Neidi's in Hanalei is a small Brazilian-Mexican cafe with very good food at reasonable prices.

Posted By Mary on October 8, 2009, 4:30 PM

I agree that CJs is terrific. B&Bs are wonderful! Hosts can turn you on to lots of great sites and things to do. Lahaina Inn is charming and location super. Hana Hotel is worth a splurge. Their restaurant is worth the trip. Cheeseburger in Paradise gives you the best sunset views on earth and puts Jimmy's awful imitations to shame! Sunrise on Haleakala is a moving experience and best followed by the bike descents to the sea! Mama's Fish House has terrific atmosphere and cuisine, and also some rooms available.

Posted By Steve McCornack on October 8, 2009, 5:59 PM

In Waikiki, if you are an early riser, Dukes breakfast buffet for $14 and change that starts at 7AM (for those looking for a beach front table) is a much better deal than their lunch buffet. I have eaten there every Sunday for years and years.
I live here in Waikiki.

Posted By Charles M. Carter on October 8, 2009, 6:08 PM

I agree, CJ's on Maui is great, my favorite breakfast to have there is the "Loco Moco" The Sea House in Napili has awesome banana pancakes.
In Lahaina I always make it a point to stop at Kimo's for a Mahi Mahi fish sandwich! Yummy
As for the Big Island , Kona,I will always return to Quinn's for their fried calamari.

Posted By Amber on October 8, 2009, 7:15 PM

I just got back from Oahu. The best restaurant was in a bar called the Side Street Inn. The portions were enough to feed two construction workers. This is only the second time at age 60 I have ever had to get a take-home box. The restaurant is located east of Ward Center and west of Waikiki. It is next to an auto repair shop, in an adult entertainment district.You will wonder why you ventured to this part of town until you taste the food. The Hawaiian fried rice and sauteed mushrooms are superb. Dinner cost me $10.

If you happen to be in Chinatown on the first Friday of the month, check out the Arts Walk by searching for "First Friday" on the internet. The event is not posted before "First Thursday." Strolling past galleries and in free museums you will see local artwork, dance, and hear music and poetry. It's all free.

Finally, if you have any curiousity at all about Hawaiian history or culture, check out Hawaiian Hall at the Bishop Museum. This is the only museum I have ever been to that has garden tours explaining the significance of local plants referred to in the inside exhibits.

Posted By Elyette on October 9, 2009, 1:10 AM

Looking for an inexpensive lunch in Kona? There is a Korean restaurant in the Safeway Plaza off Henry Street. They have traditional Hawaiian plate lunches for under $10 that come with a choice of three or four side dishes as well as the main ingredient and rice. For a real splurge, Merriman's in Waimea is an outstanding restaurant that uses local vegetables and meat. Their lamb is outstanding!

Posted By Bob ` on October 9, 2009, 9:31 AM

A visit to Kauai is not complete without a stop at Bubba Burgers. It is in Kap'aa and is frequently mostly by locals. They serve local Kauai beef and the burgers are amazing & well priced.

Posted By Beth Zwisohn on October 9, 2009, 10:08 AM

I have made many trips to the islands over the years and can honestly say I discover something new with each trip.
Places to stay I know it's not very exciting but one of my favorites on Mau'i is the Mau'i Sands property in Honokawai. It's a smaller property older but well maintained. very quiet and a bit of a throw back to an older experience. Even if things have grown up around it. Right across the street in a small strip mall is a store front diner 8 seats or so mostly take out and almost only locals. Try of all things the onion burger. the foods great and the price is right. I know that both Kimos in Lahaina and on Front street and The Hawaiian plate lunch have been mentioned but would have to second both. The food at Kimos is great fresh seafood and great views. The plate lunch has an added bonus in that you can enjoy the music from the old Lahaina Luau next door in the evening with out paying the admission price. Old Lahaina Luau is a great if somewhat pricy evening.
On the way back from Haleakala stop at the Protea farm inn for brekfast good food and better views. Try the coconut syrup on your pancakes.
The big island has a great diner open for breakfast is the coffee shack great food reasonablr prices and akiller view looking down the hill towards kona. it's agreat place to stop for breakfast on the way to volcanoes national park they are on the ocean side of highway between 108 & 109 mile posts in Captain Cook. Also just off the highway coming into Kona just prior to town on your right is a shopping center / industrial area. Go into the back of this area to find Killer Tacos a great hole in the wall Mexican place inexpensive and tasty. For all of the islands if you are a Costco member just as on the mainland they have $1.50 dogs and sodas. Usually the best bet on island for gas if you are a member.
On Kaua'i try Puka Dog it's a bit odd in some ways from a decor stand point. But if a hot dog can go upscale this is probably it. Try the mango relish. they are in Poipu. Sadly I can't remember the name of it but there is a small stand in the Coconut Grove shopping center in Kapaa that has some of the best fish sandwiches on the island. It's tough to miss as it's right in the middle of the court yard and last visit was a vivid blue. Don't miss the shave ice in Hanalei ask for it with some of Laperts ice cream as a base.

Posted By lawrence luce on October 10, 2009, 12:29 AM

Napili Kai Beach Club Hotel, Lahina, Maui HI near Kapula Pt.
Inn of the Maui Moon at same hotel.
Maunea Kea Beach Hotel, Big Island HI.
& any pvt home for rent in Maui too.
Try the golf course dining in Maui, best ever.

Posted By stephen russell on October 10, 2009, 11:37 AM

When I get off the plane on Oahu the first place I go is to Matsumoto's on the North Shore in Haleiwa for my pina colada shaved ice. The last place I go before I go back to the airport is Matsumoto's on the North Shore in Haleiwa for my pina colada shaved ice with ice cream. Who needs food when you have Hawaiian shaved ice.

Posted By Jeff on October 10, 2009, 12:27 PM

I try to spend a couple weeks on the Kona side of the Big Island each winter.

Lodging: usually a vacation rental found through VRBO. Like having a kitchen and want more privacy than hotels and many condos offer.

Cheap eats: The Pines Cafe on Queen K Highway between the airport and the turn off to Costco. The Coffee Shack (on Mamalahoa Hwy south of Captain Cook) has good food, a fantastic view of the coast and tame geckos that like jam.

Romance/Local Color: Lunch or dinner at the Kona Inn on the water in Kailua-Kona. Open air dining with a great view of the harbor, reasonably priced food and a picturesque ceiling fan system. Brown's Beach House Bar (not the formal restaurant, but the one with tables in the sand) expensive, but you've got your feet in sand, no dress code, the ocean, whales, exquisite food... hard to beat.

Best free thing to do/see: jumping the waves at Hapuna Beach.

Posted By Lynette on October 11, 2009, 9:33 PM

I visited Maui last year on a very tight budget. I was able to stay an entire week on Maui for dirt cheap by staying in the Banana Bungalow for $25/night. It included crazy fun and cool activities everyday where they take you all around the show you the very best of, and the off-the-beaten path, places that Maui has to offer. We took a guided 12 mile hike into Haleakala Volcanoe, whale watching boat tour, visited lots of GREAT beaches for enjoying some R&R downtime. GREAT people and very safe too! The inexpensive option allowed me the opportunity to splurge on some great additiional activities, such as catamaran sailing/snorkeling to Lanai for the day. This was simply one of the very best trips I have ever experienced! FYI-Go in March to experience the whale migration. INCREDIBLE!

Posted By Sheila Schwartz on October 13, 2009, 1:22 AM

I just returned from Aston Waikiki Sunset. What a great hotel. My husband, mother, daughter and I enjoyed the 2 bedroom hotel suite with kitchen and fabulous views of both the ocean and Diamond Head. Clean, efficient and friendly service, all new renovated room, and convenient walk to the beach. Market, pool area and computer room also nice. Near zoo, acquarium, Kuhio Beach, restaurants, and covenience stores. Use of beach towels handy. Parking at hotel garage was easy.
I highly recommend.

Posted By Lynn Anderson on October 14, 2009, 1:09 AM

On Maui, in Lahina, just outside downtown, beachside find MaLa. On the water, light wave sounds. Brilliant food. Goat cheese and beet salad made with local Surfing Goat Cheese. Everything I have had there is prepared perfectly, and you are in the Lahina area but not overwhelmed with crowds...thus, make a reservatiion or be there when they open the doors for lunch.

On Oahu--go over the mountain on the Likelike Hwy, inhale and exhale as you come out of the tunnel and love the view. A the bottom of the hill, turn right at the big intersection, a couple of lights and left at the triangle, bend to the right and you will be at Buzz's Restaurant. Order anything; the Calamari steak is like butter, the Artichoke Surprise is redolent with garlic and cheese, split it with someone special then order another, and the Kailua Passion can't be found anywhere else. Sip and slurp.Oh yeah, steaks supreme!

Posted By Kitty St. Romain on October 15, 2009, 6:34 PM

Haleiwa Eats, (North Shore Oahu in Haleiwa) has great Thai food. It serves, among other things, the local Kahuku shrimp in its shrimp dishes. It is pretty reasonable and great for either snacks or full dinners. It's laid back, funky colorful tiled interior is perfect after a day on the beach.

Posted By Julianna on October 19, 2009, 6:02 PM

If you are looking for a budget hotel that still has all of the amenities, then the Royal Kona in Kailua-Kona on the Big Island may be for you. Many of the rooms have recently been remodeled and the hotel has a 3x weekly luau, nice pool, bar and restaurant. The beach is rocky so you will have to either swim in the pool or go to the beach just up the road. We recently got a lovely room with a king bed for $79 per night which is unheard of for Hawaiian hotels. Since the hotel is located right on Alii Drive, it is right in the heart of things and a truly a good pick for the budget minded traveler.

Posted By Kathryn on October 20, 2009, 12:24 AM

Here are my recommendations for Honolulu Restaurants:

Ono Hawaiian Foods - The name says it all! This place is great for authentic Hawaiian food - The kinda stuff they serve at the luaus only tasty and without the tacky show. It's just a small family run place so be prepared to wait for a table...

Side Street Inn - Unusual place, kinda like a sports bar serving a mix of Hawaiian, Korean and Chinese cuisine. Tasty and good value - big portions.

The Pineapple Room - Not the best location (it's inside a Macy's) but the food is delicious and if you can't afford to go to Alan Wong's this is the next best thing! :)

Dukes - Food is just ok, nothing to write home about...but the location is simply amazing! Nothing quite like sipping on cocktails by the beach...

Posted By Courtney on October 20, 2009, 11:26 PM

If you go to only one restaurant in all of Hawaii, it should be SAM CHOY'S. There are two locations on Oahu. One is on Kapahulu near the Waikiki Zoo area for dinners. Order only one dinner however, for two people. They will provide a second plate and salad for the person sharing the fantastic meal. You MUST make reservations well in advance unless you show up at 5 pm opening time. The second location is great for lunch and is located near the waterfront at 580 Nimitz Hwy. Plan to get there by 11:30 am or after 2 pm if you don't want to wait in line. I've never heard a negative comment about either location.
Bill Shea

Posted By bill shea on October 22, 2009, 10:22 AM

I'd like to mention Embassy Suites Waikiki Beach Walk. That place was fantastic! As for food, there are too so many good places, it depends on what you want. But, my favorite treat was from a place called Red Mango. It's frozen custard, but it tastes better than ice cream. Really fantastic.

Posted By Parry Abbott on October 22, 2009, 4:12 PM

I too am a big fan of the small Gazebo(late=long line) Restaurant, for breakfast and whale watching, on Maui North of Lahaina and busy Kaanapali. The family use to stay at condos just a short walk N., but beer bottles left out over 3 days and not picked up by the no-smile and no Aloha staff had us change base of operations. Great protected-swimming small bay tho. For lunch i go to the General Store for huge portions of plate lunch at the famous golf course, Kapalua Resort. Snorkel on the left /S. side of the Black Rock at Kaanapali (or go around it from N. to S. only if you are a strong swimmer and good conditions,,,wearing a black nylon body suit will cut down on muscle cramps; lots of dive shops have them. Bring your Surf-fur warmup if you surf or go on a dive boat) and then have a drink at one of the beautiful view major resort outdoor bars there. All of this is close by on the upper left or NW part of Maui, and you can bbq your own fish/steak back at the condo for dinner.

Posted By mrDG on October 22, 2009, 10:59 PM

In Honolulu: Aqua Bamboo Hotel is small and affordable, a nice upgrade of an old building, a few blocks from the beach in a fun neighborhood near the canal. For food, something a little different is the MAC 24/7 restaurant in the New Hilton Waikiki Prince Kuhio Hotel, open 24/7 as the name implies, comfort food (meatloaf, fried chicken, mashed potatoes), local favorites, and amazing breakfasts, at good prices.

On the Big Island: The Hamakua Hideaway Cliff House is nothing short of amazing! Down a bumpy dirt road, at the end of a somewhat perilous driveway, on the edge of a cliff, sits a tiny, screened house with jaw-dropping views of the Waipio Valley and Hamakua coastline. The panorama is so perfect it's almost unreal. Plus you get a little kitchen, a kingsize bed, a loft, and a jacuzzi tub with wraparound windows facing the killer views, and all for $195/night!

In Hilo, drop by Cafe 100 for local faves like moco loco (rice, hamburger patty, fried egg and brown gravy) for $1.99.

Near Volcanoes National Park is Skye's Treehouse B&B, a one-of-a-kind cottage literally built into the trees about 20 feet off the ground, that is filled with homey touches lovingly created by the owner, Skye, a treehouse and volcano fanatic who is a hoot to talk with! A fabulous and unique place to stay, and just $150/night.

Thai Thai Restaurant in Volcano Village is excellent, and has a surprisingly nice ambience despite being next door to the Ace Hardware Store!

Finally, look up Greg and Michael at the Ka'awa Loa Plantation B&B in Captain Cook. This elegant and welcoming home is perched in the hills above Kealakekua Bay, and comes with fabulous views, a home-grown breakfast, a hot tub and sweat lodge, fun fellow guests, and warm and caring hosts.

As another poster noted, Ke'ei Cafe in Captain Cook has a great menu of fresh, fusion-style dishes; The Coffee Shack is much more than that, and has an unobstructed, picture-perfect view of the Kona Coast; and little Adriana's Mexican Food (Juanita the cook is from El Salvador) serves the best chili verde to be found anywhere.

Enjoy!

Posted By JM Hilde on October 26, 2009, 7:00 PM