ALOHA!
When you picture Hawaii, what comes to mind? Perhaps it's miles-long white sandy beaches with swaying palm trees, secluded waterfalls beneath gorgeous sunsets, or breathtaking scenery of crashing waves against millions-year-old volcanic cliffs along tranquil coastlines. While these are all greatly appreciated, Hawaii offers something more. Its ultimate cultural diversity and the gastronomic sensation connect us all through ono'licious food culture, enriching your journey and leaving you saying "broke da mouth"!
During your stay on the tropical island, be sure to visit these 17 recommended eateries and gourmet spots. They are highly popular and draw massive visitor traffic, many are located in close proximity to popular attractions. Please coordinate your schedule accordingly to make the most of your visit.
1. Iconic Hawaiian Feast - Helena's Hawaiian Food
For a meal that truly represents the Rainbow State, look no further than Helena's Hawaiian Food. This iconic gourmet restaurant is at the top of the Hawaiian gastronomic bucket list for foodies around the world. Their combo dishes, which include kalua pork, chicken long rice, squid lu'au, laulau, lomi lomi salmon, and poi (a traditional staple food in Polynesian diets), offer an authentic Hawaiian food experience and introduce you to the true taste of the islands and interconnected cultures.
Located near Downtown Honolulu by public transit, Helena's is a great stop on the way back from Pearl Harbor if you schedule that trip early in the morning. Please keep in mind that due to its extreme popularity, you may have to wait for hours for a table. However, the "ono" experience is second to none, and it's worth waiting for as long as it takes!
Price Level: $$
Price per person: $10 - $20
Ambiance: ❀❀❀
Address: 1240 N School St, Honolulu, HI 96817, United States
Overall Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (4.6 / 5.0)
2. Ono'licious Poke Combo - Ono Seafood
You can't leave Hawaii without having its freshly made poke. For ridiculously fresh seafood marinated in traditional Japanese and fusion island-flavored sauces, head to Ono's Seafood. The most popular dishes are the ahi poke, made with yellowfin tuna marinated in spicy mayo and shoyu sauce, as well as the miso tako, which features sliced fresh raw octopus marinated in miso glaze. You can order a combo poke served on a bowl of rice, perfect for a takeout family picnic at beach. We packed both dishes along with Loco Moco (#3 below) and headed to Le'ahi Beach Park for lunch at the waterfront.
Located near Diamond Head State Monument, Ono's Seafood is within the short walking distance from various Waikiki resorts. Conveniently, it's also situated on Kapahulu Street, where many of my recommendations below are located, and it's the neighbor to the famous Waiola Shave Ice. Just keep in mind that street parking might be limited.
Price Level: $
Price per person: $10 - $20
Ambiance: ❀❀❀
Address: 747 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816, United States
Overall Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (4.8 / 5.0)
3. Hearty Hawaiian Platter - Rainbow Drive-In
When you visit Hawaii, be prepared to indulge in hearty and comforting meals that your tummy will appreciate. One must-try dish is the Loco Moco, a hearty plate of gluttonous satisfaction consisting of a large hamburger patty on a bed of rice, topped with a fried egg with a running yolk, and smothered in gravy. You might need to hibernate after this meal, but it's all worth it! Treat yourself to this comfort food at the famous Rainbow Drive-In.
Located on the block between Kanaina Ave and Kapahulu Street, just a few blocks away from Ono Seafood, Rainbow Drive-In is the perfect spot to grab lunch and go, along with other gourmet dishes from the street. Take your feast to one of the beach parks and enjoy!
Price Level: $
Price per person: $10 - $20
Ambiance: ❀❀❀
Address: 3308 Kanaina Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, United States
Overall Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (4.6 / 5.0)
4. North Shore's Treasure - Giovanni's Shrimp Truck
When you think of North Shore, you think of iconic surfing pipelines, breathtaking beaches, and a unique culture of shrimp trucks. The crown jewel of them all is Giovanni's Shrimp Truck, whose truck is covered in signatures and messages from customers around the world. Just grab their signature dish of Shrimp Scampi and some Lemon Butter Shrimps, and your day will be made! The dish comes with a dozen of shrimps and tons of garlic, and 2 scoops of rice with greasy butter sauce and even more garlic!
Located on the King Kamehameha Highway in Hale'iwa, parking can be a real challenge. Leave your car at the Hale'iwa Ali'i Beach Park and take a 20-minute stroll to the shrimp truck. Trust me, you'll appreciate the shrimp platter even more! The atmosphere is great, probably the only truck in the area that has a long queue. Bring cash as they only accept cash as the payment method.
Price Level: $$
Price per person: $20 - $30
Ambiance: ❀❀
Address: 66-472 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712, United States
Overall Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (4.3 / 5.0)
5. Best Vietnamese Gourmet in Town - The Pig and The Lady
Indulge yourself in Southeast Asian-inspired cuisine at The Pig and the Lady, a top gourmet restaurant in Downtown Honolulu. Their Laotian Fried Chicken and Shigoku Oysters make for mouth-watering starters, while the Deluxe Pho Noodle Soup and Pho French Dip Banh Mi Sandwiches are must-try mains.
As with many top eateries in the city, parking can be a challenge. Opt for affordable parking in commercial centers or take public transit to nearby attractions like Chinatown and Iolani Royal Palace. Be sure to reserve your table online to avoid long queues, as the restaurant can get packed easily.
Price Level: $$$
Price per person: $50 - $100
Ambiance: ❀❀❀❀❀
Address: 83 N King St, Honolulu, HI 96817, United States
Overall Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (4.8 / 5.0)
7. Beloved Japanese Noodle House - Marukame Udon
If you are looking for a comforting Japanese meal in the heart of Waikiki, Marukame Udon on Kuhio Ave is the perfect spot. The large bowls of udon noodles in warm broth and the extensive selection of crispy tempura toppings are sure to brighten up your day after a long day of activities and exploration, whether it be hiking or enjoying the ocean.
As the noodle house is located on the bustling Kuhio Ave, it's recommended to avoid trying to find parking and instead take public transportation or walk if possible. The restaurant is conveniently located near many Waikiki resorts and a 10-minute walk from the beach and waterfront. Keep in mind that in the evenings, the restaurant can get quite busy with long queues of customers, but the wait is definitely worth it. So just slurp your noodles and tempura toppings to your heart's content!
Price Level: $
Price per person: $10 - $20
Ambiance: ❀❀❀❀
Address: 2310 Kūhiō Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815, United States
Overall Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (4.7 / 5.0)
8. Fun Conveyor Belt Sushi Experience - Genki Sushi
If you're a fan of sushi or want to try it out in Honolulu, you'll love the fun dining experience of Kaiten Sushi. The mini-train conveyor belt system delivers your ordered sushi in just minutes, making it a quick and enjoyable meal. You are able to order sushi using tablets and prices are based on the color of plates. Amazing food and place for the money!
One of the best Kaiten sushi chains on Oahu is Genki Sushi, which has multiple locations across the island. My personal favorite is the Kapahulu Street location, which is conveniently located just a few blocks away from Ono Seafood. Plus, there's a large parking lot available for your convenience. Use Google Maps to find the nearest location and treat yourself to some delicious sushi!
Price Level: $$
Price per person: $20 - $30
Ambiance: ❀❀❀
Address: 888 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816, United States
Overall Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (4.6 / 5.0)
9. Ice Cream Heaven - Dole Plantation + Matsumoto's Shave Ice
Looking for a refreshing cold treat on a hot day? Look no further than the Dole Plantation on North Shore, where you can indulge in all things pineapple. From freshly sliced pineapple to pineapple juice, to pineapple-infused chocolates and even pineapple burgers, this is the ultimate destination for pineapple lovers. The real star of the show is the deluxe ice cream made from pineapple juice and topped with chunks of frozen pineapple. It's the perfect way to cool down after a day of exploring North Shore. And if you're traveling with kids, this is a must-stop destination that will keep everyone happy and satisfied. Don't miss it!
Price Level: $
Price per person: $10 - $20
Ambiance: ❀❀
Address: 64-1550 Kamehameha Hwy, Wahiawa, HI 96786, United States
Overall Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (4.3 / 5.0)
If you still have space for more ice cream and Japanese sweet treats, make sure to stop by Matsumoto Shave Ice, located on the same street as Giovanni's Shrimp Truck. This iconic spot is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Oahu, and their shave ice is truly unbeatable. Don't miss out on their ultimate matcha special and azuki combo, complete with a scoop of ice cream, mochi balls, and syrup. But be prepared for a long queue - this place is a hot spot and always busy. But it's totally worth the wait, I am telling you!
Price Level: $
Price per person: $10 - $20
Ambiance: ❀❀❀
Address: 66-111 Kamehameha Hwy #605, Haleiwa, HI 96712, United States
Overall Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (4.6 / 5.0)
10. Hidden Gem in North Shore - Hale'iwa's Açaí Bowl
If you're looking for a healthy and refreshing breakfast or snack while in Hawaii, you can't go wrong with açaí bowls. These are available everywhere on the island made with fresh, organic ingredients. One of the best places and a hidden gem to try them is at Hale'iwa Açaí Bowl, conveniently located just a 2-minute walk from Matsumoto Shave Ice.
In addition to their delicious açaí bowls, they also offer a variety of other healthy options to power up your day. Their ingredients are always fresh, and they also offer fresh juices, fruit bowls, smoothies, and cold-brew coffees. If you're looking for something more filling, the Paniolo peanut butter bowl is a sweet and satisfying choice after a day at the beach. Their Blue Majik, Local and Green bowls are also fresh and delicious favorites worth trying.
Price Level: $$
Price per person: $10 - $20
Ambiance: ❀❀❀
Address: 66-030 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712, United States
Overall Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (4.7 / 5.0)
11. Deluxe Hawaiian Comfort Food - Zippy's
Looking for something different from the usual fast-casual chains on the island? Zippy's is a must-visit spot for anyone curious about local Hawaiian cuisine. Zippy's is known for serving up hearty comfort food, with a menu that spans from breakfast to dinner. Some of the most popular dishes include the Zip Pac Deluxe Combo, which is a platter that includes a variety of local favorites like teriyaki beef, fried chicken, and spam musubi. Other notable dishes include chili and rice, saimin (a Hawaiian-style noodle soup), freshly made omelets, and the Portuguese sausage breakfast plate.
In addition to its classic menu items, Zippy's also offers a variety of seasonal specials and rotating dishes. The restaurant has also expanded its offerings in recent years to include more health-conscious options like salads and sandwiches. Zippy's is a beloved institution in Hawaii, with many locals considering it an essential part of the state's culinary landscape. There are multiple Zippy's locations in town, we visited the one also located on Kapahulu Street, just a few blocks away from Ono Seafood.
Price Level: $$
Price per person: $10 - $20
Ambiance: ❀❀❀
Address: 601 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, United States
Overall Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (4.3 / 5.0)
12. Premium Hawaiian Roasted Pork Sandwiches - Kono's
Kono's is a popular eatery with multiple locations in Oahu. The restaurant is known for its laid-back vibe, friendly service, and delicious food, especially its roasted pork sandwiches. Kono's offers a menu full of local favorites and classic American dishes, with a focus on using fresh and locally sourced ingredients. You can enjoy your meals in a relaxed atmosphere, with indoor and outdoor seating options that provide stunning views of the ocean and world-famous surf breaks. Whether you're looking for a quick bite to eat or a leisurely meal with friends and family, Kono's is a must-visit spot while you are in town.
Hawaii's food culture is known for its sophisticated preparation and unique palate for pork cuisine. Kono's offers the best slow-roasted pork sandwiches, platters, and handcrafted milkshakes in the area. To fully experience the flavors of Hawaii, try Kono's signature Haleiwa Bomber, Old School and Triple Crown pulled pork sandwiches, along with their Mud Pie and Oreo Cheesecake shakes. Be prepared for a heavy, hearty meal that may put you into a food coma. If you're planning to visit Kailua, consider hiking the nearby Lanikai Pillbox Trail or relaxing at the beautiful Lanikai Beach to burn some calories after indulging in Kono's.
One fun fact about Kono's is that if you get a tattoo of their surfing piggy logo, you can receive a lifetime discount of 50% off menu items.
Price Level: $$
Price per person: $10 - $20
Ambiance: ❀❀❀
Address: 131 Hekili St #102, Kailua, HI 96734, United States
Overall Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (4.8 / 5.0)
13. Fine Japanese Dining at TsuruTonTan Honolulu
Hawaiian Japanese food is a unique and delicious fusion of traditional Japanese cuisine and local Hawaiian ingredients and flavors. The combination of fresh seafood, locally sourced produce, and Japanese cooking techniques has created a distinct culinary style that is popular throughout Hawaii. Right in the center of Waikiki, it boasts an array of glittering, fancy, and posh restaurants that can satisfy any vacation cravings, and you will find some dazzling, posh Japanese restaurants worth visiting.
One of the unique options is TsuruTonTan Honolulu in the Royal Hawaiian Center, which serves up delicious, innovative Japanese cuisine. Their specialty udon noodle bowls are particularly impressive, as they are generously portioned and packed with unique flavors. The restaurant offers a great ambiance and a supreme dining experience for your families, couples, or anyone looking for a special meal. The sharing experience of specialty udon dishes is truly unique to TsuruTonTan and is sure to leave a lasting impression. Be sure to try the Uni Cream Udon and Uni Ikura Scallop Udon, and don't forget about those delectable appetizers to satisfy your cravings for the day.
Price Level: $$
Price per person: $20 - $30
Ambiance: ❀❀❀❀❀
Address: 2233 Kalākaua Ave B310, Honolulu, HI 96815, United States
Overall Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (4.7 / 5.0)
14. Perfect Artisanal Treats/Gifts!! - Honolulu Cookie Co.
Hawaii has developed a thriving cacao farming ecosystem and built a strong chocolate culture across all its islands. Hawaii remains the best place in the United States for visitors to learn about chocolate. The abundant production of macadamia nuts and the associated chocolate products have attracted global travelers looking to acquire perfect gift boxes for their trips home.
One of the top gourmet chocolate chains on the island is the Honolulu Cookie Company, known for its iconic pineapple-shaped cookies. It offers a wide variety of cookies in flavors such as pineapple, macadamia nut, and Kona coffee. Each cookie is handcrafted with care and uses only the finest ingredients, including locally sourced butter and fresh fruits and nuts. Whether you're a cookie connoisseur or simply looking for a sweet, artisanal treat to bring back home to share with your family and friends, Honolulu Cookie Co. is a must-visit destination for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Price Level: $$
Price per person: $20 - $30
Ambiance: ❀❀❀❀
Address: 2424 Kalākaua Ave #106, Honolulu, HI 96815, United States
Overall Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (4.5 / 5.0)
15. TipsyTip: For Lovers of Sunset, Tiki, and Mai Tai - Duke's
Looking for some tropical drink inspiration? Look no further! No trip to Hawaii is complete without trying the island's signature cocktail, the Mai Tai. Made with rum, orange curacao liqueur, orgeat syrup, and lime juice, this ono'licious drink is a staple of tiki culture and a must-try for anyone looking to experience the best of Hawaiian hospitality. Each sip is a reminder of the island's unique characteristics, cultures, and way of life. So, whether you're relaxing on the beach, soaking up the sun, or enjoying a night out on the town, make sure to order a Mai Tai and raise a glass to the beauty and warmth of Hawaii. Cheers!
Are you a fan of Elvis Presley and his iconic film, Blue Hawaii? Then you already know that the Mai Tai has been a staple of Hawaiian and pop culture for over half a century. If you're looking for the perfect spot to sip on this classic cocktail while enjoying some beachfront dining and people-watching, you gotta visit Duke's Waikiki. With its laid-back tiki vibes, umbrella drinks, and delicious seafood selections, Duke's is the ultimate destination for those looking to soak up the best of Hawaii's sun, surf, and Mai Tais. So grab a seat, sit back, and relax - the ultimate island experience is waiting for you at Duke's.
Price Level: $$$
Price per person: $30 - $50
Ambiance: ❀❀❀❀❀
Address: 2335 Kalākaua Ave #116, Honolulu, HI 96815, United States
Overall Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (4.6 / 5.0)
16. Q: What's Better Than A Donut? A: Hawaiian Malasada!
One of the tasty, unique treats you'll find in Hawaii is the malasada - a Portuguese cousin of the classic American donut. And if you're looking for the best malasadas on the island, there's no better place than Leonard's Bakery. Located just a few blocks away from other iconic dining destinations like Rainbow Drive-In and Ono's Seafood on Kapahulu Street, Leonard's deep-fried, fluffy dough balls of heaven are coated in glittering sugar and are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. So if you're looking for a truly indulgent treat that captures the cultural diversity and culinary excellence of Hawaii, head to Leonard's Bakery and taste the magic of malasadas for yourself!
Price Level: $
Price per person: $5 - $10
Ambiance: ❀❀
Address: 933 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816, United States
Overall Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (4.4 / 5.0)
17. You Can't Leave the Island w/o it! - The Lu'au
If you're seeking an immersive cultural experience in Hawaii, the Polynesian Cultural Center is a must-visit. While there, don't miss out on the authentic Lu'au experience, where you'll be transported back in time to learn about the rich history and traditions of Polynesian tribal cultures. Not only is it an incredible learning opportunity, but it's also a non-profit center with a mission to preserve and celebrate these cultures for future generations.
At this Lu'au Show & Buffet, you'll enjoy the island's top-performing Hawaiian dances while learning about Hawaiian traditional food culture, pork roasting techniques, and ingredient preparations. And the feast? It's a mega-size celebration of Polynesian cuisine that's not to be missed. After dinner, you'll be invited to attend the classic show, Hā: Breath of Life, a Polynesian song-and-dance revue that's authentically demonstrated in a Bollywood-style extravaganza. Be sure to check online or contact your resort for ticket packages and make the most of your cultural experience in Hawaii.
All in all, Hawaiian culinary culture is a unique blend of various influences, reflecting the island's diverse history and cultural heritage. From traditional dishes like poke and kalua pork to fusion cuisine like spam musubi and loco moco, Hawaiian cuisine offers a delicious and fascinating glimpse into the island's culture.
Whether you're a foodie looking to indulge in new flavors or simply curious about the local cuisine, Hawaii's food culture is sure to leave you satisfied and wanting more. Mahalo for joining me on this culinary journey through Hawaii!
TipsyMonkey
Honolulu, Hawaii, United States. 2019