50 Best Japanese Restaurants in Honolulu

“Great service😊 Friendly staff ❤️“

“Food is so delicious and staff extremely helpful and attentive“

“Great service! Nick was really attentive to all the details to the meal as well as giving us recommendations on what to order and how everything was made!

Food is amazing and the tempura was delicious. The udon is on another level when combined with the sauce!“

“Excellent! This would be my second reservation here after a November 2025 trip to Japan and I CANNOT get enough of their Wagyu. The service is very accommodating and the Black Stone Garlic Rice is to die for! This is a must: for a couple of suggest the Miyazaki Board that serves 2( you won't regret it).“

“Greeted and seated right away without reservations. The staff from beginning to end were very friendly and helpful.
They have choices of booths and counter style seats. We sat in a booth. We found out they had a lunch special so that's what we ordered. Hamachi Teishoku set, hamachi jalapeño ponzu, Castella Tamago and Tempura Teishoku.
The food was good quality and delicious! They have stamp cards too so don't forget to stamp it before you leave!“

“Food is ALWAYS delicious and the staff is so kind and attentive! Katsu-san creates the most beautiful sashimi platters and omakase sushi!“

“We had a lovely experience during our visit. The food is amazing, the sushi was very fresh and the fried rice was also very good. And the service was spectacular! Highly recommended!!

If you are a Korean and are traveling to Waikiki, definitely stop by!! It's really delicious and the owner is very kindㅜㅜ“

“We wanted Asian food for breakfast and googled this place. It’s hard to find because it’s tucked in a square. However it was worth it. The food is made fresh and replaced often due to the foot traffic. It taste amazing and the price is right. It’s not super pricey and it taste so good. It’s grab and go and there’s tables outside. Perfect to get picnic snacks.“

“The udon here is incredibly fresh and delicious — perfectly chewy and flavorful. The fried chicken is super crispy and juicy, definitely a must-try! The service is quick, and even though the line can get long, it moves fast. Great food, great value, and always satisfying! 🍜🍗✨“

“Fresh made to order Masubi“

“Please support your local businesses! This is a hidden gem and the food is delicious. The lady that waited on me was wonderful and informative. I had the Salmon Donburi (poke bowl) with the Miso soup (about 1/2 cup). For those of you who like the aesthetics of a meal, it was prepared in a delightful and beautiful manner. I felt bad that I had to eat the beautifully prepared dish. The soup was good and the Salmon donburi was salted to a perfection and the rest of the bowl (avocado, cabbage, greens) complemented it well.“

“My wife brought me here for my birthday. We got the sashimi plate (for 2). While delicious, it was not enough really for 2 people, so we got a salad, some butterfish and some extra toro. All were delicious, but we definitely had more room for desserts, which were tasty as well. In all, it was a good sushi experience and the restaurant deserves its good reputation.“

“I had an incredibly delicious and authentic Japanese tempura experience here. The service was also very attentive and friendly. I highly recommend ordering today's specials — they're absolutely worth it! The draft beer was fresh and delicious as well.“

“Best tsukamem! Large portion of noodles with excellent dipping sauce. Neighbors eating fried chicken and fries which looked delicious. One wait staff took care of the entire place with great efficiency. Would go back again.“

“There's not enough space to right the good things about this place. As soon as you walk in, you are greeted and acknowledged by everyone, including the sushi chefs. Water and drink order is perfectly timed. Whether you order teishoku complete meals or sushi, the flavor and and portions are spot on. If you choose to sit at the sushi counter, the spread is just amazing. From white fish, tuna, to shellfish and sometimes even a fruit or plant to cleanse the pallet. I would recommend reservations as this place is always busy. Takeout is also very good!“

“I was ono for some sushi and soki soup combo. So good.. just like baban used to make.?“

“お蕎麦はもちろん今回は雲丹、いくら、帆立の海鮮丼がとても美味しかったです。 ランチセットがリーズナブルです👍“

“Love the food. Delicious. Fresh and hot“

“Amazing experience! Great food and even better service! It was our first time here and we just walked in. Even without a reservation, Randy and the rest of the Mikiya Team really went above and beyond in terms of customer service! It is all you can eat Shabu Shabu and there are different tiers. Higher tiers give you more options such as A5 wagyu and can even be unlimited depending on the tier. We got the silver tier and it came with American and Australian Wagyu. Don’t skip out on the fried mini bun, you will regret not getting it! We will definitely come back here again! If dining with a big group of people, make a reservation. Also, they validate parking. Just be sure to show the host at the front, and do not end your parking time or else you will not be able to validate it.“

“This place was delicious! The Churry (curry/chili) was an interesting innovation that works out very well. The chicken katsu was sold out when we got there (only an hour after opening), so we got the Spam Katsu. If you order an extra side of small Churry you can share one plate with two people if you want to save money.“

“These are, without question, the best rice balls in Honolulu County — yes, the entire county. Period. Full stop.

Every single year I’m in Waikīkī, Nana Musubi is a must, and I come here at least three times in one week. These rice balls are beach-day perfection: I grab a few, head straight to the sand, and live my best life. Other days, I’ll take them right next door to Shanghai Bar in the same Asian food hall — elite pairing, no notes.

My go-to favorites:
• Pickled leaf with purple mixed rice (obsessed)
• Sour plum with white rice (perfectly balanced)
• Beef threads when I’m feeling savory

Honestly, every single one is amazing. I have yet to have a bad rice ball here — not one. I personally skip the tuna mayo only because I usually take these to the beach and don’t always eat them immediately, but everything else is absolutely good to go.

Simple. Fresh. Comforting. Addictive.

Five stars isn’t enough — I wish I could give five plus plus plus ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️➕➕➕
And the best part? I’ll officially be moving here in Spring 2026, which means Nana Musubi will be available to me anytime I want. A dream.“

“お蕎麦はもちろん今回は雲丹、いくら、帆立の海鮮丼がとても美味しかったです。 ランチセットがリーズナブルです👍“

“Perfect little place hidden downstairs at Asia stix, I went with Nikatama udon, and was not let down. The broth was rich and sweet, with the egg yolk decadent on the noodles I wanted a second serving, but knew I couldn’t finish for how filling it was. Overall staff and restaurant was very clean and the flow of process well organized. Going to hit up this place more!“

“Nice restaurant. We will definitely be back, bringing friends and family.“

“Take and go musubi !! Second location both close by!!“

“They had GOOD WAIT Services , FOOD WAS AUTHENTIC & DELICIOUS!!!I WILL RECOMMEND TO ALL MY FAMILY & FRIENDS TO DINE THERE!!!👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏AWESOME COOKS & RECIPES!!!“

“Excellent paitan ramen (rich chicken broth) and made-to-order homemade gyoza with an eclectic interior (guest drawings on the walls + anime on the projector screen).

Got the Paitan red ramen. Super flavourful and umami bomb broth. Nicely tender pork slices, and well-prepared onsen tamago.

Got the pesto gyoza per our server’s recommendation. Nice bouncy texture on the skin, good garlic flavoured filling, and nice pesto flavour on the sauce with shaved parm on top.

Umeshu black super nice and refreshing drink.

Jellyfish with wood ear and cucum was fantastic. Slight kick from the chili pepper. Hidden gem side dish.

Very friendly staff and helpful.

Worth a visit. Should’ve tried the Taki Gyoza (10 gyoza in paitan broth) but wasn’t super hungry.“

“The service and ambiance were the most memorable aspect from our visit. We rather enjoyed the engagement from our servers and appreciated the conversations. I've been various locations were they “optimize” the space but this restaurant successfully designed their floor plan from look down to feel. Unfortunately, there was notable dust collection on the decorations above otherwise I would consider perfect marks in this category. Most of my disappointment stems from the food, the portions were an enjoyable size although smaller than an a typical plate (not an issue). The taste left more to be desired. While my colleague found the beef curry enjoyable, I favored the honey toast but I would not call the food anything other than ordinary and satisfactory. It took some time to arrive and more to get taken from our table but worth the price paid. Overall, a new and inviting experience with good value food.“

“完璧な This is a favorite restaurant!“

“Second time here! Came Nov 2024 and now Dec 2025. While it was great value, I would have hoped for more nigiri prices, with less rice per piece. Also looked back at my pics from November and some pieces were the same. Not too sure how often the menu is supposed to change. My favorite was the mackerel, chu toro, and salmon. Can't go wrong with those! Our dessert was so good! It was a cute little spot tho! Service was good! Very tentative!“

“So delicious“

“Wow! What a find! The food was delicious! I had the kimchee pork bowl with Japanese potato salad and tossed salad. The portion sizes are perfect. Our food arrived hot and served quickly. I've never had Japanese potato salad and this one did not disappoint. Give this spot a try and you will have leftovers worth eating later! Definitely recommend this spot!“

“everything is handmade, the ingredients are fresh and high quality, staff are friendly. this place is so unique and a great date spot!♡“

“Sushi is so fresh and Good service“

“A fantastic experience, intimate and personable. The food had inventive and also very classic moments. It's advertised as being omakase with a Mexican influence, and i didn't find that to be very true. Maybe in a couple spots, but the food was fantastic and the staff skilled knowledgeable and attentive. 10/10 would do it again and would also refer anyone to this for a great experience“

“Finally got back to this place on a lunch run in Kalihi. When you want a hearty local style brekkie plate with the famous garlic chicken that will leave a lasting reminder when you burp all day this is the place yessa?

The place moved a couple years ago to a newer shopping plaza with ample parking across New City Nissan, and now accepts credit card and they also answer the phone to take phone orders so that helps make the lines here shorter... Iykyk.

I always get the Breakfast Combo special deluxe with garlic chicken, 2 bacon, scrambled eggs and fried rice. A classic local brekkie when youre hungry. Prices have gone up so its around $13 bucks plus tax but its comfort food. Support local.... 5 stars??“

“**edit 10/20** been here 2 more times now, its my go to lunch place when im in the area for authentic Japanese food? Tried their Tonkotsu ramen with side rice and gyoza, and also the Daily Special which was the Aimori bento (chicken karaage and ginger pork). Friendly service and food that is made to order??**

Legit little authentic Japanese diner/take out place that I stumbled upon looking for another restaurant in Honolulu. Located in the building with restaurants on King Street and Keeaumoku, where Sushi Sasabune is located. This place is at the end to the left.

There was a late lunch crowd when i walked in so took a little while to be seated. Note that this place is run by two people so if youre in a rush, this isnt the place for you as the food is prepared on order so it takes some time.

They were running a promotion the day i went, which was Niku no hi, or Meat Day where if you ordered a specific meal, you would get 150% more. Since it was my first time here, the waitress suggested the popular Karaage Fried Chicken Plate, which I gladly ordered.

Took a while for the meal to arrive since there were two parties seated in front of me, and their meals looked great too... Especially the ramen. When my meal arrived it was piping hot, the way I like it. Squeeze the lemon on and it came with a shoyu dipping sauce that I felt didnt need. The chicken was crisp, not oily and already marinated before fried just like you would eat in Japan.

There was more chicken than I could eat in one sitting so I took half of it home. Would recommend if in the area, Im sure their other dishes are excellent too?5 stars.

Parking: Free parking lot in the back of restaurant and street metered parking in front (free if on Sundays)“

“Authentic Okinawa food. Friendly attentive servers. Hot delicious food. . Option for complete meal. Daily Specials. Generous servings. Affordable prices. Can make reservations.“

“very healthy for lunch and dinner. if you love sashimi with your salad check this place out. The white dressing is killahs.“

“Comfort home meals at a reasonable price never seen anywhere in a long time. Looks like prices have not gone up much in a few years. Food is truly taste like a home meal. Enough variety between rice bowls, ramen, sashimi, maki, salads, and a few other item I can't remember from the menu and a few desserts. Only one server. But, very fast and friendly service. A gem 💎. Reservations are recomened as walking for tables fill out fast. Specially during UH games. Or, come in earlier for sitting. Looks like only street parking.“

“The food quality here is exceptional — everything tasted fresh, clean, and carefully prepared. The tempura came out perfectly crisp, the sides were balanced and flavorful, and the matcha dessert was a standout: smooth, refreshing, and beautifully presented with fresh fruit.

Service was quick, friendly, and professional. The staff made the experience easy and enjoyable, and the atmosphere is calm and welcoming — perfect for a mid-day meal.

Highly recommend Rinka if you’re looking for great Japanese food in Honolulu. I’ll definitely be coming back.“

“Nice atmosphere and tasty food 🍱“

“It feels like a bar with lots of floor space. I had the impression that they were missing a billiard table or 2 in the middle of the restaurant, or perhaps a low height stage for karaoke. We went for lunch and sat at a table near the bar counter where 2 other patrons popped up onto stools and ordered wine with their sushi lunches. We chose the chirashi sushi. The quantity of food is unbelievable. I can see why local people love this place. The reason why I give this a 4 vs. a 5 is that the sashimi was of variable quality.“

“October 2025, update. I wish they would allow sitting or waiting space inside the restaurant. It's hot and stink outside with many flys bothering everyone who is waiting.

Kokoro-tei used to be my favorite bento place for the Nori Kara, the Nori Kara Deluxe and Nori Salmon Deluxe costing really cheap and containing lots of food for the price. Before and during covid, they closed their waikiki location and became exclusively a take out place. After covid, you can only step inside a few feet, order and wait outside.

My advice, check their website for daily specials and call it in. I've called my order in and also ordered in person. I have to say, the wait outside...is of significant time, roughly 20 to 30 mins for your food (my orders are typical one item). That's because they get lots of orders per day, so the wait can be very long.

In general service is typically slow.

For atmosphere, I wish they allowed space inside their shop to wait. During the day, and waiting outside, it's hot and often smells/stinks. Some hang out in their cars and come back when its ready.

Anyways, good bento place. Best to call in and pick up. There is no sit down place to eat, take out only.“

“It’s always a great experience at Tanaka of Tokyo East location! We had a table to ourselves this time which was lovely! We’ve seen the show many times so this was actually a nice change to just enjoy a nice meal. Joe and Eddie were great! Loved Eduard, the manager. Had a nice conversation about the old days when this was located at Kings Village. Thanks again!!“

“Amazing dining experience.“

“Had the fried fish namban mini, which was excellent, cooked to perfection. The menu here is similar to what you’d find in an L&L with some additional options from Kyushu. Essentially, it’s Japanese higher quality with smaller portion size, relative to a typical L&L. Definitely repeatable. Cash Only.

5/1/25 Update: Had the fried fish curry mini for $9.25. Excellent! Curry has genuine Japanese taste and fish was fried just right. Later, I’ll have to try Chicken Katsu Don, Tan Tan Mian, the Tempura Mix. You can taste the chef’s pride in cooking it just right.“

“Love the variety of noodles n the texture n flavors yum!“

“A very affordable Japanese bbq!! Different from AYCE, the menu offers meat in sets and they have a special deal for Decemebr - which $10 for a full set for the top blade! It totaled to $50 for the two of us, which is really affordable compared to other bbq places.

My favorites were the skirt steak and premium kalbi short rib - it was super tender and juicy. I also really like the sauce offerings - notably the garlic crunch and the sweet/tangy sauce. Overall, it’s an amazing affordable spot if you’re craving meat!!!“

“Ah what a gem. Just randomly found this place on my way back to Waikiki.

I got the Hawaiian plate. The Lau Lau was so tender and flavorful. It’s probably one of the best ones I’ve had.

The saimin was also perfectly flavorful and comforting.

I want to go back try other dishes now!

It’s a small place but there are about 2-3 tables that you can also sit and eat. It’s cash only.“