15 Waikiki Restaurants That Live Up to Their Fame (Worth Flying Back For)
I’ve lived on Oahu for over three decades, tasting my way through every corner of this paradise with one mission: finding authentic flavors worth bragging about. When mainlanders ask me where to eat in Waikiki, they’re not looking for tourist traps-they want the real deal. After countless meals (and food comas), I’ve compiled the ultimate list of iconic spots that genuinely deliver on their promises.
From traditional Hawaiian plates to Japanese specialties, these 15 restaurants will make your taste buds hula with joy. Let’s dive in before your stomach starts growling!
Duke’s Waikiki
Named after legendary surfer Duke Kahanamoku, this oceanfront institution sits so close to the water you can feel sea spray during high tide. The open-air dining room captures that perfect blend of casual Hawaiian hospitality and breathtaking views that burn into your memory.
Must-Try: The Hula Pie is non-negotiable-a mountain of macadamia nut ice cream on chocolate cookie crust topped with whipped cream and hot fudge. For savory options, the fresh fish preparations change daily but consistently deliver, especially the macadamia nut crusted preparation.
Pro Tip: Make reservations at least two weeks in advance for dinner, especially if you want a beachfront table during the coveted 5:30-7:00 PM sunset slot. The Barefoot Bar area doesn’t take reservations but offers the same menu with more laid-back vibes. Live Hawaiian music starts at 4 PM daily, adding the perfect soundtrack to your mai tai.
Price range: $$-$$$ | Best for: Sunset dining, Families | Dress code: Casual
Location: 2335 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 | Phone: (808) 922-2268 | Website: dukeswaikiki.com
Tiki’s Grill & Bar
This second-floor open-air restaurant offers panoramic views of Waikiki Beach alongside island-inspired cuisine. The vibrant tiki decor and live music create an atmosphere that captures the spirit of old Hawaii with modern culinary flair.
Must-Try: The Furikake Ahi features sashimi-grade tuna crusted with Japanese spices and flash-seared. Their Coconut Shrimp comes with a tropical marmalade that perfectly balances sweet and savory. End your meal with their famous Hula Pie-a mountain of macadamia nut ice cream on chocolate cookie crust.
Pro Tip: Happy hour runs daily from 2-5 PM with excellent drink specials and discounted pupus (appetizers). Arrive by 5:00 PM to snag a table along the railing for unobstructed sunset views over Waikiki Beach.
Price range: $$-$$$ | Best for: Ocean views, Live music | Dress code: Casual
Location: 2570 Kalākaua Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815 | Phone: (808) 923-8454 | Website: tikisgrill.com
House Without a Key
This open-air restaurant at the luxury Halekulani Hotel offers perhaps the most quintessential Hawaiian dining experience: sunset cocktails under a century-old kiawe tree with Diamond Head views and nightly hula performances. The elegant yet relaxed atmosphere captures old Hawaii at its finest.
Must-Try: The Mai Tai here sets the gold standard for this tropical classic-balanced, not too sweet, and dangerously smooth. The Coconut Cake with lilikoi sauce delivers light tropical perfection. For heartier appetites, the Kiawe Grilled Steak showcases local beef with island flair.
Pro Tip: Arrive by 5:00 PM to secure prime seating for sunset and the 5:30 PM hula show. No reservations are taken for the lawn area (where the best views are), so early arrival is essential. Table 97 was Ernest Hemingway’s favorite spot during his 1940s Halekulani stays.
Price range: $$$-$$$$ | Best for: Sunset cocktails, Live entertainment | Dress code: Resort casual
Location: 2199 Kālia Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815 | Phone: (808) 923-2311 | Website: halekulani.com
Cheeseburger in Paradise Waikiki
With prime real estate on Kalakaua Avenue and unobstructed ocean views, this casual eatery offers front-row seats to Waikiki’s famous sunsets. Since 1997, they’ve been serving up hefty burgers and tropical drinks in a laid-back atmosphere that captures the essence of island living.
Must-Try: The Paradise Burger loaded with teriyaki sauce, grilled pineapple, and Swiss cheese delivers a perfect Hawaiian-inspired flavor combination. Their Lava Flows (piña coladas with strawberry puree) cool you down after a day at the beach. For breakfast, the Macadamia Nut Pancakes come topped with fresh bananas and coconut syrup.
Pro Tip: Ask for a table on the second floor balcony for the best views. The restaurant gets packed during prime sunset hours (5:30-7:00 PM), so arrive early or be prepared to wait. Their $7.99 breakfast special (7-11 AM) with $6 mimosas offers excellent value in pricey Waikiki.
Price range: $$ | Best for: Casual dining, Families, Ocean views | Dress code: Very casual
Location: 2500 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815 | Phone: (808) 923-3731 | Website: cheeseburgerland.com
HY’s Steak House
This Waikiki institution has been setting the standard for fine dining since 1976. HY’s old-world elegance features koa wood paneling, high-backed leather chairs, and tableside preparations that create a distinctly special atmosphere for celebrating milestones.
Must-Try: The USDA Prime steaks are broiled over Hawaiian kiawe wood, imparting a subtle smokiness. The Tableside Caesar Salad, prepared with theatrical flair by skilled servers, delivers a perfectly balanced dressing made from scratch. The Bananas Foster flambe provides a spectacular finish to your meal.
Pro Tip: Dress code is “Aloha Formal”-collared shirts and closed-toe shoes for men, equivalent elegance for women. Complimentary valet parking saves you the hassle of finding a spot in busy Waikiki. Make reservations well in advance, especially during winter high season. Live music Wednesday through Sunday adds to the sophisticated ambiance.
Price range: $$$$-$$$$$ | Best for: Special occasions, Date night | Dress code: Aloha formal
Location: 2440 Kuhio Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 | Phone: (808) 922-5555 | Website: hyshawaii.com
Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman
Chef Peter Merriman, one of the founders of Hawaii Regional Cuisine, brings his farm-to-table philosophy to this beachfront restaurant in the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort. The restaurant’s commitment to local sourcing and craft preparation creates a dining experience that feels authentically Hawaiian yet thoroughly modern.
Must-Try: Their Mai Tai topped with honey-lilikoi foam has achieved legendary status among cocktail enthusiasts. The Pumpkin Patch Ravioli showcases local produce with brown butter and toasted pumpkin seeds. For pizza lovers, the Hamakua Wild Mushroom & Truffle Oil pizza delivers earthy umami flavors with every bite.
Pro Tip: The restaurant fills quickly for dinner, especially during sunset hours, so make reservations at least 3-4 days in advance. Live local music plays nightly, adding to the relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere. Order the Lobster Deviled Eggs as soon as you sit down-they frequently sell out by mid-evening.
Price range: $$-$$$ | Best for: Craft cocktails, Local cuisine | Dress code: Casual
Location: 2169 Kalia Road, Honolulu, HI 96815 | Phone: (808) 900-4226 | Website: monkeypodkitchen.com
Roy’s Waikiki
Chef Roy Yamaguchi pioneered Hawaii Regional Cuisine in the 1980s, and his Waikiki outpost continues the tradition of blending European techniques with Asian flavors and Hawaiian ingredients. The elegant yet unpretentious setting makes special occasions feel genuinely special.
Must-Try: The Misoyaki Butterfish melts in your mouth like seafood butter, living up to its name with every silky bite. Roy’s Classic Chocolate Soufflé requires ordering with your meal (it takes 20 minutes), but rewards patience with molten perfection.
Pro Tip: Make reservations well in advance, especially for dinner. Ask for a table in the main dining room rather than the bar area for the full experience. The three-course prix fixe menu offers excellent value for sampling Roy’s greatest hits.
Price range: $$$$-$$$$$ | Best for: Date night, Special occasions | Dress code: Smart casual
Location: 226 Lewers St, Honolulu, HI 96815 | Phone: (808) 923-7697 | Website: royshawaii.com
Eggs ‘n Things
Since 1974, this breakfast institution has been brightening mornings with impossibly fluffy pancakes and island-style omelets. The casual atmosphere and generous portions make it a family favorite for starting the day right.
Must-Try: The Macadamia Nut Pancakes topped with a cloud of whipped cream and coconut syrup create the perfect Hawaiian breakfast indulgence. The Meat Lovers Omelet stuffed with Portuguese sausage, Spam, and bacon delivers a savory alternative.
Pro Tip: The wait can stretch to 90+ minutes during peak breakfast hours, especially weekends. Either arrive before 7:00 AM or come for an early lunch around 11:00 AM to minimize wait times. The Retail Shop downstairs sells their famous pancake mix to recreate the magic at home.
Price range: $$ | Best for: Breakfast, Families | Dress code: Very casual
Location: 343 Saratoga Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815 | Phone: (808) 923-3447 | Website: eggsnthings.com
DECK.
Perched on the third floor of the Queen Kapiolani Hotel, DECK. offers arguably the most stunning Diamond Head views in all of Waikiki. This open-air rooftop restaurant combines panoramic vistas with innovative Pacific-inspired cuisine in a setting that perfectly captures Hawaii’s indoor-outdoor lifestyle.
Must-Try: Their Pacific Ahi Nachos feature fresh tuna, avocado, and wasabi aioli on crispy wonton chips. The Loco Moco reimagines the Hawaiian classic with a gourmet twist, featuring local grass-fed beef and rich mushroom gravy. Their craft cocktails, especially the Queen’s Lei with local rum and tropical fruits, showcase Hawaii’s bounty.
Pro Tip: Request a table along the outer edge during sunset hours for unobstructed Diamond Head views. Happy hour runs daily from 2-6 PM with excellent drink specials and discounted appetizers. Brunch here offers a more relaxed alternative to the crowded morning spots along Kalakaua Avenue.
Price range: $$-$$$ | Best for: Diamond Head views, Cocktails | Dress code: Casual
Location: 150 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 | Phone: (808) 556-2435 | Website: deckwaikiki.com
Sansei Seafood Restaurant & Sushi Bar
Chef D.K. Kodama’s celebrated restaurant blends Japanese tradition with Hawaiian influences, creating sushi that’s both reverent and playful. The third-floor location in the Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort offers a refined escape from the street-level bustle.
Must-Try: The Panko-Crusted Ahi Sashimi is their signature for good reason-crispy panko-fried tuna served with soy-butter sauce that’ll have you closing your eyes in bliss. The DK Crab Ramen with truffle butter broth delivers comfort with an upscale twist.
Pro Tip: Their famous half-price sushi and appetizer special happens Sundays and Mondays from 4:45-5:30 PM, but you need to line up by 4:00 PM to secure a table. The early dinner time is worth the savings, especially if you’re planning to sample multiple rolls.
Price range: $$$-$$$$ | Best for: Sushi lovers, Happy hour deals | Dress code: Casual dining
Location: 2552 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 | Phone: (808) 931-6286 | Website: sansushihawaii.com
Tonkatsu Ginza Bairin
This Tokyo transplant brought its 1927 tonkatsu recipe to Hawaiian shores, creating a sanctuary for Japanese comfort food enthusiasts. The minimalist dining room lets the food take center stage, with each plate showcasing precision that borders on artistic.
Must-Try: The Kurobuta Pork Tonkatsu delivers that perfect paradox-a shattering crisp panko exterior giving way to juicy, tender meat inside. The accompanying cabbage is unlimited (just ask!), and don’t miss grinding your own sesame seeds with the mortar and pestle provided at each table.
Pro Tip: Request a counter seat to watch the chefs maintain the frying oil at exactly 170°C-the secret to their perfect crisp-tender balance. Validated parking is available for dinner at the Bank of Hawaii Waikiki Center’s underground garage.
Price range: $$-$$$ | Best for: Authentic Japanese cuisine | Dress code: Smart casual
Location: 255 Beach Walk, Honolulu, HI 96815 | Phone: (808) 926-8082 | Website: ginzabairin.com
Musubi Cafe IYASUME
This compact musubi specialist elevates the humble rice ball to art form status. With multiple Waikiki locations, IYASUME has become the go-to spot for Japan’s answer to the sandwich-convenient, delicious, and perfectly portable.
Must-Try: The Spam and Egg Musubi wraps grilled Spam and fluffy egg in seasoned rice and crisp nori. The Spicy Cod Roe Musubi delivers a briny kick that seafood lovers will appreciate. For the adventurous, the Triple (Spam, egg, and avocado) offers maximum flavor in one neat package.
Pro Tip: The Kuhio Avenue location opens at 6:30 AM daily, making it perfect for grabbing breakfast before an early morning hike or snorkeling trip. Their musubis keep well for several hours, so stock up for beach days or flights home.
Price range: $ | Best for: Quick bites, Budget travelers | Dress code: Very casual
Location: 2427 Kūhiō Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 | Phone: (808) 206-5238 | Website: iyasumehawaii.com
Momosan Ramen
Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto’s casual ramen spot delivers authentic noodle bowls that have both tourists and locals forming lines. The tropical outdoor seating area provides the perfect Hawaiian atmosphere to enjoy Japanese comfort food.
Must-Try: Their signature Tonkotsu ramen features a rich, creamy pork bone broth that simmers for hours, cradling perfectly chewy noodles. The Toro Salmon Kushiyaki offers melt-in-your-mouth salmon belly with a tare glaze that’s unforgettable. The Gyukotsu ramen with 7-hour braised beef rib justifies its higher price point with fall-off-the-bone meat and incredible depth of flavor.
Pro Tip: Visit twice during your stay-once during happy hour for discounted appetizers and drinks, and again for a full dinner experience. The outdoor seating area offers the best atmosphere, especially in the evening.
Price range: $$-$$$ | Best for: Ramen lovers, Casual dining | Dress code: Casual
Location: 2490 Kalākaua Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815 | Phone: (808) 922-0011 | Website: momosanramen.com
Mahina & Sun’s
Tucked inside the boutique Surfjack Hotel, Chef Erik Leong’s restaurant takes a modern approach to Hawaiian classics while championing sustainable ingredients. The mid-century modern decor and poolside location create a distinctly local-leaning vibe in tourist-heavy Waikiki.
Must-Try: The He’e (octopus) served with blistered vegetables showcases Kenney’s knack for letting quality ingredients shine. The Surfjack Burger with house-made bacon jam delivers comfort food with cheffy flourishes. The signature “Bag O’ Fried Chicken” comes with housemade pickles and chili honey for dipping.
Pro Tip: The weekend brunch from 7:00 AM-2:00 PM features their dinner favorites alongside morning specialties. Grab a seat near the pool with its famous “Wish You Were Here” mosaic bottom for Instagram gold without sacrificing food quality.
Price range: $$-$$$ | Best for: Trendy dining, Cocktails | Dress code: Casual dress
Location: 412 Lewers St, Honolulu, HI 96815 | Phone: (808) 924-5810 | Website: mahinaandsuns.com
Marugame Udon
The first thing that hits you at Marugame isn’t the menu-it’s the hypnotic rhythm of udon masters thwacking fresh dough against wooden boards. This casual spot consistently draws lines down Kuhio Avenue, but don’t let that scare you away. The queue moves with surprising efficiency, and the payoff is worth every minute.
Must-Try: The Kake Udon showcases their perfectly chewy noodles swimming in rich dashi broth. If you’re hungry, the Curry Udon delivers a savory punch that’ll have you tilting the bowl for the last drop. The tempura sweet potato has a delicate crunch that shatters like glass.
Last summer, I ducked in during a surprise Waikiki downpour and found myself mesmerized by the open kitchen. The head chef noticed my fascination and nodded for me to come closer, demonstrating how he measures each batch by feel rather than scale. “Hands remember what machines forget,” he told me with a knowing smile.
Pro Tip: Arrive at 10:45 AM to beat the lunch crowd, or order online for pickup to skip the notorious line entirely. If dining in, grab a seat upstairs where it’s slightly quieter and you can still watch the noodle-making magic below.
Price range: $$ | Best for: Quick meals, Budget travelers | Dress code: Casual
Location: 2310 Kuhio Ave., Ste 124, Honolulu, HI 96815 | Phone: (808) 931-6000 | Website: marugameudon.com
The Bottom Line
Waikiki’s food scene transcends tourist expectations, delivering authentic flavors that have stood the test of time. These 15 legendary spots offer a culinary map of Hawaii’s diverse influences-from Japanese techniques to Portuguese pastries to native Hawaiian preparations.
The next time someone dismisses Waikiki as “too touristy,” smile knowingly. Then guide them to one of these treasures where the food speaks a universal language, bringing locals and visitors together in appreciation of what truly matters-‘ono grindz (delicious food) worth writing home about.
What’s your favorite Waikiki food memory? I’m always looking to add to my list!
