Hawaiian Restaurants in Honolulu, HI

“Mud Hen Water offers delicious family-style dinners, warm and friendly service, and a relaxed ambiance. Guests love the unique dishes, such as clams with bread and Portuguese wine, and the refreshing raw fish appetizer. The restaurant provides top-tier food quality in a casual setting, perfect for a laid-back dining experience. Whether it's the great playlist or the attentive staff, Mud Hen Water offers a memorable dining experience that keeps customers coming back for more.“

“Simply Ono Lunch Wagon is a food truck run by a friendly mother and son team, known for their massive portions and delicious meals. They can be found at various events and farmers markets around the area. One of their popular dishes is the Beef Stroganoff over pasta, which is creamy and loaded with chunks of beef and mushrooms. The Salad Nicoise, made with Mahimahi, capers, potatoes, tomatoes, onions, and green beans, is another customer favorite. It is served in a hearty portion with a taro roll on the side. For those who love pork, the Okinawan Shoyu Pork is a must-try. The pork is tender, full of flavor, and falls apart easily. It is served in a generous portion, although some customers wish for a little more. The Japanese potato salad, served as a side, is also a hit. The couple takes care in presenting their food, with the wife individually wrapping each fork with a napkin and a twist tie. They are known for their sweet and happy demeanor, and put love and care into each dish they serve. Other popular items on the menu include Prime Rib, Rack of Lamb, Furikake Crusted Island Mahimahi, and Corn Chowder with Garlic Bread.“

“Island Gourmet Coffee offers a friendly service with a fair amount of food options to satisfy your hunger. Prices may be touristy, but the food is good. They have a great grocery, deli, and bakery with tasty tapioca and fresh fruit. The staff is impressive, and the breakfast options are top-notch for the price. It's like an upscale ABC Store with limited seating. While the bakery can be hit or miss, the breakfast foods are great value for money. Overall, a solid choice with friendly service and a variety of food options.“

“Pau Hana Place is a hidden gem with a beautiful outdoor dining area by the Ala Wai Canal, offering stunning seaside harbor views. The restaurant serves local food, including grilled seafood options and a delicious roast pig, at reasonable prices. Enjoy live local music, including Hawaiian music, and a central stage for performances. The ambiance is incredible, making it a great spot for celebrations and everyday dining. With its unbeatable location and beautiful views, Pau Hana Place is a must-visit for a wonderful dining experience.“

“Off the Hook Poke Market is a popular poke restaurant located in Manoa, Oahu. Despite its small, hole-in-the-wall appearance, the restaurant is known for serving some of the best poke on the island. The menu features a variety of delicious poke options, including the Japan Deluxe and Wasabi furikake, which are customer favorites. The poke is made with fresh, high-quality fish, and the flavors and seasonings create a perfect combination. The poke platter, which offers a sampling of their eight different poke varieties, is a great choice for those who want to try a little bit of everything. The restaurant is often crowded, with a line forming well before they open. However, the friendly and efficient service ensures that customers are served quickly. The lack of seating means that the restaurant is take-out only, but customers can enjoy their poke on the go or find a nearby spot to sit and savor the flavors. Overall, Off the Hook Poke Market is a must-visit destination for poke lovers, offering a delightful and authentic poke experience.“

“Merriman's Honolulu is a restaurant that offers exceptional service and delicious food, making it an ideal spot for special occasions. The staff is knowledgeable and accommodating, especially towards those with dietary restrictions, as noted by a vegan couple who appreciated the thoughtful touches for their anniversary. Seating is available even before reservation times, and the atmosphere is pleasant even when crowded. The menu offers a variety of tasty dishes, such as the Garlic Shrimp appetizer and the Macadamia Nut Mahi Mahi, which received high praise for its soft fish, crispy crust, and perfectly cooked rice. The Umami Burger and Roasted Chicken are also recommended. Although some prices might be on the steeper side, like the Garlic Shrimp at $22 for four pieces, the overall dining experience is worth it. The musician's performance and the Lilikoi Posset dessert are additional highlights that make Merriman's Honolulu a great choice for a special night out.“

“Kapa Hale is a hidden gem that offers an exceptional dining experience. With impeccable service, a delightful ambiance, and delicious food like the "Let's Tako 'Bout It" Spanish octopus starter and Hawaiian Beef Tartare, this restaurant impresses every time. They also keep things exciting with new weekly items and specials. Starting this summer, they will introduce a happy hour on weekdays. Despite being the only customers for a while, the friendly staff made the visit memorable. Although "Where's Da Beef?" had more veggies than meat, the flavors were still delightful. A definite must-visit for those looking for a unique dining experience.“

“Uncle Bo's Pupu Bar & Grill is a must-visit restaurant in Waikiki. The food is amazing, with a great selection of dishes to choose from. The service is super friendly, efficient, and attentive, making diners feel welcome and relaxed. The Pupu menu offers a variety of options, and the chicken Marsala pasta is a standout dish. The restaurant's atmosphere is lively, but the back dining area provides a quieter option. With its excellent food and service, Uncle Bo's has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.“

“Genius Lounge Japanese Sake Bar & Dining offers delicious food and drinks with excellent service. The restaurant has a Japanese-language menu, and the staff are friendly and accommodating, making it easy for customers to enjoy their meals even with limited English. The outdoor terrace provides a great ambiance, and the happy hour offers good value.“

“Highway Inn Kaka'ako offers delicious and authentic Hawaiian food, with highly recommended dishes including Kalbi, pork lau lau, and various tasting plates. Prices are reasonable, portions are substantial, and service is friendly. The restaurant has a welcoming atmosphere, and the option to dine at the bar provides a view of the kitchen's cooking and preparation. Standout menu items include the Squid Luau, Kalua Pig, Chicken Long Rice, and Ahi Lomi. The Kulolo Walnut Brownie, served hot with ice cream, is a must-try for dessert.“

“HONOLULU BISTRO offers a delightful dining experience. The Pesto Deluxe and Four Seasons Smoothie are highly praised, while the sandwich portions could be more generous. The Cajun chicken and pastrami sandwiches, as well as the large salad, receive excellent reviews for both taste and value. The outstanding service, particularly by an exceptional staff member, adds to the overall positive experience.“

“Side Street Inn On Da Strip is a dive restaurant that offers delicious, family-style dining options. The food is described as cooked to perfection, with tender and juicy cuts of chicken, beef, and pork that are full of flavor. The portions are generous, with the edamame plate and fried rice being particularly massive. Standout dishes include the garlic fried chicken, which diners could "dip their face in," and the sliced boneless kalbi, which pairs well with the fried rice. While the pork chops could have benefited from a different dipping sauce, the overall experience left guests feeling full and satisfied, even without trying the dessert.“

“Helena's Hawaiian Food is an amazing gem, offering out-of-this-world local cuisine. Locals and tourists alike flock to this establishment, drawn to its delicious food and authentic Hawaiian flavors. The ribs, watercress soup, laulau, squid, and coconut pudding are standout dishes, though the tripe stew may not be for everyone. Despite the small portions and high prices, Helena's remains a beloved destination for those seeking a taste of traditional Hawaiian cuisine.“

“Pau Hana Pour at Merriman's Honolulu offers exceptional food, with fresh oysters, truffle fries, and delicious tacos like tempura shrimp and kalua pig. The fennel and beet salad may have smaller portions now, but the quality remains top-notch. The menu is somewhat limited due to the pandemic, but still provides great choices. The service is excellent, with thoughtful servers like Michael, who create a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience. Additionally, complimentary champagne and ice cream added a lovely touch to the meal. Despite some changes, Pau Hana Pour at Merriman's Honolulu continues to deliver delicious food and great service.“

“Arden Waikiki is a restaurant that offers a memorable dining experience with its delicious and high-quality dishes. The menu includes standouts such as smoked poke, mushroom rice, tomatoes with burrata, and a unique baked Hawaii dessert. The service is exceptional, with friendly and enthusiastic staff that respects guests' privacy. The space is elegant, creative, and simple, contributing to a welcoming and unstuffy atmosphere. Parking is convenient, making it easy to visit this wonderful addition to Hawaii's food scene, from the husband-wife duo behind Mak n Ming restaurant in Vancouver.“

“Hoku's Kahala is a renowned restaurant that offers an exceptional dining experience. The staff and service are consistently praised for their excellence, creating an atmosphere of warmth and attentiveness. The menu features a diverse range of flavorful dishes, with the tasting menu being a particular highlight. The elegant ambiance, with its simple yet sophisticated decor, provides the perfect setting for special occasions. Diners are often captivated by the stunning sunset views, which add to the overall enchantment of the dining experience. Whether celebrating a milestone or seeking a unique culinary adventure, Hoku's Kahala is a top choice for those seeking the ultimate in luxury dining.“

“North Shore Grinds serves authentic Hawaiian food with delicious dishes like scampi shrimp, chicken katsu, BBQ baby back ribs, and kalua pig. The new owners are welcoming and friendly, offering fresh fish and generous samples. Poke bowls are a highlight, with fresh fish and tasty additions like cucumber kimchi pickles. Prices are reasonable, and the staff treats customers like family. The furikake mahi mahi is a standout, and the restaurant is a must-visit for those seeking fresh, flavorful Hawaiian cuisine.“

“Kau Kau Grill is a local favorite for its delicious plate lunches. Located in an industrial area, this takeout-only spot offers a variety of options, including the tender smoked meat and onions plate and the flavorful roast pork and gravy plate. The BBQ ribs plate is a standout, with tender meat that falls off the bone. Despite being slightly overpriced, the food is well worth it. The staff is friendly and efficient, working hard to serve customers. While the location may not be pristine, the quality of the food more than makes up for it. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Kau Kau Grill is a must-visit spot for a satisfying meal.“

“Haili's Hawaiian Foods is a popular restaurant in Honolulu, known for its traditional Hawaiian cuisine. Recommended by locals and tourists alike, it offers a variety of dishes such as laulau, ono chicken, long rice, squid luau, and poi. The staff is friendly and kind, making it a pleasant dining experience. The restaurant is spacious but can be a bit pricey. It is only open from 10am to 2pm. Unfortunately, Haili's Hawaiian Foods will be closing at the end of June. It is recommended to visit soon to try their authentic Hawaiian food.“

“Oahu Grill is a local spot serving authentic Hawaiian food. Generous portions are standard, with dishes like crispy pork belly and Kuala Pig being outstanding. Friendly staff, including grandma, are patient and thoughtful. A 16-minute drive from Waikiki, it's worth the trip. Locals and visitors alike enjoy the great service and delicious food at this family-owned restaurant.“

“Kani Ka Pila Grille is a restaurant located in a hotel, offering both dining and live music experiences. The local musicians and hula dancers create a unique Hawaiian atmosphere. The menu includes Huli chicken, an ebi dish, and a cheeseburger, all highly regarded for their taste. Although on the pricier side, the food costs contribute to the musicians' compensation. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible and open to both hotel guests and visitors.“

“One Plus One Drive Inn is a restaurant that offers tasty garlic pork chop, garlic chicken, and fried rice, as well as a special Jai dish during the new year. The Teri Beef is particularly praised for its tenderness and savory flavor. Prices are comparable to other places, and portions are generous. While friendliness could be improved, the food is considered to be of good quality. It is located a bit far from Waikiki and seems to be mainly frequented by locals.“

“Young's Fish Market is an award-winning Hawaiian restaurant that offers a wide variety of local delicacies, including laulau and poke bowl. Known for its good food and fast service, the restaurant has a charming old-school decor and a friendly atmosphere that might be overwhelming for newcomers. Vegetarian options are limited, with only a vegetarian laulau available. Parking is convenient as the restaurant is located in a shopping complex with ample free parking. Popular dishes include the 15-dollar mixed meat and rice plate, which features sweet potato, a harder type of pork, kalua pig, and pork laulau. The kalua pig and laulau are particularly noteworthy. Young's Fish Market now delivers via DoorDash, making it even easier to enjoy their delicious Hawaiian food.“

“Le'ahi Bar & Grill offers a welcoming atmosphere with friendly staff, delicious food, and exceptional service. Enjoy live music and entertainment in the evenings, and don't miss their signature Mai Tai. With a great ocean view, this spot is a must-visit for a pleasant dining experience.“

“Fort Ruger Market is a local Hawaiian shop known for its plate lunch and poke. The store has a cute and stylish design, with fish and poke wall art. Customers enjoy the delicious Hawaiian and Filipino food, including popular dishes like poke nachos with spicy salmon and local style ahi. The staff is friendly and accommodating, making the dining experience enjoyable. For over 30 years, this spot has been a favorite for visitors looking for onolicious eats. Outdoor seating would be a nice addition for those wanting to savor their hot meals.“

“Hula Grill Waikiki offers good food with great lilikoi daiquiri and a keiki menu for kids. The restaurant provides beautiful scenery with pretty good service. If you want a view, make a reservation, or enjoy the bar section for a quick visit. Parking can be found at the international marketplace across the street. Fast service and fantastic dinner make it a favorite spot in Waikiki.“

“Kahai Street Kitchen offers a delightful dining experience with its wide range of delectable dishes. From the mouthwatering cheesy risotto to the flavorful Mahi fresh catch and the tender guava barbecue brisket plate, the restaurant provides a taste of culinary excellence. While the pricing may be on the higher side, the quality of the food and the friendly service make it a highly recommended establishment.“

“Poké Bar offers decently priced poké bowls with a good portion size. While some ingredients may not be as fresh, the fish is tasty and there are lots of choices to customize your bowl. The to-go atmosphere makes it convenient, and the friendly service adds to the experience. Compared to other options, this restaurant stands out with excellent poké and a variety of toppings to choose from. Overall, it may not be the most memorable dining experience, but it will fill your belly at a moderate price and decent size if you're in the mood for poké.“

“Plumeria Beach House offers a wonderful dining experience with attentive and friendly service. The restaurant boasts an immaculate and calming view, and the menu features a variety of delectable options, including The Kahala Bento, Hawaiian Fettuccine, Fish Sandwich with sweet potato fries, Crab Sushi Roll, Maui Onion Soup, Veggie Panini, Ocean Salad with Crab and Shrimp, and Wok Fried Prawns. Guests can also enjoy Hawaiian food Sundays, which is described as the most savory and a must-have. The staff is helpful and accommodating, ensuring a pleasant and memorable dining experience.“

“Bob's Bar-B-Que Restaurant is known for its great food and exceptional customer service. The teriyaki beef, baby back ribs, and chicken katsu are standouts on the menu, all served with rice and macaroni salad. While seating is outdoor picnic-style and parking is limited, the restaurant is exceptionally clean and the portions are generous. Although not wheelchair accessible, they will accommodate by bringing orders out to customers who call ahead. Prices are very fair, making it a local favorite.“

“Yama's Fish Market offers a diverse menu featuring local Hawaiian specialties. Their mochiko chicken, a breaded and fried chicken cutlet, and housemade kalua pig are customer favorites. The service is friendly and informative, though it may be slow during busy hours. Customers recommend arriving early, as popular items like poke, laulau, and kalua pig can sell out quickly. The small parking lot is supplemented by street parking nearby.“

“New Queen Barbeque is a fast-service diner with reasonable prices, offering good value for a hearty meal. The restaurant serves breakfast, including a popular breakfast combo with eggs, shoyu, black pepper, and ketchup. Their big breakfast plate is a winner, and the cheapest breakfast plate in town. The diner is open early for workers and late-night revelers, and their breakfast special is a top choice. Despite changes in staff, the quality of their loco moco remains consistent.“

“Da Ono Hawaiian Food is a gem that serves amazing traditional Hawaiian food with recipes dating back to the '50s. The lau lau pork plate is a popular choice, offering a perfect sampling of flavors. Despite the challenge of parking, the combination plate is worth trying. The short ribs are authentic and tender, and the cozy ambiance adds to the dining experience. Conveniently located near Waikiki beach, it's a must-visit to support local businesses.“

“The La Mariana Sailing Club is a charming restaurant with a picturesque view of the boats and ocean. The staff is friendly, and the food and drinks, including the signature Mai Tai, are highly praised. The restaurant offers a romantic ambiance, with live local music that sets the perfect mood for a date night or casual lunch.“

“Islander Drive Inn at Salt Lake Shopping Center offers delicious plate lunches with options like mini fried shrimp bento, Honey Garlic Chicken, chicken mushroom stir fry, Teri beef with fried rice, and homemade hamburger steak. The meals are well-cooked, with crispy shrimp, tender chicken, and caramelized veggies. The friendly cashier adds to the positive experience. While prices are not cheap, they are fair for the quality of food served. Islander Drive Inn stands out as one of the best dining choices in the area.“

“Pongo's Kitchen is a take-out restaurant known for its delicious food and friendly service. Popular dishes include guava chicken, ahi katsu, hamburger plate combo, ahi bake, hamburger steak, and garlic ahi. Prices are reasonable, and while parking can be challenging, it's worth it for the tasty food. The staff is patient and kind, making the ordering process smooth. Many customers, including those from out of town, enjoy dining on Pongo's Kitchen's offerings.“

“Hawaii's Favorite Kitchens offers a mix of local goodness, featuring a variety of authentic Hawaiian dishes. Visitors can order from multiple Hawaiian spots in one location, allowing them to try different items on one plate. Menu highlights include mixed plates, poke, plate lunch with Mac salad, roasted chicken, and more. The service is quick and friendly, and the ambiance is clean and welcoming. The restaurant also features a shave ice spot with many varieties, as well as a selection of snacks and treats, including li hing mui gummies and garlic pretzels. With its affordable prices and authentic flavors, Hawaii's Favorite Kitchens is a must-visit for those seeking a true Hawaiian culinary experience.“

“L & L Drive Inn is a local favorite known for its huge portions and affordable prices. The restaurant offers a variety of delicious Chinese-style dishes, including sweet and sour chicken or pork, as well as noodles and garlic chicken. The dining area is spacious and clean, and the staff is friendly and accommodating, even catering to last-minute requests. Customers praise the extra touches, like the use of romaine lettuce and tomatoes in the salad, and the overall quality of the food.“

“Feast by Jon Matsubara offers convenient online ordering for pickup, making it a great option for a quick and delicious meal at home. While the dine-in experience is limited, the food exceeds expectations with rich and buttery flavors, as seen in their popular lobster roll. This no-frills eatery prioritizes fresh, hot food and prompt counter service, making it a great choice for those seeking tasty, hassle-free meals.“

“Penny's Drive In has been a family favorite for decades, serving up delicious meals like the popular roast turkey plate with onions. This low-key, family-run eatery offers great service and excellent food, including ono pickled onions. The menu also features options like roast pork bomb, Mahi with fries, and fish and chips. The staff is sweet and accommodating, even providing fun bags for kids. With a chill ambiance and convenient credit/debit card acceptance, Penny's Drive In is a must-visit spot that's sure to please.“

“L&L Hawaiian Barbecue is a popular local eatery known for its generous portions of comfort food favorites at reasonable prices. The Hawaii Kai location is a go-to spot for many, with a clean and pleasant atmosphere overlooking the marina. The staff is accommodating, often allowing substitutions to cater to dietary needs. The food is consistently delicious, with standout dishes like the tender barbecue chicken and crispy katsu. While the restaurant may have a slightly worn appearance, it maintains a classic "hole-in-the-wall" charm that keeps customers coming back for its satisfying and authentic Hawaiian-style cuisine.“

“Forty Niner Waikiki, located on the first floor of Island Colony, offers a casual and relaxed atmosphere. Known for its American diner-style breakfast and lunch options, the restaurant serves a range of dishes, including the popular loco moco and kalua pig omelet. With friendly and competent staff, Forty Niner Waikiki is a great spot to start your day or take a break from exploring Waikiki.“

“L&L Hawaiian Barbecue is a popular local eatery known for its delicious and authentic Hawaiian cuisine. The restaurant offers a condensed or "Express" menu, with a focus on breakfast and early lunch options. Customers can enjoy a variety of dishes, including SPAM Musubi, scrambled eggs and rice, as well as fried rice, loco moco, and acai bowls. The menu also features healthy options such as Okinawa potato salad and various salads, as well as their signature "just right" smash burgers with a special sauce. Other popular items include the NY steak, shoyu chicken, and furikake ahi plate. The dining area is not very large, but there are a few tables outside as well. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the overall vibe is clean and inviting, with a beautiful view of Honolulu. To avoid the early breakfast and lunch rush, customers are advised to call ahead and place their orders before the restaurant closes at 1:30 pm on weekdays.“

“L&L Hawaiian Barbecue at Paradise Palms is a popular spot for lunch, known for its friendly service and standard plate lunches. The mac salad is a highlight, and while prices have increased, it remains competitively priced. They offer medium-sized sodas in paper cups with plastic straws, serving Pepsi products with medium syrup and crescent-shaped ice. Refills are available.“

“Paradise Poke Hawaii - Hawaii Kai offers a great dining experience with fresh ahi poke selections like spicy ahi/ahi limu. Despite some options being sold out, the quality and taste exceed expectations. The attentive service, with helpful staff providing recommendations, adds to the overall positive experience. The tuna Mac side dish and top-notch service make this new location a highly recommended spot in Hawaii Kai, catering even to those with food allergies. A must-visit for poke lovers looking for a delicious and welcoming local business.“

“Loco Moco Drive Inn offers a variety of local favorites at reasonable prices, including a bonus boba tea and coffee counter. The service is fast, and the portions are generous, with the loco moco being a particularly popular dish. While the chow fun may vary in quality, the restaurant is worth revisiting to explore their diverse menu.“

“L&L Hawaiian Barbecue offers a convenient and reasonably priced dining option with generous portions. The Chicken Cutlets may be a bit oily, but the Loco Moco is a crowd favorite for its delicious taste and size. While the atmosphere may not be the cleanest, the Beef Stew with rice and Macaroni salad are highlights. The restaurant can get crowded during lunchtime, but the free parking is a bonus. The service can be slow, with some inconsistencies in food quality observed. Overall, L&L provides a variety of classic Hawaiian dishes like burgers, katsu, and mochiko chicken in a casual setting with affordable prices and ample parking.“