On a small Hawaiian island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, the odds of finding authentic Italian cuisine seem slim to none. Perfectly ripe tropical fruits, hefty plate lunches, and freshly caught fish are familiar and expected, but we are here to discover the diamond in the rough, and that’s Matteo’s Osteria.

The ambiance of the restaurant is an immediate and obvious testament to a commitment to delivering an authentic experience. A warm and lively dining room with dark wood finishes seamlessly extends into the open kitchen, perpendicular to an expansive yet cozy bar.