6 Celebrity-Owned Hawaii Spots – Visit Before They’re Overrun With Fans

Living in Hawaii for three decades has given me unprecedented access to the islands’ hidden gems. Beyond tourist traps lies a fascinating secret: several beloved establishments are quietly owned by celebrities who’ve fallen in love with island life. From legendary rock stars to award-winning chefs and Hollywood icons, these A-listers have created gathering spots that blend star power with authentic Hawaiian hospitality.

I’ve personally visited each venue, experiencing firsthand how these famous owners infuse their unique vision while honoring island traditions. Let’s explore Hawaii’s most exclusive celebrity owned spots.

Roy’s Restaurant (Roy’s Waikiki)

Roy Yamaguchi, the James Beard Award-winning chef, pioneered Hawaii Regional Cuisine – a movement that elevated local ingredients and traditions to fine dining status. Roy’s Waikiki attracts both visitors and locals with its blend of Hawaiian and Asian flavors, with signature dishes including the Misoyaki Butterfish and Szechuan Baby Back Ribs.

The restaurant’s open kitchen design allows diners to watch the culinary team at work, creating an interactive dining experience. The attention to detail is impressive, with servers knowing every ingredient and offering thoughtful wine pairings that enhance the flavors.

Pro tip: Order the chocolate soufflé at the beginning of your meal since it takes extra time to prepare. The molten center flows like lava when you cut into it, mirroring Hawaii’s volcanic landscape.

Price range: $$$$ | Best for: Date night, Special occasions | Dress code: Hawaiian casual (nice shorts and aloha shirts acceptable)

Location: 226 Lewers Street, Honolulu, HI 96815 | Phone: (808) 923-7697 | Website: ww.royyamaguchi.com/roys-waikiki-oahu

Spago (Wolfgang Puck)

Wolfgang Puck’s oceanfront establishment offers panoramic views of Wailea’s coastline while serving his signature California cuisine with Hawaiian influences. The restaurant’s Asian-inspired contemporary design creates an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere that perfectly frames those spectacular ocean views.

Executive Chef Nate Gabay maintains Puck’s high standards while incorporating local Hawaiian ingredients. Standout dishes include the Kona Maine Lobster Ceviche and macadamia nut crusted mahi-mahi, which showcase how well Puck’s team understands Hawaiian flavors.

Pro tip: Request a table on the ocean-view lanai around 6:00 PM to enjoy dinner during sunset. The restaurant uses a waiter/assistant approach to service, ensuring attentive care throughout your meal.

Price range: $$$$ | Best for: Special occasions, Sunset dining | Dress code: Resort elegant (collared shirts for men, no beachwear)

Location: Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, 3900 Wailea Alanui, Maui, HI 96753 | Phone: (808) 879-2999 | Website: wolfgangpuck.com/restaurants/spago-maui

Tiki Iniki (Todd Rundgren)

Rock legend Todd Rundgren and his wife Michele own this vintage tiki bar on Kauai’s north shore. The exotic watering hole transports you to another era with retro Polynesian décor and potent tropical drinks.

Michele’s background as a performer (she was once a trapeze artist and rock singer) shines through in the theatrical presentation of both drinks and food. The walls are adorned with vintage Hawaiiana and exotica from the 1940s to modern day.

The bar is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11am to 11pm, with happy hour from 3-4:30pm. Their “liquid chefs” craft traditional tiki cocktails with modern twists, including a legendary Mai Tai made with fresh juices and quality rum. For food, the Sweet Sticky Ribs and the Iniki Burger (with spam-infused patty and pickled pineapple) are standouts.

Pro tip: If you can’t get a table, the bar area often has space for walk-ins, and you’ll get to interact more with the bartenders who share fascinating stories about the Rundgrens.

Price range: $$ – $$$ | Best for: Tiki enthusiasts, Casual dining | Dress code: Casual (Hawaiian shirts encouraged)

Location: 5-4280 Kuhio Hwy, Princeville, HI 96722 | Phone: (808) 431-4242 | Website: tikiiniki.com

Sammy’s Beach Bar & Grill (Sammy Hagar)

The Red Rocker Sammy Hagar has brought his rock-and-roll spirit to Hawaii with locations at both Kahului Airport on Maui and Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu. You’re greeted with rock memorabilia and island-inspired décor that captures Hagar’s laid-back vibe.

What makes these spots special is Hagar’s commitment to giving back. Through his Hagar Family Foundation, a portion of restaurant earnings goes directly to local Maui charities. On Maui alone, Hagar has donated nearly $1 million to nonprofits, including A Keiki’s Dream, Hana Youth Center, and Maui Food Bank.

The menu features fresh island ingredients in dishes like Loco Moco, Fish Tacos, and the Sammy Beach Burger. Their signature Beach Bar Mai Tai made with Sammy’s own rum is a must-try.

Pro tip: Their Kalua Pork Sliders pair perfectly with rum-based cocktails, especially during the afternoon when airport crowds thin out.

Price range: $$ – $$$ | Best for: Airport dining, Casual meals | Dress code: Very casual (travel attire)

Location: Kahului Airport, 1 Lanui Circle, Kahului, HI 96732 and Daniel K. Inouye Intl. Airport, 300 Rodgers Ave #33, Honolulu, HI 96189 | Phone: (808) 877-5858 (Maui), (808) 218-9143 (Honolulu) | Website: sammysbeachbarandgrill.com

Morimoto Asia Waikiki (Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto)

Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto brought his talents to Hawaii with this sleek, modern restaurant showcasing his signature fusion of Pan-Asian flavors adapted to incorporate fresh Hawaiian ingredients. The restaurant features an open kitchen where diners can watch Morimoto’s team craft culinary masterpieces.

Floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning views of Waikiki Beach, creating a backdrop that enhances the dining experience. Morimoto is often seen at the restaurant, particularly during special events and new menu launches. His hands-on approach ensures that every dish meets his exacting standards.

The Ishiyaki Buri Bop – yellowtail cooked tableside in a hot stone bowl – is both theatrical and delicious. Chef Morimoto himself makes surprise appearances, greeting guests and signing menus.

Pro tip: For the full experience, opt for the multi-course omakase tasting menu, which showcases Morimoto’s innovative approach to traditional Japanese cuisine.

Price range: $$$$ | Best for: Fine dining, Special occasions | Dress code: Smart casual (collared shirts recommended)

Location: Alohilani Resort, 2490 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 | Phone: (808) 922-0022 | Website: morimotoasiawaikiki.com

Suzie Wong’s Hideaway

This colorful dive bar in Waikiki offers a quintessential local experience with strong ties to Hawaii’s entertainment industry. Located at 1913 Dudiot Lane in Honolulu, Suzie Wong’s has earned a reputation as a “Five Star Dive Bar” with its colorful lighting, vintage Hawaiiana décor, and relaxed atmosphere.

The bar features a well-positioned pool table, multiple TVs for sports fans, and recently remodeled clean restrooms. The open-wall design ensures a pleasant breeze flows through, creating a comfortable environment regardless of Hawaii’s tropical heat.

While not as widely publicized as some other celebrity connections, Suzie Wong’s has deep ties to Hawaii’s entertainment scene and has been a favorite hangout for local celebrities and visiting stars for years. The bar’s unpretentious atmosphere makes it a place where famous folks can blend in with locals.

Pro tip: The bar’s layout includes both indoor and outdoor seating options, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy Hawaii’s perfect weather while still having access to all amenities. During football season, they open early for 7 AM games and offer some of the best drink specials in Waikiki.

Price range: $ – $$ | Best for: Casual drinks, Local experience | Dress code: Very casual (t-shirts and shorts perfectly acceptable)

Location: 1913 Dudiot Ln, Honolulu, HI 96815 | Phone: (808) 945-2337 | Website: suziewongshideaway.com

The Counter (Daniel Dae Kim)

Actor Daniel Dae Kim of “Lost” and “Hawaii Five-O” fame was one of the original investors in this build-your-own burger joint located in the upscale residential area of Kahala. The Counter opened at Kahala Mall in February 2009, offering a creative approach to classic American fare.

The restaurant’s concept centers around customization, with hundreds of possible burger combinations. You can choose from various proteins, toppings, sauces, and buns to create your perfect burger. For those overwhelmed by choices, their signature Counter Burger features an Angus beef patty topped with provolone, tomatoes, lettuce, fried onion strings, sautéed mushrooms, and garlic aioli on a brioche bun.

Beyond burgers, they offer impressive side dishes like Sweet Sriracha Brussels Sprouts and Buffalo Cauliflower that surprise first-time visitors expecting just standard burger joint fare.

Pro tip: While ownership has changed over the years (Jon Muranaka took over in October 2020), the restaurant still maintains its celebrity connection history. Visit during weekday lunch hours when you might spot local actors from Hawaii-based productions enjoying a meal.

Price range: $$ | Best for: Casual dining, Burger lovers | Dress code: Very casual

Location: 4211 Waialae Ave, E-1, Honolulu, HI 96816 | Phone: (808) 739-5100 | Website: thecounter.com/stores/kahala-kahala-mall/32009

Whether you’re clinking glasses with rockstars or savoring a chef’s secret recipe, these spots prove Hawaii’s bar scene is way more than just mai tais. Skip the resorts-grab a stool where the stars shine behind the bar. 🤙