The 5 Best Indian Restaurants in Honolulu

Welcome fellow Indian food enthusiasts!

I’m a big enthusiast of Indian cuisine, and on my last trip to Honolulu with my boyfriend, I dragged him to the city’s best restaurants. After sampling dishes at countless eateries, we’ve become experts on the best places to enjoy the sublime flavors of India in Hawaii.

Look:

You won’t find better vegan, vegetarian, and meat-based options than those served up in these restaurants – think Tandoori dishes, Paneer-based curries, street-style Dosa, or Biryani. It’s no wonder that after our visit he has been just as enthusiastic about this cuisine as me!

So I have put together a guide for you so you too can experience the deliciousness of authentic Indian food in Honolulu. I’m ranking the 5 best Indian eateries in Honolulu based on flavor, authenticity, atmosphere, service, and price.

Warning: After you’ve had your fill at these restaurants, you’ll definitely be dreaming about your next trip back to Honolulu for more delicious curries and nan bread.

Let’s dig into some delicious Indian food already!

What Will I Learn? show

Kamana Kitchen – Best Indian Food in Honolulu

You can’t think of Indian food in Honolulu without mentioning Kamana Kitchen, which serves authentic dishes made from all-natural Indian spices, prepared fresh daily. They operate from four branches in Hawaii and have a simple seating area to enjoy a delicious comfort meal. 

Their menu has an excellent variety, with yummy appetizers like Daal soup and Mulagatani soup, made with fresh herbs and spices. We love their vegetarian Malai Kofta, vegan Baingan Bharta (eggplant curry), and juicy Lamb Vindaloo. Each dish tasted so flavorful, and we couldn’t get enough!

You’ll want to pair the food with their garlic naan or cheese naan, that’s fluffy, soft, and goes so well with every dish. 

We’re regulars at Kamala Kitchen, as they’re the best Indian restaurant in Honolulu. Here’s why you’ll agree:

  • Their Chicken Tikka Masala and Tandoori are crowd favorites, having very tender meat.
  • Their thalis (platters of different dishes) are enough for two people.
  • The service is quick and friendly.
  • Food costs $15-25 per person.

Address: 1102 Bishop St Ste FC4, Honolulu, Oahu, HI. 

Cafe Maharani – Best Indian Food on King Street

A Honolulu staple for Indian food, Cafe Maharani, serves authentic North Indian cuisine inspired by favorite meals of the royal Mughals. Their specialty is the meat and naan prepared in a traditional Tandoor, a clay oven that uses a high flame for cooking. 

You can find delicious vegetarian and meat-based options on the menu. Start with their Papri Chaat, homemade chips with fresh veggies and yogurt sauce, and samosas filled with spiced potatoes and peas, which are very well-seasoned. 

My boyfriend and I love their chicken specials like Butter Chicken, Tawa Chicken (served in a hot Tawa pan), and vegetarian Palak Paneer, which come in generous portions and have a rich flavor. They also have the freshest naan and roti on the side, which pairs well with the meal. 

We love Cafe Maharani’s welcoming space and yummy food; undoubtedly one of the best Indian restaurants in Honolulu. Here’s why you have to try it:

  • They’re usually packed, but the staff clears a table quickly for newcomers. 
  • Try the aloo paratha and daal, which are classic comfort foods on their menu.
  • They have a vibrant decor with comfy seating. 
  • Prices are somewhat high, at $20-40 per person. 

Address: 2509 S King St, Honolulu, Oahu, HI.

Komala Curry House

If you’re in downtown Honolulu and need some delicious curry in a hurry, head to Komala Curry House. They’ve been around since 1995 with affordable prices and authentic Indian flavors, which is why locals love Komala’s. 

The owner and chef, Lata Ramesh, has the best recipes that have remained unchanged for years. 

Try the Pepper Chicken, and Lamb Tikka Masala were incredible; great spices and nicely complimented with yellow rice. We also enjoyed their vegetarian and plant-based dishes like Lentil Ball Curry and vegetable tofu curry.

You’ll love the food at Komala Curry House and make it your go-to for Indian food. Here’s why they’re the best Indian restaurant in Honolulu:

  • You can order entrees a la carte, but we recommend pairing them with saffron rice.
  • Don’t worry if you can’t eat hot food, since they prepare mild curries too. 
  • They have reasonable prices, at $10-15 per person. 

Address: 1111 Bishop St, Honolulu, Oahu, HI.

Bombay Palace

Get ready to try some terrific Indian food at this local favorite spot close to the Hilton and Ilikai hotels. Bombay Palace is a must-visit if you’re craving spicy food and the best Indian curries in Honolulu. However, they’re usually crowded so expect a long wait for your table. 

We loved everything here, especially the Butter Chicken, Coconut Chicken, and this unique lamb dish, Rogan Josh – perfectly seasoned with incredibly juicy meat. My boyfriend tested his spice tolerance with their biryani and loved it, as it’s a must-try for spice lovers. 

You also want to try their Keema Naan filled with minced meat, which was new for us, and we highly recommend it. 

Don’t leave Oahu without eating at Bombay Palace, as they’re the best Indian restaurant in Honolulu. Here’s why you’ll agree:

  • The restaurant is spacious and has an open kitchen, so you can see the food cooked live.
  • They have a bar serving drinks as well. 
  • The food is $25-50 per person, but the flavors are worth the price. 

Address: 1778 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, Oahu, HI.

Govinda’s Restaurant

Get away from crowded tourist hubs and eat at Govinda’s, located inside the Hare Krishna temple in a residential area. The restaurant has a terrific buffet served all week and a different daily menu.

They serve vegan options and some non-Indian favorites like lasagna and enchiladas. We went on a Tuesday and had the Nutloaf and Gravy, Kofta Cabbage Coconut Curry, Eggplant Potato Curry, and Orange Peel Cranberry Cashew Halwa, prepared fresh and super delicious. 

Also try the sides from their fresh salad station, plus rice, lentils, roasted potatoes, and steamed vegetables accompanying every meal. 

We loved the flavorful, homemade food at Govinda’s, and you will, too, as they’re the best Indian restaurant in Honolulu.

  • The food is best enjoyed outside the shade of the large banyan tree.
  • Their ginger lemonade is a great palate cleanser after the strong buffet flavors.
  • The buffet costs $11.20 a pound.  

Address: 51 Coelho Way, Honolulu, Oahu, HI.

Wrapping Up: Best Indian Restaurants in Honolulu

The Indian restaurants in Honolulu are terrific and offer a range of foods that all palates can enjoy. They’re especially a treat for vegans and vegetarians since the food is plant-based and made with fresh ingredients. 

You don’t want to miss the fantastic Indian food on your next trip to Oahu, especially the daal, tikka masala, kadhai, and fresh naan in every restaurant. 

The delicious Indian food in Honolulu is unmissable!

Last Updated on February 12, 2023 by Brigitte