Hawaii: Memorable Big Island bistro

“HIDDEN away in a Safeway shopping mall, this is the best food we’ve found on the islands. The owner, Amy Ferguson, is on site, and the preparation and service show it.

“A mix of Italian and Pacific plates will keep us returning again and again. They also offer a complete vegetarian menu.”

Dinner entrees from $10.

O’s Bistro, 75-1027 Henry St., Suite 102, Kona, Hawaii; (808) 327-6565, www.osbistro.com.

BRUCE AND DIANE ARMSTRONG

Santa Barbara

**

California: L.A. quality in Big Sur

“I discovered a hidden treasure in the Big Sur Bakery & Restaurant. The bakery has some of the best baked goods I have found, and the restaurant has some of the very best food I have had.

“The kitchen is as good as many of the top L.A. restaurants. I would urge those passing by or staying in the area to give it a try. (It’s just north of Ventana.)

Entrees from $27.

Big Sur Bakery & Restaurant, Highway 1, Big Sur, Calif; (831) 667-0520, www.bigsurbakery.com.

VAUGHN HART

West Hollywood

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