Check out the best places to eat in Waikiki next time you’re on Oahu, Hawaii!
One of my favorite things about traveling is experiencing all the different types of cuisines worldwide.
Hawaii is a beautiful blend of cultures and flavors, and Waikiki is no exception—here, you can find a little bit of everything from local Hawaiian cuisine to international dishes.
With all the fresh ingredients, every meal seems like a five-star experience.
There are only so many meals in the day, but I tried as many places as possible, and I’m excited to share all my picks for the best places to eat in Waikiki!
Looking for things to do when not dining at the best places to eat in Waikiki? Book below through GetYourGuide:
17 Best Places to Eat in Waikiki
1. La Mer
La Mer is the epitome of fine dining on the island of Oahu, making it one of the best places to eat in Waikiki.
They provide exceptional service and exquisite cuisine, and you can enjoy the stunning views while savoring the fresh seafood.
Whether it’s a special occasion or an evening out with friends, the La Mer dining experience will leave you in awe.
To experience La Mer’s best flavors, try the Foie Gras—its unparalleled taste will melt in your mouth and leave you wanting more.
You can select from various breads, including brioche or mini-baguettes, as an accompaniment.
Lobster lovers will be wowed by the perfectly cooked seafood in the signature Lobster Consomme dish.
Each dish is artfully presented and made with only the freshest ingredients.
La Mer also offers fine wines you can pair with your Hawaiian food or have their mixologist whip up a special cocktail just for you!
2. La Vie
La Vie, located on the Ritz-Carlton’s eighth floor, offers an open-air dining room serving modern French cuisine and cocktails with a mesmerizing view of Waikiki and Diamond Head.
Come for the ambiance, or stay for the food—either way, this is one of the best restaurants in Waikiki.
Indulge in a spectacular three or 4-course prix fixe menu with appetizers and entrees like fried frog legs, escargot, and dry-aged duck a l’orange topped off with berbere spice.
Those with a sweet tooth will love the Honoka’a Chocolate Dessert, exploding with rich flavors.
Or, if you’d like to sip on a creative concoction made with the freshest ingredients, La Vie’s signature cocktails will have your taste buds in heaven.
Additionally, the restaurant is an entryway to Sushi Sho, one of my other favorite restaurants on this list.
3. Hula Grill Waikiki
Hula Grill is ideal for admiring Waikiki Beach and the surrounding landscape while enjoying a delicious meal.
This restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including traditional Hawaiian dishes infused with multicultural flavors and ingredients.
You can find everything here, from spicy tuna sushi to the infamous Hula Grill Burger sandwich and the crunchy Kiawe-smoked short rib dish. I always love their fresh fish options.
The atmosphere is second to none, with acoustic island music playing in the background during happy hour and gentle ocean waves lulling you into relaxation as you dine.
Hula Grill has something for every budget with affordable daily lunch specials like Loco Moco, Teriyaki Chicken Bowls, and Korean Chicken Bowls.
Save room for a slice of Hula Pie, an incredible combination of ice cream, hot fudge, and chocolate shell covered with Macadamia Nuts—I’m still dreaming of this dessert!
4. Sushi Sho
Immerse yourself in a remarkable Edo-style Omakase experience curated by renowned Iron Chef Japan and world-class sushi chef Keiji Nakazawa at Sushi Sho.
With 40 types of fresh fish available at this Ritz-Carlton restaurant, you’re in for a one-of-a-kind treat.
Every bite is crafted with a unique flavor, texture, and aroma balance that will leave you wanting more—a new and unique sensory experience.
I recommend the Sushi Sho Special bento if you want a delectable alternative to the Omakase experience.
It’s packed with Santa Barbara Uni prepared in three flavorful ways with premium ingredients.
Your eyes and tastebuds will thank you, as this beautiful Bento box comes artfully wrapped with small dessert cups and an instruction menu on how each dish should be savored.
5. Ginza Bairin Tonkatsu and Yoshoku Bistro
Discover the sensational flavors of Japan when you visit Ginza Bairin in Waikiki! This renowned tonkatsu restaurant chain is unlike any other.
When you arrive, you’ll choose between two different areas, “tonkatsu” and “yoshoku bistro.” You can enjoy signature Japanese plates or cafe dishes depending on where you sit.
If you choose the tonkatsu area, their signature dish is Kurobuta Katsu-don, a marinated pork cutlet served over a bowl of steamed rice and topped with egg, shredded cabbage, and other vegetables.
Ginza Bairin has teishoku (set meals) with soup, rice, and pickles for those looking for something lighter.
Their signature dish is the Ebi-Furai Teishoku, panko-crusted shrimp over steamed rice served with miso soup, potato salad, and pickles.
With its unique atmosphere and flavors, Ginza Bairin is a must-try experience when you visit Waikiki—perfect for lunch or dinner.
6. Kona Coffee Purveyors
Eating doesn’t have to be a three-course meal—for something quick and delicious, visit Kona Coffee Purveyors on Kalakaua Avenue.
Raymond Suiter established Kona Coffee Purveyors to showcase the finest coffee beans grown in Kona.
You can’t go wrong with any menu selection, whether a latte, cappuccino, mocha, or cold brew.
In addition to the unparalleled coffee, you must try a delectable treat from B. Patisserie in San Francisco.
Your sweet tooth will be more than satisfied with the strawberry guava kouign amann and black sesame tart.
My favorite is a flat white with an almond croissant. The flakiness and lightness of the croissant are a perfect companion for a cup of excellent Kona coffee.
7. Maguro Brothers Hawaii
Maguro Brothers Hawaii is a seafood lover’s paradise, offering delicious takeout options such as sashimi, grilled fish, and poke bowls.
It’s the perfect counter-service kitchen where you can quickly and easily purchase fresh ingredients.
The famous King Salmon Donburi contains fresh salmon sashimi with sushi rice and wasabi, salmon roe, ginger, and chopped green onions for an unforgettable flavor.
Alternatively, the Hawaiian Limu Ahi Poke Bowl features fresh ahi, crunchy limu seaweed, sesame oil, and chili peppers, creating a fresh yet spicy dish.
Maguro Brothers Hawaii is the perfect place to grab a quick bite and satisfy your cravings for delicious seafood.
This spot is also great for busy beachgoers who want to dine on something light yet healthy and filling.
8. Tommy Bahama Restaurant
In the center of Waikiki, Tommy Bahama Restaurant offers a two-floor dining room and an elevated third-story rooftop bar with beachfront cocktails and fun Hawaiian music.
Along with their range of classic Hawaiian dishes, they craft delectable creations with local ingredients, ensuring the best food.
Their Coconut-Lime Mahi-Mahi is a favorite—it combines the sweet and savory flavors of coconut, lime, and garlic for an unforgettable lunch or dinner in Waikiki.
For something heartier, Tommy Bahama’s Filet Mignon is a magnificent dish of succulent and tender beef with delectable roasted mushrooms and a sherry demi-glace atop a heavenly cauliflower potato mash.
Even though this is a chain restaurant, the quality and level of service at Tommy Bahama make it stand out.
9. Tim Ho Wan
The Tim Ho Wan experience brings a unique blend of Hong Kong flavors to Waikiki, allowing locals and visitors to savor the widely acclaimed Baked BBQ Pork Bun.
Here, you can expect only the best in fresh, made-to-order dim sum dishes, guaranteeing five-star quality.
I am obsessed with pork belly buns—I could eat them daily if someone let me, and Tim Ho Wan’s Pork Buns deserve a 10 out of 10.
The bun is soft and delicious, while the pineapple crust adds the perfect crunchiness to every bite.
Inside lies an exquisite combination of flavors that’ll have you devouring your plate in no time!
Their Steamed Shrimp Dumplings are also extraordinary. With each bite, you’ll get unbelievable flavor freshness as if pulled from the ocean only moments before.
I say this as seriously as possible: be prepared for a mind-blowing experience.
10. TsuruTonTan
TsuruTonTan is an udon noodle brasserie in the heart of Waikiki at the Royal Hawaiian Center with a cozy atmosphere and traditional Japanese menu.
The Ankake Udon is a must-try—it features thick noodles in a thick, sweet-savory sauce with mushrooms, shrimp tempura, and an egg. The flavors are unforgettable!
For vegetarians, there’s also the Shojin Ankake Udon, which features vegan tempura, perfect for something light yet flavorful.
TsuruTonTan also offers an impressive selection of Japanese beers and sake, making it the perfect spot for a night out with friends.
The atmosphere is warm and relaxed, so you can have great conversations over a delicious meal.
11. Aloha Table Waikiki
Nestled in the hustle and bustle of Waikiki lies Aloha Table, an oasis for tourists seeking something other than a typical tourist trap.
Aloha Table is located on a quaint side street, up one flight of stairs to make it feel like you’re sitting in a private treehouse while eating delectable Loco Mocos!
Unsurprisingly, Aloha Table was voted number one for their Loco Moco, with its rich gravy, sunny-side-up eggs, and succulent meat.
You can also get their Curry or Teriyaki versions to switch it up. I’ve heard they are life-changing.
Let me tell you about the Garlic Shrimp—this is one dish every seafood lover must try.
The shrimp are fried in garlic butter, giving them an irresistible crunchy texture and mouth-watering flavor. They’ve seriously perfected this recipe.
Aloha Table also offers vegetarian options, gluten-free dishes, and a fantastic selection of craft beers, cocktails, and wine to enjoy with your meal.
12. Cream Pot
I love going out for breakfast when I’m on vacation—there is something about waking up knowing you’ll have a warm cup of coffee and some deliciously cooked food that puts me in a perfect mood.
Cream Pot is arguably the most extraordinary breakfast and brunch spot in Waikiki. It’s like stepping into a whimsical world of breakfast!
Every dish they serve is crafted with such creativity that you’ll remember your visit long after leaving Hawaii.
For the most delicious eggs benedict you will ever experience, Cream Pot is where it’s at. The perfect poached eggs and ahi carpaccio make this Maguro Eggs Benedict dish five stars.
It’s so heavenly you might repeatedly return to Cream Pot to taste this fantastic plate.
Or take your breakfast to the next level with Cream Pot’s light and airy Souffle Pancakes.
This unique treat is not overly sugary, making it ideal alone or paired with Vienna Coffee for the perfect breakfast.
13. EbiNomi
EbiNomi is a renowned local Hawaiian restaurant home to the most delicious garlic shrimp on the islands.
Situated in the Courtyard with an outdoor seating area, tourists and locals flock here for its mouth-watering food.
However, this popular spot can get crowded, so order ahead to avoid long queues!
If you’re a fan of succulent shrimp doused in garlic over your crispy rice, the Ebi Kahuku is for you.
The flavors are balanced so as not to let the garlic or the shrimp be overpowering—it’s an unbeatable combination that will have your taste buds jumping with joy.
They also peel and prep their prawns to make this meal even more delicious for their customers.
On Sundays, take advantage of the Prime Rib cooked in au jus. The tenderness speaks volumes about how seriously the owner takes their cuisine here.
This popular dish sells out quickly due to its superior quality, so make sure to get there early.
14. Wasabi Bistro
Nestled in a Waikiki hotel, Wasabi Bistro is a hidden gem that’s one of the best places to eat in Waikiki when you’re craving sushi.
Their fish is freshly imported from Japan, guaranteeing the freshest and highest quality ingredients.
Boasting a contemporary yet comfortable atmosphere replicating traditional Japanese homes, this eatery provides the perfect place to relax after a long day of sightseeing.
Treat yourself to a genuinely delectable sushi experience with the Sashimi Regular, with five types of buttery, soft sashimi that’ll have your taste buds rejoicing!
And if that’s not enough for you (no judgment), try the Deluxe version, which comes with eight sashimi varieties.
I also highly recommend trying Wasabi Bistro’s signature dish, the Baked Scallop Special, which includes succulent scallops and mushrooms atop rice with an irresistibly creamy sauce.
15. Marugame Udon
Marugame Udon is an esteemed Japanese chain in Hawaii with two locations in Honolulu.
The most popular one is on Kuhio Avenue, which offers delectable bowls of udon noodles, tempura dishes, and drinks.
It remains true to Japan’s traditional noodle-making methods so customers can enjoy top-notch tastes with spectacular sights!
Their made-to-order udon noodles are prepared in the theater kitchen so you can savor every moment and indulge in this delicious experience.
Marugame Udon’s star dish, Curry Nikutama, will quiet your tummy and heart with its sublime beef curry broth, soft-yet-chewy fresh udon noodles, sweet and tender beef, and a deliciously soft egg.
Enjoy it as is, or request a chilled version that’s perfect for the summer season.
For those wanting something simple yet flavourful, try the Nikutama, featuring a distinct blend of savory-sweet sauce/broth plus the same succulent beef and egg.
Add a couple of tempura plates when ordering udon noodles from Marugame Udon—I promise it will make the already delicious meal even more enjoyable.
16. Musubi Café Iyasume
Musubi Cafe Iyasume is one of the best places to eat in Waikiki if you’re craving musubi.
It’s a perennial favorite amongst Waikiki locals and visitors alike—a testament to its consistently delicious flavors!
All the musubis are made-to-order and wrapped in saran wrap for easy transport wherever your day takes you: the beach, a hike, or anywhere else.
Are you wondering what musubi is? It’s a snack made from rice, fish, and seaweed, perfect for something light to tide you over between meals or something more substantial as an actual meal.
If you’re a fan, the Spam Musubi is a must-try and tends to be everyone’s favorite. Even if you don’t care for spam, I highly recommend trying it.
But if spam isn’t your thing, then the Fried Chicken Mayo Rice Ball will become your next favorite snack.
Topped with the perfect amount of Sriracha, it has a delightful kick that will make you return for more!
17. Double Fat Ice Cream
A roundup of the best places to eat in Waikiki would be incomplete without dessert!
Nestled at the back of Alohilani Resort is Double Fat Ice Cream, a delicious stand serving flavors like refreshing yuzu creamsicle, sweet honey furikake, and hojicha.
Treat yourself to the unique crack seed sundae, an exciting combination of salty, sweet, savory, and sour flavors.
Start with an indulgent base of strawberry ice cream topped with dried plum pieces for delicious tartness.
Savory rice crackers are added as a crunchy contrast before finishing with a light dusting of that Hawai’ian favorite li hing powder for an extra zesty kick—you’ll love it.
Hopefully, this guide to the 17 best places to eat in Waikiki will help you plan a delicious trip to Hawaii!
Heading to Hawaii? Check out my other Oahu posts!
Where to Find the Best Breakfast in Waikiki
Where to Find the Best Coffee in Oahu
14 Epic Hikes to Waterfalls in Oahu
FAQs
Waikiki is a neighborhood in Honolulu on the island of Oahu.
Waikiki has many restaurants serving traditional Hawaiian favorites, fresh seafood, Chinese, Japanese, barbecue, and more!
I recommend Hula Grill and Aloha Table.
Elise Armitage is an entrepreneur and founder of What The Fab, a travel + lifestyle blog based in California. At the beginning of 2019, Elise left her corporate job at Google to chase her dreams: being an entrepreneur and helping women find fabulous in the everyday. Since then, she’s launched her SEO course Six-Figure SEO, where she teaches bloggers how to create a passive revenue stream from their website using SEO. Featured in publications like Forbes, Elle, HerMoney, and Real Simple, Elise is a firm believer that you can be of both substance and style.
