The 7 Best Restaurants in Waikiki With a View
Hey there, foodies!
Are you looking for the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal with an unbeatable view in Oahu? Look no further than Waikiki. This bustling neighborhood is home to some of the best restaurants, bars, and cafes just steps away from the beach. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood or a refreshing cocktail as you watch the sunset over the ocean, Waikiki has it all.
But we know that finding the right restaurant can be overwhelming – especially when you’re trying to balance great food with stunning views. That’s where I come in. As someone who frequents Waikiki with my boyfriend for our date nights, I’ve done all of the research for you and compiled a list of must-visit eateries.
Trust me when I say that these restaurants not only offer mouth-watering dishes but also provide unmatched views of Waikiki’s stunning beach and the Diamond Head volcano. So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into Waikiki’s best restaurants with a view!
Warning: After reading this article, your taste buds may start tingling uncontrollably – don’t say we didn’t warn you!
Duke’s Waikiki – The Best Restaurant in Waikiki with Ocean View
After a day of sun at Waikiki beach, walk into Duke’s to cool down with the Mai Tais from their bar or a delicious meal. The restaurant has sand from the beach trailing on its patio, so you won’t even feel like you’ve left the shore!
The food at Duke’s is unbeatable, serving local favorites like Fish Tacos, Loco Moco, and juicy steaks, plus vegetarian options like the Lilikoi Glazed Tofu. Duke’s is also famous for its breakfast buffet, serving the freshest eggs, sausages, crisp bacon, flavorful potatoes, and French toast.
In addition, Duke’s has amazing parties at night where you can enjoy live music, dancing, and local brews from their Barefoot Bar.
Don’t miss Duke’s if you’re in the area, as they’re one of the best restaurant in Waikiki with ocean view. Here’s why you’ll agree:
- Their patio offers beautiful views of the Diamond Head volcano.
- You can enjoy the food for much lower prices than in other places in the area.
- They host famous solo singers and bands from Hawaii almost every night.
Address: 2335 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, Oahu.
House Without a Key
You’ve probably enjoyed beach views before, but nothing quite like House Without a Key at Halekulani, which offers oceanside scenery under the shade of a huge 100-year-old Hawaiian Kiawe tree. The ambiance is comfortable here, as you enjoy a light coastal breeze from their outdoor dining area.
In addition, if you’re staying at the Halekulani Hotel, you’ll enjoy free breakfast buffets here!
You’ll get a bowl of crispy and well-seasoned Maui potato chips on sitting down. Then, from their extensive menu, try the terrific freshly caught Mahi Mahi, Hawaiian fish tacos, and BBQ options like prime rib, steak, and a juicy grilled cheeseburger.
End your meal with Mai Tais and coconut cake on the outdoor patio, where there’s live music and hula dancing every night.
We loved the lively atmosphere at House Without a Key and consider it one of the best restaurants in Waikiki with a view. Here’s why you’ll agree:
- The Kiawe tree here is so beautiful it inspired the 1925 Earl Derr Biggers novel.
- The sunset view is breathtaking and a great way to end the day.
- They have terrific service.
Address: 2199 Kalia Rd Halekulani Hotel, Honolulu, Oahu.
Hula Grill Waikiki – Best Restaurants on Waikiki Beach walk
Amidst the bustling activity in Waikiki, you’ll find Hula Grill, a lively restaurant offering central views of the distant Diamond Head volcano. As it’s a favorite spot for beachgoers, come here early in the morning when the shore is empty, and enjoy a freshly brewed cup of coffee.
Hula Grill specializes in Hawaiian regional cuisine, so you can expect the best local food from its extensive menu. For example, try the restaurant’s version of the Loco Moco, a huge serving of beef, Kalua Pork, Portuguese sausage, and fresh veggies on a bed of rice, topped with gravy.
We love their Kiana Filet Steak, Mushroom Ravioli, Poke Tacos, and range of fresh seafood. Get a side of purple or mashed potatoes with your mains that elevate the food’s flavors.
We highly recommend Hula Grill as one of the best restaurants in Waikiki with a view. Here’s why you have to try it.
- They serve a delicious breakfast with local favorites like Pineapple and Coconut Pancakes.
- Their mains serving sizes are big enough for two people.
- They have reasonable prices for the terrific quality of food,
Address: 233 Elm Street Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort, Honolulu, Oahu.
Orchids
Another fantastic restaurant inside the Halekulani Hotel, Orchids, boasts views of the Pacific Ocean from its oceanside dining room and outdoor patio. You’ll enjoy a fine dining environment with delicious food and excellent service.
The menu at Orchids is an eclectic mix of Hawaiian, American, and Japanese food, with unique flavors of each cuisine in the food. If you come for dinner, order the delicious Lasagnette, Goat Cheese Ravioli, tender NY Strip Steak, and juicy Tenderloin Filet, all seasoned to perfection.
Also, try their Sunday brunch with a seemingly never-ending range of stations for omelets, salads, cold food, seafood, and a carving station for various roast meat. They also offer excellent sushi and sashimi, prepared and served on the spot.
Take a look at the best brunch in Waikiki page for more brunch options.
End your meal with their infamous Coconut Cake, a local favorite and super delicious.
You’ll love the food and ambiance at Orchids, as it’s one of the best restaurants in Waikiki with a view.
- Their service is terrific, and the waitstaff tends to guests well.
- You can enjoy music and dancing from their outdoor patio.
- Try the five-course prix-fixe menu featuring some of their best dishes.
Address: 2199 Kalia Rd Halekulani, Honolulu, Oahu, HI.
Roy’s Waikiki
Run by celebrity chef Roy Yamaguchi, Roy’s has become a staple in Waikiki for its distinct flavors, Japanese-American fusion food, and branches all over Oahu. Roy’s on Waikiki beach has beautiful outdoor seating on the shore, which offers unmatched views of the island sunset.
You’ll find the best seafood dishes and farm-to-table food on their extensive menu. They offer delicious local favorites like Mochi-crusted White Fish, Roast Duck, classic Filet Mignon, and Mahi Mahi.
However, the three-course prix-fixe menu is the star at Roy’s, with irresistible options like Braised Short Ribs, Macadamia Nut-Crusted Fresh Catch, Pasta, and Szechuan Ribs.
My boyfriend and I also love their seafood special, Misoyaki Butterfish with sweet ginger wasabi butter and Hibachi Salmon.
Head to Roy’s for terrific food and scenic surroundings:
- Try their Pineapple Upside-down Cake, that’s a crowd-favorite dessert.
- They have terrific service and an accommodating waitstaff.
- The Chef often stops by his restaurants and personally checks up on diners.
Address: 226 Lewers St, Honolulu, Oahu.
La Mer
You don’t get to dine at a Michelin-star restaurant every day, so head to La Mer in the Halekulani Hotel for an incredible fine dining experience. Their dining area offers a breathtaking view of Waikiki beach and the distant Diamond Head volcano, especially at sunset.
La Mer’s menu features French classics, seafood entrees, and an eight-course Degustation menu to rival the best eateries in the world.
You’ll want to try their Kampachi Ceviche with Ginger Caviar, Roasted Lamb, Eggplant Mousseline, and Foie Gras, all carrying distinct flavors that are incredibly delicious.
In addition, La Mer offers a terrific four-course menu with seafood specials like Lobster and Escargot Ravioli and great meat entrees like Beef Tartare and Filet Mignon. The meal ends with dessert, or cheese and wine, which are perfect for cleansing your palate.
We’re obsessed with La Mer and consider it the best Waikiki restaurant with a view:
- The dining experience is slow and relaxed, so you can savor each dish.
- You can enjoy excellent wine pairings with your meal.
- The sommelier makes great recommendations for drinks that pair with your order.
Address: 2199 Kalia Rd Halekulani, Honolulu, Oahu, HI.
Azure
Under the canopy of the Royal Hawaiian Hotel’s Spanish architecture, you’ll find Azure, a world-class fine dining restaurant on the Waikiki beachfront. You’ll be seated close to the beach with unmatched views of the ocean and sands from your table.
Their popular four-course menu features gourmet-style starters like a tangy asparagus salad with pickled strawberries and poached scallops in lemon. Next, the entrees have a choice of seafood options and a juicy Wagyu steak. For dessert, there’s a Russian honey cake that rounds the meal perfectly.
In addition, you can request a wine pairing with your four-course menu for an unmatched fine dining experience.
Azure’s delicious food and gorgeous surroundings make it one of the best restaurants in Waikiki with a view.
- The four-course menu has vegan and vegetarian options for each meal.
- The head chef, Shingo Katsura, checks on diners during the meal.
- Their service is amazing, and the waitstaff is friendly.
Address: 2259 Kalakaua Ave The Royal Hawaiian, Waikiki, Honolulu, Oahu, HI.
Top Waikiki Restaurants with a View
| Restaurant | Specialties | Unique Selling Points | Address |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duke’s Waikiki | Local favorites: Fish Tacos, Loco Moco, Lilikoi Glazed Tofu, Steaks | Beautiful views of Diamond Head volcano, nightly live music, reasonable prices | 2335 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, Oahu |
| House Without a Key | Freshly caught Mahi Mahi, Hawaiian fish tacos, BBQ options | 100-year-old Hawaiian Kiawe tree, breathtaking sunset views, terrific service | 2199 Kalia Rd Halekulani Hotel, Honolulu, Oahu |
| Hula Grill Waikiki | Loco Moco, Kiana Filet Steak, Mushroom Ravioli, Poke Tacos, fresh seafood | Delicious local breakfast options, big serving sizes, reasonable prices | 233 Elm Street Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort, Honolulu, Oahu |
| Orchids | Lasagnette, Goat Cheese Ravioli, NY Strip Steak, Tenderloin Filet, Coconut Cake | Excellent service, music and dancing, five-course prix-fixe menu | 2199 Kalia Rd Halekulani, Honolulu, Oahu, HI |
| Roy’s Waikiki | Mochi-crusted White Fish, Roast Duck, Filet Mignon, Mahi Mahi | Pineapple Upside-down Cake, excellent service, personal visits by the Chef | 226 Lewers St, Honolulu, Oahu |
| La Mer | Kampachi Ceviche with Ginger Caviar, Roasted Lamb, Eggplant Mousseline, Foie Gras | Slow and relaxed dining, wine pairings, sommelier recommendations | 2199 Kalia Rd Halekulani, Honolulu, Oahu, HI |
| Azure | Four-course menu: Asparagus salad, Poached Scallops, Wagyu Steak, Russian Honey Cake | Vegan and vegetarian options, Chef visits, excellent service | 2259 Kalakaua Ave The Royal Hawaiian, Waikiki, Honolulu, Oahu, HI |
Winding Up: The 7 Best Restaurants in Waikiki with a View
Come for the food and stay for the views, as Waikiki’s eateries guarantee stunning scenery to accompany their delicious food. You’ll have access to undisturbed views of the Oahu shores and distant mountains from all the restaurants mentioned in this article, so make sure to try them on your next trip.
Looking for excellent views and food at low prices? Head to Duke’s Waikiki and Hula Grill.
Want to experience peaceful views of the Waikiki shoreline from a quaint setting? Don’t miss House Without a Key and Azure.
Staying at the Halekulani Hotel and need a beautiful place to eat? Try Orchids, La Mer, and House Without a Key.
Food with a view has never been better!
FAQ
What is Hawaiian cuisine and what are some popular dishes?
Hawaiian cuisine is a blend of different cultures, including Polynesian, Japanese, Chinese, and American, with recent influences from French cuisine and Italian recipes. Some delectable dishes include poke bowls made with fresh fish, kalua pork cooked in an imu (underground oven), and laulau (pork wrapped in taro leaves), and delicious hors d’oeuvre like shrimp nachos. Additionally, Hawaii’s famous banana pancakes make for an unforgettable breakfast.
The lunch scene in Hawaii is also quite diverse, with popular dishes like chicken with salsa from Mexican cuisine, and a savory hamburger in a Hawaiian paradise setting.
A surprising addition to the culinary scene is New Zealand bread paired with locally sourced olive oil and truffle aioli, which represents the global influences in Hawaiian cuisine.
Which restaurants offer open air outdoor dining rooms with a view of the ocean?
There are several Waikiki restaurants that offer open-air outdoor dining rooms with stunning views of the ocean. One such restaurant is Plumeria Beach House. Another dining spot with a rich history and fantastic views is Duke’s Waikiki, named in honor of the legendary surfer Duke Kahanamoku.
North Shore (Oahu) also provides numerous dining options with beautiful views of the ocean, where you can enjoy a meal while taking in the spectacular surroundings.
What makes Hula Grill Waikiki a popular choice among Waikiki restaurants?
Hula Grill Waikiki is a sought-after dining option among Waikiki restaurants because it offers delicious cuisine, including the main course like Filet Steak Kiana and salmon served with fennel and onion. It also features an open-air dining room, providing patrons with stunning views of the famous Waikiki Beach.
For those who have a craving for sweet things, their marmalade cheesecake and pie are famous among the locals and tourists alike. You may also enjoy the sound of Music of Hawaii live, enhancing the overall dining experience.
How does the Ambassador Hotel Waikiki cater to guests looking for breakfast options?
The Ambassador Hotel Waikiki ensures its guests have a great start to their day by offering an extensive breakfast buffet spread. They serve classic American breakfast items such as waffles, pancakes, and Eggs Benedict, including local ingredients like sweet potato and fresh fruit.
Why do diners often choose Filet Steak Kiana when visiting Hula Grill Waikiki?
Filet Steak Kiana is an exquisite dish at Hula Grill that attracts many diners due to its tender meat and flavorful garlic and jalapeno sauces. The grilled octopus is another popular choice here.
Can you suggest an ideal spot for enjoying dinner with a view in Honolulu?
For a delightful meal with stunning surroundings, consider visiting one of Honolulu’s celebrated restaurants with a view like Hula Grill Waikiki or Azure Restaurant. Azure, located in the historic Moana Hotel, serves a Maine lobster bisque among many other delectable dishes.
What are some Waikiki restaurants with spectacular views of Waikiki Beach?
There are numerous Waikiki restaurants that offer stunning views of the beautiful Waikiki Beach. Some examples include Orchids, House Without a Key, and Azure.
A typical Waikiki restaurant’s menu will feature an array of sea cuisine, including oyster, abalone, and sablefish. Delicious desserts like macadamia nut ice cream and signature dishes like coastal crab cakes, and miso soup are also popular.
Additionally, there are a number of other delightful choices such as New York City style hamburger, and a slow-roasted prime rib from a traditional steakhouse. If you are adventurous enough, you can also try a bite of sea urchin or even caviar.
Which is the most romantic restaurant in the region for a special occasion?
La Mer is known as one of the most romantic restaurant options in Oahu thanks to its sophisticated ambiance and delectable La Mer cuisine, making it perfect for celebrating unique moments or anniversaries.
What are the recommended places for a romantic dinner with outdoor seating, especially restaurants with a view in Waikiki Beach?
If you’re looking for a romantic dinner experience with outdoor seating and stunning views at Waikiki Beach, I recommend trying rooftop restaurant Sky Waikiki or the Royal Hawaiian’s beach house. Both offer fine dining options featuring Hawaii regional cuisine and delectable desserts while providing gorgeous views of Diamond Head.
Can you suggest any rooftop bars or grill spots near Ala Moana Hotel that serve fresh fish dishes like coconut poached local snapper along with some unique Asian-inspired delicacies?
Yes, head over to Grill Waikiki located not far from Ala Moana Hotel. It offers an exquisite blend of Hawaii Regional cuisine and Asian delicacies such as Sesame Wonton Curry Chicken created by Masaharu Morimoto. Try their delicious fresh fish options like coconut poached local snapper and lobster bisque while enjoying outdoor dining with panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Last Updated on July 14, 2023 by Brigitte