Each trip to Moon and Turtle treats you to a new selection of amazing Asian fusion fare. Their superb international menu stays on the move, so they can always take full advantage of fresh, local ingredients. At this popular Hilo eatery, every day is a new opportunity to switch things up, ensuring you always feel wholly impressed with their offerings. Their new menus land on their Facebook page for all the admire, which allows you to get a glimpse of what awaits your arrival.
They welcome you to call for takeout if you do not have time for a full sit-down meal. But the real magic lies in coming into their cozy, upscale restaurant to get a taste of all that catches your eye. While they will honor walk-ins whenever possible, they strongly suggest you make reservations. With that move, you can avoid a long wait for a table – or even worse, getting turned away on their busiest nights.
Their dinner seating extravaganza starts at 5:30pm on the dot, allowing you to come in for a full evening of tasty food and drinks. Most patrons end up with their own table, but they’re happy to seat you at the bar if you wish. Either way, you’ll want to take a moment to check out the modern aesthetic, complete with beautiful artwork, string lights, and hardwood accents all around. Coupled with their friendly service, the homey atmosphere fills the eatery with good vibes for all, setting the stage for a memorable meal.
You’re welcome to start your meal with drinks from their full bar, including imaginative tropical cocktails galore. They also have non-alcoholic beverages if you prefer to keep things alcohol free. Then, you’ll get to order from their limited-time menu, which usually only has up to eight items each night.
When ordering, keep in mind that their large dishes are best enjoyed family style. So, you’ll want to order a few different items for all your tablemates to sample. That way, you can get a taste of all their best creations at every visit. Don’t want to share? That’s okay, too. Just order their small plates instead. Or plan to take home your leftovers in a doggie bag once you’ve got your fill.
Come by for a taste of the:
Garlic Butter Belly
For pure decadence in every bite, definitely treat yourself to the Garlic Butter Belly. This dish starts with locally sourced ahi belly pan fried to perfection. Then, they take its rich flavors to the next level with their bright garlic butter ponzu. Sweet onions, tomatoes, and sesame join the party as well, elevating all the flavors even more.
Spatzle Mac n’ Cheese
Whenever you see the Spatzle Mac n’ Cheese land on the menu, jump at the chance to enjoy its bold cheesy flavors. This dish begins with the preparation of their German style egg noodles. After that, they create a wonderful cheddar sauce using cream, white wine, and caramelized onions. The noodles go in the sauce first, and then Uncle Steven’s smoked meat follows to finish it all up right.
Mushroom Risotto
Always cooked low and slow, the Mushroom Risotto promises to delight from start to finish. This dish begins with Hamakua Alii and shiitake mushrooms simmered until browned and tender. After that, Koshihikari rice goes in the pan, followed by white wine and truffle oil. Once it’s almost done, parmesan gets mixed in to make the dish creamier and even more delicious.
Like all their entrees, their desserts keep changing on a regular basis as well. You can often find Affogato, however, which lets you savor rich vanilla and bold coffee flavors as they dance together. Otherwise, expect to find a selection of desserts from local creameries and bakeries. Depending on what looks good that day, their offerings may include lilikoi pie, cocoa roll cake, and mac nut salted caramel ice cream.
Insider Tips:
-If you get a reservation for later in the evening, there’s a chance they will only have a few menu items left for your consideration.
-Walk-ins can wait at the bar for a table.
-When ordering takeout, they may limit what you can get off the menu.