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The 49 best spots for garlic chicken in Honolulu
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The 49 best spots for garlic chicken in Honolulu

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Wanderlog staff
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• updatedSep 1, 2025

If you find yourself wandering the vibrant streets of Honolulu, you’re in for a treat, especially if you’re a fan of garlic chicken. This beloved dish, with its crispy exterior and savory garlic flavor, has become a staple in the local culinary scene. From casual eateries to upscale restaurants, Honolulu offers a delightful array of spots where you can indulge in this mouthwatering dish. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the quest for the perfect garlic chicken is sure to lead you to some unforgettable dining experiences.

As you explore the city, you’ll discover a mix of well-known favorites and hidden gems that serve up their own unique takes on garlic chicken. Picture yourself savoring a plate of tender, juicy chicken paired with fragrant garlic sauce, all while soaking in the laid-back island atmosphere. The Wanderlog team is passionate about uncovering these great food spots, and we can’t wait for you to join us on this delicious journey through Honolulu’s best garlic chicken offerings. Get ready to dig in and explore the flavors that make this dish a must-try in Hawaii!

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We scoured through the internet and read through 6 reputable sites and blogs like Hawaii Travel Guide and Family Destinations Guide. We gathered all the results in one place and ranked them by how many times they were mentioned so you know you're getting the best of the best. Just look for the "mentioned by" tags on each place.
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1GOOFY Cafe & Dine

4.5
(3833)
•
4.4
(1812)
•
Mentioned on 
2 lists 
$$$$affordable
Organic restaurant
Bar
Breakfast restaurant
Goofy Cafe & Dine is a laid-back restaurant located within the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, offering a relaxed atmosphere with a surfer vibe. The cafe is known for its locavore Hawaiian cuisine, serving up farm-to-table breakfast options all day long. Despite having a small menu, the eatery prides itself on flavorful dishes made with fresh local ingredients. With friendly service and reasonable prices, it's a popular choice for breakfast in Waikiki.
I stopped by Goofy Café & Dine this morning, about 30 minutes after opening, and the place was already packed! It’s on a second floor overlooking Ala Moana Blvd, with open windows that give it a great vibe…definitely made me wish I was dining in instead of taking out. Laura took my order and was so kind and genuine, it made the whole experience all the better. My food was ready in about 20 minutes, hot and packaged thoughtfully. She even kept my fruit plate separate from the hot dishes. We tried the Loco Moco and the Hawaiian French toast. I usually go for savory, but the French toast was the winner, light, not overly sweet, and topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit. The loco moco was tasty too, with fresh in-house patties and rich gravy. It’s easy to see why the place fills up so quickly
Genevieve W — Google review
Why'd they name it Goofy? I don't know, it's an ordinary cafe'. The food was good with ample portions. The taste was good, not great,not spectacular but a solid good. It just likeom used to make if she was a mediocre cook. This place is the same, they have their great dishes and the majority are good. It will fill you up and not make I feel cheated. The lemonade is great! I would back just for a tall cool sip of that sweet and sour nectar. It's an upstairs establishment, do if you can't climb steps, bring someone to carry you. I'd do it for a lemonade. (Disclaimer: if you are height and weight proportionate). So the view of the street is nice. You can sit and watch the people walking by. It is a small place so be prepared to wait. That's about it, it's another local grinds cafe'
Alpha — Google review
Got there 2 mins to 7am when they open and we missed the sign up for first round of tables. We were a table of 2 and landed at number 16 on the waitlist. I'd recommend coming 10 to 15 mins early to sign up on the wait list sheet. Service is excellent. The staff are friendly and the lady spoke fluent Japanese. Those who couldn't wait on the wait list were offered to do take out. Atmosphere is very Hawaiian. The tables and chairs were the theme of a shack house and Hawaiian ukulele music was playing in the background. Cute restaurant on a second floor of a building. We got in at 7:35am and ordered by 7:40. Food and drinks came by 7:50am. Food was so delicious we finished at 7:58am. Papaya smoothie says limited, so I'm not sure if it's seasonal or until sold out. Was very good and can taste the lime in the smoothie. My friend had the POG mix. Strong guava flavour which is good. Not as sweet as my smoothie probably because of the orange juice. We shared the big breakfast loco moco. It was one of the best dishes I've had. I want to come back for the lunch loco moco which comes with fried rice instead of brown rice. The hamburger was slightly charred which gave it such a good flavour. The gravy reminded me of a Japanese hayashi rice. That gravy was savory and had butter flavours. Sunny side eggs had a crispy rim on the eggs. Loved it all and we had side plates so my friend who didn't like her rice draining in sauce while I loved my rice swimming in sauce could both satisfy our tastes. Highly recommend for their loco moco. I will come here everytime I come back to honolulu now. Update: I came back for lunch on a Tuesday. No line up and seating was relaxed. Ordered the lunch loco moco, green pasta, and pineapple iced tea. The lunch loco moco is $5 more than the breakfast loco moco. It was worth the extra $5. Instead of just brown rice, it comes with fried rice with kale, corn, and pork. My friend found it a bit salty after a few bites, but I loved it even more than the breakfast loco moco. It was really tasty and paired well with the pineapple iced tea. The pineapple iced tea was sweet but not too sweet. Bonus, it has free refills. Before leaving I wanted one more refill and the server asked if I wanted to take it to go. Service is excellent and staff are so friendly. Different servers for both visits, but everyone was attentive and all smiles. My friend had the green pasta, she really liked the nutty flavours. I tasted it and it had pesto and macadamia nuts. The garlic shrimp was good, but I felt the shrimp was slightly overcooked. Pasta was saucy, but texture of the pasta was very good and not too soft. Not the dish for me, but my friend said it's one of the best pastas she has had.
Karen K — Google review
Hit this place right in the middle of my morning run. The Hawaiian Omelette was soooo good and the Taro Muffin substitute - go for it! That muffin was so good I ran with the other half in my pocket on the way home… not recommended but a girls gotta do what a girls gotta do. This place filled my tummy in a way it hasnt been filled in a while, you know that good full feeling that reaches your heart? Yeah, that one.😋 I came by myself and got a table in about 15-20 minutes (Arrived around 7:45am). The staff is so friendly and add to the ambiance. Definitely hit it up. This visit I went with savory, next time I wanna try the sweet stuff 🧇 🤙🏽
Melissa M — Google review
Don't let the name make you think this place isn't worth the trip, it definitely is. Walk up, sign the wait-list and wait to get seated. We had bfast here twice this week. The acai bowls are huge, and they are not shy with the amount of fruit added to the acai bowls, or the French toast, so your money is well spent. Coffee is good, the open-air atmosphere is very relaxed. It's an older building, but done up nicely inside.
Neil N — Google review
We stayed at the Hilton Hawaiian Village and decided to try Goofy’s for breakfast. I ordered the sweet bread French toast with berries—delicious, and definitely something I’d recommend. My husband went with the loco moco; he enjoyed it but felt it was pretty average compared to others he tried during our trip. When you arrive, you’ll need to add your name to the waitlist. We waited about 40 minutes before being seated. The restaurant is on the smaller side, so wait times can be long, though it seemed that parties of two were seated much quicker than larger groups.
Krystal P — Google review
My favorite brunch place during my stay! I visited daily and tried something different each day with family. The food was always delicious and Goofy's has a refreshing variety of cocktails and mocktails. The seating options are eclectic and comfortable. The atmosphere is comfortable and fitting for family or lunch with friends. I want a Goofy's t-shirt or something swag... they dont have anything yet. The staff are friendly and accommodating. Always happy and professional as well.
Ken ( — Google review
This is a must do in Honolulu! Especially if you are close to or staying at the Hilton Hawaiian Village! We ate her last time visiting 7 years ago - we’re thrilled it was still here. And loved it just as much this time. It’s a smaller space - and there appears to be a short line all morning - but don’t be discouraged- it is so so worth waiting 5-15 minutes. So many great dishes to choose from! Their Benedict’s are crazy delicious! Had their vegetarian one - and recommend trying it with the taro muffin! I decided on the Morning Power Salad (can you tell we were trying for healthy for this meal - lol!). Yikes was it amazingly good! And you can tell from the picture - very healthy too! I could not finish it so - have a second meal for later! All the vegetables and fruits were so fresh and crisp and delicious! Could not resist the fresh pineapple - and glad I had poor will power. Just capped of a tremendous breakfast. Have to say that the wait staff/team were so friendly and thoughtful - despite being busy. Joshua always had a smile and was quick to help! So highly recommend having breakfast at this awesome spot - almost one of those classic hole in the wall spots that most will miss. Don’t you miss it!!
Michael P — Google review
1831 Ala Moana Blvd #201, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA•http://www.goofy-honolulu.com/•(808) 943-0077•Tips and more reviews for GOOFY Cafe & Dine

2Helena's Hawaiian Food

4.5
(3473)
•
4.5
(906)
•
Mentioned on 
2 lists 
$$$$affordable
Hawaiian restaurant
Restaurant
Helena's Hawaiian Food is a beloved restaurant in Honolulu, serving up traditional Hawaiian dishes since 1946. The casual setting and simple menu allow the focus to be on the delicious food, including kalua pork, lomi salmon, pipikaula (quick ribs), and squid luau. This family-run gem has received accolades such as the James Beard Americas Classics award in 2000 for its authentic regional cuisine.
The food here is arguably one of the best spots you’ll eat at. The hustle and bustle of the restaurant is fun, but we were in a rush and din’t want to wait for a spot. We opted to just eat in our car. All the meats were delicious and every time we come we get the Poi to see if it agrees with us better this time. Each time we fail to find enjoyment in it, but try try again!
Frank B — Google review
Helena's is hands down one of our absolute favorite spots every time we visit Hawaii! The food is consistently amazing--comforting, flavorful, and worth every bite. We were so happy to see their recent expansion, and it makes the experience even better. The staff here are always so lovely and welcoming, making you feel right at home from the moment you walk in. This place has become a tradition for us, and we can't imagine a trip to Hawaii without stopping by.
Rj A — Google review
Excellent! Went for lunch on a Friday, it was busy but there were some seats. Parking was somewhat difficult but doable if you are able to walk 1-2 blocks. We ordered one of the menu’s that included short rib, the salmon salad, pork, side of rice + the coconut finale. We also included a fried fish that was recommended. Everything came out of the kitchen rather fast. First, the salmon salad: we liked it, but we think it was normal, we are no experts in that dish. Next, short rib: excellent. Tasty, great color, goes very good with the rice. Fried fish: juicy, cooked to perfection. Pork: tasty, also goes very well with the rice. To end lunch, we tried the coconut (“jello”). It was good, just not used to eat it with onion. Price was super reasonable as it was a good amount of food. Definitely recommend if you want a Hawaiian experience!
Alvaro M — Google review
Helena’s has been on my food wishlist for years and I finally made it on this trip for a late lunch. I can’t stop thinking about how delicious it was - easily my favourite meal I’ve ever had in Hawai’i. Enjoyed the Laulau (tender, rich, and flavourful), the butterfish collar (so fresh, light, and crispy) and poi (love how it balanced the richness of the Laulau). They brought out a plate with raw sliced onion and a lovely coconut dessert plus a small side of local salt - pro tip I learned the midway through the meal: dip the onion into the salt and eat with the food and it’s the most amazing flavour enhancer (nice salt and acidity)! Hours later my onion breath lingers land i’m trying to figure out if I can come back before my flight tomorrow to try the dry aged beef ribs. This restaurant and the staff deserve all the praise it gets. I’ll be dreaming of this meal until I can return again.
Naomi K — Google review
Food was ok but not worth the price. We ordered 5 Large orders of Short Ribs, 3 Large orders of Fried Ahi, & 3 Haupia that was suppose to feed 20 people for $200 (see pics). Maybe we assumed too much? Its up to you to decide.
Benedict M — Google review
We went for an early lunch on a Wednesday because we had read that it could get crowded. On the way, our Lyft driver gave us tips on what to order and how to eat it (don't eat everything separately - get a little bit of multiple things in each bite), which made the experience even more fun. We ordered Lomi Salmon, Short Ribs Pipikaula Style, Luau Squid, Kalua Pig & Cabbage and it came with haupia (a coconut dessert). Everything was delicious, but the ribs (oooh, the ribs!) are magical! I still think about them and it has been 7 months since we were there. If I ever have the chance to go back to Hawaii, I will definitely go back.
Kari S — Google review
Ordered take-out. A bit pricey, but the portions were large. The kalbi ribs and kalua pork were delicious. I’d definitely try it again next time dining in.
V N — Google review
If you’re in Honolulu looking for the best authentic Hawaiian food then Helena’s is where you want to be! We tried every other “top” restaurant and Helena’s was the absolute best of all- we returned on our second to last day to eat there again. The only problem is it was so good I’m going to be craving Helena’s and we like in Oklahoma!! 10/10 recommend- do NOT miss out! Side note- I have to eat Gluten free and almost everything on their menu was naturally GF.
James S — Google review
1240 N School St, Honolulu, HI 96817, USA•https://helenashawaiianfood.com/?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=socia…•(808) 845-8044•Tips and more reviews for Helena's Hawaiian Food
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3Ginza Bairin Tonkatsu & Yoshoku Bistro

4.3
(1959)
•
4.4
(369)
•
Mentioned on 
2 lists 
$$$$affordable
Tonkatsu restaurant
Bistro
Takeout Restaurant
Ginza Bairin Tonkatsu is a cozy restaurant located in the heart of Waikiki, offering authentic Japanese cuisine with a focus on breaded pork cutlets. The star of the menu is Berkshire pork, creating crispy and juicy bites that are complemented by the specialty sauce created by founder Nobukatsu Shibuya. The restaurant also offers seafood and poultry options for those looking for variety.
Authentic Japanese restaurant that serves very well-presented and flavorful food. I've never had katsu that is so juicy on the inside and perfectly crispy on the outside. Highly recommended if you go to Honolulu! The restaurant is pretty small so I'd recommend making a reservation before going.
Yen C — Google review
A traditional Japanese restaurant with an authentic atmosphere and well-prepared dishes. The food was flavorful and nicely presented, and the service was warm and friendly throughout our visit. Prices are a little on the higher side compared to similar places, but overall it’s a pleasant dining experience if you’re looking for quality Japanese cuisine.
Wei L — Google review
We made reservations for 6:30 but got there a bit earlier and they let us in. Thank you for that, since we're hungry. We had Pork tenderloin set and another one but premium set. The meat was so tender and panto was so light and crunchy. Tonkatsu sauce was delicious. Giant shrimp tempura was so ono! Curry that came with premium set was delicious. Our server was amazing. Very attentive and friendly. His name is Scott. Parking is next to ABC store in the Bank building underground. Make sure to bring ticket to get validation. This is our 2nd times at this restaurant. Will definitely come back again.
Kay B — Google review
Now this was a very impressive meal! In general I am not the biggest fan of Japanese food, but this was one of my best experiences. My biggest dissatisfaction was that I wish I had a little more meat, since I had so many ways to eat it that I ran out of pork before anything else. I tried the deluxe set of the 200 gram pork katsu: Katsu – A nice piece of meat covered well in crispy breading and fried. The meat was very properly cooked, not rare at all and still juicy and tender. It can’t be cooked better. Unfortunately, the bottom side of the breading still ended up getting soggy despite the metal wire stage holding up the pork. The sides and top were very good, crispy but not crunchy, holding up to the addition of sauces but not requiring extra force to eat. The fat cap on one end was a bit rich since there wasn’t much meat to balance it out. The mustard on the side was my favorite topping. I don’t have a high wasabi tolerance and the mustard’s nasal effect was a bit strong, but I really enjoyed the flavor in combination with the pork. Miso soup – flavorful, savory, not too salty Egg custard – sort of a steamed egg with toppings of mushroom, veggie, and a piece of chicken or something. Very light and interesting, egg texture was like silken tofu. Rice and barley rice – not the biggest difference I think, the barley rice has a bit more texture and nutty flavor but the white rice is softer and more aromatic. Sesame seed katsu sauce and curry – deep, savory additions to the pork. I was dunking every other bite in them and still didn’t manage to finish it. I also wish a could have ground up my sesame a bit more fine, but the little pestle was taken from me before I was quite done. Sesame ice cream – this was not listed as on option on the menu but was presented to me as a choice by the server, so I had to try it (I believe the menu options were green tea and lilikoi, but the green tea had run out). It was probably served a little too cold since it was solid and not very fluffy, but still the sesame flavor was strong and it wasn’t too rich or sweet. We also got the edamame appetizer (garlic and anchovy version) even though it supposedly was not available after 6:00p ( we ordered a few minutes after), which was refreshing and had great savory flavors in the sauce.
Thomas Y — Google review
Excellent food and service! Ordered the Kurobuta Pork katsu deluxe set. Was cooked perfectly. Tender with a light crunchy batter. A bit pricey but the quality is there. Free refills of sides (miso soup, rice, lettuce) when deluxe set is ordered.
Cliff L — Google review
Yes, the food is definitely on the pricey side—but honestly, what more can you ask for? I haven’t had tonkatsu this good since my last trip to Japan. It’s not your everyday Japanese restaurant kind of tonkatsu—this one is next level. Crispy, juicy, perfectly cooked… just magical. Totally worth the splurge!
Freddie P — Google review
Delicious, cooked perfectly, crispy. Absolutely must try. I had the signature one which is limited per day. There’s 2 restaurants but they are the same? I went to the one on the right and I got turned away because of no booking, the one on the left let us in straight away. Just FYI
Jimmy H — Google review
We liked this restaurant so much that we went back twice during our 5-day trip. After our first visit, it was easily our top pick of the entire trip. Unfortunately, during the second visit, we were served a fried pork cutlet that wasn’t fully cooked — the inside was still raw. While this was clearly a serious oversight, the staff handled it well and refunded the dish immediately. Luckily, we didn’t have any adverse reactions. Overall, the food is still excellent and worth trying — just be sure to double-check your pork!
S W — Google review
255 Beach Walk, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA•https://ginzabairinhawaii.com/•(808) 480-8343•Tips and more reviews for Ginza Bairin Tonkatsu & Yoshoku Bistro

4Duke's Waikiki

4.4
(17792)
•
4.3
(16083)
•
Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$affordable
Seafood restaurant
Bar
Bar & grill
Duke's Waikiki is a popular beachfront restaurant with a tiki vibe and lively atmosphere, located facing Waikiki's famous Canoes surf break. Named after Duke Kahanamoku, the father of modern surfing, the casual spot offers a variety of appetizers, a large salad bar, and crowd-pleasing entrees such as fish and prime rib. The venue also features memorabilia honoring Duke Kahanamoku and serves the famous Hula Pie dessert.
Had one of our favorite meals of our trip here! I had the vegan wild mushroom & spinach ravioli and my fiancé had the teriyaki sirloin. Beyond delicious for both dishes, mine was flavorful with the macadamia nut pesto and my fiancé said his steak was one of the best he’s ever had. We were seated immediately despite the busy Sunday dinner rush, and our server was super kind and quick to bring us our drinks & check in on us multiple times. Our server was also very knowledgeable on vegan food and recommended a couple places for me to try, and even knew to let me know while the desert they had was technically vegan, but it did contain honey. He talked to us about life on O’ahu and Kauai and was such an amazing server and truly made our last night such a treat. Highly recommend trying this place
Annie H — Google review
Nicest place. On the beach. Great lights and live music. Took 20 minutes to the waiter to reach me for order but other then that was very nice and welcoming. I had the “prime rib staek” which was definitely corn fed and tasted like cheapest steak I have ever eaten. Look at the color in the picture it was curiously red🤨 French fries was cool but not really throughly made. Mashed potatoes was perfect and freshly made.
Yosef G — Google review
Come to Duke's for breakfast because it next to the beach and walking distance from my hotel but I didn't expect to be a buffet style. Food was just ok, I'm not crazy about everything except scramble eggs that freshly made, and I have to order through my server. When we got to our table, the table was dirty and my husband has to clean it himself (he should get a discount for helping the restaurant cleaning, lol.) View is good but lots of bushes blocking the view even we got a table on the deck. Maybe if I eat here in different time the food will be better.
Melissa N — Google review
We came for the hula pie and were not dissapointed. Nice cocktails too. We had eaten dinner elsewhere but they have a variety of food that looked and sounded appealing based on what others ate. Like I said we ate the hula pie. Is effectively an ice cream cake slice with chocolate fudge and whipped cream and sprinkled with nuts. Delicious is an understatement and a perfect dessert in a hot location. My wife and I shared it. It is not a one person dessert.
Theo T — Google review
This place is busy all of the time. But it's worth the experience, especially because it's so close to the beach. You have a beautiful view, and the Mai Tai are dangerously delicious!!! The live music is fun and it makes you want to get up and dance.
Nwoo — Google review
A Must-Visit Island Eatery if visiting Waikiki! We had an amazing experience at this island restaurant! The Mai Tai's are a must-try, especially the Vic'44 version if you prefer a stronger rum and sour flavor. The appetizers were fantastic, and the salad bar was a great addition to our meal. Favorite Dishes: - *Mahi Mahi crusted with macadamia nuts*: Fresh and flavorful, cooked to perfection. - *Poke Tacos*: A delightful twist on traditional poke. - *Coconut Shrimp*: Crispy and sweet, a perfect appetizer. - *Kalua Pork Sandwiches*: Tender and flavorful, a great take on a classic. - *BBQ Ribs*: Fall-off-the-bone tender and full of flavor. For carnivores: We ordered the prime rib medium rare, but it arrived more on the rare side. However, our server was incredibly kind and accommodating. They offered to cook it through, and the chef even threw it on the grill and turned it into a delicious steak! It was clear that they prioritized getting it right, and the end result was fantastic. Salad Bar: The salad bar was fresh and had a great selection. We especially enjoyed the wedge salad options. Dessert: The *Hula Pie* is a must-try! With macadamia ice cream, chocolate, and whip cream, it's a rich and decadent treat. This restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious island cuisine. The variety of options, great service, and willingness to make things right make it a standout. We'll definitely be back!
Yenlik ( — Google review
I absolutely love dining at every Duke's location! Each visit feels like a delightful journey through history, especially when I think about Duke (Waterman) Kahanamoku, who is one of my true heroes. The photos on the walls really capture his spirit and legacy, and they never fail to inspire me. As for the food, I can’t get enough of the Coconut Shrimp—it's got that perfect crispy exterior and tender, juicy inside that I crave. And I have to mention the Hula Pie, too; it’s a deliciously decadent dessert that’s simply out of this world!
Teena M — Google review
Duke’s is everything you’d want in a Hawaiian dining experience! We first went for lunch and loved it so much, we came back a few days later for dinner. The Hawaiian-style casual vibe, paired with a fresh selection of fish and steak, made every meal memorable. We were seated right by the beach, and hearing the waves while enjoying dinner truly added to the island feel. The outdoor atmosphere was absolutely perfect: relaxed, breezy, and so scenic. And let’s talk about dessert… their Hula Pie is a bomb! Sweet, creamy, and the perfect way to end a beachside meal. 🌴🍽️🌊 If you’re looking for island favorites with an unbeatable view and delicious food, Duke’s is a must-visit!
Mae M — Google review
2335 Kalākaua Ave #116, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA•https://www.dukeswaikiki.com/•(808) 922-2268•Tips and more reviews for Duke's Waikiki

5Yard House

4.4
(7036)
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4.5
(3667)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$affordable
New American restaurant
Bar
Bar & grill
Yard House is a popular high-end sports-bar chain known for its extensive menu of New American cuisine and wide selection of draft beers. The restaurant is a favorite among locals and visitors, offering a vibrant atmosphere with throwback alternative music. While the portions are generous and the food may not be the healthiest, it complements the variety of beers available. The Waikiki Beach Walk location hosts happy hour specials on weekdays and late-night deals on select days.
We had an incredible dinner at Yard House in Honolulu! I ordered the Maui Pineapple Chicken and my husband got the Bleu Cheese and Bacon Burger—both were fantastic, but the chicken absolutely blew me away. It was one of the best meals I’ve ever had, and that glaze? Truly to die for. Our server, Brian, made the experience even better. He was fun, kind, and super attentive from start to finish. The vibe of the restaurant was right up our alley too—the music was on point and added to the overall great atmosphere. For the quality of food, service, and setting, you really get the best bang for your buck here. We couldn’t have picked a better dinner spot in Honolulu. Highly recommend!
Jessica R — Google review
We’ve been here twice. Both times it was pretty busy, but the wait was reasonable. It is pretty loud and dark which made it a little challenging to have conversation and hear each other. The food was pretty decent. We ordered several items. The Chicken Tenders and the Spicy Jambalaya were especially delicious. We also ordered the pretzel, which was a little pricey for a pretzel, but it was rather large. The Buffalo Chicken Pizza was pretty dry, hardly any sauce, so I wouldn’t order it again, but I would go back a third time and try something else for sure. They did have a big selection on the kid’s menu: Burger sliders, chicken tenders, Mac and cheese. Our servers were very friendly and attentive considering how busy things were each night.
Stacey B — Google review
I stopped in at Yard House and ordered the small chicken salad along with a side of sweet potato fries. The “small” salad was actually quite generous in size — fresh, well-prepared, and flavorful enough to feel like a full meal on its own. It had a good balance of ingredients, with the chicken cooked just right and served in a way that felt both hearty and light. The sweet potato fries were crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, and they came with a maple syrup dip. That was a first for me, but it turned out to be a pleasant surprise — the sweetness of the syrup paired nicely with the savory fries and gave them a unique flavor profile compared to the usual ketchup or aioli. Service was another highlight. The staff was friendly, attentive without being overbearing, and seemed genuinely welcoming, which made the overall experience more enjoyable. The atmosphere was lively but still comfortable enough for conversation, with the upbeat energy you’d expect from Yard House. It feels like a great spot whether you’re there for a casual bite, watching a game, or meeting with friends. Overall Impression: Good food, unique touches like the maple syrup dip, and excellent service make Yard House a solid choice. I’d definitely come back to try more menu items.
Vincente C — Google review
This place never disappoints. The beer selection is as large as any place I've been. Add to that happy hour prices and it's perfect to catch the NBA finals game. Our server was wonderful. The happy hour portions of food were very generous.
Dodd B — Google review
This was my first experience at Yard House in Waikiki. What an experience I am telling you folks! Large tables to fit your family and enclosed/open-air seating. Loved it. My favorite cheesesteak that I have ever eaten in my life! So tender! Will return in the future. Awesome wait staff and customer service!!
Valerie D — Google review
Yard House was close to the hotel so we decided to try the Chicken Nachos they were good until you get the bottom them there a little soggy but others that they were good hot, chip were fresh and the topping were fresh. Next time I would like to try the Happy Hours Special
Veda M — Google review
Everything in this menu is fantastic Mason was our server and he was THE DUDE! fast to get our order, great with the recommendations, and was just a chill guy. We mentioned we are in Hawaii for our anniversary and at the end of our dinner he got us a gift a oreo cookie brownie ice cream and it was amazing Ive had alot of servers the are great, but Mason was one of the best for simply being personable and caring. The beer choice is one of the best in Hawaii, and there is so much variety in the menu that there's a meal for anyone in your family. One of the best places to stop in Waikiki!
Christopher T — Google review
The food was excellent and the service was exceptional. Only thing I didn't like was the lighting. It's difficult to read the menu and need to use your phone light to see. You have to try the beer of course, very tasty!
Mike B — Google review
226 Lewers St, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA•https://www.yardhouse.com/locations/hi/honolulu/waikiki-waikiki-…•(808) 923-9273•Tips and more reviews for Yard House
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6Roy's Waikiki

4.5
(2185)
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4.4
(3555)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$expensive
Seafood restaurant
Asian fusion restaurant
Hawaiian restaurant
Roy's Waikiki is a high-end restaurant chain that offers a contemporary setting and serves Hawaiian fusion cuisine created by renowned chef Roy Yamaguchi. With over three decades of culinary excellence, the restaurant blends fresh local ingredients with bold flavors from Asia and the Pacific. The elegant dining room and exceptional service add sophistication to the dining experience while maintaining a tropical ambiance.
Not going to lie - this was a really expensive meal. By leaps and bounds the priciest of our time in Oahu. BUT its one of the few expensive restaurants I've dined at that are worth the price for some of their dishes. I had 4 favorites: The Misoyaki Butterfish was superb - both flaky and flavorful! The Blue Crab Dynamite Fish Tempura Lobster knocked it out of the park as well with the amazing Shallot & Mushroom Risotto at the bottom. Ugh so good. I wish I could have ordered more of that risotto on the side! The Frying Dragon Roll was a wonderful crunchy treat with the wasabi butter adding just the right level of kick to start off the meal. The Garlic Parmesan Jumbo Black Tiger Shrimp was pretty epic as well. My family had a little debate over whether the Shrimp or the Lump Crab Ravioli made the dish (I argued for the Ravioli). Bit of Bad: If you check any of my other reviews, its not hard to tell that I LOVE dessert. Typically always leave space for it and did here at Roy's Waikiki. We tried the Signature Melting Hot Chocolate Souffle, the Pineapple Upside-Down Cake, and the Pandan Panna Cotta special they had at the time. And while the Pandan Panna Cotta was bright, light, and refreshing, the two Hot Desserts were fairly major letdowns. Both tasted just below average and at double the price I've paid anywhere else. I'd skip and get dessert elsewhere if you still have the space after the rest of the amazing meal you'll have at Roy's Waikiki.
Sade O — Google review
What can be said about this place? Are you looking for a beautiful night out with your spouse? Are you celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or graduation? Are you looking for an absolutely amazing table side service? From the moment you walk in, you can feel the level of professionalism and pride everyone takes in working here. The food is absolutely delicious, the drinks are strong, and the service is OUT of this world. The price is FULLY justified here, but you will be hard pressed to find a better level of attention to detail at any other place on the Island. Josh was absolutely fantastic as well.
A A — Google review
Overall experience was very good. Several of us got the short ribs but one of us got one that was much tougher and tasted a bit different so make sure to let the staff know if you experience any inconsistencies. The rest of the meal had no issues. The outdoor patio area is nice but just a view of the street with the random loud car driving by now and then.
Tim C — Google review
A+ all the way, from wait staff to food and drink. The waitstaff really know their stuff and can answer any question about the food and what's included. The menu is vast and has so many good options. We went for our anniversary and then, while at the table, booked a reservation for three nights later. We wanted to come back. The macadamia nut-encrusted fish (catch of the day, so it may change) was beyond amazing. The short ribs were spectacular, and their sushi is some of the best I have tasted. 100% recommend Roys. ps.. Chocolate Lava Cake w/Vanilla Ice Cream - WOW, just freaking amazing, gotta try it, we had it 2x (one is enough for two people)
Craig S — Google review
High end restaurant but well worth the dinner. Expect to pay about $50 per person depending on what you get. The price is high but it is well worth it. There are plenty of tables but only a few you have a party of 6 or more so be ready to wait if you have a large party. If you have less, you can probably get a table but doesn't hurt to make reservations. The waiters here are very attentive and my water glass or beer glass was never empty. Be aware some of the main courses here do take time but once I tasted my food it was good. It also wasn't one of those restaurants with not enough to eat. I was definitely full after my meal and I enjoyed all of it. I got the deluxe meal which came with a variety of different food so good for if you can't decide this was a good go to. Overall, the atmosphere here is great for a date, for family, for a get together with friends, or just dinning alone too. Well worth your $$$ to spend on the high end food. You'll come out full.
Jonathan K — Google review
This is the most amazing meal I’ve had in my life. Drinks were great! We had the canoe sampler appetizer and everything on it was delicious. Fish entrees were also so good. Peanut butter crunch bar for dessert. Servers very attentive. 10/10 on the whole experience. I have absolutely zero complaints!
Andrea L — Google review
Had an amazing experience for my family dinner time with my toddler baby. The Sushi rolls were fantastic as it tasted so fresh, considered to be the best sushi I ever have in Hawaii and the staffs were very friendly and welcoming. They even offer a free appetizer for my small kid. Highly recommended for a lovely happy dinner
Pla N — Google review
While is Maui we strolled up on this place.. We started out with drinks on the patio and came back for dinner! Food was incredible, drinks were not disappointing and the service was on point! Definitely on our list when we visit again..
Cindy E — Google review
226 Lewers St, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA•https://www.royyamaguchi.com/roys-waikiki-oahu•(808) 923-7697•Tips and more reviews for Roy's Waikiki

7House Without A Key

4.5
(2439)
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4.4
(2473)
•
Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$expensive
American restaurant
House Without A Key is a popular indoor/outdoor restaurant in Waikiki known for its inventive island cocktails, locally sourced menu items, and live Hawaiian entertainment. Guests can enjoy sunset cocktails and appetizers while listening to live Hawaiian music under the stars by the sea. The venue offers a romantic and nostalgic atmosphere with a lovely hula dancer swaying to the riffs of Hawaiian steel-pedal guitar against the backdrop of a glowing sunset and ocean.
We reserved table 97. They did not guarantee us the table but gave us a good time to check in and we were able to get it. The views are so beautiful. We enjoyed the music. The food and drinks were so good! Server was very nice! Only complaint was one of the hostess cut all of us in line waiting in the bathroom which is pretty rude. Thank you for making the last night of our trip amazing.
Nicole P — Google review
Came here for the breakfast buffet about half an hour before last seating and still managed to have a full meal! I love their assortment of foods and their Japanese breakfast selection (rice, miso soup station, pickles, ume, nishime, cold tofu, ohitashi, etc). They have an omelette bar too. I like that their food items seemed fresh and were all in cute Le Creuset pots. I even was able to get an iced coffee with a side of oat milk. Friendly staff and good relaxing vibes. Some birds flying around but not a huge deal.
Taylor — Google review
Great experience! We got there 30 mins before the sunset cocktails/dinner time seating began. We were a group of 5 adults and 2 children under 3 and we had an amazing time. We did not have reservations and got great seats in their outdoor area. (But remember we got there early) Music was lovely. Service was great. The view was beautiful. Such a lovely scenery. If you are visiting Waikīkī I personally believe this is a place you have to visit at least once. It truly was a cool Hawaii experience (especially if you are NOT into the lu’au scene like me). It was a chill laid back dinner with cocktails and music experience. And yes the Mai tais were delicious. FOR THE PARENTS: They have a grassy area where the kids could run around and play and that was a HUGE plus for us since we have a toddler and a very active crawling 10 month old. So yes bring the kids and enjoy with the whole family. Also I think we stayed for 3 hours. We had a blast.
Angela M — Google review
House Without a Key was outstanding! From the moment we arrived until we left, the service was top-notch. They offer valet parking, and you can get your parking validated for 4 hours by the restaurant. Melissa greeted us and showed us to the restaurant. There was a short wait, but with the gorgeous view, perfect weather, and live music, it wasn't a problem while we waited for our table. Once seated, Trey was our server, and he was fantastic. He went over the menu with us and recommended some of his personal favorites. We started with cocktails and an appetizer. We had the Lawai'a roll, Pulehu Pineapple, and Coconut Old Fashioned. They also brought out complimentary Taro Rolls accompanied by a tropical butter, which was a nice touch. I'm still thinking about that Lawai'a roll while writing this review! For our main dish, we split the Tutū Mā Asian Braised Short Ribs with roasted red potatoes and home fries--it was just the right amount and very tasty. While we ate, the Hawaiian music continued, and a hula dancer appeared around 6pm, adding to the vibe. To wrap up, Kevin helped us with our car and even handed us two waters. Honestly, we had an amazing time all around--definitely check this place out!
Carmen H — Google review
I took a group of 10. Get there at 5 PM and seating close to the music is easy. Lovely sunset restaurant, at the water's edge. Nightly sunset music. The night we went we experienced the current and 20+ past Miss Hawaii dancing hula. One can order from the cocktail & pupu menu or ask for the dinner menu...we opted for the dinner menu. The food is superior. This is definitely a "must do" when visiting Waikiki.
Ed R — Google review
Had a lunch here on the patio. We had the lobster salad and fish of the day (swordfish sandwich), combined with some cocktails. The cocktails were ok, but imo too expensive. Happy to also get some taro sandwiches with pineapple butter, yummy! Our entrees were also pretty expensive, but it was tasty and well balanced. My salad was not just lettuce and tomatoes, but also carrots, roots, cabbage, avocado, apple, etc. I had lots of lobster meat (I think I actually had a whole lobster). My husband's swordfish sandwich was also a whole filet on the burger with delicious tartar sauce. You mainly pay for the view of course. Despite that there were over 6 servers and only 2 other tables, tables around us sat with empty dishes and glasses from previous guests for almost our whole entire meal. Our server or one of the others that were just standing there, ignored those tables. I guess because it wasn't 'their' job. But this just comes across as lazy and not very nice to look at as guests (we can't keep watching the view the whole time). Other than that, beautiful setting! Would love to come back in the evening when they have live entertainment. Not entirely sure if it worth having dinner over here though. Perhaps just some bar food and drinks?
Davina D — Google review
Liked this very much! It’s super yummy! Service is excellent, we took a Cobb salad to share and they serve it in different plates to make it more comfortable to us ! So nice !! Small details makes a big impact! Also there is a music and hula dance every day between 5pm -8pm ! As a “hi, from chef” they brought as a blueberry bun and papaya butter - amazing !!!
Kateryna Z — Google review
I got a reservation for dinner at sunset. The view and atmosphere did not disappoint. There was live music and hula dancing. The service was very attentive even though they were very busy. The food was fresh and delicious. Couldn't ask for more for our first meal in Hawaii.
LY T — Google review
2199 Kālia Rd #1936, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA•https://www.halekulani.com/dining/house-without-a-key/•(808) 923-2311•Tips and more reviews for House Without A Key

8Orchids

4.5
(1198)
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4.5
(1729)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$very expensive
Fine dining restaurant
Orchids is a popular restaurant located in the Halekulani resort, offering a global menu and a renowned Sunday brunch. The elegant space is adorned with the namesake flower, creating a casually sophisticated atmosphere. With louvered walls open to refreshing breezes and colorful orchid displays, Orchids provides an inviting setting for diners.
WOW. This restaurant exceeded our expectations in all aspects - food, service, and atmosphere. My beef cheeks dish (one of my favorite things to order when I see it on a menu) was just divine, as were the meals selected by my friends. The presentation - beautiful. The view of the coast at sunset was just magnificent and the service was top notch - they even gladly took pictures of us on the lawn just next to the tables. Highly recommend this restaurant for an all around fantastic experience.
Krista B — Google review
Beautiful atmosphere adjacent to the lawn and ocean at House Without a Key with Diamond Head in the background. The Hawaiian music can be heard and really makes you feel in the vacation mood. My food was delicious and the service was attentive. The fish and pasta were tasty. As always, the coconut cake at any of the Halekulani venues is amazing.
Scott S — Google review
The backdrop of the ocean with a nice sea breeze sets this place apart from many of the fine dining places in Honolulu. Although there are many sets, the noise level was manageable. There was a nice band playing in the background. The drinks, including the non-alcoholic mint mango were wonderful. My husband even got the mint mago because he loved it so much, and he typically sticks to cocktails when we are out. The goat cheese salad was pretty standard and okay. The hamachi was fresh and had a good amount of acidity. The lasagnette was good, but if I came back, I am unsure if I'd order it again. The seabass and beef tenderloin were well-cooked and enjoyable. Lastly, the hazelnut dessert was well-balanced and delightful.
Sara R — Google review
We've had dinner at Orchids many times, but haven't been back to Hawaii in three years. We had their famous Sunday buffet brunch and dinner on our last night and it was absolutely superb...just as we had remembered! Their seafood is always consistently fresh and prepared masterfully! Highly, highly recommended. Make reservations and ask for ocean-side seating. The amazing food, ambience, gentle tropical breeze, and stunning sunset will make for a truly memorable evening!
Kathy M — Google review
Orchids was one of the best restaurants we experienced during our recent stay in Honolulu. The food was excellent as we'd expect for the price tag, but the service is what made Orchids stand out. From beginning to end, the staff were helpful, kind, and went above and beyond to make the meal feel special. 5/5 would come back next time we're in town.
Jeremy Y — Google review
I went there for my birthday 🎂 The food was super fresh, though I have to say 🤔 the taste was just okay, nothing mind-blowing. What really made the visit special was how kind the staff were ☺️ They helped me take a bunch of sunset photos. And the birthday cake at the end? Definitely hit the spot 😋 If you want somewhere chill with good vibes and friendly people, this is a solid pick :)
Chloe — Google review
For me, the most heavenly place in all of Hawaii. Scenery, Menu - flawless. The Short Rib Ravioli, Hamachi and the Halekulani Coconut Cake is exceptional. Thank you to Scott, for making the whole night so memorable.
Zoe M — Google review
EXCEPTIONAL! Orchids delivers pure elegance with outstanding quality, flavor, and presentation. The service is impeccable—attentive yet unhurried—complemented by a stunning atmosphere and breathtaking views. The Beef Cheek, Tako (Octopus), and Short Rib Ravioli were extraordinarily tender, and the bread and coconut cake were simply divine. Kudos to the talented chefs for their expertise and commitment to quality ingredients; it is rare and deeply appreciated! The staff made my 45th birthday unforgettable, creating the best dining experience of my life. I’d give 100 stars if I could. Special thanks to Nikolas for his mastery and warmth. Every member of the team — Nikolas, Joey, the hostess, our valets, & so many others — radiated excellence and joy. I’ll cherish this memory for years and absolutely plan to return for all future birthdays. Mahalo nui loa! Tips: Enjoy live jazz at Lewers Lounge post-dinner, and ask staff to snap a photo with Lē’ahi (Diamond Head) as your stunning backdrop.
Stacy M — Google review
2199 Kālia Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA•https://www.halekulani.com/dining/orchids/•(808) 923-2311•Tips and more reviews for Orchids

9Rainbow Drive-In

4.3
(7731)
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4.0
(1453)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$cheap
Hawaiian restaurant
Fast food restaurant
Rainbow Drive-In is a legendary Hawaiian spot known for its counter-serve style and delicious local food. Since 1961, it has been serving up iconic dishes like BBQ beef plate, Loco Moco plate, Rainbow Royal Burger, BBQ Ahi plate, and more. Despite its humble beginnings as a small eatery offering affordable meals, it has gained recognition from Honolulu Star Advertiser and Honolulu Magazine.
What is it about eating food out of a box, that is just so satisfying? Perhaps it’s because if there’s no mess, there’s no stress! Go ahead a throw etiquette out the window. When you’re eating out of a box, you can really go ham. Food was hearty and freaking yummy. I should really stop writing reviews before lunch time…
Frank B — Google review
The venerable local plate lunch spot that’s been here for decades. Got the mixed plate for old time sake and food was up within a few minutes. Sad to say it wasn’t as excellent as I remember. I don’t know if it’s just me, but the taste was just OK. some of the other places on the mainland is better (not L&L there though). Meat a little on the dry side and excess mayo in the Mac salad. Would still recommend, to check that off your list, and in the case, I may have come on a bad day. I probably won’t be back this trip because there are a bunch of other places I need to try.
Alex — Google review
I personally prefer more flavor with natural spices so this place just wasn’t a fit for me. I did like the atmosphere, ambiance etc and was glad I came out as this place came highly rated. Good portion sizes for sure.
Angel W — Google review
Finally got to try the iconic Rainbow Drive-in and while it’s been around for a long time, I wasn’t that impressed by the food. My sister-in-law ordered the shrimp tempura and spam and eggs plate. Taste was good, average, nothing exciting. My boyfriend ordered the loco moco and was sorely disappointed by the size of the burger patty - small and thin. I did grab a couple of shirts and stickers that were super cute. Probably won’t come back but glad I came to say that I tried it.
Cathy V — Google review
Friday night visit, first time, the macaroni salad had entirely too much mayonnaise. The rice was ok. The meats were the best parts of the entrees:braised chicken thighs and bbq pork. The bbq pork would've been better if it was served with some bbq sauce. The service was fine. They have several tables to sit at or you can get your food to go. The noise level was not too loud, you could easily hear the person next to you.
Tonisha C — Google review
This place has rave reviews on social media and is described as a must-try spot when visiting Oahu, so my family and I decided to check it out. The atmosphere is really cool — it has that old-school, retro vibe that makes it feel like a true local favorite. I ordered the famous Loco Moco since everyone online said it was a must, but I personally prefer more flavor in my food. The patties were thin and reminded me of a high school lunch meal — not terrible, just not as flavorful as I expected. My son got the cheeseburger and said it was also pretty bland, which was a bit disappointing considering all the hype. On the bright side, the macaroni salad was excellent — creamy, tasty, and probably the best part of the meal. Overall, it’s worth stopping by for the experience and local vibe, but the food didn’t quite live up to the social media buzz for us.
Rudy G — Google review
Came here a few times and literally everything I had was delicious. Chili, loco moco, mahi mahi and even my niece enjoyed her cheese burger. There can be large crowds, but we never have to wait a long time. A must try when in Oahu, you won’t be disappointed.
Tina P — Google review
Generous portions and great prices. Place gets super busy so parking is tight and outdoor seating can fill up fast. Food is delicious but can be hard to enjoy while shooing away the bold and aggressive birds.
Marilyn — Google review
3308 Kanaina Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA•https://rainbowdrivein.com/?y_source=1_NDU2MzM5MTYtNzE1LWxvY2F0a…•(808) 737-0177•Tips and more reviews for Rainbow Drive-In

10Uncle Bo's Pupu Bar & Grill

4.5
(1663)
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4.5
(1262)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$affordable
Bar & grill
Restaurant
Uncle Bo's Pupu Bar & Grill is a lively bistro known for its generous portions, reasonable prices, and fusion of Hawaiian comfort food with gastrobar flair. Located on Kapahulu Avenue, this modern casual restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere and an array of traditional and inventive dishes. The neon-backlit bar adds to the youthful vibe, making it popular among both locals and tourists.
This is a cozy little restaurant on Kapahulu. There is paid parking across the street. They make very affordable and tasty cocktails. Their appetizers are family style or you can eat it all yourself there that good and great place for company. I'd wanna go back with more people to try, they have a 10 person meal deal. I didn't get any pics of the appetizers because we ate them so quickly the Thai style steamer clams were very delicious. The broth was amazing and I took it home to continue to dip the bread in.
Rachel T — Google review
Loved this hole-in-the-wall restaurant. We planned to take advantage of their happy hour menu so arrived at 16:00 when it first opened. Not surprisingly, place was stuffy for 10 minutes but after that the AC was running on full blast and we were ready to eat. Ordered five dishes to try and we finished them all! They're that good!! Our bartender/server Jon was one of the best. He was attentive, patient, and listened to our request. Husband enjoyed the HI FIVE Jon made so much that he almost ordered a second one but it was time for us to leave for our next event. If you're in this area, definitely tried Uncle Bo's happy hour menu. Highly recommend.
Cat H — Google review
This is one of our favorite restaurants that we can’t miss every time we visit Hawaii. It’s about 30 min walk from Waikiki and 100% worthwhile. The food is amazing and the service is great. They also have a happy hour between 4pm and 6pm, so that is the time to take advantage of their great deals while saving a bit of money. This is for sure one of the local places that you must try, 100% recommended!
Jairo R — Google review
Smaller but very comfortable with a nice selection on the menu. I had crabcakes 7/10 and the fish sandwich 8/10 but the service was a 10. Great ambiance and friendly staff who work hard at making it an enjoyable experience.
J H — Google review
I am allergic to onions and garlic and the chef made me the best burger that words could not describe. Cooked medium with the right aunt of juice and toppings. No need for condiments. Chef was willing to make other dishes to accommodate my allergies but I chose something simple. The fries were thick and big. The atmosphere was great and the attention to detail was impeccable. It was my first night in Honolulu in 29! Years and this restaurant deserves this 5 star rating. Exceptional and very affordable.
JR M — Google review
This place deserves 6 Stars !!! Extremely good, fresh, tasting food. Everything we had was delicious. Would Highly Recommend.
Oscar G — Google review
OMG!!! Let me tell you! The food and cocktails here are fantastic!! I had the Mango Maui cocktail! It was delicious and the prices were unbelievable! I have not had a cocktail this good this cheap!!!! Plus I had the dynamite shrimp and it was on point!!! My entree was the grilled salmon, the salmon flavor was so delicous! The only issue was it was cooked about 3 minutes too long, a little dry in the middle. The food was priced on point. Not expensive as you would expect. The young man that was my waiter was very kind and a gentleman always checking on me. The outside looks like a strip center type of place so it looks like a dive but inside is beautiful!! Very nice place that is well worth the drive! Its 4 minutes west side of Waikiki.
Shawna C — Google review
I love visiting local restaurants when traveling. Uncle Bo's popped up in a search for dinner near Waikiki. From our hotel, which was a few blocks from the beach, we had about a 15 minute walk. Not terrible by any means, and the walk was safe, well lit and there were sidewalks. From the outside, Uncle Bo's doesn't appear to be the nicest of places, but looks can be deceiving. When we walked in to the restaurant, we were surprised to see a lovely establishment. Kind of gave me speakeasy or high end supper club vibes. I made a reservation ahead of time, which is what I always recommend whenever traveling. We were seated right on time. The staff were friendly and attentive. The menu is very diverse, plenty of options. We ordered the Spinach Dip to start and the Chicken Alfredo and Crab Salad for entrees. All of the dishes were excellent. I would say some of the menu items the prices can be quite steep, but we for sure had leftovers that we saved for another meal. They also have quite an extensive drink menu. If you are looking for nice local restaurant with a variety of menu options, add this to your list of Honolulu must tries.
Alicia L — Google review
559 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA•http://unclebosrestaurant.com/•(808) 735-8310•Tips and more reviews for Uncle Bo's Pupu Bar & Grill
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11Hy's Steak House

4.5
(2407)
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4.4
(1258)
•
Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$very expensive
Steak house
Bar
Fine dining restaurant
Restaurant
Hy's Steak House is a quintessential dining destination that has shaped the steakhouse experience in Canada and has become a beloved establishment in Hawaii over its impressive 45-year history. Nestled within an elegant setting adorned with aristocratic English-style library decor, this classic steakhouse specializes in USDA Prime Beef, expertly broiled over kiawe wood for an unforgettable flavor.
We were in Hawaii for our anniversary. This was the 1st time at this establishment for my wife and I. The atmosphere was calming, the service was great. I've never had anyone pull out my chair for me so that was surprising. We had the filet mignon that was well cooked, tender and flavorful. After the meal, we were surprised with a specisl dessert to celebrate our anniversary. Thank you Hy Steak staff for the great memories.
Philip S — Google review
Let’s start with Jade at the bar, amazing is all I can say. I was just testing the water and she gave 5 ⭐️ service. The food and drinks are bragging rights worthy, atmosphere is elegant and old money. Old money meets new NEW MONEY 😍
LouNeeshae W — Google review
The BEST dining experience and food I’ve ever had in my life. Our waiter Nick was amazing and support waiter Robert was so on top of everything and anything you could need. First off the bread was so flavorful and not heavy. I ordered a drink I had never tried. Muy Mui, and it was amazing. We had a table side made Cesar that was for two but was huge! We shared garlic filet minion and it melted in our mouth. It was our anniversary and they brought us complimentary flourless brownies and the most delicious topping, not sure what that was but wasn’t frosting. Coffee was excellent. Just can’t say enough about this place! Worth every dollar we spent!
Golden G — Google review
Our best dinner experience in Oahu this year. The aged porterhouse grilled over traditional Hawaiian Kiawe wood made the steak extra flavorful. Our servers were uber amazing and they seated us where the Obamas usually sit when they visit. Just the perfect dinner to end our trip in Oahu.
Ed C — Google review
I’d like to start this review by saying that this is the BEST steakhouse the wife and I have had on the Island of Oahu. This is one of those restaurants that is totally worth the price. From the moment we walked in we were waited on. We never had empty glasses or empty plates. My wife had the French Onion Soup and Filet. I had the Lobster Bisque and Filet and Lobster meal. We shared a table side Caesar Salad and the house cheesy bread. There was not one bite that we weren’t in heaven. The ambience of the restaurant is also a highlight as it is an old library esque setting. I HIGHLY recommend this place for any occasion.
Caleb F — Google review
Hy’s Steakhouse was simply amazing. All the staff were so kind and welcoming. I would like to give a special thanks to Jerell, who took care of us, for his guidance, kindness, and warm smile. As for the food — I travel to France frequently, and believe it or not, the best escargot I’ve ever had was in Hawaii! You absolutely must try their escargot before you leave. The other dishes were also incredibly delicious. The T-bone steak was outstanding. Since it was our honeymoon dinner, Jerell kindly took our photo and brought it to us, and they also treated us to a brownie. Thank you so much for everything. The atmosphere was wonderful as well. No matter what I write, it won’t be enough to express how much I enjoyed it!
Alara T — Google review
Highly recommend going to the Happy Hour! Food: ordered the beef wellington, A5 fries, and chocolate lava cake. The beef wellington looks small but pairing it with a side of fries was very filling. The beef wellington was superb and the dipping sauce for the fries was excellent. The fries were crispy and rich. I wish the mashed potatoes were a little creamer and the chocolate lava cake was not as warm or lava-like as others I've had. Aside from those two things, I can't wait to go back to try other things on their happy hour menu. Compared to their regular dinner prices, you can't be the value. Ambiance: Very fancy, old time feel. Think leather and velvet seats with dark stained wood. I think you get it. Wear a collared shirt and pants. The restaurant is quiet with soft music in the background. I sat in the lounge near the bar so it was a little louder. Service: My server, Anakin, was so attentive. Very kind, knowledgeable, and checked up on me just enough. Overall: had an excellent time. If you are at least 2 people, you should make an online reservation. If not, walk in at 5pm for your best chances at getting a seat.
Gilbert T — Google review
Hy’s is not just a restaurant, it’s an experience! One worth bragging about at that. Server Kuni, was absolutely exceptional, going above and beyond for us. We were blown away by both the quality of food as-well as its presentation. If you are in Waikiki, this place is a MUST visit! Could not recommend more highly.
Jasmine A — Google review
2440 Kūhiō Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815, USA•https://hyswaikiki.com/•(808) 922-5555•Tips and more reviews for Hy's Steak House

12The Pig and The Lady

4.4
(2399)
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4.4
(1005)
•
Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$expensive
Vietnamese restaurant
Pho restaurant
Restaurant
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Honolulu's Chinatown, The Pig and The Lady is a must-visit for anyone craving modern Vietnamese cuisine with a twist. This family-run gem offers an exciting menu that changes regularly, showcasing inventive dishes that are rich in flavor and creativity. One standout item is their famous pho French dip sandwich, which has garnered rave reviews for its unique combination of braised brisket and Thai basil chimichurri, served alongside a comforting bowl of pho broth perfect for dipping.
The Pig and TheLady was amazing! All the dishes I ordered at this restaurant were delicious. The pho was especially tasty, and I ended up ordering extra ahi because it was so good. The staff were all friendly and had great energy, and the overall vibe of the restaurant was very hip and trendy. Highly recommend!
Heejung H — Google review
We came for the highly recommended Pho French Dip. We found it’s only available for lunch… although our highly skilled waiter told us it’s also available at the farmers market on Saturdays. I had the pork chop with mango slaw - it was amazing! We enjoyed incredible appetizers: chicken wings fried to perfection with a tasty sauce + peanuts and a Cesar salad. The dessert was incredible: a soft serve with a unique Vietnamese honeycomb cake. Oh, and the bathroom was hilarious and cool!
Nick S — Google review
I don't often leave reviews but I'm still thinking about this meal 2 months later so I feel it's only right to say something. We found this restaurant while visiting and I'm so glad we did - I'm not usually a fan of asian fusion but The Pig & the Lady proved me wrong. Each dish was a 10/10 and service was warm and attentive. We enjoyed our dinner so much we squeezed in another lunch visit the next day before our flight. Honolulu wasn't my favourite but I'd come back just to have this meal again, the team at The Pig and the Lady should be proud of the work they do
Deanna S — Google review
We were excited to see this new location and it did not disappoint. Vibe is super cute, food is onos as always, staff was friendly & parking was super easy. They validate parking for the Civil Beat structure ($3 after validation) or you can park in the open lot by 3660. We shared a couple apps then ordered our own mains. Highly recommend if you never got to try them while they were downtown. Will definitely be back!
Elisa A — Google review
One of the best bowls of pho I’ve had in a long time. The broth was rich and delicious with a deep beef flavor, fatty but not overwhelming. Surprisingly, the meal came without the usual plate of herbs and bean sprouts, and it didn’t need it. Everything was seasoned perfectly, so I never felt the need to add anything extra. The noodles tasted like pho tuoi (fresh noodles) rather than the factory-made kind, which made a big difference. The star of the bowl was a massive rib bone with tender, fall-off-the-bone meat. Service was attentive and friendly, adding to the experience. A perfect spot for either a date night or a casual meal. The decor and ambience struck a nice balance, relaxing yet vibrant.
V N — Google review
Amazing service. Amazing food. Innovative menu. The Chinese mustard dressing on the chrysanthemum salad was out of hand. The cabbage, delectable and the yolk sauce almost made me cry it was so good. The bites were great! I had a couple of good cocktails too.
Maria R — Google review
Heard great things about The Pig and The Lady but coming here on a busy night might've been a miss. We ordered the 75 Pho Dac Biet and Vegan Pho and the food was decent, but nowhere near the authenticity of other Vietnamese restaurants (especially for that price range). The fried green beans appetizer was underwhelming, we got maybe 7-8 pieces of green beans and the rest was cabbage and mint. Our service was extremely late, we had to wait 30 minutes before our first appetizer came and then another 15 minutes before our entree came, we arrived at 7:00pm and left th restaurant at 9:00pm (we didn't have an appointment). The staff were really nice and the ambiance was modern and had moments of heritage, but the steep prices and long wait times overshadowed everything else, not sure if I'd return.
Ryan — Google review
Through our Honolulu dining nights, this modern vietnamese restaurant was one of the best and not overhyped! The dishes we tried were all flavorful and deeply satisfying, The soft serve at the end was even delightful. Contemporary atmosphere yet cozy, and energetic vibe. Would like to come back again.
Akiko — Google review
3650 Waialae Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816, USA•http://thepigandthelady.com/•(808) 585-8255•Tips and more reviews for The Pig and The Lady

13Side Street Inn

4.5
(1083)
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4.4
(858)
•
Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$affordable
American restaurant
Asian restaurant
Bar
Restaurant
Nestled on a quaint, bustling lane near Ala Moana Center, Side Street Inn is the ultimate casual hangout for those craving American comfort food with a local twist. This beloved late-night sports bar has become a favorite among chefs and food enthusiasts alike, including renowned James Beard Award winner Alan Wong. With its unpretentious vibe and large shareable plates crafted by Chef Colin Nishida, diners can indulge in mouthwatering dishes like Hawaiian-style pulehu short ribs and crispy skin roast pork.
I love Side Street Inn for its delicious food, happy, attentive customer service, and valet parking service, which is so convenient! All the dishes we ordered were fast, generous, and yummy. Our waitress is a great young Chinese girl who brought a more joyful dinner to our table. She is lovely and very attentive. The dining room is a little dated, but the excellent food and service are more important to us. I’m sure I’ll be back next time when I’m in Honolulu.
Michael W — Google review
Tasty dinner with great portions! It’s definitely meant to be family style but we ordered one meal for everyone and had a bunch of leftovers. The misoyaki chicken and yakisoba noodles were excellent and went really well together. It was busy at dinner time so I’d definitely recommend making reservations.
Madeline K — Google review
Sooooo good!! Highly recommend the Farmer’s salad, Kalbi, Fried Garlic Chicken, and Kimchi fried rice! It’s served family style, so be prepared to share! 🤤
Allie W — Google review
Okay okay, I know I drop a lot of food reviews, but this right here? Not for the weak. If you get one solid appetite and you’re a foodie like me, then brother/sister/uncle/auntie/grandma/grandpa — you found the spot. The grinds? Immaculate. The portion size? Polynesian approved. The quality? You can literally taste the love the chefs put into their cooking. I still haven’t sat down to eat inside (’cause I’m guilty of binging movies while smashing food), but every time I’ve gone in to order, the vibe is on point. They got a bar, music (sometimes even live from some awesome local artists), a pool table, and a generous space that feels like home. The employees? 100% guarantee they love what they do, and it shows. So if you come through Side Street Inn, come hungry — and don’t be stingy, tip the crew. They deserve it, and you’ll walk out happy every single time.
William P — Google review
Some friends recommended this place. It was a good value. We had the chefs special for 3-4 people. We ordered o e extra entree. Our group was 7 adults and one toddler. We had leftovers. Salad was very good. Edamame also good. Fried rice, noodles, ribs, chops, and beef were awesome. We will return when we are entertaining a group. Good value.
Clay M — Google review
When they say family style, they mean it! We got the Uncle Colin’s special and couldn’t even finish half of it with four people I had a peanut butter crunch to go and I’ve been thinking about going back soon just to get another one. Servers were attentive and bartenders know what they are doing!
Renee E — Google review
Overall, our experience was just underwhelming. The food was just average at best. The quality definitely is mediocre. Pork chops were dry. Boneless Kalbi was tasty, but many of the pieces were tough and burnt. Garlic Chicken. The best dish of the night. Crunchy on the outside and moist and juicy inside. Full flavor. Chicken salad flavor was good, but chicken pieces were dry and hard.
Russ L — Google review
We love this place! Came with our ohana of 11, food never disappoints, our server suggested which family meal to get so we didn't over order. It was just enough and we had some left over chicken. Always come back with a big group!
Lyndsay D — Google review
1225 Hopaka St, Honolulu, HI 96814, USA•http://sidestreetinn.com/•(808) 591-0253•Tips and more reviews for Side Street Inn

14Diamond Head Market & Grill

4.5
(2313)
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4.4
(836)
•
Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$affordable
Restaurant
Bakery
Barbecue restaurant
Diamond Head Market & Grill is a popular spot just a short distance from Waikiki, offering a variety of American dishes and prepared foods. Whether you're looking for gourmet sandwiches, bento boxes, salads, or local favorites like loco moco and teriyaki burger plates, this window-serve grill has something for everyone. Additionally, the indoor market provides freshly made pre-packaged meals and an array of delicious desserts to choose from.
I love getting my lunch and dinner from here. Place your order at the grill counter outside, then walk in to the market where they have great salads, sandwiches and cakes and pastries. I love their ham sandwich, chocolate ganache cake and carrot cake but I am sure everything else is just as good. I tend to stick to my picks although I really should try the other items they have as well. From the grill, the garlic shrimp is excellent and same for the hamburger steak plate and loco Moco. What else can I say….. it’s a really good place to grab a quick meal.
Patricia M — Google review
I’ve never been here before but my brother said the food good and he knows the owner from our hometown in Waipahu. I didn’t know I was going spend over $100 total. But it was worth it. Got 5 mixed plates and over $30 worth of deserts. The blueberry scone was so big, can feed 3 people. And the pumpkin crunch was so ono I never like share. The plate lunch had so much meat I could eat for days. And the people that work there were nice, friendly and making us laugh about the deserts. Mahalo Diamond Grill for the awesome food and hospitality.
Chow — Google review
Affordable, local bakery and take out grill. Their blueberry scones are delicious and more cake like, very moist. Also love their Okinawa sweet potato haupia pie. All the deserts are fantastic. It’s a must stop and worth the extra calories. We walked from our hotel 1.7 miles just to get there so we could burn calories while eating the tasty sweets. We also tried the salmon salad, salmon burger , teriyaki chicken with side salad and rice. All very Delicious. Just make sure you allow for 20-30 mins for them to cook the food as it’s made to order and there are several orders during busy times. Pricing is very affordable for Waikīkī / Honolulu area. must stop to try their foods.
Kim N — Google review
What a great store—it’s the perfect place to grab lunch or a quick snack. They’re well known for their scones, and the banana scones were so moist and delicious. I’m looking forward to trying the lamb sandwich next time!
Ulu — Google review
This place is an absolute hidden gem. EXCELLENT from scratch food, incredibly reasonably priced, and a bakery with made-in-house desserts inside. Not only would I stop here again, I’d make a trip to Honolulu to go here. Especially recommend the honey lemonade, mixed plate, and teriyaki chicken
Michaela R — Google review
Best scones on island? Yups🤙Tucked away off Monserrat Avenue near Diamond Head Crater and HCC is where this Market/grill/bakery is located. When you crave those blueberry cream cheese scones you gotta go here early... Snooze you lose. Moist and filling, a perfect complement to a fresh brewed coffee. Always grab the blueberry scones though recently the banana scones have been another favorite of mine too🤙5 stars.
P R — Google review
10+ years of chowing down here and I’m still obsessed. Teriyaki chicken rice plate? SLAPS. I get all rice, extra chicken, and I’m basically food-coma’d till tomorrow. But the real MVP? The cheesecake hiding in the bakery like it’s some undercover dessert boss—thick crust, melts in your mouth, topped with mango + blueberries. They don’t hype it up, but they 1000% should. Don’t sleep on it!
Daniel — Google review
I love their plantation iced tea. I order from other places but it doesn't taste the same. I also had hamburger steak. It's topped with grilled onions. It's not one of those frozen patties, its actually made and grilled. IMO, that's what makes it so ono! I had it with tossed salad with their house dressing. If you know, you know! Everyone was very kind and friendly. Did you know? They have leis and flowers! I got the ginger and heleconias. Perfect for the graves. It stood out and looked beautiful. I'm sure my mom and aunts loves it. Special thanks to Loretta who helped me. In conclusion, a place for great food, flowers, & leis!
Nadeen — Google review
3158 Monsarrat Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA•http://www.diamondheadmarket.com/•(808) 732-0077•Tips and more reviews for Diamond Head Market & Grill

15Noi Thai Cuisine

4.3
(1659)
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4.3
(743)
•
Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$affordable
Thai restaurant
Asian restaurant
Family restaurant
Noi Thai Cuisine in Honolulu, Hawaii is an upscale restaurant located in The Royal Hawaiian Center in Waikiki. It has won the prestigious Hale Aina Award for Best Thai Restaurant. The elegant setting offers outdoor seating and a sophisticated cocktail menu. During happy hour, guests can enjoy discounted Thai-inspired dishes and tropical cocktails.
The food is absolutely fabulous, and the place has a very stylish vibe. After barely finishing one dish, I was already feeling stuffed. Bryan was an excellent guide through our culinary experience, and every bit of advice he gave us worked perfectly. Warning: Do not order the "Banana in Sweet Coconut Milk" unless you’ve saved some room for it. I didn’t - and yet I couldn’t stop until I had finished this amazing dessert. I was awfully full, caught somewhere between the agony of overeating and the bliss of pure taste ecstasy.
Artem T — Google review
Outstanding Thai food! We tried lots of different dishes so we a lot to take home! We got the egg rolls, crispy chicken, Thai basil fried rice and green bean stir fry. And we like spicy food but weren’t sure what to expect so we ordered our food 4/5. We’d consider it was medium spicy-but we really like spicy food. Next time we will get it 5/5-Thai spicy! Great service and great food! It’d be nice if they had a lunch sized menu.
Darin W — Google review
Very classy place with Excellent food at a very reasonable price. I had the red curry with chicken. The flavors were all over my mouth. The chicken was pristine and lots of crunchy vegetables. Large portion. I was stuffed. It was my birthday , and they brought me out a fruit tray with delicious ice cream. Will be back soon.
Corrina V — Google review
We had such a great experience at Noi Thai! It was our first trip to Hawaii and we were celebrating my partner’s birthday. The plan was spontaneous, so I hadn’t arranged a surprise in advance. I really wanted at least a nice dinner and a small cake moment, but every other restaurant I called either didn’t allow outside cakes or couldn’t help with a surprise. From the moment I spoke with the management(Augustina) at Noi Thai, everything changed. They were incredibly kind and accommodating—smiling the whole time and checking in to be sure the plan was exactly how I wanted it. I dropped the cake off earlier - handed it over to Augustina, and she happily stored it and brought it out perfectly after dinner, making the evening so special. I wish I’d caught the names of others in their staff members who helped, because I’d recognize them in a heartbeat if I saw them again! The food was not bad too. We ordered vegetarian dishes—drunken noodles and yellow curry with jasmine rice. The drunken noodles was good and the yellow curry was tasty. The restaurant itself has a classy, elegant ambiance—dim lighting, stylish décor, and a calm atmosphere that made the evening feel even more special. Highly recommend Noi Thai for both the food and the exceptional hospitality. They turned what could have been a stressful night into a wonderful memory.
Abhilesh P — Google review
We walked up and were able to get seated right away- the hostess brought us inside a very cute restaurant and our server promptly greeted us. The service and food were both wonderful. Not only did our server check on us regularly and offer drink refills/ask how everything was, but other servers also checked in on our table. Everything we ordered tasted great, specifically the chicken satay and fried bananas ala mode were delicious! Highly recommend giving this place a try.
Sara C — Google review
Arrived quite late and were very appreciative to be given a table! Visited with my partner and parents. We ordered some appetisers, and three main dishes plus fried rice. Food was quick to be delivered and delicious. Service was phenomenal!
Jessica L — Google review
Came here for a quiet romantic dinner. Just a short walk through the shopping plaza since were staying at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel. The ambiance was top notch with beautiful decorations, quiet atmosphere, and elegant table service. We had the Yellow Curry Crab which was outstanding and the Clay Pot Shrimp was also very good. Would definitely come back for the wonderful fine dining experience.
Michelle P — Google review
A stand out dining experience among the crowded Kalākaua Ave restaurants. The manager here runs a great operation with personal and friendly hospitality. The staff even greet you as you walk to your table (something I only experience at very high end restaurants). Atmosphere and decor is great and the food certainly matches! We had the fresh rolls and satay chicken as the appetizer with their liquid gold (peanut sauce) to complement. Mains were yellow curry with chicken and a pineapple fried rice. You can order your dish with varying spice levels of 1 thru 5; 6 as the secret Thai spicy. Overall very enjoyable experience with a great team top to bottom! If you love Thai food this will be in your top favorites for authentic taste, service, and atmosphere.
James G — Google review
2301 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA•http://www.noithaicuisine.com/•(808) 664-4039•Tips and more reviews for Noi Thai Cuisine
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16The Original Roy's in Hawaii Kai

4.6
(1190)
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4.5
(654)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$very expensive
Asian fusion restaurant
Restaurant
Seafood restaurant
Steak house
The Original Roy's in Hawaii Kai is a culinary gem that showcases the passion of renowned chef Roy Yamaguchi for Hawaiian fusion cuisine. Nestled along the picturesque Maunalua Bay, this vibrant restaurant has been delighting diners for over 25 years with its contemporary ambiance and stunning views. Drawing inspiration from his childhood experiences in Maui, Chef Yamaguchi combines fresh local ingredients with bold Asian spices and European sauces to create an unforgettable dining experience.
My wife and I had an unforgettable dinner at The Original Roy’s in Hawaii Kai during our honeymoon, and it was truly a highlight of our trip. From the moment we arrived, the service was outstanding—special thanks to Scotty and the manager for making us feel so welcomed. They even treated us to champagne and panna cotta on the house, which was such a kind and thoughtful gesture. We tried the wood-smoked Szechuan-style baby back pork ribs, the Misoyaki Butterfish, and a perfectly cooked whole red snapper—every dish was bursting with flavor. To top it all off, we ended the night with Roy’s signature chocolate soufflé, which was absolutely divine. This meal was more than just dinner—it was an experience. Highly recommended for any occasion or a memorable night out in Honolulu.
Patrik N — Google review
We came to celebrate an anniversary and had a wonderful experience. The food was good but expensive—quality and price were commensurate—but the service exceeded all expectations. Our server, Keola, was incredibly knowledgeable and attentive. It was evident that this team cares about its patrons, and we will definitely be returning.
David Y — Google review
Roy's never disappoints. We come here sporadically when we have a little extra moolah to treat ourselves, mostly for celebrations. With that said, every experience is always special. The food & service( nice to see Scott, the manager, making the rounds making sure everyone is happy)the atmosphere, always feeling special and fantastic. We're currently enjoying their prix fix "Japanese" theme menu!! Value for your money. Also excited about the happy hour menu!
Via M — Google review
Ok, took me 2 days to recover from the culinary experience of dining at Roy’s HI Kai & write this review! From reservation making to leaving, it was so aloha-fabulous! Almost don’t want to leave a great review or I might not get my next reservation time! Can’t say enough about their GM Brandon. Kind, attentive, hospitable, detail-focused servant, full of aloha. We could tell that his staff also respect & work hard for him. Our primary server was also Brandon 😂 which made it easy & Kailani & crew also graciously offered service extraordinaire & never said “I don’t know” but always smiled with a “sure, I can help with that!” Happy Hour pupu menu - ordered 5 items! Yikes! The sushi tempura was so good we ordered twice. Cocktails & wine accompaniment reasonably priced & high quality. Lucked out with a Sakura price fixe menu for two! that was sooo yummy & so well priced that I can’t tell you or for sure I won’t get a reservation. Mainly though, we can get great food in many places but their heart of aloha & beyond the call service made it a night to remember. Will be back for their local Hawaiian music night too. Mahalo to all! ❤️
Cindy P — Google review
Roys in Hawaii Kai is a truly unforgettable dining experience! The outdoor seating gave us a gorgeous view of a breathtaking sunset. We started with the sampler pupu platter, which was a delicious way to enjoy a variety of flavors. Highly recommend! We found the servings to be generous and didn’t end up ordering entrées, so I guess we’ll have to come back to try those another time. The highlight for me was the banana bread pudding dessert. It was pure melt-in-your-mouth goodness. We also appreciate that they serve nonalcoholic beer. What really made the night extra special was the outstanding service from our server, Luke. Luke was incredibly friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable. His recommendations were spot-on. If you’re looking for amazing food, stunning views, and top-notch service, Roys in Hawaii Kai is a must! We look forward to coming back soon!
Kakaʻako L — Google review
Hit up The Original Roy's in Hawaii for a night out, and wow, what a spot! The vibe is laid-back but fancy, with awesome views of Maunalua Bay. Got a table outside, and it was perfect for chilling and taking in the scenery. I ordered the ribeye, and let me tell you, it was next-level juicy, perfectly cooked, and packed with flavor. Easily one of the best steaks I’ve had in a while.
Julian S — Google review
Exceptional service! We went to Roy's for our wedding dinner and had a wonderful time. From our hostess to our food runner everyone was so professional and courteous. Our waiter was exceptional, he was knowledgeable of the menu items and enthusiastic about the specials. Very attentive and really top notch. We had my granddaughter who is a toddler with us, and right away he brought us a mini crudite plate for her to nibble on(after checking for allergies of course). Very thoughtful. Our drinks were well thought out and delicious. We were served an amuse-bouche of edamame beans in slightly spicy deliciously seasoned pods. One member of our party had the flat iron "seared shrimp" and they were really just poached and served in a nice creamy sauce but no sear at all which was disappointing. The canoe trio was very good. The Korean ribs in particular have a very nice flavor. Entrée selections included the short ribs which were fantastic, as well as the truffle risotto, creamy and plenty of truffle flavor. The Cajun inspired slow roasted pork dish was fork tender and bursting with flavor. I ordered the "diver scallops". This title implies that they are harvested daily, also referred to as 'day boat scallops'. This type of scallop has a firm dry texture and tastes of fresh seawater. In all fairness to anyone who knows the difference, these are not them. Although these scallops were browned perfectly and presented nicely, my scallops were not the fresh dry scallops the menu implies. They had a soapy taste and a soft, almost mushy texture. Inedible if you have ever had fresh day boat scallops. On a positive note, I spoke to one of the managers, Jason and he said he would speak to the executive chef and their seafood purveyor. Unsolicited, our server brought a nice ice cream cookie sandwich for my granddaughter. Whether this was noise control or just protocol, it worked. Dessert was phenomenal! We had the pineapple upside down cake. Absolutely delicious. The lava cake is over the top decadent chocolate flavor. Save room for this one! The chef also sent over a congratulatory desert. All around, what a great experience. With the ambience, the thoughtful staff and the menu, this is a must visit.
J W — Google review
My wife and I love eating at Roy’s. The food is amazing. We have tried almost every item on the menu and never been disappointed. If you are looking for a great restaurant with excellent service Roy’s Hawaii Kai will not let you down. A huge thanks to the manager Makani, Brandon, Cal, Braden, Ashley and Morgan for always making our friends and us feel like family. Sincerely Dan and Dar Sparks
Dan S — Google review
6600 Kalanianaʻole Hwy Suite 110, Honolulu, HI 96825, USA•https://www.royyamaguchi.com/roys-hawaiikai•(808) 396-7697•Tips and more reviews for The Original Roy's in Hawaii Kai

17Paia Fish Market Waikiki

4.6
(3878)
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4.6
(573)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$affordable
Seafood restaurant
Hawaiian restaurant
Lunch restaurant
Paia Fish Market Waikiki is an Oahu seafood cafe that serves dishes from the Paia Fish Market in Maui. It's popular for its large portions of seafood specialties that are plain tasty and fill you up. Not everything on the menu is seafood, but it's a good place to get your fish fix.
We love this place! They have a food truck on the island too! We have been to the one in Maui before it burned down. The food never disappoints. We tried the fried calamari and the kids fish and chips this time around, they were both crispy and delicious 😋 Definitely coming back!
Summer B — Google review
All of the stars, here, are for the staff. I give them 5 stars! Makena and Fin give superior customer service and really go above and beyond. The pineapple mojito was pretty decent. The fish and chips missed the bar big time for me. I didn’t like the texture and the breading was severely lacking in seasoning; I sprinkled salt on the fish and used almost every condiment to try to add flavor. I was very happy with their in-house made cole slaw; normally, I skip eating cole slaw when accompanying a meal, but this was very fresh and flavorful, I really enjoyed it. I learned about this restaurant from my Lyft driver; I would give Paia a try again, to actually go with what my driver recommended, pick a fish, preparation, and sides.
Reginice — Google review
Very busy place. Took about 20 minutes to get through the line. Clam chowder had a really good flavor, was a bit on the cool side. I had the blackened ahi tuna and my wife had olo fish butter garlic glaze. I thought the coleslaw was fantastic. Street parking around the area if you can find it. We walked from the hotel.
Eric T — Google review
Sunday afternoon visit, first visit. The food was pretty good. Lunch plate(snapper with cajun rice & home potatoes) and the fish & chips were our entrees. The rice was not at all cajun but it tasted well. The home fries were really good. The snapper was grilled and ok. The fish in the fish & chips tasted fresh. The fries were ok. The coleslaw is on the sweeter side, but we enjoyed it. You place your order and then it's more food hall style. A server delivers your order to you and the that's it. You clear your own table, but the table does come with a box with: utensils,common condiments, and napkins. Given the opportunity we'd eat here again.
Tonisha C — Google review
Super good fish as expected. Really like the casual vibe and ordering a drink while in line. There's usually a line outside the door but it isn't too bad, about 15 minutes until you're inside, then you line up to order. Portion is massive. Fish is delicious.
Daniel W — Google review
Makenna the bartender was EXCELLENT!! Mai Tai, Mojito, and Blue Hawaiian done great. Mahi Mahi was superb. Cole slaw very tasty. Shrimp cocktail was yummy and shrimp were huge. The entire staff are very friendly and helpful. A MUST TRY.
Donald R — Google review
Food: Ordered the seafood pasta. Great sized chunks of fish, shrimp 🦐 a good size. Linguini and fettuccine tattered pretty Damm tasty. Service: Line moved quickly, food came out within 10 minutes and hot. Atmosphere: Busy! But fun energy
Eric H — Google review
Pā’ia Fish Market, Honolulu — don’t let the burned look fool you.🔥🐟 When I first saw photos of the fish here on Google, I thought, “Whoa… that’s way too burnt. Why would anyone cook fish like that?” It looked blackened to the edge of existence — I was sure it would taste dry or bitter. But no. That “burnt” look? It’s actually intentional — and brilliant. They coat the fish in a crust of spices and char the seasoning, not the fish itself. Once I understood that — I gave it a try. Medium rare ahi tuna, blackened style. And let me tell you — the moment that fish touched my tongue, I got it. Juicy, tender tuna inside, with this crunchy, salty, smoky crust of spices on the outside. It’s like flavor fireworks. You get heat, salt, umami, and this deep roasted character that only happens when spices hit fire just right. I legit sat back in my chair and said: “Damn.” You can actually choose from about five different cooking styles, from gentle, European-style white wine + garlic + lemon butter sauce, all the way to that bold blackened spice crust. So there’s something for everyone — mild to wild. 💸 Price-wise? Around $30 with a drink, and honestly — 100% worth it. Fresh fish, big portions, real flavor. I regret judging this place by its photos. Now I’d go back in a heartbeat — and next time, I’m getting the blackened style again. If you’re in Honolulu and love seafood — this is a must. — Ilya #CyborgRecommends #PaiaFishMarket #Don’tJudgeByTheCrust #HonoluluEats #SpicyTunaHeaven
Cyborg M — Google review
2299 Kūhiō Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815, USA•(808) 200-0200•Tips and more reviews for Paia Fish Market Waikiki

18Lucky Belly

4.4
(864)
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4.6
(528)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$affordable
Asian fusion restaurant
Bar
Ramen restaurant
Restaurant
Lucky Belly is a trendy Asian restaurant located in Chinatown Honolulu, known for its hip ambiance and delicious ramen dishes. The interior features reclaimed wood and brick walls, creating a stylish and inviting atmosphere. Whether you're there for lunch or dinner, you can enjoy their signature noodle dishes such as the Fungi Bowl with various mushrooms in vegetarian broth or the Belly Bowl packed with pork belly, bacon, and sausage. The restaurant also offers a window for takeaway orders.
Lucky Belly is a great spot for tasty food and drinks. Most of what we tried was delicious, and the crispy duck tacos are a definite must try, it was packed with flavor and perfectly cooked. The only miss for us was the pork belly bao, which could use a bit of improvement in seasoning. Still, overall a solid experience and worth a visit!
Merzelie C — Google review
OMG….this place is absolutely amazing! Food 10. Atmosphere 10. Drinks 10. Service 10. Presentation 10. We pretty much raided the appetizer menu. Everything was delicious. The drinks were also top tier! Don’t sleep on Lucky Belly! You WILL NOT be disappointed!
Gracie W — Google review
Lucky Belly was such a cool spot! My husband and I decided to grab a few appetizers. We went with the wafu steak, shrimp gyoza, and the duck tacos. The duck tacos were definitely our favorite. They were so good that we even went back before our flight to get them one last time before leaving Hawai’i. My husband also tried the Bean’ To Box, which is their twist on an old-fashioned. He also ordered the hibiscus lemonade, and I got the Jasmine lime soda — both were super refreshing. The service was awesome, and the atmosphere was cozy and chill. Lucky Belly was definitely one of my favorite restaurants to eat in Hawai’i! I’m still thinking about those duck tacos as I write this review.
Carmen H — Google review
True to the name, we were extremely lucky bellies, especially coming here without a reservation and being able to sit at the counter but moreso this was exactly what we we needed. I’ve been eating authentic Asian food for the past several months and to have Asian fusion was like having a cool breeze hit your skin in the Gobi desert. We tried their specialty for the day, a three appetizer sampler of the pork belly bao, shrimp gyoza and oxtail dumplings. This could’ve been our main course and I would’ve been more than happy as is but we also ordered the crispy duck tacos and this was my favorite. It was the crunch that I’ve been missing in so many Asian meals I’ve had. So crispy to match the duck’s juices. I hope this luck carries out throughout the rest of the week cuz I’ll be back again this weekend for more!
Alanglen49 — Google review
Lucky Belly had been bookmarked for a while now, and we finally made it in for dinner. PARKING: We made 2 laps in the immediate area, found no street parking and ended up in a paid lot. ATMOSPHERE: Very chic. Brick walls, big windows, high ceilings, exposed concrete floors. We sat at the bar. Seating isn't too plentiful. The a/c was a bit nippy. MENU: Asian fusion apps, salads, ramen, entrees, and a unique selection of beers and mixed drinks. FOOD: Lobster Shu Mai There wasn't a distinct taste of lobster that I was anticipating, but the 3 pieces that sat over a subtle beurre blanc sauce were moist and had a nice subtle flavor. Pricey at $20. Oddly this ended up being my fave dish of the night. Shrimp Gyoza They do a twist on the traditional gyoza with this version that's filled with chunks of shrimp. The 3 gyozas were laid on pats of an edamame & avocado purée that had a slight wasabi note. The tanginess from the ponzu and pinch of sprouts were nice enhancers. Pork Belly Bao Everyone is doing these nowadays. Their's is spot on if not monotonous along with the rest of the world who makes these. The buns were smaller compared to others I've had. Belly Bowl I opted for this over the Lucky Bowl mainly due to the addition of the arabiki sausage. I'm not a fan of pork belly or thick chunks of bacon, but they came with, along with the standard bean sprouts, a whole medium egg, seaweed, and sprinkled sesame seeds. First off, the broth was warm, not hot, and killed the dish immediately for me. Is it so hard to understand the concept of hot broth + room temperature noodles = warm ramen? Sigh... The broth had a bold porky and slight creamy flavor with an appetizing color, but was a tad too salty even for me, and I rarely complain of overly-salted broth. Perhaps the simmered bacon took the sodium level over the edge. The noodles and bean sprouts were a bit overdone, the almost hard boiled and unseasoned egg was very lifeless, and the overload of seaweed tasted like the smell of marijuana. Less is definitely more. Beast Bowl My spouse's dish. All of the ramen share the same broth, but this top-of-the-line selection adds in brisket, short ribs, and oxtail won tons. I had half of a won ton which was undercooked. The shell was doughy and super al dente at the edges, and the oxtail stuffing was laced with my kryptonite cilantro. Bleh. SERVICE: We were greeted immediately by a smiley and welcoming gal, and seated immediately at the bar. The wait for a table would've been about 30 minutes, and there weren't too many to go around. One of the guy bar backs doubled as our server. He was friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. The gal who greeted us has a sharp eye. She noticed that another patron was sitting in my spouse's chair which he actually offered out because we were about to leave. She questioned the party professionally but felt bad for us so she comped 2 of our drinks. So sweet! OVERALL: Nice ambiance and food presentation, good apps, not my favorite ramen.
Maui T — Google review
Went to Lucky Belly in Chinatown and wow—this spot is a gem! My friends ordered the pork belly bao, crispy duck tacos, bi bim bap, and the miso-braised lamb leg. Everything looked INSANE, and they couldn’t stop raving about the crispy duck tacos and pork belly bao (their top faves)! I have a ton of food allergies (gluten, dairy, soy, sesame, oats), so I didn’t expect to be able to eat much—but I was blown away by how accommodating they were. The chef personally helped adjust the dish, and the waitress had amazing suggestions and made me feel taken care of. I ended up getting the bi bim bap with smoked octopus (yes, octopus!) and it was next level. The octopus had a perfect crunch on the outside, was tender on the inside, and seasoned beautifully. The bowl was big, satisfying, and absolutely delicious. Not many Asian fusion spots can work around my allergies, but Lucky Belly made me feel welcomed—not like a burden. Can’t recommend this place enough for allergy-conscious foodies and flavor chasers alike. I’ll definitely be back. Thank you for the great experience!
Diana K — Google review
The food was so delicious 😭😭😭 my favorite was the bao I highly recommend people go try it I might go back to just eat bao 😭😭😭 Portion was very big too! I loved the atmosphere! I’m coming back again for sure.
Hazuki K — Google review
Beast Ramen Bowl, super rich and flavorful broth, and lamb lumpia. Service was super responsive and friendly. Gotta go back to try more on the menu!
Derick M — Google review
50 N Hotel St, Honolulu, HI 96817, USA•https://luckybellyhi.com/•(808) 531-1888•Tips and more reviews for Lucky Belly

19Koko Head Cafe

4.5
(2041)
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4.5
(526)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$affordable
Brunch restaurant
Bar
Bartending service
Koko Head Cafe, located in Kaimuki, Honolulu, is a popular brunch spot run by celebrity chef Lee Anne Wong. The menu offers a fusion of Asian and Hawaiian flavors with creative dishes like breakfast udon and congee. One of the highlights is the Koko Moco, featuring a medium-rare beef patty on crispy garlic rice with mushroom gravy, a sunny side egg, and kimchi tempura.
Our server Elizabeth was AMAZING! We stopped by for brunch before a hike while visiting from out of town and she provided such great service that we talked about her the rest of our trip! She helped me pick my entree, gave us recommendations for places to go, and shared such a nice conversation with us. We wanted to go back to eat again just so we could see her! I had the Breakfast Bibimap which was amazing and we shared the Elvis Cinnamon Roll (which I believe was a special). My latte was also great! 10/10 definitely check this place out… and ask for Elizabeth!
Lizzy H — Google review
Great little restaurant serving up unique dishes. Service was great, prices are a little steep but not out of the norm for Hawaii. It’s not easy to walk to from Waikiki but if you’re looking for what seems to be a popular local restaurant, this is the place. Recommend reservations especially for dinner.
Alan — Google review
Unfortunately the experience here left more to be desired. We had been seated at the bar with the bar tender as our server. This ordinarily wouldn’t be a problem but they sat some of their usual customers next to us with their dog. I love animals but I don’t like them being inside making a fuss while I’m eating. It’s unsanitary and unnecessary when they have patio dining. We had been sitting there for a bit waiting and instead of addressing us first the bar tender started up a conversation & took their drink and food orders before bothering to check in with us. During our wait they apparently have a very obnoxious tradition of adding money to a jar and shouting “adding to the beer fund” where all of the cooks and servers in the back start yelling and shouting. Not something I would expect at a breakfast spot and it definitely left a sour impression when they had to do it a second time just to get a video and were even more obnoxious. While the food is plated very well it’s honestly nothing to write home about. The flavor profile is lackluster & the portion size to pricing needs improvement. I get more of both for less money at other breakfast spots like Moena or island brew in Hawaii Kai. Not sure I will bother wasting my money here again to give it a second chance.
L H — Google review
This was a huge surprise for breakfast! Award winning too! They have traditional sandwiches and along with Hawaiian inspired dishes. This is a great place, coffee was good, but definitely better options if you want better coffee! Highly recommend this after the koko Head hike!
Steve O — Google review
Some of the best Brunch money can buy, here or anywhere. The savory dishes like Koko Moco and the Ohayou Eggs were huge hits at our table but the Daily special Pickle Plate was the favorite. The sweet dishes totally stole the show tho. The Daily special Mango Buschetta was a near perfect bite. Everyone raved about the French toast and the pancakes. Absolutely amazing options. This place is worth the trip! And you'll want to come back again and again! Enjoy!
Sean F — Google review
Service - 5 stars Elizabeth was great - when we gave feedback she took it well. Coming from Singapore and LA, our standards for Korean and Japanese food are high. Pineapple lemongrass cooler - 3 stars Couldn't quite taste the lemongrass. Bibimbap - 3 stars Loved the use of the cast iron skillet to mimic the crispy burnt rice you get from a dolsot. The gochujang tastes authentic but the dish was a bit one-dimensional. I think it needed more sesame oil and garlic. Ramen - 1 star Would give this a miss. It was way too salty and after diluting it down the broth just tasted like the American cheese. The meats were definitely too salty too. Noodles were so-so.
N T — Google review
I’ve been to the other locations in Japan, but this was my first time eating here in Honolulu. The food was amazing, with very unique recipes and incredible flavors. The matcha was way too sweet for me. I don’t know if they added a lot of sugar to the drink or if the powder is mixed like that, but matcha isn’t supposed to taste that sweet. The staff was friendly; however, Pat, the manager, was a bit creepy. I wouldn’t leave your wife or daughter alone with that guy. 🤣
Caldie — Google review
Food was memorable! Highly Recommend!! Food was 5 stars, however due to the atmosphere and wait times, had to give the place a 4. Food is amazing, which is why I'm sure its packed to the gills, but at the same time is a bit much. While we waited, we had to stand on the sidewalk in the sun. I ordered the miso smoked pork omelette with a side of has brown. Wifey ordered Fish and Eggs skillet with a biscuit on the side. Lets say we were both eating off each other's plate because both dishes were amazing! Definitely left a lasting impression. Sad we are not locals here. Highly recommend getting on wait list early, or making plans in advance to eat here. Wait time can be long. There is indoor and outdoor seating. Due to the high traffic of people eating here, its noticeable that the staff is definitely spread thin, and it can be hard to get their attention. Despite how busy it was, all the staff were hyper focused, and carried a positive attitude. Very impressive to see.
V R — Google review
1120 12th Ave #100, Honolulu, HI 96816, USA•https://www.kokoheadcafe.com/•(808) 732-8920•Tips and more reviews for Koko Head Cafe

20Ruth's Chris Steak House

4.6
(1295)
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4.5
(474)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$very expensive
Steak house
American restaurant
Caterer
Ruth's Chris Steak House is an upscale steakhouse chain that has been impressing diners since its establishment in 1965. Renowned for its USDA Prime beef steaks, cooked to perfection in a special oven at 980 degrees and finished with butter and parsley, the sizzling sound of their signature cuts will surely tantalize your taste buds. With locations across the globe, including a popular spot in Honolulu, this culinary institution offers an elegant setting for enjoying top-quality steaks and seafood.
we stopped by at Ruth Chris‘s location in Hawaii for our anniversary dinner for me and my husband. Everything was spectacular. The food was super delicious. The steaks were super juicy. The service was top-tier. Everything about the steakhouse is wonderful.
Zoee M — Google review
Dined at Ruth’s Chris last night and had a very enjoyable experience. The price point and service were reasonable, right around mid-level for what you’d expect. The lobster and steak combination was excellent, and the Caesar salad was fresh and flavorful. The warm bread served at the start of the meal was also a standout. For dessert, we tried the Chocolate Sin Cake. While it was definitely a calorie bomb, it was absolutely delicious. Overall, the quality of food and service made it well worth the price, and I left feeling very satisfied.
허윤경 ( — Google review
Phenomenal!!!! From start to finish, our dining experience was outstanding! ALL of the staff was WONDERFUL! Our server, Mel, was nothing short of exemplary. She truly made our visit special. Mel exceeded our expectations with amazing customer service , extreme kindness and constant attention on serving us. Every detail, from the service to the meal, was executed with care and excellence. Perfectly cooked steak/lamb chops, rich flavors, and classic service. This is the kind of experience we will remember for a long time, and we can’t wait to return next year. Tracey (Manager) you are doing a wonderful job with this location. Thank you all for making my husband’s birthday dinner memorable.
Chrystal B — Google review
We went there around 5pm. Initially, we thought about ordering from happy hour menu, but then we suddenly craved a porterhouse, so we changed our plan. The porterhouse was pretty good with a tender texture, though it was a bit salty and peppery. Overall, it was a satisfying experience.
Minnim — Google review
Excellent Food! Every dish had its own wonderful distinct flavor. The service was sub par. There seemed to be a shortage of waitstaff. We sat for 30+ minutes with a glass of water waiting for cocktails that never came, then another 20+ minutes because the order had never been requested. The rescue waiter did a good job but we were tired and very hungry by the time our meal arrived.
ALK — Google review
Amazing anniversary celebration. So gracious with complimentary champagne and dessert. Steaks & lobster tails were cooked to perfection. Only comment was the area we sat had very little a/c so it was uncomfortably warm for us.
V Y — Google review
Lobster: Was on the smaller side but it was so fresh and so juicy with great flavor 11oz Filet: The cook it just right and it is better than 90% of steaks ive had out Ny Strip: very flavorful Shrimp cocktail: Large shrimps x4 lobster mac: Actually had some nice pieces of lobster Chilean sea bass: Small portion! Very moist and fresh taste fantastic Wine -Chianti: was nice and dry great taste Overall I am very satisfied with my dinner for 5 and a toddler it cost $628.00 with tip If I went back I woukd get like 5 lobster tails. Way Over Priced all in my opinion!
C R — Google review
Love the food and atmosphere here. I have sat at the bar the last 2 times since I am traveling solo, but prior it is a great place for an intimate dinner or for a nice company dinner. Daniel who works the bar is great! Several regulars at the bar area and it was a great dinner.
Allen W — Google review
Waterfront Plaza, 500 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA•https://www.ruthschris.com/locations/hi/honolulu/honolulu/7359?c…•(808) 599-3860•Tips and more reviews for Ruth's Chris Steak House
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21Morimoto Asia Waikiki

4.5
(1533)
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4.5
(453)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$expensive
Asian restaurant
Morimoto Asia Waikiki is a sleek and modern restaurant located in Honolulu, offering high-end Japanese fusion cuisine by Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto. Situated at the Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach, the restaurant provides stunning ocean views and features a glass-encased exhibition kitchen. The menu showcases Chef Morimoto's interpretation of iconic Asian flavors inspired by his travels to various Asian countries.
A celebration of all things good from the Pacific Rim, Morimoto Asia Waikiki well-reflects and elevates the culinary diversity drawn from Hawaii. Order family style so as to try as many treats on menu, while sharing amongst good company over cocktails. As with any Hawaiian table, pretty much any and all combinations of dishes will work. Highlights include old-time Morimoto classics such as Tuna Pizza (i.e. sashimi tostada) and Fish Carpaccio (e.g. Japanese ceviche). Sticky Ribs, in hoisin sweet chili, is a definite all-around crowd pleaser. Ishiyaki Buri Bop, Ribeye Steak (16oz) and Angry Lobster make an excellent surf-and-turf combo to close the meal — and are a joy for all senses. Served in hot stone pot or sizzling iron plates, proteins are seared and sauces bubbling table side. Desserts, top-notch. Ube Basque Cheesecake is amazingly creamy, earthy but still slightly tart. Chocolate Entremet is served flambé. Excellent and on-point front-of-house service team, providing a truly fine-dining experience, with still a welcoming and personable beach vibe. Interior and exterior seating, chic designed.
Christopher C — Google review
Had a lovely experience here. Our server Yoon was very professional and did a great job with excellent service Food was lovely, duck was great, everything is a winner. Venue is well presented Good spot for date night or special occasion. Worth the spend
Jimmy H — Google review
Everything about our dinner was top notch! The hospitality was beautifully orchestrated while also not being overbearing! Every single person was so nice, you can definitely feel the Aloha! Now for the food, everything was a 10/10!! The duck amazinggg, the ribeye was so juicy and and sticky ribs are a must! This was an unforgettable experience for sure! Our server Nezi was awesome, the manager Sara was so helpful, and the support staff was the equivalent to the 2016 golden state warriors! Will definitely be back soon
Jed V — Google review
Vinnie the manager and Christopher our server were so kind and friendly. The moment we stepped in it was 5 star service from the hostess to the drinks to the appetizers to the atmosphere we couldn't ask for anything else. The atmosphere was classy and comfortable. We sat on the patio side with a beautiful ocean view. When I say the food was delicious that may be an understatement we will be back!
Terri R — Google review
From the moment we stepped into this breathtaking restaurant, we were swept away—not just by the view of the beach (which are absolutely stunning), but by the warm, impeccable service that made us feel like VIPs from start to finish. Every detail is masterfully done—from the sleek, modern design to the gentle ambient lighting that perfectly complements the surrounding scenery. It’s the kind of place where you feel like time slows down, and every course is an event in itself. Our server was attentive without being overbearing, knowledgeable about every dish and drink pairing, and genuinely kind. You could tell that the staff takes pride in the experience they’re creating, and it shows. Now, the food? Next level. Every dish was a beautifully plated work of art—delicate, flavorful, and bursting with the kind of balance only true culinary masters can achieve. From the melt-in-your-mouth sushi to the perfectly seasoned entrées and creative cocktails, everything was unforgettable. This isn’t just dinner—it’s an experience. One that I’ll be dreaming about until I come back (which will be very soon hopefully). If you’re looking for an upscale spot that delivers on all fronts—ambience, service, views, and cuisine—this is it. Pure magic.
Lillie M — Google review
The staffs are very nice and welcoming. The food was good. I love my surf and turf sushi roll the most. Had the Flaming Chocolate and it was amazing. The location is fantastic as it is in the heart of Waikiki and can see the water.
Pla N — Google review
Amazing! The staff are on point, from explaining the menu to being sure no allergies or special food needs. We followed the waiters suggestions and then shared. He was spot on! The duck melted in your mouth and the two sauces created so much depth. The beef and shrimp plates were equally delicious. The chef even took something as simple as fried rice to another level. The menu selection and pricing was much better and the quality of our experience was the best we have found in Waikiki. To top it off, the view…. So yummy and reasonable, we are returning tonight!
Kathy S — Google review
I stay at the hotel and Morimoto is at the second floor. My reservation is at the opening time at 5PM. so while waiting to go to dining area at the bar is busy and not enough staff to take care of the customers. I wish to have a drink before I go in, but it didn't happen. server is professional and polite. I actually look at the menu before I come and lots of interesting fusion in the menu. We have Sticky Ribs and Hamachi Taco for start. Grilled Kalbi and A-5 Surf Turf roll. Surf Turf is nice presentation and Miyazaki wagyu is very good. If you want to have a fancy dinner, Morimoto is a wonderful choice for special day.
Melissa N — Google review
2490 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA•http://www.morimotoasiawaikiki.com/•(808) 922-0022•Tips and more reviews for Morimoto Asia Waikiki

22Hoku's Kahala

4.5
(395)
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4.3
(441)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$expensive
Restaurant
Asian restaurant
Brunch restaurant
Hoku's Kahala, situated at the luxurious Kahala Hotel & Resort in Honolulu, offers a sophisticated dining experience with Pacific Rim cuisine. The restaurant presents innovative dishes that combine Hawaiian, Asian, Mediterranean, and European flavors. With a revamped menu featuring culinary delights like 'Aburi' Kampachi carpaccio and king crab bouillabaisse hot pot, Hoku's provides an ideal blend of gourmet foods in a laid-back atmosphere.
Not necessary to say. Hoku is always good 👍 We love its special course dinner for all special occasions. Christmas. New year. Valentine’s Day and more. The service is wonderful for sure. Priceless 👍
Jennifer L — Google review
The view was jaw droppingly gorgeous. Service attentive and friendly. We went for the Brunch buffet. The food was amazing. Highlights were the crab legs, steamed lobster, freshest poke ever, and desserts. Best buffet I've ever been to so far. It will be hard to beat. I cannot say enough good things about this place. It was around $300 for two people with tax and tip.
Jess H — Google review
We did the grand tasting menu to celebrate our 25th anniversary; and at one point we both looked up at each other and asked “is this the best meal we’ve ever had”? And spoiler; it was. The staff is amazing and the Chef should be made a national treasure. We loved it so much we are going back to celebrate tonight for my birthday with my the visiting children. Amazing meal, amazing service, amazing views. Absolutely could not recommend more for a phenomenal experience.
Gemini S — Google review
Hoku's Kahala was amazing. Rayne is really the person who made our dinner so special. She is the best server I had EVER! She is so genuine and sweet. I truly appreciate such fantastic service. We ordered from the 4 course tasting menu. Everything we had was to die for. We ordered the jardiniere, smoked Hudson valley foie gras, sautéed Kauai prawns, hand cut tagliatelle, the certified angus beef Tenderloin, lobster risotto, and mud pie. Everything was presented with beauty, and all was deliciously cravable. It was on a smaller scale, but remember, it is a tasting menu. I loved the foie gras with the pineapple. The jardiniere was so fresh and zesty. In the tagliatelle, you really tasted the butter and truffle. The tenderloin was pefectly cooked to medium rare. The lobster risotto was so filling and buttery. I couldn't even eat my mud pie. I highly recommend Hoku's to have the pleasure of being served by Reyne. This was the best meal in Oahu!
Joy C — Google review
Our expectations exceeded the delivery of an excellent culinary experience. First the service and atmosphere were excellent. We had the grand tasting and tasting option. There was a very heavy emphasis on milk fat on most courses. The creativity of any flavors were drowned by cream or butter. The wagyu was excellent- (and dairy free)! Overall, we hope this was a one off experience- the table next to us had similar feedback. We had better meals at other fine dining restaurants on the island..
Jennifer B — Google review
Amazing experience! Such great staff, beautiful surroundings, and unbelievably great food.
Joey G — Google review
We went because we were celebrating my mom’s birthday. I didn’t bother putting that on the reservation so I really wasn’t expecting special treatment. I did notice that our server was prioritizing other tables compared to us. We were seated first yet the other table for a party of 5 that was seated 10mins after us had their glasses filled and their menu explained already. I asked for refills on a few items and only 1 of them were replenished. The food was good but due to the service, we are not in a hurry to come back.
Lycan L — Google review
It was a birthday dinner Hoku seemed to have changed a lot, from seafood theme to more contemporary fine dining. The service was good, decent wine menu and the best part of it was the ocean view. Recommend to be there for the sunset time. The dining room color set becomes amazing. We had 4 course tasting menu as this option gave us 2-3 menus to chose from each course. We were pretty happy with everything we had.
Justine S — Google review
Kahala Resort, 5000 Kahala Ave #5000, Honolulu, HI 96816, USA•https://www.hokuskahala.com/?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=GMB&ut…•(808) 739-8760•Tips and more reviews for Hoku's Kahala

23Basalt

4.4
(1858)
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4.4
(440)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$affordable
American restaurant
Breakfast restaurant
Takeout Restaurant
Basalt is a contemporary dining venue located in the heart of Waikiki, offering a familiar comfort-style menu featuring global cuisine with local ingredients and flavors. The open kitchen welcomes guests to experience a menu influenced by multicultural flavors, curated by Corporate Executive Chef Kelly Degala and Executive Chef Keith Steel Kong. Whether it's savory breakfast dishes or Hawaiian favorites like loco moco, Basalt offers an impressive blend of flavors for all palates.
Came to Basalt for the famous charcoal pancakes and it did not disappoint. We were seated quickly and chose to sit outside—it was cool, peaceful, and a perfect setting to start the day. I ordered the Mug and, of course, the charcoal pancakes. They came out warm, beautifully plated, topped with fresh fruit, whipped cream, and served with guava syrup. It looked almost too good to eat—but that first bite proved it was just as delicious as it looked. Definitely worth the hype. I also had the Maui Gold drink, which was visually stunning and tasted just as good. Later, I tried the Spa Day—less sweet, but still super refreshing. Both drinks hit the spot. Great food, great vibes, and fair prices. This is officially my new go-to breakfast spot. Loved it!
Cymatic A — Google review
Do not sleep on Basalt. We came for brunch and were pleasantly surprised. All of the food was amazing but you have to try the charcoal pancakes. They were unlike anything we've ever had before. Fluffy, moist, and absolutely delicious.
Matt S — Google review
An instant Waikiki staple. Great atmosphere to enjoy fantastic food from chef Lance Kosaka. Light music that doesn’t disturb conversation. They have a wide variety of drinks, but I suggest the mocktail “Spa Day” and spike it with Hendrick’s Gin. Nat will take good care of ya. Lance’s spin on a classic Loco Moco will hit every savory gland you have! Sharing this dish and the Charcoal pancakes are a perfect combination to satisfy your sweet needs. ☯️
Steve L — Google review
I haven't written a review in so long, but OMFG my dinner was delicious. 😭 I had the salmon ochazuke and it was the best thing I've eaten in a restaurant in as long as I can remember. My husband had the ribs with guava BBQ sauce and they were delicious too, but I'll be dreaming of the ochazuke until I can return one day.
Keiko W — Google review
I had a great experience here with my parents who are picky eaters. My shakshouka was very tasty, and not too heavy, it was a perfect start to my day. My parents ordered the breakfast style prime rib, and were very happy with the flavors. Definitely coming back for the ambiance, and for those charcoal pancakes!
Alyssa C — Google review
Food okay.Not outstanding just okay. Service naturally okay with an automatic 18% added option to the bill you can see why. They were limiting diners to those that were buying wine upon our visit due to staff shortages. Prices expensive as is everywhere but noodle restaurants in Honolulu. Wouldn't return to restaurant or indeed Honolulu ever again as prices everywhere for food and service are 100% higher than Australia and 200% higher than Europe.
Dennis — Google review
Had Prime Rib, cooked and seasoned perfectly. Their fries are great too. Wasn't crowded, mid week dinner. POG Mousse for dessert was really a topper for the gustatory evening . An amazing dessert experience! Highly recommended . Only ever knew of chocolate mousse before. Who knew there are deserts like this out there??!!
Scott S — Google review
Wasn’t expecting this restaurant to be in a sort of food court. Almost decided not to go because it’s not the most appealing of locations but gave it a shot. The food was absolutely fine and the service on point. The atmosphere is a bit sterile which is the only downside.
James — Google review
2255 Kūhiō Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815, USA•https://www.basaltwaikiki.com/•(808) 923-5689•Tips and more reviews for Basalt

24Eating House 1849 Waikiki - International Market Place

4.3
(1244)
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4.0
(400)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
Pan-Asian restaurant
Seafood restaurant
Steak house
Eating House 1849 at Waikiki's International Market Place is a culinary gem created by renowned chef Roy Yamaguchi. The restaurant offers a unique fusion of traditional plantation flavors with modern twists, reflecting the rich history and culture of the islands. Inspired by Portuguese, Spanish, and Filipino influences, the menu features innovative dishes like Plantation Style Paella Rice Stew and Pork and Crab Pillow Dumplings.
I can confidently say this is my absolute favorite restaurant! On my last visit, I ordered the Build Your Own Local Catch Dish with Yellowtail Amberjack and pancit — every bite was perfection. The fish was fresh, perfectly cooked, and paired beautifully with the flavorful pancit. The balance of textures and flavors was so spot-on it made me slow down just to savor it. Of course, no visit here is complete without dessert, and I always get the chocolate soufflé. It’s rich, airy, and decadent — the kind of dessert that makes you pause, close your eyes, and just appreciate life for a moment. From the impeccable food to the warm, inviting atmosphere, this place never disappoints. If I could give it more than five stars, I would!
Nanichi U — Google review
Let me start with a confession: I'm not a big kale fan. I've on occasions, dutifully gnawed through it post-gym while questioning both my life choices and the meaning of joy. But my brother loves kale and asked if I would share a kale salad, with him. After a couple glasses of wine, I'm pretty agreeable to most things except giving up wine. Then snap... that was like not just one of the best kale salads I've ever had but one of the tastiest salads ever! The kale itself was moist, tender yet firm and didn't have the usual cardboard flavor and texture. The papaya seed dressing was bright and tangy, but the real star was the crispy garlic chips -- earthy, toasty flavor bombs that added a wonderful crunchy texture to the salad. The oysters from Washington were plump and meaty, with that briny ocean essence followed by a milky, rich finish. They came with a couple of side sauces but I'm a purist when it comes to oysters. Just give me a lemon wedge and a dash of tobacco. The Kampachi Crudo- Thin, silky slices of fish, cut to a nice thickness that gave a wonderful chew, with a hint of citrus and a light touch of truffle yaki. It was fresh and refreshing , clean, and flavorful -- simple but memorable. Love it when a chef resists the urge to smother the dish -- just some tasty support and let the fish do the rest. For the main, we shared the butterfish kamameshi. The fish was slightly overcooked -- a little firmer and dryer than I'd prefer -- but the flavor was there. The seasoned furikake rice underneath almost stole the spotlight. Layered with flavors and cooked perfectly . The vegetables including daikon added texture, and those crispy bits of rice at the bottom of the cast iron pot? Total food gold. The Service : My brother and I sat at the bar -- always my first choice, and after more than a decade behind one, still where I feel most at home. The service is faster , the energy more dialed up . At the bar, the world comes at you with the good, the bad, and the downright messy. You learn to duck and weave, toast and cheer, and take it all in--one slurp of wine at a time. It's like having a seat at the chef's table, but instead of watching tweezers and foam, you hear the shaking of martinis and the stirring of spirits. And even now, from the other side of the rail, it still feels like the best seat in the house for me. And don't get me started about the people watching. Huge shoutout to Sasha, our bartender for the night. She was handling drinks for the entire dining room, yet still made us feel like honored guests in her little corner of the chaos. Always checking in on us with a warm smile. It resuscitated old muscle memory from my own nights in the trenches. Respect Sasha!! The Atmosphere: Beautiful and comfortable interior with a laid back elegance. A blend of modern and Hawai'i plantation. Elegant enough for a date night yet casual enough for shorts and slippers. A guitar player with a Fender Strat skillfully filled the empty spaces between conversations . Will definitely be back! Happy Eating!!
Toan D — Google review
Place is vibrant and has pastries ready to buy if you want to grab something and go. Prices a very fair especially because of location. Place was very clean bright light and shiny walls and glass. Super clean and our server was cool the busser Diego was very helpful throughout the night definitely can be a server. Paella seafood is what I ordered. Real strong with tomato flavor and not much more flavor than that. Coconut creme brulee was decent. The upside down pineapple was the best thing I had from all the entress,appetizers and desserts.
Jose R — Google review
Up class restaurant with decorated appealing dishes, open air concept, polite servers, and delicious starters. We ordered fish of the day deal, with three items included, I think is very good deal for USD 60.00 Highly recomended !!
Griffin L — Google review
1849 Waikiki Restaurant offers an amazing dining experience! The view is breathtaking, and the atmosphere is perfect for enjoying a meal. The menu features a wonderful mix of local and international flavors, all beautifully presented and incredibly tasty. The staff was friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home. A must-visit when in Waikiki!
Darina M — Google review
If you're a foodie, but also have little kids, I can't recommend Eating House 1849 at the Internatinal Market enough. It is so hard to find a restaurant of this quality, with food this good, that feels acceptable to bring small children to. From the very beginning, everyone was welcoming to out 1 and 3 year old. They even have a 3 course kids meal with starter quesadillas, and entree, and a dessert ice cream sandwich. The fresh catch was a hit for our Littles. For the adults, we had poke, ramen, and a filet mignon that was to die for. The unique blend of European and Hawaiian cuisine is something we always love about Roy's restaurants and this was a trjlly stellar experience.
Holly B — Google review
Excellent service. Good tasting food. We ordered a bottle of wine which is exceptional.
Ernesto E — Google review
🚨 Warning: Tourist Trap with Awful Food and Service – Not a Steakhouse! 🚨 My wife and I had a terrible experience here on Halloween night (approx. 5:00 PM). | Service (Initial) | The restaurant was empty, yet it took the hostess 5 minutes just to seat us. There seemed to be too many staff milling around, creating a lack of accountability. | | Service (Our Waitress) | Our waitress was highly inattentive. After taking our order, she was nowhere to be found and never checked on our food. | | The $170 Ribeye | I understand ordering steak at a non-steakhouse is a risk, but our waitress strongly recommended it as the best item. The steak arrived severely undercooked (rare instead of medium-rare). | | Handling the Mistake | I had to flag down a hostess to return the steak, as our waitress was missing. The manager brought it back half an hour later after we had finished the rest of our meal. The second attempt was a disaster: one end was well-done, the other was rare, and the meat was tough. The fat glob was so chewy on the end-cuts I had to spit it onto a napkin. | | Appetizer & Sides | The sashimi appetizer was served strangely with hot sauce and mayonnaise—a very odd and disappointing combination. | | Dessert | The waitress apologized and brought dessert. We ordered the chocolate soufflé hoping to salvage the meal, but it was not a soufflé at all and tasted stale or expired Twinkie. | | Overall Value | Even the only "good" dish (shrimp) was not nearly enough to justify a $170+ meal. | Note on a Strange Touch: Our waitress gave me a paper to fill out—a voting ballot for a Halloween costume contest—which felt completely unprofessional given the poor quality of our dining experience. The chopsticks were also advertised as a "Shark Tank" product. Shame on you, Mr. Yamaguchi, for the truly poor quality of food and service at this price point. We left laughing in disbelief at how bad it was, though we did leave a 20% tip out of habit. AVOID!
Charles G — Google review
2330 Kalākaua Ave #322, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA•http://www.royyamaguchi.com/•(808) 924-1849•Tips and more reviews for Eating House 1849 Waikiki - International Market Place

25Highway Inn Kaka'ako

4.5
(2618)
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4.5
(393)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$affordable
Hawaiian restaurant
American restaurant
Diner
Family restaurant
Highway Inn Kaka'ako is a lively and laid-back eatery that offers a diverse menu of traditional Hawaiian dishes for both dine-in and takeout.
A perfect spot for authentic Hawaiian food! From classics like laulau to poke, it’s a delicious introduction to Hawaiian cuisine and a must-try for first-timers. I’ll definitely go back when I’m in the area again! 🌺🍴
Glenn G — Google review
Pork Lau Lau Platter - 4 stars Squid had a delicious coconut sauce. Pork was decent. Not used to poi that's slightly fermented and sour. Mixed short rib and chicken platter - 4 stars Meat was overall well-seasoned and well-cooked.
N T — Google review
We visited Highway Inn in Kakaʻako to try some local Hawaiian food, and overall it was a good experience. The menu had a great variety of traditional dishes, which made it easy to explore different flavors of the islands. However, the seating area felt a bit disorganized, and perhaps because the staff were very busy, the service didn’t feel very attentive. That said, the atmosphere was still pleasant, and the food made it worth the visit. It’s a good spot if you’re looking to experience local cuisine in a casual setting.
Eva J — Google review
First of all we came on a Saturday nite around 6pm. Everyone in your party needs to be present. You put your name on a list and they'll let you know when your table is ready. We were told for that time it would be around 20minutes and sure enough, we were called in 20minutes. However one friend was still looking for parking but even with her arriving, the wait wasn't long. I don't eat Hawaiian food as I'm pescatarian but I love squid luau and that is what I ordered. It was delish, I only wished there was more of it. I also felt like certain sides should just automatically come with it like lomi lomi as that's more of an accompaniment than a side imo. I also could have used more rice. lol. Items are served on plates that remind me of elementary school dishes where everything is divided. It was all very tasty and service was good. I'll definitely come back as my kid loves laulau chicken long rice. My friends laulau looked awesome. Parking was definitely a challenge at that time so be mindful.
Ann N — Google review
I had the fish tacos. I thought the fish was dry and tough. My partner had the combo platter. Chicken beef and fish with white rice. It was very good. They had a one man band which was really nice. I would definitely go back and try something else
Neelie R — Google review
Food was meh, steak fries was tastiest part of our meal. Loco moto was not tasty, same as beef stew. Service was spotty, our server just left, about 30 min wait for the table for average food and service!
H. M — Google review
We got seated fast. The food came out hot and fast. So flavorful!! The service was amazing!! The desert was really good.
Cynthia J — Google review
I visited Highway Inn Kaka'ako to try traditional Hawaiian food, and it went far beyond my expectations. The flavors, the presentation, and the overall experience were all fantastic. If you're going solo and don't mind sitting at the bar, you might get seated pretty quickly. Otherwise, be prepared for a bit of a wait—this place is popular for a reason! That said, once seated, the food came out fast, and the service was excellent. The quality of the food was phenomenal—authentic, flavorful, and clearly made with care. Prices were very reasonable, especially considering the portion sizes and quality. I also really appreciated the small guide they provide, which explains what each traditional dish is—super helpful if you're new to Hawaiian cuisine. I'd highly recommend Highway Inn Kaka'ako to anyone looking to experience real Hawaiian food in a welcoming, down-to-earth spot.
Alvaro B — Google review
680 Ala Moana Blvd #105, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA•https://www.myhighwayinn.com/•(808) 954-4955•Tips and more reviews for Highway Inn Kaka'ako
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26Pioneer Saloon

4.5
(1371)
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4.5
(383)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$cheap
Japanese restaurant
Hawaiian restaurant
Pioneer Saloon is a funky and compact Japanese eatery that offers plate lunches and musubi specialties for dine-in or take-out. Located near Diamond Head, this spot allows you to order at the outside window and then seat yourself inside where your order will be brought to you. The grilled ahi and honey sweet potato tempura are highly recommended, with the latter offering a crispy texture complemented by a hint of sweetness from the drizzled honey.
Super locals vibe. Japanese plate lunches focus on one meat- or fish-based entree, served with one scoop choice of white, brown, mixed grain or shiso wakame rice as well as pesto pasta salad. Miso Butterfish is pan-roasted and delicately seasoned with not just miso, but also butter and mirin. Texture and flavor reminiscent of black cod. Order at the window before entry. Portion sizes are manageable for one, and unlikely to result in food coma — a plus, if an action-packed day ahead. Japanese can be overheard from cooks bustling in the kitchen behind saloon doors. Quirky interior of wood surfaces, vintage surf boards and framed collage art. A neighborhood general store vibe, with souvenirs and Aloha shirts available for purchase.
Christopher C — Google review
The first time I came to Pioneer Saloon was in 2016 and just visited a second time in 2025. A local tour guide recommended Pioneer and the food here is amazing! I got the ribeye steak bowl with multigrain rice. The steak was tender on the inside, juicy, and charred and tasty on the outside. I also ordered the ahi tuna steak cooked rare and it was fresh and delicious. I would eat here everyday on vacation if I could. The restaurant is a short 20 minute walk from Waikiki right next to Diamondhead. This is a hidden gem located in a quaint little town away from the glitz and glam of the strip. The ambience inside is also very cool with postcards and various trinkets and knick knacks for sale.
Charles C — Google review
Stumbled upon Pioneer Saloon in Maps and from article reviews and was insistent on giving it a try. They have an extensive menu that is absolutely hard to beat at the price point. We shared 2 plates, Yakiniku Beef and the Furikake Ahi Katsu. So delicious. There is a lot to try around Waikiki but this is a definite high recommend for casual delicious. Note that this is an order at window and sit in the venue. They have plenty of seating and the service is excellent. Don't change anything at all... You are perfect!
John J — Google review
Love this Pioneer location more than Kakaako! Had a great meal here. Seating available inside! Street parking avail .
Sarah H — Google review
We ordered Ribeye Steak and Korean Yakiniku Beef. Steak was amazing but Yakiniku beef was just ok…I would order something else next time.
Belle L — Google review
Don't let the name throw you, it's not a dark dank Saloon! Which is a good thing, because their food is AMAZING. I got the rib eye bowl, which comes with a FAT cut of seasoned rib eye steak on top of rice (I got brown), macaroni pasta salad, and green salad with sesame dressing. All for like $18. Unheard of in Waikiki, this dish would be easily $60 at any restaurant on the beach, if not more. Worth every penny and the atmosphere is laid back and local. Super nice people working, I will be back!
Scott N — Google review
I had Korean chicken all meat was good but not crispy we also got yakisoba, small portion and was not as flavorfull as other places I've eaten.
Richard M — Google review
Absolutely one of my favorite places to get lunch or dinner around Diamondhead. Any dish is great. My favorites are the salmon, dishes, and the steak dishes. Love love love.
Anahita M — Google review
3046 Monsarrat Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA•http://www.pioneer-saloon.net/•(808) 732-4001•Tips and more reviews for Pioneer Saloon

27MW Restaurant

4.5
(741)
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4.4
(339)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$expensive
Pacific Rim restaurant
Bar
Dessert shop
Restaurant
MW Restaurant is a stylish dining spot that offers innovative Hawaiian cuisine and cocktails crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Run by husband-and-wife team Wade Ueoka and Michelle Karr-Ueoka, the restaurant presents a dessert menu that features over 10 options, showcasing Pastry Chef Michelle Karr-Ueoka's expertise as a James Beard Award semifinalist for Outstanding Pastry Chef.
A wonderful dining experience! Loved all the flavors and presentations. Service was great. Finding the valet parking was interesting as it is on the second floor - the restaurant's directions may seem unusual but they make sense when you get there.
Michael O — Google review
The best meal I’ve ever had! We did the chefs tasting menu and loved every course! They really know how to balance textures and flavors. Highly recommend the wine pairing as well. Blown away by both the food and the service! Highly recommend! If you are driving or getting a ride, follow directions given by the restaurant when you make the reservation, follow the signs to the 2nd floor parking garage. Alternatively, if you are on foot/dropped off on the block, you can get to the restaurant by going into Artizen and going up the glass walled staircase.
Beth R — Google review
When picked up the menu, you glanced thru everything and you think you know what to expect and you would be surprised. I did. I thought it's just fried fish and I was surprised. I thought I ordered shaved ice and I was surprised. I thought I ordered crab cakes and expected like what crab cakes like out there and once again, I was surprised. Crab cakes - I ordered the crab cakes, and it was excellent. It's not like those usual crab cakes where it filled with battered and have more starch than crab meat. This one is all crab meat inside. My wife ended up ate 2/3 of them. Mochi salad with crispy chicken skin - I don't like salad but I thought I tried. The end result was I finished 70% of the salad because it was delectable. The dressing was spicy, but the persimmon sliced and the tomatoes with the greens were just perfect. I never thought I could like a salad that much. Short ribs - The meat fell off the bone... Well, there was no bone but it's definitely tender. Potatoes were nicely crisp and the foie gras was nicely seared. Mochi crusted kampachi - Surprisingly crunchy fish. Very fresh. This is one fine dine dish. Impressive. Strawberry shaved ice - It's not really shaved ice, it's more like shaved strawberries and the coconut tapioca was very good. So coconut-y. This is one satisfied fine dine experience. Very impressed that you find something with this quality in Hawai'i.
Mark L — Google review
Note: I am reviewing this as a fine dining restaurant, relative to other fine dining restaurants I have been to. Compared to a normal restaurant, this is certainly a 5 star experience. I went in for the tasting menu at open, and had a reservation for the bar. The location is kinda weird, being right next to auto dealerships. I hope that the savings from location rent are passed onto the consumer. I did the 5 course tasting menu; however, I forgot to take a picture of the tenderlion. They accommodated my shellfish allergy, and did a substitution which I appreciated. The food was excellent, certainly showed off the quality of the chefs and was on par with what I expect from chefs claiming experience at the French Laundry. My only complaint on the food was with the first course, which was a soft boiled egg with caviar and wasabi. At the end it just became too eggy, I wish there was more depth of flavor. I got the wine pairing, which I would not recommend for others to get. The wine was fine, and I assume being on Oahu it's not as easy to get the quality wine I am used to in places like California. The cocktail menu seemed good, and the other patrons were enjoying them. So I would use the money on the wine pairing to get 2 or 3 cocktails instead. Overall. Great food, certainly a good option for a celebration or just enjoying fine dining in Honolulu. The chefs clearly know what they are doing and I wish them success in their future endeavors!
Peter G — Google review
A thoughtfully crafted menu offering a wide variety of flavorful meals and drinks with friendly service. However I wish there were more mocktail options.
Xandra — Google review
Our waiter Darren was very knowledgeable and friendly in providing recommendations. The food was absolutely delicious. We ordered the unagi butterfish, the paella, the kanpachi and the brûlée and everything was so fresh and full of flavor. We even received cookies as a parting gift!
Irene T — Google review
Located inside a car dealership, this was my first time dining among millions of dollars worth of brand new sports cars. And it was a lovely experience of elevated local flavors in a fine dining establishment. I did the chef's tasting menu, and every course was delicious. My favorite was the opening appetizer, which contained caviar and egg. Their main specialty was the mochi kanpachi, and I really enjoyed it too! For cocktails, I had the Georgia O'Keefe and asked why it was named after a haole woman. Nomenclature wise, their other cocktail Lychee Hoo was actually a play on local culture, which made more sense. The staff asked around for me, but no one knew why. "Just use your imagination", the bartender said. "Like Georgia O'Keefe did." I had so much fun at MW.
Jenny T — Google review
Been to many restaurants on Oahu over the last 8 years, and this one takes the cake! Menu is unique and comprehensive — there’s something for everyone — and the execution was flawless. Ordered 4 appetizers, 2 entrees, 1 dessert, and 2 drinks, and every one of them hit the mark. Our favs were the dumplings, inari bombs, and the tenderloin! Our waiter Tyler was so attentive and gave us just the right amount of space. We’ll be back in no time!
R L — Google review
888 Kapiolani Blvd, Commercial Unit, Suite 201, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA•http://mwrestaurant.com/•(808) 955-6505•Tips and more reviews for MW Restaurant

28Moku Kitchen

4.4
(3171)
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4.0
(325)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$affordable
New American restaurant
Cocktail bar
Gastropub
Restaurant
Moku Kitchen is a trendy and creative eatery located in the popular Salt at Kakaako complex. This urban restaurant and bar offers modern American cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients, as well as a variety of cocktails and live music. The 46-foot bar features an impressive selection of 36 craft beers and a unique keg wine system offering 12 biodynamic and sustainable wines on tap.
I ordered the house made ginger beer for my drink and roasted vegetables as my meal, plus I added chicken to it. Ginger beer was ok. They said they add cayenne pepper to it, which was exciting to me. I tasted all of the ingredients in the drink, but the ginger taste was very minimal. The roasted vegetables were SCRUMPTIOUS! I added chicken and that was delicious as well. Cooked and seasoned to perfection. Not overly salty, which I loved. Nice size portions. The leftovers the next day we're even better. I highly recommend that dish. I've been salivating and talking about it for a week now. I can hardly wait to go back and order it again. My friends ordered the smash burger and fries and the fish tacos. They all said their dish was seasoned well and had great flavor. My friends also highly recommended the monkeypod mai tai. The server was very friendly and attentive. The restaurant was crowded and loud with everyone chatting, but still worth it. We parked in the garage around the corner. The restaurant validated and we had to pay about $6 to park. There was a small stage in the back of the restaurant where they have live music. I will most definitely return.
Kim C — Google review
Maybe the best tacos I have ever had. With batter and huge pieces of fish. The sauce is a little spicy but not too spicy. And a great basket of truffle fries, crunchy and soft in the middle. Service at the bar was great and the place has a nice low key vibe. Located on Ala Moana and Keawe Street in a block full of restaurants, bars and shops. Very cool.
Brion C — Google review
Loved everything about the restaurant! Every employee we came across was SO PLEASANT. Opening the door, a smile, a hello, a thank you! Bonnie, Casandra and 1 more employee I forgot her name.. customer service was 110% food was an A+ I would highly recommend this place !! You all should definitely try MOKU! Also their personal touch of a homemade birthday card! That was special!
Lucee — Google review
Okay, this is my go-to spot for fresh, flavorful food in Kakaʻako! I’ll be honest… the last few times I went, I was a little disappointed because the portions felt smaller and my order came out incomplete until I reminded them. But THIS last visit? Hands down the best I’ve ever had at Moku! The portions were generous, the food came out hot and delicious, and the service was next-level! I got the rotisserie veggie plate with shrimp which was grilled, fresh, flavorful, and totally worth the price. Also got the house made ginger beer which wasn’t too sweet and definitely packed a spicy punch! But the real star? Caroline, my server! She was incredible - friendly, upbeat, so attentive, and seriously knows the menu inside and out. I have multiple food intolerances and she made sure everything was safe for me, double and triple-checking with the kitchen. It’s rare to feel that taken care of! Give Caroline a raise or make her the gold standard because she completely elevated my Moku experience and restored my hope! If you haven’t been in a while, GO. They’re back and better than ever!
Diana K — Google review
Ok, so sorry but the food we had in Honolulu was not the best, and we went to several places. Food is really bland not much flavor. Then on our last day we found this place, the vibes were great everyone was so friendly. Then came the food it was delicious and full of flavor. Highly recommend this place. The steak was cooked perfectly!
Jim R — Google review
This place was 10/10, they had the best ahi tacos and their crème burlee was also very tasty. I would 💯 recommend this place , the service was also very good. Their pizza was decent , but they have so many other better fine tune curated dishes that are worth trying
Christina R — Google review
Moku was a true highlight of our Hawaiian vacation; seriously the best food, and drink, of the entire week! We went during happy hour and it was AMAZING! All the appetizers were half off during HH making them an incredible deal! We tried 8 things off the HH menu, and fell ridiculously in love with every item! The Ahi Poke tacos were easily the best I've ever had, anywhere. The Moku Mai Tai was $9, definitely the cheapest you'll find in Waikiki!, and was also the absolute best on the island; that passionfruit foam was to die for! If I lived in Hawaii, rest assured I'd be a regular here! Go, you won't be disappointed!
Anna C — Google review
FOOD 3.5 An eclectic mix of pastas, pizzas, and Asian fusion dishes. We ordered bulgogi sliders, French fries, fettucine with tomato and basil, margherita pizza and ice cream sandwiches. All fairly decent with no issues. SERVICE 4.5 Server was very attentive and accommodating. Other staff were also very attentive and warm. ATMOSPHERE 4 Typical noisy brewpub atmosphere with plenty of service staff. OVERALL 4 I would go back for sure. Make sure you register your license plate to receive parking validation.
Barry L — Google review
660 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA•http://www.mokukitchen.com/•(808) 591-6658•Tips and more reviews for Moku Kitchen

29Sam's Kitchen

4.3
(1839)
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4.0
(293)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$cheap
Seafood restaurant
Asian fusion restaurant
Fusion restaurant
If you're on the hunt for a laid-back dining experience that captures the essence of Hawaiian cuisine, look no further than Sam's Kitchen. This charming seafood spot is all about simplicity and flavor, serving up mouthwatering garlic prawns that are a must-try. The menu also features delightful options like poke bowls and grilled mahi-mahi, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy. Conveniently located roadside, Sam's Kitchen is perfect for a casual lunch or dinner.
LOVE IT HERE! The food is excellent!! no need go Northshore for Garlic Shrimp! Steak is tasty and cooked medium rare with flavor and heat! Chicken is tasty and crispy- vegetables cooked with flavor and "wok" heat! Dog friendly and evwn ordered plain chicken for pooch! The atmosphere is tropical and laid back! Drinks look awesome and service is top notch!!!!! BEST Lava FLOW made by Dave perfect fresh not too sweet!
Pauline C — Google review
We have eaten here back in 2023 and again recently. I had the garlic shrimp and it was good. The rest of my family had something different. They wanted the steak, but the restaurant was out of the steak already. We did notice the portions of the rice and potato salad was noticeably smaller portions compared to the time in 2023 and their prices have gone up as well, so maybe it’s due to inflation. I didn’t feel full after eating dinner. Im not a big person either. They could have been a bit more generous with rice and potato salad because I didn’t think it was worth the price otherwise. It was quite busy so they seem to have decent business which is good. I always like to see businesses do well. I would probably still eat here again but only once during our stay. I do like their potato salad and I’m not usually a big fan of potato salad.
Wendy B — Google review
My family really like this restaurant. Garlic shrimp, steak and rice, poke all of dishes are so good. Through the side walk of hotel, you will find a romantic restaurant beside pool. The mood is so good and food is much more good. Next time I visit Waikiki, I will definitely come back here. There's many good restaurants around Waikiki but my first choice is here!
Micky K — Google review
We got the Garlic Shrimp and Ahi Poke from Sam’s Kitchen in Waikiki, and both were absolutely delicious! The garlic shrimp was perfectly cooked — crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and full of rich garlic flavor. It paired so well with the rice. The ahi poke was super fresh, seasoned just right, and had great texture. The staff were friendly and the takeout process was quick and easy. We enjoyed the meal with a bottle of wine at our hotel — great portions and excellent value for the price. Highly recommend for anyone looking to enjoy authentic Hawaiian flavors in Waikiki!
Kei — Google review
Really solid food and drinks, with friendly service and a super lovely atmosphere by the pool. The restaurant is a little hidden behind the hotel but you ARE in the right place if you followed the pathway past the little Sam's Kitchen truck display. Sadly they ran out of poke, which was the reason I had gone, but the steak was still really good. The spicy garlic shrimp was the highlight, but we also enjoyed the steak and the veggies.
Ashley L — Google review
Food: garlic shrimps was decent but missing the crunch. Spicy garlic shrimps was too spicy for us to enjoy. Potato salas that came with it had too much mayo on it. Service: takeaway wait time for two orders took way longer than I anticipated Atmosphere: a nice ambient and chill place to sit and relax. It's a good place to go on a date.
Albert V — Google review
this plate was really tasty! I’ll recommend this place to have a garlic shrimp in waikīkī area!
Hayato I — Google review
This is a small place that you might completely miss. It is at the Bamboo hotel on Kuhio ave. It has a casual laid back tiki bar vibe with thatched umbrellas along the poolside. It is open air but there is ample seating closer to the bar if it happens to rain when you visit. Staff is experienced, friendly, and attentive. We came at lunchtime so I’m not sure what the place is like in the evenings but it might be even better with the place lit up! As for the food ordered the extra jumbo shrimp with their original garlic sauce. We also ordered the top sirloin NY steak cooked med rare. We ordered the steak as “da plate” so it came with rice, potato salad, and salad. We also got a side of the pineapple teriyaki sauce. I wish they sold the sauce in a bottle to take home! Anyway, chill vibe, good service, great food, and reasonably priced. I highly recommend.
Dana D — Google review
2425 Kūhiō Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815, USA•http://www.hawaiisam.com/•(808) 444-3636•Tips and more reviews for Sam's Kitchen

30Chef Chai

4.6
(645)
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4.5
(256)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$expensive
Asian fusion restaurant
Asian restaurant
Bar & grill
Chef Chai is a modern and stylish restaurant located at Pacifica Honolulu, offering a diverse selection of traditional Hawaiian dishes that showcase the cultural fusion of the islands. Renowned for his expertise in Hawaii Regional Cuisine, Chef Chai combines locally sourced ingredients with vibrant Asian flavors to create signature dishes like Fresh Ahi Katsu and Thai Style Oxtail Soup.
This restaurant surprised me with how tasty the dishes are, highly recommend trying something new each time you go because everything is delicious. Complimentary naan bread with peanut sauce and pickled vegetables. Parking is hard to find, but there is a parking garage just a short walk away. Service is top notch. Kristy was amazing, we want her to serve for us every time we go. The evening/nighttime vibes were very upscale and modern.
Paige H — Google review
This was my first time here and we did the set menu. The food was decent for the most part. I liked about half of the set menu dishes. The mango sticky rice was fabulous. The soup was a bit off for me and was lacking the sour. I usually love Tom yum soup. The fishe as tasty. The curry dish I was not a fan of. It was as though the noodles did not belong in the curry. The passion drink was delicious. It felt like the focus was on the fancy and less on the food. Valet parking was $7.
Erica K — Google review
I’m a local girl. Been going to eat in chef Chai Restaurant from over 20 years. Food is always top notch. Very tasty and also good presentation. Always left feeling happy and satisfied.
Sylvia T — Google review
This place had awesome food and our waiter was reliable and ver7 helpful. Gave us house appetizer flat bread with some awesome sauce and chicken skewers. Then I ordered the Hawaiian sunset and yes it was amazing and that too hit the spot. For food I got the lamb which was good aswel
Cymatic A — Google review
Quite literally the best restaurant I have ever been to. This should be a one Michelin star restaurant at minimum! The food at Chef Chai's is absolutely amazing. In America we tend to view quantity with satisfaction, but this place will reorient you mind. The tasting menu is not a large volume, but the QUALITY of the food is so high that you are truly satiated. It is a strange feeling to be so overwhelmed by your taste buds that you feel truly content. That is how I feel every time I eat at Chef Chai's despite portions that regular Americans would scoff at. The ambiance is also fantastic. It is perfect for a special event, business, or because you want amazing food. It is modern yet cozy and somehow comfortable. The staff are above reproach and make every patron feel like a VIP. they truly epitomize the high end Chef Chai's stands for. I could go on for days about how much I appreciate this place, but then I might end up sounding like an AI chat bot. Bottom line, GO THERE and experience the amazing-ness that is Chef Chai's! While I am no longer on the islands, every time I go back, this is a place I go to...at least once
Brian — Google review
If I could give this restaurant 6 stars I would! We were greeted and sat immediately when we arrived. We had two male servers who were incredible. We tried two of the newer cocktails rum infused Thai tea and guava Paloma which were delicious. The food was even better! We decided against the chefs choice and ordered a la cart so we could get exactly what we wanted. They came by with a chicken satay with peanut sauce to start on the house, which was delightful. We shared the tuna katsu - LOVED! Indulged in the lobster tortellini, and for entrees had the oxtail lemongrass soup and the black miso cod. Still dreaming about both of those entrees. They surprised us with a white truffle dessert for our honeymoon which was a treat. Highly recommend visiting Chef Chai!
Briana K — Google review
This is a fusion restaurant with creativity and great presentation. It is like eating on 6 stars cruise ship. If you like poke, ahi cone is a must. The taro prawn is best shrimp I ever tasted. White chocolate amore gelato truffle is to die for. The best entree is the beef tenderloin, salmon, seabass.....
J K — Google review
My wife and I enjoyed our anniversary at Chef Chai's with the October wine pairing. The service is always amazing. Big thanks to Richelle, Randy, Dustin and Maikai. Chef Chai, you have an amazing staff and it is the reason we come back time after time. The food as usual was amazing and the Andis wines paired perfectly, with your delicious food. We hope Andis Wines will be back soon!! Thanks to the entire team at Chef Chai's for always making our dinners and evenings the best ever. Sincerely Dan and Dar Sparks
Dan S — Google review
1009 Kapiolani Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96814, USA•http://www.chefchai.com/•(808) 585-0011•Tips and more reviews for Chef Chai
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31Over Easy

4.7
(1723)
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4.7
(202)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$affordable
New American restaurant
American restaurant
Breakfast restaurant
Over Easy is a vibrant eatery that serves up creative breakfast and lunch dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, along with a selection of cocktails. Their signature dish features two soft-cooked eggs, spinach, microgreens, candied bacon for a delightful salty-sweet crunch, tomato jam, yogurt, and tangy house-made sourdough toast. The menu offers fresh and healthy options while also indulging in treats like bacon and toast.
Fried Chicken burger is awesome. Everything on the menu is great. Service is the best. Parking in Challenging. I've seen some people park at McDonald's and walk over. Again, never fails, always a great time and the best service. Alike was awesome and very attentive. You have to come to this place, as for the local beer and try the mimosas.
Jesus P — Google review
Our family enjoyed a wonderful brunch at Over Easy. Everything we ordered was delicious!! Very Generous portions at reasonable prices. Great atmosphere and customer service. Good robust coffee! *An order of 2 Pancakes can feed 2 people very easily * I ordered the Mango pancakes they were so good but my Mother-in-law & I should have taken the advice of our wonderful server and shared a plate! I only ate half of the pancakes and my Mother-in-law took her pancakes to go!
BETTY R — Google review
Parking is tight in the area but plenty of pay to park within a quarter of a mile or so. Upon arrival you enter your info into the pad to get entered into queue. Table was ready within 5 min or so, they have seating both in and outside. Restroom around the corner. Now the good stuff…. Their food is amazing! The Kaluah pig hash was massive with enough to take home for breakfast the next day. Wonderful mix of flavors, would definitely order again. Husband said fried egg sandwich was flavorful. The orange-pineapple juice was delish. All in all we were very satisfied with both the service and food, would definitely return.
Kendra — Google review
Great food! I got the custard French toast and it was delicious!! Good portion sizes, but i had to get the half because it was just too much food for one person. Everyone is super friendly and the kitchen is buzzing! Loved the experience and cant wait to be back!!!
Majury A — Google review
Highly recommended! First time visiting, the food was amazing and fresh, the French toast and Kailua pork breakfast was our favorite. The customer service was fantastic! They don’t have a parking area, so you have to pay for parking nearby. Can’t wait to go back! 10/10!
Carolina C — Google review
While only a tad bit more then a typical diner/cafe, the food and service are more then stellar. Absolutely amazing food and drinks, the staff are super friendly and welcoming, with both indoor/outdoor seating options. Ive been here twice, and my husband and I plan on making it a regular thing.
Anna J — Google review
The food absolutely blew us out of the water- the portions were crazy big, especially the pancake. Delicious fruit and cream pancakes, and super unique pairing for the kalua hash. Absolutely worth getting their fresh squeezed juices- it's hard to find that taste of lemonade! Cool views of the surrounding mountains. Definitely come try!
A Z — Google review
We been in Oahu for 5 days and this is the first meal that we actually enjoyed. Pancakes (plain) are DELICIOUS! Chunky monkey pancakes are good as well if you like peanut butter (I don’t but I tried them) Plain pancakes 1000/10 Fried eggs sandwich 10/10 Kalua pig hash 10/10 Potato N eggs 10/10
Abby M — Google review
418 Kuulei Rd #103, Kailua, HI 96734, USA•http://www.overeasyhi.com/•(808) 260-1732•Tips and more reviews for Over Easy

32Senia

4.7
(746)
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4.5
(184)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$very expensive
New American restaurant
Restaurant
Senia is a highly acclaimed restaurant in Honolulu, offering both Hawaiian and New American cuisine in an elegant setting. The establishment was founded by Chris Kajioka and Anthony Rush, former Per Se alums, who have created a unique dining experience. Guests can choose from a diverse menu featuring modern American small plates, pastas, and large-format platters in the main dining area or opt for the luxurious $185-per-person tasting menu at the 12-seat chef's counter.
Such an elegant dinner experience! Beautiful dishes, delicious food with fresh ingredients, creative drinks, yummy combinations, and cool atmosphere. In retrospect, I wish we had reserved the bar seating, because the bar overlooked the kitchen where you could see how the dishes were prepared and talk to the chef. Oh and definitely get the dessert!
Ozgun R — Google review
Everything about this space is an experience, not just a place to eat. We were so fortunate to be able3to teu so many different dishes and each one impressed more than the last. The foie gras was amazing, the truffle tart is such a delight.... Truly everything that was brought out to us was so amazing 🤩🤩
Casey N — Google review
This was one of the best places we ate at in Hawaii. The dining area is quaint and thus not too loud, which was pleasant. The service is excellent. The cocktails are creative and delicious. The food is exceptional. The raw shareable items were complex and refreshing. The triple smoked salmon was a highlight, and one of the best salmon dishes I've ever had. I would definitely recommend visiting Senia if you travel to Honolulu; it will not disappoint. My only qualm is it is quite pricey (the salmon dish was <1 pound and $95)--something to consider.
Sara R — Google review
I can’t thank the team at Senia enough for creating such an incredible experience for my wife at her birthday dinner. I was too late booking them the chefs tasting menu but the staff went above and beyond for me in lieu—letting me remotely curate a custom menu from their à la carte offerings and even serving it tasting-menu style(!) for my wife and mother in law. They also allowed me to settle the tab remotely so that my wife could focus on being spoiled on her trip. And did they ever spoil her! What an incredible experience it was for them! My wife said the staff made the whole evening feel personal and special for them. Described it as hands down the best restaurant experience they’ve ever had. The dishes were so creative and eye-popping, and tasted absolutely incredible. The staff were all lovely and the atmosphere in the restaurant was so calming and elegant. “The perfect Aloha experience.” Thanks again to the team at Senia for securing me the endless brownie points, we will undoubtedly be back again when I can join next time!
David R — Google review
Birthday dinner for two and it was outstanding - start to finish. All the staff were professional, knowledgeable and friendly making some great food and wine recommendations. Started with the mushroom and cheese tarts, ahi cigars and venison brioche; all were outstanding but special note for the ahi cigars. Followed with the corn agnolotti and seared scallops; both delicious. Main was the triple smoked salmon with an order of the duck fat potatoes, finishing with salted caramel pudding and chocolate mousse. Again, all delicious, but the pudding was a bit of a surprise with how frickin’ good it was! Of note was, when asking for a wine recommendation, we were brought a couple of very reasonable priced choices, with the one we picked only being $80 (in this day and age, in an upscale restaurant, I consider that a downright bargain!). All in all highly recommend and we’re already planning to go back for our anniversary for the chef’s tasting menu.
Alex B — Google review
The food here is absolutely worth coming for! It’s fine dining standard. Plus, the food is well-seasoned. Recommended dishes : {Smoked Ahi "Cigars"} , {Roasted Bone Marrow} , {Truffle Chicken} , {Triple Cooked Potato Roasties}.
Lara — Google review
I was blown away at the food at Senia. I went in not looking at the menu (husband booked it) and there was a lot that sounded good. But there was not one single dish that was mediocre or just okay, they were all outstanding. The service was friendly and attentive and it was easily one of the best meals I’ve had in town. We can’t recommend just one dish since they were all good.
SMD — Google review
Very lucky to have chef anthony rush here in chinatown. No one else is integrating native foods and ingredients with your typical dishes the way he is to create totally unique flavors and textures to Hawaii. Having local kampachi with ube baked and seared instead of laying it over rice so the whole piece melts in your mouth was something I would've never thought of reimagining sushi, and now its the best piece of sushi I've had. Similarly, grinding the ulu into a paste to serve under the hamachi with sea asparagus was another favorite dish. I've never seen breadfuit used as a sushi base before with these unbelievable flavors. The caviar over white chocolate custard was another favorite because of its seemling simpleness but extremely complex flavors. The local guinea fowl was also mouthwatering its pureed breast and lobster meat. It was great seeing it prepared before going into the oven and served after. The mimolette, another sweet potato dish with melted cheese was a quick favorite. The only disappointment was the spicy tuna taco. It was neither smoked nor spicy, and the tuna, avacado, and fish eggs are inherently plain with little flavor. The crisp shell with the tender ahi and avocado paired well, i was just hoping for and expecting more flavor like the other dishes had. Service couldnt be better with 100% attentiveness and great conversation with menu recommendations from the staff. The atmosphere was great with low lighting and the chefs counter right at the kitchen. Nice selections of drinks and after dinner coffee and teas also.
Brandon D — Google review
75 N King St, Honolulu, HI 96817, USA•http://www.restaurantsenia.com/•(808) 200-5412•Tips and more reviews for Senia

33Fête

4.6
(1486)
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4.5
(181)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$expensive
New American restaurant
Restaurant
Fête, located in Honolulu, is a popular restaurant celebrated for its farm-to-table approach and fusion of contemporary American dishes with Hawaiian flavors. The establishment has received the prestigious 2022 James Beard Award for Best Chef Northwest & Pacific. The menu features a variety of delectable options such as southern fried chicken, spaghetti carbonara, red snapper, vanilla ice cream, and raspberry sorbet.
My husband and I went to Fête for lunch. We had a reservation for 2:30, but it wasn't too busy then. We were seated pretty quickly. The place has a cute, cozy vibe. The menu is pretty straightforward. We started out with cocktails—both the Kunia Old Fashioned and the Spicy Kitty were really tasty! For our entree, we shared the Korean chicken sandwich with fries. It was super hot and fresh when it came out. We finished our lunch with the delicious Olive Oil Cake. We enjoyed our dining experience here! If you're in the area, definitely check it out!
Carmen H — Google review
The ice cream was...salty? The Good: service! Our server Kevin was incredible. The Ulu Aloo app was to die for, although we felt if it was served with steak it would've been the perfect main. We also enjoyed the Basil Caesar Salad with Crispy Chicken. The Mediocre: Housemade Cavatappi in a kale and mushroom sauce was more like gummy pasta in a saltwater gravy with a hint of lemon? Odd to us that there wasn't even mushroom flavor from the mushrooms themselves. The Bad: For dessert we ordered 1 scoop of Mango Goodie and 1 scoop of Cafe du Monde ice cream. We were told that the Mango Goodie was made with fresh mangos, condensed milk, and a secret ingredient. After tasting it, we realized the secret ingredient must be soy sauce? Maybe flaked sea salt? Nope...the answer: Sprite. When we tried the Cafe du Monde...it was also salty, especially the espresso cookies! Not sure what's going on in the bakery...but this experience solidified our perception of this restaurant. There are many more great restaurants in the area. Go to Fete for the great cocktails and impeccable service. Go elsewhere for an amazing meal.
Amina G — Google review
If you’ve never been to Fête and have questions of what you should order, do not hesitate to order the house special sandwich called the Smoked Ono Club. It’s a cross between a chicken salad sandwich and a tuna fish sandwich… but with the crispy bacon, sweet vine-ripened tomatoes and buttery avocado, it may well be the BEST fish sandwich you’ve ever had! The other highlights of our meal were the risotto and the burger. While it’s not called a Kahuna Burger (it’s called the Chaz Burger) it still caused me to blurt out Samuel L. Jackson’s line, “This is one tasty burger!” And boy, I meant it. JP’s risotto was creamy, cheesy, with perfectly softened rice and full of flavor. These are items to definitely order again on subsequent visits. The carbonara pasta was a bit on the bland side and was lacking in the knockout flavors of the other dishes but our pre-teen enjoyed it thoroughly. The ambience is fairly basic yet the atmosphere is energized and bustling. The service was friendly and fairly responsive (when you could get your server’s attention). It was fairly busy when we were there, so it’s understandable. Give Fête a try next time you plan to be in Chinatown, you’ll be glad to put another Honolulu gem on your list of favorite lunch spots.
Jonah O — Google review
The Winter Thai drink was a really unique delicious drink. Would recommend getting that one if you like a herby drink! Everything we had was delicious. Shared the special ulu aloo dish which was their take on a samosa with breadfruit spiced with Indian spices and topped with crispy okra and tangy condiment. We shared the chicken sandwich which my wife loved because of how crispy and flavorful it was. I got the koji brined chicken which was probably one of the best chicken dishes I’ve had. Loved the savoriness and umami that the koji brine gave to the chicken and the mushrooms with the cream sauce on the bottom just added to the richness and umami of the dish. The greens on the side tasted bit salty and could have probably dressed in a way that would have been a refreshing palate cleanser from the heavy dish. Still loved it though! We didn’t get any desserts because we were stuffed after long day of eating at other places.
Dhaval D — Google review
Overall, this place has good vibe and service, coming to food, I feel the menu is expensive for the taste of the food. I ordered chicken wings and I specified not to make it too sweet with the sauce but they literally made it taste like a dessert and the chicken wings had so much honey that one cannot eat, even the meat quality of the wings were not good, it stinked a little. The ginger rice was good, but was very salty. This place has waiting for seats, but I wonder recommend this place as it’s not worth the hype it has got. I expected the food to be good for the price paid, but it’s not worth. One time visit.
Shilpa P — Google review
I really hate writing this, because I know how hard everyone at Fête works. I had a wonderful experience here a few months ago, so I made a reservation for my husband’s birthday. This time, though, something went sideways. It took a long time to be acknowledged after we were seated, and for the duration of our visit we felt forgotten. Our starter came quickly, but once it was cleared, we sat with empty glasses and no update. When we finally asked, our server explained that a fried half-chicken “takes time to fry.” That would’ve been helpful to know when ordering. What confused me most was that other tables nearby seemed to be having a great night, with attentive service and warm conversation. I’m not sure how we ended up lost in the shuffle. At the 45 minute mark, we decided to bail. The manager, Andrew, was gracious, understanding, comped our starter, and genuinely tried to make things right by inviting us back again. I appreciate that, but by then, the night was already gone. I wish this review could’ve been different.
Carter L — Google review
Great restaurant on the edge of Honolulu's Chinatown district. Right on a corner so traffic can be distracting, especially sitting outside. Ordered The Korean Bavette steak. Good , well cooked but way too salty. Maybe I'm into food which speaks for itself w a little seasoning/herbs etc; however this was simply too too salted. One should be able to taste the meat and vegetables or garnish ABOVE or With the seasoning, not be hunting for the flavor of a signature dish... one member of the party thought a lot of salt meant it's great flavor- but how do you taste the food if it's over salted? The greens cooked with the Bavette were also really salty; figure if you heavily salt one you can leave the other naked, it will balance on the plate. The beef and the greens were cooked perfectly, though. The choice for rib eye as a protein was excellent; can hold lots of flavor, and is pleasant to eat. Just if you salt it in cooking, don't salt it after plating. Service was good, overall, very friendly and knowledgeable; but server kept having to come back for forgotten items.. Ordered a Bourbon for With dinner, received it almost halfway through after prompting by fellow diner. POG cake was amazing! I do love desserts, especially specialty ones. I can highly recommend Oahu for dessert menus. Fete did Not disappoint for that, that's for sure!
Scott S — Google review
Great place. My wife has very specific dietary needs and every time we've been here Chuck has made the experience amazing. The kitchen and Chuck with with my wife's needs to let her experience a good meal without compromise. Even without that the food is great. Highly recommend.
Gabriel — Google review
2 N Hotel St, Honolulu, HI 96817, USA•http://fetehawaii.com/•(808) 369-1390•Tips and more reviews for Fête

34Duc's Bistro

4.7
(285)
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4.7
(171)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$affordable
French restaurant
Duc's Bistro is a charming restaurant located in Honolulu's Chinatown, offering a delightful blend of upscale Vietnamese and French cuisine. This cozy mom-and-pop establishment has been serving its fusion dishes since 1992 and has become a favorite among locals. The menu features an array of delectable options such as the popular Steak Saigon, Spicy Lemongrass Chicken, and Filet of Basa Nonpareil. Guests can also enjoy piano music while savoring their meals.
5 stars. Great food, cozy and romantic ambiance inside. Friendly and personable service. Wide selection of traditional French and Asian dishes with an elevated touch. What's not to like? There were 4 of us and we tried a lot of things: foie gras, escargot, spring rolls, duck breast, pan fried fish, lamb chops, chicken curry, saffron rice, and tapioca banana pudding, crème brûlée and affogato for dessert! Honestly, I enjoyed everything and I can't wait to go back to try the rest of the menu lol. The star dishes for me were the pan fried fish and the chicken curry with saffron rice actually! I mean the traditional French fare was solid too, but you know there isn't much surprise to it. The pan fried fish however was a shocker in that it's done so well with the texture and the taste. I was hesitant about getting the chicken curry, but the sweet lady (who's also a cook) recommended the chicken curry so I was like, OK let's give it a shot. Hmmmm that might be one of my favorite curries that I tried. The chicken was tender, and the curry had depth without being sweet or salty; it's hard to describe. The portions were not big. They're all "exquisite" but I thought the prices were not ridiculous. They're higher than average, but the quality was delivered, so it's worth it imo. Parking lot is across the street with discount code provided by the restaurant, make sure you don't pay yet until you get the code from them, or free street parking after 6pm. I can't wait to go back. Thank you for the delicious food and friendly service!
Rebecca T — Google review
We are in Hawaii for our family vacation and wanted to experience Chinatown. Our Google directions left so much to be desired, so we found a random street in Chinatown and held out hope that we could find parking for our two vehicles, holding our large family of 8. We found a little lot and paid the $3, and set out to find someplace for dinner. Directly across the street was a charming storefront with a whimsical neon artwork in the window of roses and their leaves. Duc's Bistro. Just the exterior was enough to draw me in, and my stepson chimed in that it was a highly rated restaurant on TripAdvisor. We went in. We were accomodated quickly and with a very genuine, warm welcome. The interior is gorgeously upscale, but you still feel like you can make yourself at home. We started out with wine and cocktails, ordered appetizers of escargo and spring rolls, both of which were over the top amazing. We sopped up the liquid left over in the escargo dish with crusty yet soft bread. We ordered 4 entrees, pork belly, duck made with Grand Marnier, Saigon steak, and fish of the day, which was Mahi Mahi. The accompanyments were rice and green beans. Every entree was so incredibly delectable that every one of us couldn't stop remarking about it. We finished the meal off with crème brulee, which, of course, did not disappoint. Ok, the food: top notch. GO TO THIS RESTAURANT. Now, onto the ambiance: gorgeous, SUCH a perfect choice of music, there's an amazing dragon suspended from the ceiling. Now for the staff. I would absolutely return to Hawaii solely to be able to spend time with this family, who are the staff. So attentive, pretty much can anticipate what you're about to want, charming, warm, entertaining. I could go on but I don't know how many words I can put into one review. Just GO HERE! Duc's Bistro. GO NOW
Ronni P — Google review
Fine dining restaurant in Downtown/Chinatown. It's good that they keep their sources and ingredients local. Can't believe that they've been here for 32 years. We ordered foie gras, duck marinier, braised pork belly, and ginger fantastic. They gave a bowl of saffron rice as complimentary with the order. We love them.
Ging C — Google review
I can't say enough about this hidden gem tucked away on a side street on Chinatown. Ian who runs the front of the house while his dad is in the kitchen is one of the most welcoming hosts you will ever find. The food is French with a subtle hint of Vietnamese The spring rolls are simply the best ive ever tasted rolled up in the fresh butter lettuce with nuoc- cham sauce you just can't get enough of it. The garlic mushrooms and that delicious French bread lick your fingers good! We had one of the dock dishes as well as fish dishes both expertly prepared .The resturaunt is a family affair and should be celebrated !
Rebecca Z — Google review
This is an unsophisticated (appearance wise) little restaurant in the middle of Chinatown. We ordered the escargots, fire roasted eggplant, pork belly, and fillet Of Basa Nonpareil and were very pleased with each one. Every staff was professional, attentive, and friendly, and drinks and dishes were served at the perfect pace. I’d really love to go back there if we could stay longer in Honolulu.
Joyce L — Google review
Duc’s Bistro is very awesome! Their coffee food was delicious! The staff were very kind! Without doubt I recommend them! Have a great day!❤️😃
Jack C — Google review
Relaxing environment, good service. Beef tartar was very good, they did not put too much egg in it which was great! You can really taste the beef! The bread 🍞 was crunch outside soft inside, it was a good match with the beef tartar! The spring roll was also very good! Interesting way to eat the spring roll with fresh greens! Saffron rice was tasty! Vietnamese coffee was just ok, not as good as we expected. Overall, the price was good in Waikiki.
Lila C — Google review
My boyfriend and I had dinner here last night for the first time and it was great! I liked the decor and ambiance, service was amazing, and the food was delicious! Started with the escargot and a ginger martini, both of which I would recommend! For dinner the fish (opakapaka) and lamb were recommended and that's what we had. Delicious! And although quite full, we got the tapioca and there wasn't a trace of it left when we were done. I've lived here my whole life, no clue why its taken me so long to eat here, but very glad I finally did!
Rachel H — Google review
1188 Maunakea St, Honolulu, HI 96817, USA•https://ducsbistro.com/•(808) 531-6325•Tips and more reviews for Duc's Bistro

35Mud Hen Water

4.5
(788)
•
4.5
(141)
•
Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$affordable
Hawaiian restaurant
Bar
Small plates restaurant
Mud Hen Water, located in the emerging neighborhood of Kaimuki, Honolulu, is a group-friendly restaurant by renowned chef Ed Kenney. The restaurant offers a blend of modern Hawaiian cuisine and global influences in a relaxed setting that includes both indoor and outdoor dining options.
A local recommended the restaurant and it didn’t disappoint! Amazing fusion food! Really enjoyed every dish (so much so I forgot to take a photo of the meatballs until toward the end!) We didn’t need to wait for a table, all staff members were super friendly. Jill served us and was perfectly attentive and checked in the right amount. The cocktails were delish too! Would definitely return!
Josh H — Google review
Delicious food served using a variety of recipes and ingredients from across multiple cultures and cuisines. A mixture of smaller tapas and larger plates, best served family style. Laid back atmosphere and reasonably priced for the quality of the dishes served.
Thomas F — Google review
Excellent service! Fresh food from local farms. Unusual mix of foods that has a nice balance of sweet, salty, and very flavorful.
Debbi O — Google review
What an awesome brunch space! Everything we ordered was delicious (roasted carrots, banana pancakes, ahi melt (usually one is used but today it was ahi), and my iced Chai latte! Super extra brownie points for being dog friendly since we like to take Panda with us when we go out He also made a few dog friends while there (Winnie and Rosie). Service was prompt and friendly. There are indoor and outdoor seating options. We will absolutely be back..but until then, I know I'll be dreaming about those scrumptious ulu fries!
Agnes O — Google review
Try too hard, made up not tasty foods, severely overpriced for foods not worth it(bowl of carrots for 20 bucks, bowl of supposedly okra but lacking okra and full of French beans 20 bucks, ok desert! We sent some soggy chicken dishes back. The chicken was tasty! Emma was our server, sweet and kind and provided great service. About 15 min wait to get a table. Atmosphere, we got stuck at the corner table of a somewhat empty restaurant, warm and damp! Definitely misfire on our side for dining here.
H. M — Google review
Best brunch in Honolulu!! Loco mocos and eggs benny are great the first time in Honolulu, but MHW delivers delicious, local options you can't get just anywhere. The tuna crudo to start was refreshing and packed with flavor. Her smash burger was made with local beef and you could taste the love. But the Pork Sisig (sizzling pig's head) stole the show for both of us. 😋 It is absolutely scrumptious! Don't be afraid to try something new. You won't regret it. 🧠🤯😎🤙🏼🏄🏼‍♀️☀️🐟🍖#eatlocal
Rowland S — Google review
Excellent meal with a wonderful atmosphere. We had the fried ulu, Szechuan lotus root, raw and roasted carrots, sausage and clams, and the goat cheesecake. I would have it all again but particularly recommend the lotus root and cheesecake!
J D — Google review
We stopped in because we love the PBS/Netflix series "Somebody Feed Phil", which Mud Hen Water was featured in... and we are so glad we did! Immediately the staff was warm and friendly, despite us coming in for their very last reservation time slot. They guided us through popular dishes with their recommendations and cocktail suggestions, and we felt very taken cared of. The food of course was excellent and gave us many many delicious subtle surprises. We loved that there is a focus on local sourced ingredients and as a result everything tasted fresh and flavorful. Our favorites of the night were the Peanut Tofu and the Rice Pudding dessert! At the end, the absolute best part of Mud Hen Water is the price. My partner and I each chose a "small plate", a full entree, cocktails and shared a desert...and walked out paying about than $120 with tip. For the quality of food, I don't think you'll find better in Honolulu. Ahh-MAZING.
M C — Google review
3452 Waialae Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816, USA•http://www.mudhenwater.com/•(808) 737-6000•Tips and more reviews for Mud Hen Water
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36Maguro Brothers Hawaii Chinatown

4.7
(774)
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4.5
(120)
•
Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$affordable
Seafood restaurant
Fish store
Japanese restaurant
Restaurant
Maguro Brothers Hawaii Chinatown is a cozy counter-serve spot located in Kekaulike Market, offering market-fresh variations of poke bowls. The establishment is known for its emphasis on fresh fish and minimal seasonings, allowing the quality of the ingredients to shine. Run by experienced brothers from Tsukiji Fish Market in Japan, it's a seafood lover's paradise with offerings like Omakase 7 cuts of Sashimi and Maguro Kama Teriyaki.
Food was amazing! The fish was fresh and the rice was cooked to perfection. I ordered the ume shiso poke and hubs got the king salmon/ahi combo. It’s in a food court area so I got a bit lost but I'm glad I persisted and found it! There is a sitting area with tables and chairs, but not many. We went right before closing time and I was worried I would be turned away, but the lady was super kind. And you don't come here for the atmosphere, you come for the food!!!
Kristina Y — Google review
Tucked away at the back, when coming through the main entrance. Very crowded mall with numerous food stalls. Got the Hawaiian Limu which was amazing. Large size was just enough to hit the spot. Not a huge fan of the super busy and hectic mall, but there was lots of seating available, and the location is the calmest considering.
Alex — Google review
Casual grab and go spot within a marketplace. Sushi is incredibly high grade and fresh. Melts in your mouth with each bite. The sushi rice was well textured with a touch of rice vinegar. Very well rounded meal and worth a stop if you’re in Chinatown.
Serena M — Google review
5/5, must go. Chinatown location significantly smaller lines. Incredible chutoro, scallop hand rolls, sticky tuna poke and chirashi don. Just look at the photos. It is worth every penny. Order online ahead (1hr) if you want the sashimi platter). Super friendly and nice staff. A must visit for sashimi/sushi/seafood lovers
David L — Google review
🍣🍱 for professionals, locals and tourists near or in downtown HNL. Absolutely loved this spot! I ordered the ahi limu poke bowl and it was delicious — super fresh, flavorful, and perfectly portioned. At $13.95, the price is more than reasonable for the quality and quantity you get. It’s a true hidden gem tucked away in Maunakea Marketplace, Chinatown. You won’t find anything this fresh and affordable anywhere nearby. My kids love the spicy ahi and hamachi sashimi bowls. Enjoy! 💯🤙
Hun K — Google review
The fish is really fresh here! I would recommend if you're on the area or hit up there other locations around Waikiki.
Sam — Google review
Hands down the best meal we had in Hawaii. We tried several different spots for poke/sashimi but this was easily our favorite. Wish we discovered it sooner!!
Ju P — Google review
Their hand rolls are soo good. They are a smaller size but perfect little snack size that make you feel amazing. The chutoro was so good and fatty. I would recommend to anyone in the area. I think they have a good truck as well.
Andrew G — Google review
Maunakea Market Foodcourt, 1120 Maunakea St, Honolulu, HI 96817, USA•https://magurobrothershawaii.com/•(808) 259-7100•Tips and more reviews for Maguro Brothers Hawaii Chinatown

37Zippy's Makiki

4.2
(2095)
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4.0
(95)
•
Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$affordable
Hawaiian restaurant
American restaurant
Asian restaurant
Zippy's Makiki is a Hawaiian casual dining chain that has been satisfying locals with its focus on regional cuisine since 1966. The restaurant is known for its stews, chili, and comfort-food dishes. One of the most popular entrees at Zippy's is the fried chicken plate, which features three pieces of juicy fried chicken served with two scoops of rice and macaroni salad.
Was recommended by a friend and we loved the place. Great menu of local favorites and mainland food choices. Friendly staff, and good value. A local place not so popular with tourists.
Andrew F — Google review
It’s Zippy’s, how can you go wrong. Hard to beat Hawaiian comfort food. We ate brunch here on a Sunday morning, this location has both a sit down restaurant and the fast food takeout side. The menu options are nearly endless, so everyone can find something to enjoy. Our server was outstanding, was gracious enough to take the time to walk us through many of his favorites.
Dennis P — Google review
I’ve eaten my way through white tablecloths and tasting menus more times than I can count. But when I need a break from the precious, plated, four-bite masterpieces, I come here—Zippy’s. No reservations. No dress code. Just the kind of food that fills your stomach and your soul. I crave the oxtail soup. The fried chicken is crispy, salty, perfect. I love it. I love it all. The chili, the spaghetti with garlic bread, and the chili loco moco, which is outrageously good. I’m talking about a full-on, pig-out session. The food’s always hot, always fast, and always hits the spot. Next time, I might ask for a side of loco moco gravy just to make it extra messy. 10/10.
Winston C — Google review
I highly recommend you order online or through the Zippy's app. Walking to the takeout side to order and wait for your food is exceptionally long, especially at dinner. It's much easier to order through the app and, when it's ready, grab it from the locker. Thursday night, it seemed chill, with not too many people ordering or waiting for food. However, online orders were queued in between the person in front of me and my own. I counted eight other online or app orders before I finally got my food. It was very frustrating. As for the food, Zippy's is a local staple that has been around for generations. There are many classics on their menu, and I got two of them: a Zip Pac, but I replaced the teri beef with hoki. I also got an apple napple for dessert.
Ryan Y — Google review
We are visiting the Island from Texas. Liza was absolutely awesome. She made us feel at home and when she found out it was our first time eating at Zippy’s she gave us a warm welcome and told us all about the menu and the great people that worked there. The food was super delicious. Great workers are a reflection of the great management team like Ivan and Joe. Great job Team. We will see you again Liza…and thanks again for making feel like regulars…like everyone knew our name. 👍🏻❤️🙏
Jim W — Google review
Best place to go for a quick dinner. Love the new way of picking up your food via locker when ordering online. Great service. Nice comfy place to dine in as well. Hubby always get an entree and an order of chili’s on the side. Great selection for dessert.
Ami ( — Google review
Good neighborhood spot to get some Hawaiian classics on the fly. We tried the spam and eggs and the loco love. Both were delicious and got the spot! The interior of this location was a little dated and rundown but the food was good. The service was confusing because there was no clear spot where to order and they were taking orders from people behind us in line. We ate on the fast food side before realizing there was a seated dining area in the back. Service may be better on that side.
Angela M — Google review
Great staff! Friendly and helpful. This place is very clean and well maintained! Bakery Showcases displays delicious pastries and specialty items. Got Ube!!!
Glenn F — Google review
1222 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96814, USA•https://www.zippys.com/locations/makiki?utm_source=google&utm_me…•(808) 594-3720•Tips and more reviews for Zippy's Makiki

38Ray's Cafe

4.6
(859)
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4.5
(86)
•
Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$cheap
Cafe
Bar & grill
Breakfast restaurant
Coffee shop
Ray's Cafe is a charming and compact eatery located in the heart of Kalihi, Honolulu. Despite its unassuming appearance, this restaurant offers hearty portions of prime rib and other comfort food in a low-key setting. It is known for its all-American brunch and breakfast options, making it a great spot for families to enjoy a delicious meal together. The cafe specializes in serving huge portions of meaty breakfast plates, making it an ideal destination for those craving a substantial morning meal.
I found this place through scrolling Reddit (thanks to the Redditor who suggested this place for Prime Ribs). Definitely not known to the mainstream Chinese and Japanese tourists yet so will try to keep it that way. This is a hole in the wall type of place. The food is amazing, prices are good value and the place is extremely hectic. There is no AC in the cafe so it is really hot in there. Prime Ribs are only available on Fri and weekends only. Do call before going to confirm and you can place phone orders before reaching the place.
Kenny C — Google review
I ordered roast pork with gravy for $10 tax included and "WOW" they gave so much. It was good but I could not eat it all so I took the leftover for my dinner. The workers are very friendly and helpful. This is a nostalgic place with many memories, a hole in the wall "GEM."
Sang M — Google review
Cozy little café with friendly vibes. The owner and staff were welcoming, giving the place a familiar neighborhood feel as the owner chatted with customers. Service was a bit slow, but I was here for the prime rib. For $27, you can’t beat the value. The steak was cooked to the right temperature and came with rice and a side salad. Worth the wait.
V N — Google review
They haven’t been screwing up my food lately which is good lol ! I still come for the prime rib …but my new go to is oxtail stew which they have every Friday. You won’t find that much oxtail for that price any where on island. The prime rib with king crab kind of isn’t worth it anymore. If you going be that much for prime rib and king crab just go buffet.
Christopher C — Google review
Cute little small local eatery. Cash only!! Sign sez “ Door Open - OPEN Door Closed - CLOSED “ Omgeee the Pork Chops was huuuggeee! I opted for the bacon / eggs over easy, 2 cute scoops rice, cute size white toast with butter and a side of bacon! Who eats just bacon without bacon onto it off. Put soMê Tabasco in those over easy eggs, shoYu on da rice and it went down!! So if you’re driving by and see the Door open, pull into the parallel parking stalls and have a meal within!!!! 💥💥💥💥💥 Winnah winnahs Bacon n Eggs!! Just let u know, there is a wait time in your delicious food- so no need to a rush!! Thank you
NaNi H — Google review
My partner recommended we'd check this spot out and it was amazing! Hole in the wall spot with a few tables there, but it seems like most people go there for takeout or party orders. We were seated quickly and had our orders taken in that time (we knew what we came in for). The aunty that seated us came back right away with water and tossed salad. Our food came out a few moments later and it was great! The prime rib was so soft and seasoned nicely, the au jus that it came with was perfect. Not salty at all and went well with the meat. The rack of lamb with asparagus was soft as well, and was still soft after we took our leftovers home. At the restaurant, another guy from the back came out with custard pie and even that was great too! Not too sweet, but light and fluffy! The owner made some small talk with us as he recognized we were not regulars and he was really nice. Turns out we don't live that far from each other! Overall a great experience and will definitely be back
DigitalTripz — Google review
Ray,s is my favorite place to eat. There my friends and family. If you like talk old times story,s and good local food. And hole in the wall places. Ray's is the place.
Monkeyman ( — Google review
Edit: we ordered over the phone to pick up some hours later. When we arrived to pick up, they were closing up for the day before their closing time. They started preparing our food immediately but they didn't give us asparagus which was supposed to come with and I was looking forward to. Same price as usual. Very frustrated. What's the point of taking order? Reduced the star. Someone recommended this place to us as best prime rib place. I believe that recommendation is accurate! Had lamb as well and both were great. Meat was flavourful and tender. They (or one of them?) came with mac salad. We shall go back there again!
Blu K — Google review
2033 N King St, Honolulu, HI 96819, USA•https://m.facebook.com/pages/Rays-Cafe/111631178875014•(808) 841-2771•Tips and more reviews for Ray's Cafe

39Ethel's Grill

4.7
(328)
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4.5
(66)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
Permanently Closed
$$$$cheap
Asian restaurant
Takeout Restaurant
Restaurant
Ethel's Grill is a bustling, cash-only neighborhood spot in the colorful Kalihi area, offering homestyle Asian eats in an unassuming setting. Despite being off the beaten path for visitors, this nostalgic eatery attracts a diverse crowd including truck drivers, politicians, and even renowned chefs like Alan Wong and Roy Yamaguchi.
I hate the No Parking situation at Ethel’s Grill but love the food. The Jumbo Chicken Katsu Donburi Special with miso soup and salad was a lot of food. So sad to hear that they are closing and hope that they will relocate somewhere soon. One of my favorite stops in Kalihi whenever I visit.
Russ L — Google review
This place is a hidden 💎 Everything here is delicious, portions are large and priced well they all include a seafood miso soup that is very tasty 🤤 Parking can be tricky, normally I find parking in the side of the building in the parking structure. The street is never busy also the order is brought out when it’s ready. This place only offers takeout, but sand island is just down the street and makes a perfect ocean front dine.
Luis B — Google review
Take-out only and sooooo worth every morsel. All four dishes we tried were very tasty, even the deep fried turkey tail which was very rich, and were totally wiped clean. Particularly loved the bitter melon pork and egg stir fry which is such a nostalgic comfort food for me, and the Ahi Tataki sashimi plate which was super fresh! Always appreciate an ample amount of greens and every sauce they provided was very well paired for the dish, whether gingery sweet citrus or garlicky soy sauce. The miso was also very flavorful :) definitely want to come back and try more!
Anna B — Google review
This is take away only now. We just got a side portion of their famous tataki to try which has about 8 pieces over some veggies. It was yum and fresh but unsure about all the fuss over it. Good value though for $9.95 but wouldn’t go out of my way for this.
Whitney — Google review
Slightly off the beaten track, but my god is the food here worth the while. The portion sizes are large but more importantly the food is tasty. The tataki platter and the mochiko chicken are the standout dishes and must haves whilst the loco moco is also good. Great service too but unfortunately no dining in at the minute. Come here for some good local authentic food and you won't be disappointed.
P M — Google review
At this time, my review is for “take-out” only. I was referred here and was really hoping for something more. I ordered the Mochiko Chicken and the Japanese Hamburger Steak. I would say the Mochiko Chicken was really good, large portions, really good flavor - (I would order again and if I had only ordered that I my review would have been 5 stars) and I would pass on the Japanese Hamburger Steak ( I thought the meat was dry, a bit tough. And didn’t care for it. If I had only ordered this I would have give this review a 2 or a 3). Again, this review was during a period of time that this restaurant is only serving take out. I will go back a try again with some of the other entrees.
Lori G — Google review
Located at Industrial part of Kalihi, small mom and pop restaurant. Waiting can be a while but the food really worth your while. We went for lunch on Saturday, there are 3 people waiting in line before us, we waited for 30 mins and when we got called in, there are ice tea already waiting on our table ( for me this is really thoughtful because after waiting outside we are getting thirsty) we ordered sweet and sour spare ribs, mochiko chicken and saimin. Lunch comes with salad with house dressing and soup and said ice tea. Food comes in big portion but because they are really good I don’t share my food this time. They accept cash only, parking is available in the garage but limited number, we park at the street. Price is really good for Honolulu area. I saw Anthony Bourdain photo when he came to visit and eat here and also his autograph, very cool!
Eliana — Google review
Holy smokes! This place is SO good! Lightly battered chicken with great flavors & so juicy. Salad & dressing were fresh & delicious. Rice was great texture too! Just dah-uhm! Such a great takeout place! MUST GO!! we got the chicken furikake
Keisha D — Google review
232 Kalihi St, Honolulu, HI 96819, USA•(808) 847-6467•Tips and more reviews for Ethel's Grill

40Hawaii Sushi

4.6
(471)
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5.0
(53)
•
Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$affordable
Sushi restaurant
Asian restaurant
Japanese restaurant
Hawaii Sushi is a small counter service sushi restaurant in Diamond Head-Kapahulu-St. Louis that is well loved for its inexpensive and delicious sushi. With 4.5 stars out of 326 reviews, it's definitely a must-go spot for locals and visitors to Waikiki. The avocado bowls are especially popular, as they're a good portion size for lunch after morning dives.
There's so much fabulous sushi in the world in general, but especially in Hawaii, of course there's also a lot of bad-mediocre sushi in the world, and a lot of sushi that's forgettable or just okay but this place! Is not of that kind. Now do I remember what I ordered? Not exactly. Also when we went they were out of salmon, so there was an improv situation on top of things but whatever it was, all of it was superb. I need more positive descriptors. I keep going to all these great places and it's making my reviews repetitive. But this was another winner. They were very friendly inside, we had nice conversation and they didn't bite our heads off for coming in so soon to closing time (I've worked in many a restaurant. I know the stinging pain of a last minute customer). The lack of salmon was a blow but whatever little tuna number they cooked up for me here hit the spot, I didn't feel like anything was missing. I love take out. It was a great night. We had a nice happy time walking there and walking home and eating at the table and talked mostly about how good it all was. Life is made by simple pleasures people and there's few pleasures finer than some damn good sushi
Siena W — Google review
This cozy sushi spot offers an authentic taste of Japanese cuisine. The staff is friendly, the service is quick, and the food is impressively fresh. We especially loved the spicy ahi bowls — absolutely delicious! Seating is limited, but the warm atmosphere makes up for it. A definite must-visit for sushi lovers
Diego A — Google review
One of my favorite sushi spots! Super affordable, you can absolutely keep it below $15 per person depending on what you order. They have less expensive rolls that are more simple and are around $6, i usually get some of the fancier ones which range from $10-$15. My favorite is the spicy ahi tempura roll, though the Diamond Head tempura roll (first picture) is also SO good. The lava tube roll (second picture) is great as well, the green onions add a really bright flavor to it. Great variety of sushi rolls and poke bowls to choose from, I've really enjoyed everything I've tried so far. Service is always pretty quick and the staff are friendly and polite. Parking is quite limited, though you might be able to find street parking in the area. There's 3 indoor seats and two or three tables outside the shop, so finding seating is really just dependent on how many other people arrive at the same time as you. The shop is a 10 minute or so walk from the beach, so you could also walk down there for a scenic meal. Highly recommend this place!
Emolie C — Google review
Such delicious sushi!! You can seriously get so many rolls for such a low price. Their eel, shrimp, and salmon rolls were all so good. The only thing they lack is a nice interior. The store is pretty small, and there's not really seating.
Theo W — Google review
so so so good, the ahi jerky, miso soup, lava rock roll, and ahi special, EVERYTHING was the best. sweet staff and to quote my husband "best sushi I've had in my life" so highly recommend.
Mia S — Google review
A nice yummy sushi place. Great value. Hamachi Nigiri was top quality. The rice was perfect. Their rolls were great too - a special shrimp roll that was being featured, and Big Island if you love fish. The cashier was also very friendly and kind. I and my family will be back, please give them some business so they are there until then.
David J — Google review
Fantastic local spot right before the tourist spots fast casual and great tasting poke!
Rich L — Google review
Exceptional Sushi, highly recommend. I drive by multiple sushi eateries to eat here. Fresh ingredients, the tempura shrimp rolls the best I've enjoyed anywhere. Limited seating inside and outside. So you may want to order ahead and Take Out. When I want sushi, Hawaii Sushi is first choice.
Paul M — Google review
3045 Monsarrat Ave Ste 1, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA•https://hawaii-sushi.square.site/•(808) 734-6370•Tips and more reviews for Hawaii Sushi
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41L&L Hawaiian Barbecue

4.2
(711)
•
4.0
(43)
•
Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$cheap
Hawaiian restaurant
Barbecue restaurant
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue is a fast-food chain with an island theme, offering traditional Hawaiian plate lunches. The portions are generous, featuring scoops of rice, macaroni salad, and a variety of meat or seafood. Customers appreciate the affordable prices and convenient locations near airports and hotels. However, some have noted that cleanliness could be improved at certain branches. Despite this, many enjoy the delicious food such as the chicken katsu served with rice and macaroni salad at reasonable prices.
Absolutely phenomenal Loco Moco. It is truly Hawaiian comfort food. The gravy is rich and savory. I thoroughly enjoyed it. The barbecue chicken was moist and tender. Highly recommended for a comforting meal in Hawaii.
Troy C — Google review
Ordered the BBQ chicken bowl and the teriyaki beef bowl along with a spam musubi. Food was pretty good only complaint was a few fatty pieces of beef but overall really yummy. Food was prepared quickly and service was fast and helpful.
Tiffany R — Google review
Beef stew was pretty good. Beef was mostly tender. Bbq burger was good. French fries are good. Bbq chicken burger was good. I’m giving three stars overall because their online process needs improvement. After placing my order using their app, received email confirmation. Couple minutes later received email canceling my order stating would receive a refund in a few days. Called the restaurant and asked what’s going on. They didn’t know and said, “no your order is still good”. They’re also really stingy on the parking validation. When I asked for parking validation the young lady says, ”you still good for ten minutes”. Why not just validate the parking, what if I don’t get out of the lot in ten minutes?
Chee R — Google review
Hawaiian plate lunch is comfort food. This L&L shop is conveniently located for those who need their plate lunch fix before a flight or during a long layover. The mini plate is anything but miniature. Looking for something more substantial? Go for the BBQ plate. Broke da mouth.
Tricee L — Google review
Ginormous portions. I got enough chicken katsu for 3 meals if you don’t each much, and 2 meals if you eat a normal amount per meal. L&L is always good!
Ri W — Google review
Hamburger steak and garlic chicken was a great combo. L&L for the win today. Really enjoyed it.
Caleb K — Google review
Food is too expensive 100 bucks for 4 people to eat and the teriyaki chicken bowl had no teriyaki. I went to ask dor teriyaki sauce and they didn't want to give me any because apparently the chicken had sauce in it. Didn't want to argue with them. No air conditioning if you want to dine in.
Juan H — Google review
Great location, perfect for picking up food before taking your flight. Clean atmosphere. Service was warm and friendly. Very welcoming and was greeted as I walked in. The menu consists of a variety of Island favorites and great combination plates. I opted for the Loco Moco Breakfast. The burger patty was good, moist, grilled, and seasoned well. The gravy was light but could use more beefy flavor. The over-easy eggs were perfect. The gravy, burger, over easy eggs over rice are delicious. The Macaroni Salad was tasty and freshly made. Generous portion, the regular combo could easily feed two people. For the price, it's worth it. The one con about this place is the parking. It is a paid parking lot even with validation.
Russ L — Google review
550 Paiea St #132, Honolulu, HI 96819, USA•https://www.hawaiianbarbecue.com/•(808) 839-1111•Tips and more reviews for L&L Hawaiian Barbecue

42Mami's Empanadas

4.3
(403)
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4.5
(42)
•
Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$cheap
Colombian restaurant
Restaurant
If you're looking for a good, cheap Latin restaurant in Waikiki, look no further than Mami's Empanadas. Owner/chef Alex is the best in Honolulu and his empanadas are some of the best in the world! You won't be disappointed!
Loved the empanadas. Good vegetarian options available. Total value for money! No place to sit though.
Akash Y — Google review
I thought the empanadas were good and a great price at 3 for $10. I wasn’t sure which to get, but they let me know I could try both, so I got two beef and one chicken. I preferred the beef, so glad I got more of it! The red sauce they recommended was also really good. Affordable compared to some of the food places here.
Jessica ( — Google review
These were by far the BEST flaky empanadas I have ever had. Normally empanadas are to thick and minimal filling on the inside. NOT Mamis!!! These were stuffed full and exquisite. I had the beef, beef and potato& arroz con pollo all delicious. You can get two sauces..I chose the green and garlic. Apparently the green is the fav and it’s good but my favorite was the garlic. It added to the flavor of the empanadas more in my opinion.
Shelia J — Google review
I’m Colombian and was very surprised to find this spot while visiting Hawaii. The staff i met during the day & night are very friendly and welcoming. I wasn’t expecting much of these empanadas since i was in the middle of the Pacific and far away from Colombia but they were actually very flavorful. However, the only downside is that they reheat the empanadas so i wish they would be made fresh.
Sebastian R — Google review
Omg. Like really, good Lord these were good! The food (empanadas and arepa) was just excellent and the popsicle we had was fantastic. Pricing is quite reasonable. The proprietor is a super nice guy and was really great to interact with. You MUST order in advance by texting the phone number. You will be sent the menu for the day - it changes based on ingredients and such - and you can text back your order. It is a busy place but It worked seamlessly for us. We will DEFINITELY be ordering again. Could not recommend more highly.
Chris C — Google review
Alex has a great personality for this gig and is clearly passionate about his food. I would recommend this truck to anyone. The empanadas were fresh, hot, delicious and came accompanied with 4 sauces.
Zachary P — Google review
As a Colombian, I know a good empanada when I try one, and these are great!! The different sauces available, including the classic ahi (a-hee) are excellent! You must try this place! Prices are reasonable too.
Cesar C — Google review
Excellent Colombian empanadas. Also serves Cuban sandwiches and Colombian-style hot dogs. The owner is very busy so it takes a little while but not too long. Excellent! Highly recommended.
Miguel — Google review
1700 Kapiolani Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96814, USA•(808) 202-4920•Tips and more reviews for Mami's Empanadas

43Mitsu-Ken

4.5
(410)
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4.5
(24)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$cheap
Japanese delicatessen
Breakfast restaurant
Mitsu-Ken is a popular spot known for its delicious bento boxes, making it a great choice for school lunches, beach trips, or quick meals on the go. The takeout-only establishment offers a variety of bentos including the famous Mitsu-Ken Bento with garlic chicken, teri beef, hot dog, egg omelet, and rice. While it's recommended to visit early to avoid items being sold out, the fast service and friendly staff make the experience enjoyable.
This is a real hole in the wall treasure. My kalbi plate was only $17.85 when others are over $24. It was so cheap. They also gave a lot and it was very ono, tasty. Service with efficiency and very nice. I highly recommend.
Sang M — Google review
Been going to this place for years devouring their breakfast specials. Good value for your money, very popular with the locals; not like Rainbows which is now overrun by tourists. Their breakfast specials are da bomb. If you're into salty, greasy, fatty, heart clogging, gravy saturated food, then you have finally arrived at heaven's Gate. Dark meat chicken pieces with skin on deep fried to a crispy golden brown infused with garlic. Grilled Portuguese sausage slices, bacon almost burned to a crisp. White rice soaked in grease and salty gravy. All topped off with 2 eggs any style. Peak breakfast and lunch hours generate long lines of hungry local workers craving for their daily fix of salt and grease. It may not be good for your heart but it sure is damn good for your soul. Yolo and forget about the world's problem just this one time.
John Y — Google review
Awesome food made with Aloha! Garlic Chicken and Teri Beef plates are FIRE🔥
Brandon H — Google review
Their garlic chicken is definitely worth it. No place to sit and eat. Good food at great price in Hawaii. Limited business hours. Wish they open more days and hours.
ChangHee J — Google review
Chicken was very dry. Mysterious coarse hair in my eggs.
Patrick — Google review
Highly recommend to stop here for a lunch bento. The garlic chicken plate was huge and was very good. My husband was very happy and very full after eating the loco moco with 3 beef patties! A must eat.
Nancy Y — Google review
Introduced by my best friend who lives locally. Ordered pretty much almost everything I saw, didn't quite finish everything but I was able to pack it in one container flew it back home and ate it and it was still delicious. Ever since then, everytime I visit, it's always a must to stop by and grab food in this hole in the wall joint. Great service and friendly staff. It's a small spot but the food always hits the spots, it never disappoint. 🤙🏾😋👍🏾
Ian A — Google review
This place is always good for garlic chicken. I normally go for breakfast and get their bfast combo. This time I went for lunch and got their bentos. The food was ono as normal.
Austin J — Google review
2300 N King St, Honolulu, HI 96819, USA•https://www.clover.com/online-ordering/mitsuken-honolulu•(808) 848-5573•Tips and more reviews for Mitsu-Ken

44Lam's Kitchen

4.6
(389)
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4.1
(20)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
Temporarily Closed
$$$$cheap
Chinese restaurant
Lam's Kitchen is a cozy Chinese noodle house in Chinatown, offering a range of budget-friendly pork and beef dishes. The restaurant is popular among locals, especially during lunchtime, so be prepared for a possible wait. The menu features an array of soups, rice dishes, and look fun offerings - thick steamed rice noodles with various protein choices.
Very good and authentic Chinese ho fan restaurant! Home made and very good taste. Very busy dnd this is a gem on china town! Highly recommended
Goldy W — Google review
We got the chow fun with choysum, fried donuts and beef and tendon look fun in soup. The soup dish was good, comforting but leaning towards too salty for us. The chow fun was lacking smokiness, overpowered by the sauce. Texture of noodle was amazing tho. The donuts were great too. Service was quick. We sat next to a larger group and had to share condiments which was a little awkward.
Monica M — Google review
Lam’s Kitchen – A Traditional Chinese Noodle Shop in the Heart of Honolulu’s Chinatown Lam’s Kitchen is a small, old-fashioned noodle shop nestled in the bustling Chinatown district of Honolulu. The place seats only about 30 people, so even though we came during a regular lunch hour, my family and I had to wait around 20 minutes to get a table. I ordered the fish noodle soup – the broth was clear and light, with a clean, subtle flavor. The fish was not fried but cooked directly in the soup, making the meat firm, fresh, and pleasantly mild. It’s a good choice for those who enjoy traditional, light flavors. My husband and child had the stir-fried beef rice noodles – a more memorable dish. The wide, chewy noodles were stir-fried hot with tender slices of beef, and the dish carried a distinct smoky aroma from the wok – adding a layer of depth and authenticity. Lam’s Kitchen may not offer groundbreaking cuisine, but it delivers an honest, traditional Chinese dining experience. If you have time while visiting Chinatown, it’s worth trying at least once.
Thuy H — Google review
Still as yummy as before, service was as authentic as I would expect lol first time trying their wonton noodles. Solid. Wonton got shrimp in it too! Love the sassy attitude of my server haha I asked to make sure wonton has shrimp in it coz I've seen many places just putting pork and call it a day (ugh) she's like "wonton is not wonton if there's no shrimp in it." That's what I'm talking about, Aunty.
Rebecca T — Google review
Service was A+. Very hard working staff. However, food was average, sauce was too watery and without any memorable flavor. Sorry I have no yearn to return here.
Estela C — Google review
The food was very comforting, reminded me of home. I got the beef look fun soup and added wontons. The chinese doughnut was also very good paired with the soup.
Oscar T — Google review
Whenever we visit Chinatown in Honolulu, Hawaii and want something Hot, Quick, and delicious we'll stop in at Lam's Kitchen. We like their Rice Soups, dumplings and noodle dishes. It reminds my wife of her hometown in Hong Kong.
Takashi S — Google review
Loved everything we ordered. Beef noodle was the best I have had in US. There were whole shrimps in the wonton. Rice plate was tasty too. Ginger chicken was a little underwhelming compared to other dishes.
Zhu Z — Google review
1152 Maunakea St # A, Honolulu, HI 96817, USA•http://lamskitchenhawaii.com/•(808) 536-6222•Tips and more reviews for Lam's Kitchen

45Ohana Bar-B-Q

3.8
(78)
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3.5
(17)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
Permanently Closed
$$$$cheap
Barbecue restaurant
Korean restaurant
During lunch, I ordered takeout from Ohana Bar-B-Q via UberEats and was pleasantly satisfied. The Oyster Jun was delicious, perfectly fried without excessive oil and with a delightful oyster flavor. My wife opted for the small spicy BBQ pork (mild), which was cooked well and had a tasty taste. While the accompanying sides like potatoes and seaweed were decent, they didn't stand out as anything extraordinary. The price was acceptable considering Korean food tends to be pricey.
Quality food at one of the most reasonably priced restaurants I’ve visited in Kailua. Definitely get your money’s worth for the selection and quantity provided.
Grant R — Google review
Ordered takeout via UberEats during lunch time and was quite happy with our food! I ordered the Oyster Jun and my wife ordered a small spicy BBQ pork (mild). The Oyster Jun was very good! Fried well, not oily, yummy oyster flavor. The BBQ pork was tasty and cooked well. The sides like the potatoes and seaweed were good, but nothing all too special. Price is okay for Korean food standards, since Korean food typically tends to be on pricier side. My main complaint is that portions aren't very big despite what other reviews have stated. Sides are fairly generous, but not the main. Definitely a good place in Kailua for your Korean food fix!
Christian R — Google review
My friend and I were craving Korean food on a Sunday or Monday night. My go to Korean spots - #1 Willow Tree in Aikahi and #2 Enchanted Lakes Kim Chee were both closed. My friend said let's try this place, we went inside to eat. We did not eat. The food did not look visually appealing and it did not taste good, plain and simple. Sadly I have to recommend against eating here. I'm not sure how they can stay in business with food like that? I am truly sorry for this brutal review, but it is the truth. I would like to rate the Food a Zero star, but that is not possible, so i am forced to rate it a 1 star. It does not deserve a 1 Star. The lady was okay, she deserved her 1 star, atmosphere was empty but soda boxes and other items were laid out on tables and near register area. It received my highest rating of a 2. I recommend - Willow Tree and Enchanted Lake Kim Chee, both run by Korean families, and food is exceptional.
Mellissa S — Google review
Talk about a hole in the wall. You would never know this place has great food. The owners, a husband that cooks and a wife that takes the orders have been there for ages. Kalbi ribs, meat jun, chicken katsu, and the list goes on.
Greg J — Google review
I ordered a mini fish jun. Had more batter than fish. It used to be delicious. Not anymore. I'm guessing the price on everything has gone up.The fish/batter jun was 1 inch wide. And 5 inches long. With! One piece fish/batter. And its not seat in. Only, take-out.
Donyne H — Google review
Although the lady was nice, the service was slow. I waited 10 minutes for my order that I had phoned in earlier and was already done and sitting on the counter ready for pickup, because she had to help in the kitchen. The side order of Korean style Kal-bi that I ordered turned out to be two small pieces and costs $24.95. I was astonished that they could charge such an exorbitant amount for so little food! They were half the size of what other Korean restaurants serve as a side order! Needless to say, I was extremely disappointed. I’m not going back.
John M — Google review
First time trying this restaurant food the lady taking the order was very unfriendly with an angry look. I’m here but live in Korea the restaurant people there are much much more friendlier with foreigners then this lady. Even WillowTree Kailua and KimChee Enchanted Lake are friendlier. And the food are much tastier and good size portions. The banchans are not the greatest either. Especially the spring onion ban Chan was too salty couldn’t taste the spring onions.👎 Called this place and tried to place and order but the lady who answered kept talking to someone else at the restaurant very rude so I hung up. Poor customer ethics
D. S — Google review
We bought 4 plates a Oneton mein and a cheeseburger. They also put some sort of soup that tasted like it was days old and we took it right back and they said that it was not there’s and that’s not how they cook but yet it was in the same container as the oneton mein we did order. Then the cheeseburger was not cooked good and it was cold. Check your food before you eat from here.
Cynthia G — Google review
16 Kainehe St, Kailua, HI 96734, USA•Tips and more reviews for Ohana Bar-B-Q
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46Musubi Cafe IYASUME

4.6
(1303)
•
Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$cheap
Japanese restaurant
Musubi Cafe IYASUME is a popular food joint in Honolulu, Hawaii, known for its delicious selection of musubi and rice balls. Despite the simple ingredients like grilled spam, rice, and nori, the flavors are surprisingly delightful. The cafe offers over 30 varieties of musubi and rice balls with fun combinations such as Avocado Bacon Egg Spam Musubi and Eel Egg Spam Musubi.
One of our favorite stops in Waikiki! I highly recommend the black pepper cheese musubi. It was so fresh and perfect each time! Great to take with you down to the beach. Wait times varied from 5-20 min each time that we went. My order was messed up once but they were super quick to fix the mistake for me. Also great prices, highly recommend!
Tiahna P — Google review
FAVORITE PLACE IN WAIKĪKĪ! SO FREAKING GOOD. SO RELIABLE. BEST PRICES! Best location of this company! Musubi Cafe Iyasume is truly my favorite place. I went once even twice a day during my time in Waikiki. The times I went to this location, it was made to order and the musubi + onigiri were made to order. The fresh + warm rice wrapped in nori with whichever speciality topping provided… ahh my mouth is watering as I type! I’m Korean-American and my favorites are the Kimchi-spam musubi and the yuzu pepper salmon onigiri. The best part is that there is seating inside and the interior is filled with THE BEST MUSUBI MERCH EVER! I’m obsessed. Like truly, their #1 fan. It’s super quick service, and incredibly reasonable prices.
Elizabeth K — Google review
They had nice musubi and it was very fresh. They had a lot of different flavours available . The line was long, but it moved quickly. They are cheap as well. I like the spam and egg one with bacon.
Melzy P — Google review
Wide variety of musubi and other Japanese dishes here like udon and bento. It's a small store with fast service and cute musubi merchandise. The double bacon with egg musubi, double shrimp musubi were good.
Suwida — Google review
Musubi Cafe Iyasume never disappoints! There are several Musubi Cafe locations, but I always come to this one because the quality is consistently top notch. The spam musubi is ofc a must, but my personal favorite is the salmon mayo onigiri!
Noel L — Google review
Going early in the morning is definitely the way to go! We tried both the musubi and the onigiri here. I really wanted to love this place because it’s known for its musubi, but unfortunately, it was nothing special. The spam-to-rice ratio was 1:3, which made it really dry. The filling in the onigiri was very dry, and again, the rice ratio was way too high. I would suggest trying the musubi for yourself, but I recommend skipping the onigiri. I did manage to pick up the original sauce, which was a nice bonus, but I won’t be returning for any of the food again.
Annie — Google review
This take out shop is so Cute it’s so much like Japan. It’s also very conveniently located in Waikiki for all the tourists so I can see why it’s popular. From the decor, to their merchandise, and most importantly their spamasubis everything has that detail that makes it authentic and just adorable with packaging. It just reminds me so much of Japan. They have all various kinds of spamasubis but I loved the shisosubi and also the cucumber egg. Their menu also features curry and various bentos. A worthy mention are also their various Onigiri selection which are just as good but I understand when in Hawaii people want to try the spamsubi. It’s priced great for what it is and there maybe a wait time because it’s very popular. Tip: go to the other location just 3 blocks over. There’s a small to go window just 15 min walking. Yes there are 2 locations … Overall great shop authentic and not just catered to tourists but it’s just delicious and fast.
Jean D — Google review
The store was in the neighborhood where I was staying. Yesterday I saw a huge line but today there were only a few people. So I hopped in and ordered a Musubi pack and a Teriyaki Spam Musubi. They make things to order so it took about 10 minutes to have my number called. They have a system to show and tell which order is complete, much like the deli counter in a grocery store. The food was just under $10 and was the perfect amount for lunch. Try to go off peak and I think your tummy will thank you.
Albert N — Google review
2427 Kūhiō Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815, USA•https://iyasumehawaii.com/•(808) 921-0168•Tips and more reviews for Musubi Cafe IYASUME

47Giovanni’s Shrimp

4.3
(570)
•
Mentioned on 
1 list 
Hawaiian restaurant
Restaurant
Giovanni’s Shrimp is a renowned food truck located in Kahuku, an hour's drive from Honolulu along the scenic windward coast. It is famous for its classic garlic shrimp scampi and is considered one of the best shrimp trucks on Oahu's North Shore. Despite changes in ownership and expansion, Giovanni’s continues to draw large crowds, with long lines forming even before it opens at 10:30 AM daily.
Giovanni’s shrimp never disappoints!!! I love that they have this new location close to Waikiki so now we don’t have to drive to north shore so Giovanni’s!!!! My husband gets hot n spicy 🌶️ shrimp he loves spicy it’s his fav! I get the garlic 🧄 this food is to die for ♥️☺️😬
Sarah Y — Google review
This location is inside an H Mart! Came here after visiting Big Wave shrimp on north shore and I thought Giovanni’s was much tastier! They really emphasize the garlic flavor well and their spicy sauce is delicious. Definitely worth making a stop here!
Amber L — Google review
We missed hitting the shrimp trucks on the North Shore so we were happy to find a closer alternative in Honolulu! This is in the food court on the second floor of the H Mart. They have a smaller menu but, man, is that shrimp good!
Angela M — Google review
It was good! But I'm glad I came to this location (food court above H Mart) versus the food truck because I'm not sure if it's worth waiting in a longggg line for. Shrimps aren't peeled, hot sauce was quite spicy but paired really well with the garlic shrimp.
Holly K — Google review
Was so excited to be able to enjoy Giovannis without having to drive up to the north shore, but this location kinda disappointed. To their credit, the shrimp was hot and seemed fresh, but overall it was pretty disappointing. Not sure if it was bottom of the barrel, but the garlic butter seemed old and kinda paste-y and dried out. Also the woman working had her infant behind the counter with her. I understand how hard and frustrating childcare can be, but there has to be a line for food safety handling purposes.
Maya B — Google review
Tried Giovanni’s Shrimp Hawaii for my first meal in Honolulu — went straight for the #1 garlic shrimp. So good. It’s tucked inside the H Mart food court on the second floor. I’d heard a lot about their shrimp platter, so I had to give it a shot. Big shrimp, two scoops of rice, and plenty of flavor. It was $17.50, which felt a bit pricey, but honestly worth it. Bonus: it’s super close to Ka Moana Luau, like a 15-minute drive.
Gene L — Google review
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck is an absolute must-try on O'ahu's North Shore. It's one of Hawaii's most famous food trucks, easily recognizable by its exterior covered in customer signatures and graffiti. They keep the menu simple, focusing on a few plates, all served with two scoops of rice. ​Their signature dish is the Shrimp Scampi, which is smothered in olive oil, lemon butter, and lots of chopped garlic—it's deliciously messy and packed with flavor. You can also get the "No Refunds" Hot & Spicy version or the Lemon Butter shrimp. Be ready for a line, but the whole experience in the North Shore food truck court is worth the wait for that classic, garlicky plate lunch.
Joshua M — Google review
We went the Giovanni’s Shrimp in the 2nd floor of H-Mart. The garlic rice and scampi is our go-to. Lots of shrimp for a great price. We also had the mac salad. A must stop when you’re in Honolulu and can’t make it out to the original spot in the North Shore.
Anna S — Google review
458 Keawe St floor 2, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA•http://giovannisshrimptruck.com/•(808) 201-3980•Tips and more reviews for Giovanni’s Shrimp

48Kim Chee Restaurant No 2

4.4
(320)
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Mentioned on 
1 list 
$$$$affordable
Korean restaurant
Kim Chee Restaurant No 2 is a beloved local gem in Hawaii, having established itself since 1977. This charming eatery is part of a small chain that has become synonymous with hearty Korean cuisine, particularly famous for its barbecue kalbi and generous plate lunches that can easily satisfy two diners. Nestled off Waialae Ave, it offers convenient parking at an affordable rate.
I had lunch special, chicken bbq & meat jun & mandoo, and it was good. The place still had the nostalgic look and feel with great service.
Sang M — Google review
Got the lunch mix plate with chicken katsu instead of bbq chicken. Comes with meat jun and one mandoo. The chicken katsu was really good, however the meat Jun was a bit thick and had quick a bit of fat in it. Not my preference. The one mandoo is okay...nothing special. The kimchee was fresh over sour, and mild. This place has been around for awhile...the deco is a bit outdated but overall a good restaurant to eat at...for those who enjoy local korean. This is the place.
Ryan Y — Google review
I found the food just okay. Think being from L.A. Korean food is just on another level. While the food here was very generous in portion and okay but it wasn’t anything special in terms of taste. Service and vibe on the other hand was really attentive and accommodating. They’re kind and welcoming. Would come back just for the service.
Jean D — Google review
They gave me a good amount of food for the price. It was tasty!
Brennan O — Google review
For the past 8 weeks I been trying to get a dine in seat at 12pm. Unfortunately this business likes to close at lunch randomly and close dine in randomly despite a huge sigh outside saying dine in is always open. With the inconsistent scheduling and rude service staff this business practically doesn't exist except for a hand full of customers that seem to be allowed dine in by the owners. This week would be week 9 where I was unable to dine in. Some things are best left in the past and clearly this business kept some bad habits it needs to work on. What's more odd is business hours were recently removed from the door implying a "we open when we open" mindset. It shows lack of dedication and consistency. Back in my childhood I came here often and it saddens me to see it go down and act like this. To me a dine in restaurant needs 3 things. Good food, good service, and consistency. Only good food is gold here. The rest is lost and forgotten.
Yuto U — Google review
I ordered a side order of the kalbi and paid 40.00. When I opened the container at home it only contained two and a half pieces. I called the restaurant to complain and spoke to the person in charge named Fay. I told her what I received and she told me to come down and she'll give me two pieces of kalbi at no cost. She was polite and helpful. When I reached the restaurant her attitude changed. She told me her brother was the cook and claims he gave me four pieces. So I asked her are you calling me a liar? She replied she just wants to find out what happened. I told her your brother is calling me a liar, and I'm acusing him of lying. I asked to speak to her brother but she replied you wouldn't like the way he talks to people. I told her you told me you would give me two pieces so I drove all the way down here. She finally gave me the food and told me not to patronize their restaurant again. This over two lousy pieces of kalbi. Fay sided with her brother instead of a paying customer. I've been going there for many years and this is how I get treated? Wow!
Michael M — Google review
First time visiting Hawaii and long time residents brought us here for a delicious dinner. This is their go to place for family dinners whenever people visit from the mainland. Some dishes were served family style and some were ordered as dinner plates. The dinner specials are very large servings so we all had enough to enjoy a late breakfast of leftovers the next day. All the meat dishes were so tasty and perfectly cooked, chicken , beef ribs and tempura shrimp. I’m not familiar with this type of cuisine and this was a great first dinner at a Korean restaurant. Friendly service. We had a bit of trouble getting out of the parking lot (paid lot-ticket kiosk issue) so I’d walk if staying close by.
Sarah A — Google review
We ordered take out and got 3 pieces of big bone kalbi in our side order. 1 was full size and 2 were bone with about 2 inches of meat attached. When we complained they basically called us liars and said "you don't have to come back". Unbelievably rude customer service. We are indeed never going back.
Jonette R — Google review
3569 Waialae Ave Conference Room, Honolulu, HI 96816, USA•(808) 737-7733•Tips and more reviews for Kim Chee Restaurant No 2

49Menchanko-Tei

4.6
(170)
•
Mentioned on 
1 list 
Permanently Closed
$$$$affordable
Japanese restaurant
Ramen restaurant
Menchanko-Tei is a small family restaurant in Honolulu that offers a low-key atmosphere and delicious comfort food. The tan-tan men and tonkatsu are highly recommended, with the pork cutlet being juicy and crispy. Visitors have centered their trips around this restaurant due to its enjoyable food, particularly the Motsu Nabe, which is considered the best in the United States. It's praised for offering simple yet satisfying meals that stand out from gourmet options.
Excellent, low-key atmosphere. We came here on the recommendation of a local friend. The tan-tan men was earthy and noodles were springy and delicious. The tonkatsu was excellently prepared with cabbage, cabbage dressing, a very flavorful miso, and grind your own sesame for the katsu sauce (which was served cold, a new one for me). The pork cutlet was juicy and the batter crispy and light. The cutlet was a little thicker than I like, but delicious still. The staff was very friendly. I recommend this restaurant and would come again!
Jesse Y — Google review
A slice of Japan here at home! We've come here for ramen and Tonkatsu and I must say, we were not disappointed! Their Tan Tan ramen is my absolute favorite on the island. It's rich, tasty, slightly sweet, and not too salty. Tan tan can get strong at other places but Menchanko Tei does it perfectly. The meat is so soft and so damn flavorful in every bite. They use Sun noodles and it is so complimentary to Tan Tan. It picks up the soup so well with every slurp but slides off so perfectly as it hits your tongue. Amazing Tan Tan. Then we had the Loin Katsu lunch special which came with both Tonkatsu AND mini Shoyu ramen. Holy guacamole!! It was so much food and so delicious. The Tonkatsu was crunchy and tender. It wasn't as flaky as I have had before but the crunch was perfect against the juicy pork. The mini Shoyu Ramen just put us over the top. The base was a simple shoyu but had a great umami flavor. Maybe more konbu or something but it was very impressive as a mini ramen. Price for the Tan Tan is about $13-14, which is on the higher side but gosh dang, it's so worth it. Price for the lunch special was only $22! Considering how much food we got, it is WELL justified and worth the taste. Parking is in the back if you turn near the Chinese Seafood restaurant towards the intersection of King and Keeamoku. Or you can park in the street but make sure you park during allowed hours and you have to pay for the meter.
Chelsea S — Google review
What a hidden gem in Honolulu (Thanks to Google Map). Delicious Japanese food at very good price. Friendly staff and great service. Highly recommend this restaurant for others. We will definitely revisit this place next time we come back.
Michael H — Google review
Ramen holds the same place for me as Fried Chicken, Loco Moco, and Spam Musubi... Comfort Food. It’s NOT supposed to be gourmet or fine dining... it’s a delicious and flavorful meal that is simple and satisfying. As I have watched some of my “hole-in-the-wall” ramen shops close down and Gourmet Bistro shops open up, I had lost hope that I could find me a good bowl of noodles (& hell no, that packaged stuff we get in the grocery store doesn’t count... well, maybe except for the S&S packs). So, a long story longer, I visited Menchako when it was in Waikiki back when. When i stopped working in Waikiki, I found Goma-Ichi on Keeaumoku. Then, Goma-Ichi gets crumbled by whatever crazy $10 million dollar condo being built and again I am without a good bowl of noodles. Randomly, looking at this location which, ironically was another noodle shop years ago when I lived i this neighborhood, I see a familiar name. Came in... saw the owner who I recognized... and was ready for a katsu combo that I knew them for. To my greatest delight, within their current menu, was listed Goma-Ichi TanTan Ramen. Yes, she was friends with the owner and was given the recipe which she now continues to serve in their honor. Great food. Service with an authentic smile. What you need after a long day at work so you can go home with that warm feeling in your belly.
Primo ( — Google review
It's too bad that this place is closing on January 16, 2022. We enjoyed the tonkatsu a lot. The lunch specials are a great deal. Here are photos of the Nanban Fried Chicken. My niece had her chicken with the ramen as a set. The presentation is beautiful and the service is so polite and efficient!
Nadine N — Google review
This small Japanese restaurant was a short easy walk from my hotel, and across the street from a McDonald's. The staff was friendly and helpful. The ramen dish I had was delicious. The prices were reasonable.
Joshua M — Google review
My absolute favorite place to eat in Honolulu. They don’t have many places like this in California or the United States in general. A small family restaurant with the absolutely the best Motsu Nabe in the United States. I have scoured the Bay Area for this dish and have not found anything comparable. They also have delicious katsu (chicken as well as the famous korubata pork). I centered my visit to Hawaii around this restaurant. That’s how enjoyable the food is here. A must go!!
Dave C — Google review
Fantastic lunch spot for Japanese food. Small restaurant but the food is amazing! Service is 5/5.
J L — Google review
903 Ke’eaumoku St C101A, Honolulu, HI 96814, USA•(808) 946-1888•Tips and more reviews for Menchanko-Tei
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