50 Best American Restaurants near Waimanalo

“After spending the morning at Kaiona Beach Park with my cat, Laki, we stopped by Keneke’s for lunch and had such a wonderful experience. The outdoor seating area felt very pet-friendly, and everyone was incredibly warm and welcoming 🐾

I ordered the Coconut Shrimp lunch special, and it was honestly some of the best coconut shrimp I’ve had on Oʻahu. The shrimp were incredibly crispy, packed with real coconut flavor, and clearly made fresh to order. It took a little longer to prepare, but it was absolutely worth the wait.

The lunch special came with rice, macaroni salad, and a drink for only $13.60, which feels almost unbelievable compared to Waikiki prices these days. The portions were huge!! I ended up taking leftovers home and still had food left in my fridge later that day.

The cashier was especially friendly and welcoming. You can tell this is a place loved by locals, but it also feels comfortable and inviting for first-time visitors.

When we arrived, we were lucky and there was no line. By the time we finished ordering, a crowd had formed behind us, which says a lot about how popular this place is. If you’re visiting around lunchtime, be prepared for a wait, but the food is definitely worth it 🥰😸

We’ll absolutely be back. Mahalo! 🌺

📍 IG / YT : @oahutabbycats“

“A wonderful experience at Maze in Honolulu, largely thanks to the exceptionally warm service, strong flavor and sauce work, and consistently good dishes from beginning to dessert.

What sticks in our mind were the oyster (meaty oyster that didn't feel powdery as some larger ones do, balanced but not overwhlemed by the sauce on top), the basil jook that came with the scallop dish (so well developed), the Washugyu and daikon broth that came with the main.

Also want to compliment the pacing of the meal as we never felt like we were waiting for a long time for any of the dishes. Pretty much perfectly well paced for preferences.

Overall, adding in everything into the experience would not hesitate to come back here again.“

“Great atmosphere, really good food, outstanding staff!“

“Outside table for one at lunch time. Korean barbecue chicken sandwich. Excellent, delicious and messie to eat. I would order again.“

“So welcoming ❤️ simple dinner or a drink at night next to the beach, priceless“

“We had two fantastic meals here during our time in Hawaii! Looking forward to coming again!“

“We were fortunate to grab seats at the bar before a show at the Blaisdell. Beautiful atmosphere, very attentive server/bartender (Kalei), amazing food options and lovely hand mixed cocktails. We were pleasantly surprised and will return!“

“Icon scene on Waikiki Beach! Top notch service. 🌺“

“My daughter asked to come here every morning for our trip. Chris and the day crew were very welcoming and exceptional. 💯our favorite spot!“

“Senia delivers an exceptional dining experience, with attentive, polished service and an intimate ambiance—especially with the option to sit at the chef’s counter and watch the kitchen at work.

The ahi cigar and triple-smoked salmon were highlights. The interplay of textures, aromas, and contrasting flavor notes throughout the meal was thoughtful and beautifully executed. There is a clear sense of creativity and technical precision behind the food.

One minor refinement: some dishes leave guests to construct their own bites. A more controlled composition could better showcase the chef’s intended balance of flavors and textures. Overall, an inventive, refined, and memorable experience deserving of five stars.“

“Old review from 2024 -> Best burger I’ve ever had in my entire life. I’m not just trying to hype up this place just because they’re a local business. Seriously the burgers are out of this world. I’ve been to so many burger trucks/restaurants in the island/ Continental USA/ Other countries. And no one has ever made me such a delicious burger. 10/10. These burgers are worth every penny.

Edited : 8/3/26. I stopped by for ur reopening with ur new truck. I’ll miss seeing the small rainbow 🌈 truck since I live close by but I’m really happy for the success of this family business. Now with a bigger truck, you can do much more :). I always recommend this place to family/friends and visitors. Congrats from a silent supporter. I enjoyed the burger and fries yet once again.

— Don’t forget to tip“

“The BEST on OAHU! Wish we had this in LA!“

“The Food Company is amazing in that it offers an expansive menu, PLUS the best service and kindness in working with special current food restrictions. The food for our recent party with guests from our islands, plus mainland cities and Australia, called for varied tastes. The Food Company offered perfect selections, getting raves!! Everything was delicious. Fair prices and excellent value!!“

“The best High Tea we've had, including The Fairmont in a few key cities. Excellent!!“

“👍 Delicious meals. Nice and attentive service.“

“we have eaten there twice once for dinner the chicken and rice in pineapple so delicious and for breakfast a ham egg and cheese croissant the were big portions would highly recommend“

“Used to be a pool hall bar back in the day called Amy's Place. What an interior transformation! Cool to have a vintage tavern in the throngs of Honolulu! We went for Sunday Brunch...the menu is extensive. We are picky eaters. It is rare we had so many items we liked on the menu. We had the lamb sandwich and the crab cake benedict. Both were delicious. So were the roasted potatoes and French fries! We love to eat and have tried nearly every restaurant in the Chinatown/downtown neighborhood. There are few we return to. We will be back and soon. Last but certainly not least the service was wonderful. Sophia has a lovely demeanor and met all our needs.“

“My husband was in search of some good fish in Waikiki. We stumbled upon this place and decided to give it a try. I’m not a seafood person so I got the chicken pasta and he tried snapper for the first time. Both of us were blown away by how tasty everything was. The portions were huge too! Out of all the places we had been to during our trip, this place is at the top. Even as a non fish eater, I loved it! There can be a wait, but it is well worth it. Try it, you’ll love it.“

“We celebrated a big anniversary at Pai and WOW - they made it extra special. We did the four course menu with wine pairings. The service was top notch. The food was inspired, creative, delicious, and locally sourced. Though the portions of each dish looked small, it was more than enough food and so delicious you wanted to eat every bite! The wine pairings were spot on, absolutely perfect with our chosen courses. The space has such a lovely vibe - clean and modern, but comfortable and well appointed. There really isn't another dining experience quite like this on the island. Justine and Kevin have created such a beautiful place with incredible food and service. Pai is definitely a must-try restaurant. We will definitely be back.“

“Vandaag geweest met een vriendin We werden geholpen door bas Wat een aanwinst En het brood carpaccio ...heerlijk“

“We visited Easyque recently and I’ve been craving the food ever since!! Absolutely everything was delicious! 😋 😍“

“We loved both the food and the wine and the service. The place is gorgeous too. We had a wonderful time.“

“Food is absolutely delicious!... Anyday, any special“

“South Shore Grill has been part of my routine for close to 20 years. It’s a family‑run business with a lot of heart, and I’ve watched the owners’ kids grow up working behind the counter. The food is consistently good, the prices are fair, and there’s a great variety to choose from. It’s an easy stop before the beach or park, or the perfect place to refuel after a day in the surf. My go‑to is always the fish burrito. The cajun seasoning and macnut pesto are always on point. Truly one of those local spots that feels like part of the community.“

“Great place. I stop in most days. Very friendly employees that remember you. When I have large orders for work, they get it done pretty fast too! :)“

“Best place to eat in Kāneʻohe Food is great. Service is fast and friendly Served with aloha Lots of parking Live music on Sat. & Sun mornings.“

“Absolutely our best meal in Hawaii. The right choice to celebrate a special occasion. Our experience was so wonderful, food, wine, atmosphere all made for the best evening. Our server, Julian was absolutely top notch, extremely friendly, attentive, and was just so happy to engage ensuring the celebration was more than we expected. Kudos he deserves it. Highly recommend this place. Will definitely be back.“

“Amazing dinner and friendly staff from bar to dining room! Our must every time we visit Oahu!“

“Great atmosphere! Staff was wonderful! Recommend you give it a try!“

“We just came back to the US after a long trip to Europe and Asia so we decided to go back to Yardhouse for their happy hour. We ordered our usual poke nachos with Tomato bisque. We dunk our nachos on the bisque and it’s the best ever snack! I also ordered their chicken wrap, also good the chicken was well seasoned and tender. We ate at the bar area outside. The inside looked a little dark and dated not really very inviting for eating. But our food is great and our server is very friendly!“

“Great wine pairing dinners!!!!! And always a fabulous sunset. What more could you want these days?“

“One of the better Hard Rock Cafes I've eaten at. Our party ordered a burger and a couple fajitas. Food was served quickly and was very tasty. Prices were reasonable by Waikīkī standards, felt we got good value. Decor was engaging, particularly the wave of guitars sculpture. Would eat here again.“

“Definitely the Hawaiian Eggs Benedict with toast, the fried ice cream. the tarot pina colada, etc... you will not be disappointed with anything you order. Also, don't get me started with the service. Plz ask for Jessica. That girl deserves a raise or a promotion.“

“Wonderful experience! From the friendly staff to the great tasting food I highly recommend this place!! Must try the jalapeño & bacon fried rice and all pancakes. (Had seconds of it) Olani St location.“

“best breakfast sandwiches and French toast I ever had! Ono af“

“Fun time at the club. More people (50+) than I thought would be there. Everyone was having a good time and enjoying karaoke night. The service was excellent! Typical bar food, but it was good. Overall my wife and I had a good time. As a retiree it was fun to be around active duty members again. Stay safe Marines!“

“Cozy atmosphere and welcoming vibe. The food is top notch and the service is amazing. A must stop if you like enjoy eating ono food with local flair.“

“Fresh seafood prepared how you like it! Delicious and a must if you are in Maui. I had the Ono in white wine,garlic and butter. Served over Cajun rice. The portions are very generous.“

“Great coffee hash brown you have to pay extra not good“

“We enjoyed the amazing food and aesthetic here! 10/10 recommend.“

“So good! Driving up to the North Shore from the airport we wanted something local. Family owned. No frills just awesome chicken. So juicy. We all had sandwiches and the pulled chicken is more like chunks with some pulled. Not overly shredded. And not doused with sauce. Just a nice enhancement. We had the melts and they were delicious. The bread is crusty but soft inside. An easy bite. And my son loved his Cajun fries. Off street parking in the rear.“

“Great atmosphere great food“

“First time here. Was delicious and surprised me that a good breakfast was right here at Windward Mall Ruby Tuesday. I had the deconstructed Loco Moco. The hamburger patty was spot on. Go try it out. Ask for Brandon. Unless you goin complain then ask for Nick.“

“The service and the food was excellent. we loved the outdoor seating. we will definitely be back before we leave the island. I highly recommend it. We had the breakfast and my wife was already talking about going back for dinner“

“This was one of the best meals we had on our Hawaii trip and I wish we couldve returned. We ordered the Shrimp nest appetizer, Mapo tofu, and Banana flower salad. You could really tell everything was prepared with care and the flavors were delightful. I particularly enjoyed the refreshing balance of herbs in the banana flower salad, the warm earthy spice of the Mapo tofu, and the shrimp nest had a crispy outside yet rippy wrapped noodle texture that was so unique! Never had anything like it before. Perfectly filling portions, great value, and a family owned vibe with friendly service! So glad we decided to try it!!!“

“Great service and delicious food! 🩷“

“This place is so good! We are visiting from Arizona and I would eat at this place every time I come back. Priced right, made fresh, flavors are perfect. I had the Wago Loco Moco and my husband had the Steak Plate (Large). Absolutely loved wonderful. We leave in 5 days and we will be back before we head home.“

“The most amazing food! Poke nachos were to die for and went perfectly with the coconut mojito. Ate here two nights in a row and will probably be back one more time before leaving!“

“We stop by here about once a month. The owner/bartender (Eddie) is the main reason he has such a following. The bartop is usually full on a weekend, but there are plenty of seats and tables in the dining area. Bar food favorites include the deep fried pork belly, wings & fries, tots, maxwell polish dog. Their homeade hot sauce is amazing. Drink prices are reasonable. Bottles & cans only. No drafts. Great bourbon & whiskey selection. Street parking is a bit of a challenge. However, there are several city municipal parking lots nearby for about $3-5 for a 4-5 hour stay.“