Zagat: Merriman’s top Big Isle restaurant

Waimea’s Merriman’s restaurant earned “Top Food” honors from Zagat’s 2013 Hawaii Guide, which ranks establishments based on consumer reviews.

Merriman’s was also recognized as the island’s most popular restaurant and the top Hawaii regional cuisine restaurant, according to the 2013 guide released Wednesday. It also earned a third-place recognition for top service.

Out of 30 points for each category, the restaurant deemed a “true gem” received 27 for its food; 25 for its decor and 19 for its service, according to the guide. The average cost of a plate of food at Merriman’s was $35.

Also earning “Top Food” honors were La Bourgogne and Ruth’s Chris Steak House.

In all, the guide included 62 Hawaii Island dining establishments offering an plethora of foods and beverages in an array of settings. It also provided reviews for 22 Big Island sites and attractions and 28 Big Isle shopping locations.

The most popular Big Isle site and attraction was Hawaii Volcanoes National Park while ABC Stores snagged the top spot for favorite local shopping spot.

Zagat’s “Hawaii Guide” includes ratings and reviews for 1,050 restaurants, nightspots, shops and attractions across the state. The findings are based on votes tallied by 7,853 local consumers.

Compiled since 1979, Zagat guides provide reviews based on public opinion surveys in more than 100 countries. Acquired by Google Inc. in 2011, the guide is available free online when signed in with Google search and maps and Google+. It is also available for purchase at bookstores and via zagat.com.