I love trying new places to eat on vacation, but my trips to Oahu tend to revolve around food even more than my trips to other places.

Oahu (especially Honolulu) is a foodie destination with plenty of classic local spots, vibey beach spots, and new “list worthy” culinary concepts.

I’m always trying out new spots whenever I visit, but these are the places I keep coming back to…

Where to Eat on Oahu

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House without a Key

If I only have one night in Waikiki, this is where I’m coming. Hidden away in the luxurious Halekulani Hotel at the quiet, older end of Waikiki, this place feels like old Hawaii.

It’s sophisticated, the views are as good as they come, and there’s nightly live music and hula dancing.

I don’t know about you, but sipping a mai tai on the lawn while watching a hula dancer silhouette at sunset is as “Hawaii” as it comes.

Make reservations in advance if you want a table and full menu. Otherwise, the smaller tables up around the stage are first come first serve. They serve a drink menu and smaller selection of food (however I’ve always been able to order anything off the main menu).

Their mai tais are legendary. I’m always pleasantly surprised by their pizzas. And they’re famous for their coconut cake.

Live music is from 5 PM – 8 PM with a hula dancer from 6 PM – 8 PM.

Sunrise Shack

If you’re looking for the most “instagram famous” spot on Oahu’s North Shore, it’s the Sunrise Shack.

Famous for their acai bowls and charming, tropical aesthetic, this place is just a day dream.

The original shack across from Sunset Beach has been closed, but the location across from Shark’s Cove is just as cute. There’s more parking, and they have more space so there are places to sit plus they have a slightly bigger menu.

I always get a bowl (they have a variety besides just acai), but their avocado toast is phenomenal as well.

Heavenly Island Lifestyle

Located in the bottom of the Shoreline Hotel, this place is all about super fresh and local ingredients. The kalua pork eggs benedict were INCREDIBLE and I will 100% go back for happy hour and dinner.

Giovanni’s

Oahu’s North Shore is famous for their shrimp trucks. Giovanni’s (with locations in Kahuku and Haleiwa) is the original and most popular.

Lines get long during the day with all of the day trippers, but if you’re staying on the North Shore, it clears out in the evenings.

They do several different varieties, but I think the “shrimp scamp” is the best. I’ll be honest, it’s VERY good. But there are other spots I like better that don’t have the lines ; )

Famous Kahuku Shrimp Truck

So far, this is my personal favorite shrimp truck. They butterfly their shrimp so it’s easier to peel and the garlic really soaks in.

They also have really good coconut shrimp.

Some other places known for their shrimp: Romys, Tanaka (formerly Fumi’s), Honos, and Jenny’s.

Helena’s Hawaiian Food

It’s not fancy (the best places aren’t though, are they?), but this iconic fixture on Oahu serves dishes passed down through generations. It’s a local spot to be sure, but they see a fair number of tourists and are very welcoming, taking time to walk you through the menu and explain a good way to order.

If you’re only going to hit one “local” restaurant on your trip, make this it. Now, it’s not in Waikiki, but it’s pretty close to the Bishop Museum if you’ll be out that way.

Koko Head Cafe

Located just outside of Waikiki in the Kaimuki neighborhood of Honolulu, this spot is more popular with locals than tourists. Koko Head Cafe serves a classic American diner style brunch with a Hawaiian twist…think local style but make it trendy/innovate/insta cool.

With loads of fancy variations on the island classics, and a counter where you can watch all the magic happen, this place is a foodie’s dream.

I didn’t get to try their famous cornflake French toast, but their Chicky & Eggs skillet and daily special bread pudding were divine so I’ll definitely be back.

This place is a little far from Waikiki just to venture out and back for breakfast (unless it’s a foodie trip), but if you’ve got a car and you’re leaving Waikiki to head out somewhere around Honolulu or the south side for the day, it would be a great time to come here.

Also, they now have covered patio seating.

Hau Tree

Hau Tree in the Kaimana Beach Hotel (at the far less hectic end of Waikiki) is one of my new favorite spots on the island.

I’ve actually only been for brunch, but their dinner and cocktails are supposed to be amazing.

It’s about a 15 minute walk from the heart of Waikiki and totally worth it!

The Kaimana Beach Hotel has just been totally renovated in a really chic way and the restaurant is about as close as you can get to toes in the sand dining.

You’ll get those coveted Waikiki views, but without the crowds and masses tooling around.

Haleiwa Joe’s

I think this is one of the most “special” feeling restaurants on Oahu. It’s a destination restaurant (it’s going to be a drive from wherever you’re staying), but it’s sooooo beautiful on this side of the island.

The location in Kaneohe (Haiku Gardens-not to be confused with the one that’s actually in Haleiwa) is one of the loveliest spots on Oahu, the food is delicious, and the atmosphere feels special but not pretentious. It’s a favorite spot with locals to celebrate special occasions.

The only downside about this place is they don’t take reservations. When they open at 4:30, there’s always a line so go early or just be happy to grab a drink at the bar and enjoy the view.

There are actually quite a few tables in the bar area that are first come, first serve and they have a smaller food menu you can order off of so if you’re happy with drinks and pupus (appetizers) that’s a great option.

Monkeypod

I’ve been a Monkeypod stan for well over a decade now, and I never feel like I’m in Hawaii until I have one of their famous mai tais with the lilikoi foam.

So I was over the moon when they finally opened a location in Waikiki. Situated beachfront in the Outrigger REEF Waikiki (there’s more than one Outrigger hotel in Waikiki), this is your typical Monkeypod experience (lively atmosphere…their motto is “a party every night”) but with even extra Waikiki energy.

Like I said, they’re famous for their mai tais which have a lilikoi foam on top, but they’re REALLY famous for their happy hour. Double check the hours seasonally (and by location) but it’s usually 3:30 PM to 5 PM and covers half priced appetizers (no seafood options though), $14 pizzas, and $4 off craft cocktails.

Honestly everything on the menu is really good but I’ve found that 90% of the time when people aren’t impressed with this place it’s because they ordered the margarita pizza ; )

I love their kalua pork and pineapple pizza, potstickers, lobster deviled eggs, garlic truffle oil fries, and seafood pasta. Also, I ALWAYS get a side of their broccoli. It’s so good and SPICY!

Marukame Udon

I’ve heard about this place for a long time, but on my last trip to Oahu I stayed across the street at the Laylow so it was finally time to try it. This place has a line down the block ALL THE TIME. That’s a good sign. It’s a low-key Japanese restaurant that serves fresh udon (noodles) made from scratch right in front of you. They also usually have a good selection of tempura.

So is the long line justified? Yes. Here’s the deal: 1) It’s pretty inexpensive and casual. 2) The portions are large and the food is good. 3) It’s always full of Japanese and local people in addition to visitors. 4) It’s right in the heart of walkable Waikiki. 5) It’s a great authentic, cultural experience, but still very accessible for visitors who aren’t familiar with the cuisine or customs but want to experience something out of their comfort zone.

All of that draws the crowds. But the line moves quickly and they do a good job turning over tables so you can usually find a spot to sit as soon as you get your food.

Kona Coffee Purveyors

What’s better than Kona coffee and French pastries? Don’t miss this spot on the street level of the International Marketplace. The line gets long, but it moves fast.

EVERYTHING is good here.

Crouching Lion

I love a good destination restaurant, and this is one of my favorites on Oahu.

It looks more like an Irish pub than something you’d expect to find in Hawaii, but they reopened last year after a lengthy closure and their menu is now a take on modern Hawaiian cuisine and craft cocktails.

The view from the restaurant (and looking up at the restaurant from the street) is incredible.

Haleiwa Bowls

My #1 goal when I’m in Hawaii is always to eat as many acai bowls as possible. I’ve had them a LOT of places, and this is the gold standard.

These bowls are hearty, made fresh right in front of you, and have the PERFECT ratio of base to toppings.

Basalt

Basalt draws in-the-know locals in for brunch and dinner. Located inside the Duke’s Lane market/food hall, I was beyond impressed with their brunch and can’t wait to go back for dinner/happy hour.

The charcoal pancakes were amazing with the strawberry and guava puree sauce. But I thought the real star was the pork belly fried rice. I could’ve eaten an entire bowl full of the bacon fried rice.

Sweet E’s

Regularly rated as the #1 breakfast spot in Honolulu, this is a local neighborhood style spot that honestly will probably remind you of a place you know wherever you’re from. It’s a little far from the main hub of Waikiki just to pop over for breakfast, but the location is a great spot for a post Diamond Head hike breakfast.

It’s all good but they’re especially well known for their stuffed french toast and boy is it decadent!

Alley at Aiea Bowl

It may sound off, but The Alley in the Aiea Bowl in Honolulu is a great spot for lunch if you’re out at Pearl Harbor or the Aloha Swap Meet.

They’re famous for their oxtail soup (featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives), but the “tasty chicken” and marinated short ribs are my favorites.

They also have the most decadent desserts here!

Hideout at the Laylow

It’s not beachfront, but this has got to be one of the coolest places in Waikiki. The rooftop bar at the Laylow (one of my absolute favorite hotels in Waikiki) has such a cool vintage Hawaiian vibe and their drinks are top notch.

They don’t rely on Diamond Head views to serve weak drinks ; )

I always go with the mai tai, but their old-fashioned is highly recommended.

Leonard’s

If you’ve done any research about foodie must dos on Oahu, you’ve heard mention of Leonard’s. Famous for their malasadas, a Portuguese fried donut, Leonard’s has been attracting the crowds since the 1950s.

It’s not uncommon to find a line around the block at Leonard’s, but it usually moves quickly. And here’s the good thing about the line…it means they’re making a TON of malasadas and that means that they’re almost always hot, fresh out of the oven.

Now, are they really the best in Hawaii? I couldn’t say for sure as I haven’t been EVERYWHERE (I’m working on it though ; ) but they are dang good. There is NOTHING like a hot, fresh malasada and I think that’s why they’re so beloved here. Due to the volume they produce, they’re almost always hot and fresh and I think that makes them better than other places that don’t sell as many so they sit in the case for a while.

Pro Tip: If you want one of their famous pink boxes, you’ll need to order at least a half dozen. If you only order a couple they come in a bang (I saw a lot of disappointed Instagramers last time was there haha).

Another Pro Tip: If the line is too long, or the main location just isn’t convenient, they have a fleet of MalasadaMobile trucks parked at different places on the island. Check their website for current locations.

Liliha Bakery

This place doesn’t get as much hype among tourists as Leonard’s but don’t make the mistake of skipping it! Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Liliha Bakery is a foodie’s paradise serving up both sweet and savories.

With several locations around Honolulu, it should be easy to squeeze in a stop. The original location (with 50s diner vibes) is at 515 N. Kuakini St. But the location on the top floor of the International Marketplace is the most convenient if you’re in Waikiki.

Famous for their Coco Puffs (chocolate cream puffs slathered in Liliha’s famous Chantilly frosting), I’ve sampled most of their offerings now and I think the poi donut is the standout.

They also do a mean loco moco, and smoked pork belly with eggs.

Matsumoto

This family shop, in business since 1951, is probably the most iconic place to get shave ice in Hawaii.

Lines get long in the afternoons, but they move quickly. And it’s worth it to try this tasty treat with local toppings like ice cream, azuki beans, condensed milk, and mochi balls in addition to the ice and syrups.

Kono’s

If you’re a BBQ connoisseur (a whole subset of “foodies”), you need to check out Kono’s. Pig is their specialty and their kalua pork sliders are SO GOOD.

They do breakfast and lunch, and their menu is pretty varied for just focusing on pork. They also do great milkshakes and limeades/lemonades.

Off the Lip

This spot is a departure from the food trucks and more “local” spots on this list, but it’s special.

The newly renovated (and rebranded) Ritz Carlton Turtle Bay is STUNNING and the best part is how they’ve polished up the lobby area to be the coziest hang out spot with views everywhere you look.

The Off the Lip bar is spectacular and not to be missed. Plan to arrive well before sunset to snag one of the little tables or a spot at the bar and prepare to be dazzled.

The mai tais are stout (and well flavored). And all of the small bites are yummy, but be sure to save room for the turtle cheesecake.

Arvo

I first visited Arvo Cafe in Waimea on Hawaii’s Big Island and it’s one of my favorite spots. The original location in Kaka’ako at SALT is so cute.

Their coffee is good (and their latte art on point), but I really love their toasts. The loaded avocado toast is pretty hearty and I can’t resist nutella and strawberries.

I also love their strawberry guava mint iced tea.

There’s also a smaller outpost in the lobby of the Surfjack in Waikiki that just serves coffee.

Seven Brothers

If I had to pick a “final meal” it would probably be a cheeseburger. It’s my go to comfort food. So of course a North Shore burger joint makes the list.

Their burgers are decadent and creative, but even the plain ones are GOOD. Plus their fries are a winner.

Their setting at the Kahuku Sugar Mill is a pleasant place to sit and enjoy.

Mom’s Bakery

This extension of Seven Brothers is a MUST for their cookies and baked goods.

They also have gelato. And the store is super cute.

Cinnamon’s

Cinnamon’s is probably the most popular and talked about breakfast spot on the island (at least in Kailua). They’re famous for their pancakes, and the guava ones are my favorite. Go early (when they open) or expect to wait in line. They’ve recently opened up a location in Waikiki.

Moke’s Bread and Breakfast

My personal favorite breakfast spot in Kailua is Moke’s Bread and Breakfast. It doesn’t get the attention that Cinnamon’s or Boots and Kimo’s gets, but it’s fantastic. The best lilikoi pancakes period.

Duke’s

Okay, let’s talk about Duke’s. This is easily the most recommended restaurant in Waikiki, and maybe in Oahu overall. Is it really the best restaurant on Oahu? No. BUT. It is right on the beach with AMAZING views of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head.

It’s a pretty large restaurant with a first come first serve bar section (a lot of tables) that serves the full menu.

The food is decent (not outstanding, but not bad by any means), and on par with Waikiki prices.

And that’s a recipe for a ton of buzz. You cannot underestimate how crowded this place gets…reservations are hard to come by, and it’s in a high traffic area. But if you can get a table in the bar area with a good view, it’s pretty dreamy.

The mai tais are okay. Not the best, but pretty festive. Their coconut shrimp, fish tacos, etc. probably won’t be a culinary highlight of your trip, but they’re not disappointing. Their Hula Pie is a yummy tradition and I think it’s a must if you’re coming here.

For me, Duke’s is one of those places where “the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.” The drinks and food aren’t particularly outstanding and the service isn’t anything to write home about, but the setting and the “buzz” make it feel pretty special.

I personally probably wouldn’t come here for a full dinner, and it wouldn’t be my top pick (even top 5) for drinks), but I LOVE stopping by mid afternoon for a slice of Hula Pie at a table on the rail. Classic Waikiki.

Aloha Kitchen

I think I can definitively say that this is my favorite breakfast spot in Waikiki. Their kalua pork eggs benny is phenomenal and they have the most decadent souffle pancakes.

It’s a tiny little hole in the wall so go early or be prepared for a wait (they run a tight ship though and turn tables pretty quickly). Because of the size, they can’t seat large parties (I wouldn’t go with more than four or so).

It’s close to the Hilton Hawaiian Village and a 15ish minute walk from the heart of Waikiki.

Waiahole Poi Factory

This is the perfect place to try authentic Hawaiian food (not local style food). The drive up the Windward coast is beautiful, and it’s convenient if you’re coming or going from Kualoa Ranch.

Don’t miss their shop just behind the restaurant. They have a lot of locally made products and gifts.

Da Bald Guy

If you’re a foodie, this is probably the #1 food truck you don’t want to miss. Located at the Kahuku Sugar Mill on the North Shore.

This place is popular and it regularly sells out so go early! The braised boneless Kalbi and chopped steak were both delicious and I have to go back to try the salmon next time.

Kokoro Cafe

This is one of my favorite spots to get a Dole Whip (without having to go to the Dole Plantation).

Located in the food court of the Royal Hawaiian Center (second floor), their Dole Whip float comes with POG juice and they have quite a few fun things on their menu.

Paia Fish Market

Born on the north shore of Maui, Paia Fish Market has expanded to several locations throughout Hawaii.

It’s one of the best places to get a fresh local catch fish dinner at a reasonable price.

They also have great fish tacos and seafood baskets.

The line gets really long during peak meal times.

Eggs ‘n Things

Eggs ‘n Things is one of the more famous breakfast spots in Waikiki. There’s a couple of locations in Waikiki/Honolulu plus one out in Ko Olina.

I know why people like it…they have a lot of fun menu items and it’s very decadent.

With all of the options in Waikiki, I don’t think I would pick it, but if you’re staying out in Ko Olina where there’s not many restaurants, it’s definitely worth trying at least once.

I didn’t love their kalua pork eggs benny, but the mochi waffle with strawberries and nutella was very good. They’re famous for their rainbow pancakes.

Island Vintage Shave Ice

I’ve eaten my fair share of shave ice and this is by far my favorite.

The syrups and toppings are all extremely fresh, the combinations are inventive, and the ice is super fluffy. Their mochi is sooooo much better than what you normally get at shave ice places.

Lines can get long after dinner in the evenings.

Steak Shack

Steak Shack is always recommended as one of the best “local” spots in Waikiki and I figured it was mostly because of the location, but I finally stopped by on my last trip and the chopped steak was probably the best I’ve ever had.

The ocean views don’t hurt either!

Ted’s

This north shore staple has been a local and tourist favorite for decades. I was a little disappointed this last time I ate there. It’s not bad at all, but with all of the places to eat on the north shore, I don’t think I’d pick it over other places nowadays.

Their coconut cake IS worth stopping for though! Although, ask for a fresh slice out of the bakery case…sometimes the ones in the fridges are still a bit frozen.

Jenny’s

People who think Giovanni’s is overrated usually recommend Jenny’s as their favorite garlic shrimp truck on the north shore. I’ll be honest…I think most shrimp trucks are more or less the same (it’s like pizza in New York), but if you’re looking for a spot at this end of Haleiwa, it’s a great stop.

I do love that they serve it with salad and pineapple.

Surf and Salsa

Yes, it’s a food truck, but Surf and Salsa is a whole vibe. It’s got a large seating area and since there’s quite a few food trucks here, there’s a decent number of parking spots.

The menu is pretty large and I definitely need to keep going back to try more, but I really like the taco salad with steak.

Matcha Cafe Maiko

I will confess…this was my first time trying matcha and it’s not really for me. BUT I did enjoy trying the Maiko special.

It’s a layered concoction with matcha and vanilla soft serve, mochi balls, homemade matcha cake, azuki beans, cornflakes, and agar jelly.

If you’re willing to step out of your comfort zone for a cultural experience, this is really fun.

Also, it’s right next to Maragame Udon.

Banzai Bowl

Located in a gas station across from Sunset Beach (there’s also a location in Haleiwa), it’s not my #1 recommendation for a smoothie bowl on north shore, but it’s solid.

Also, their bowls are not as sweet here as other places which may be good if you’re looking for that.

Royal Hawaiian – Surf Lanai & Mai Tai Bar

The Royal Hawaiian has two iconic spots that sit right on Waikiki Beach.

Surf Lanai is their breakfast spot, and it’s where you’ll find their famous pink pancakes.

I’ll be honest…I was not expecting these to be all that good, but they’re solid! It’s definitely a place you go for the photo though.

Mai Tai Bar is on the other side and open in the afternoon and evenings. This is allegedly the first place Trader Vic brought his legendary mai tais in Hawaii (they were invented in California).

Their White Wash mai tai is my favorite.

I also had the braised beef shortrib ragu for dinner one night and it was very good.

Mina’s Fish House

When I’m staying out in Ko Olina, Mina’s Fish House is always my go to restaurant for a “nice” experience” that still feels casual.

The terraced, open air setting with views over the lagoon, the buzzy atmosphere, and the fun drink menu always make it a hit.

This is the place where they serve their version of the mai tai in the Spam can (so fun!), but they also have a lot of other fun glassware options (go inside to the bar to see them all).

Everything is always good here, but I LOVE the king crab and endive caesar and someday I will finally try the lobster pot pie.

Go early for happy hour or make reservations.

AMA AMA

I just recently made it back to AMA AMA at Disney’s Aulani Resort in Ko Olina to try their new concept (they reopened with a pre fix menu after the pandemic), and I couldn’t have been more impressed.

All of the food was fantastic, the service was some of the best I’ve ever had at any restaurant ANYWHERE, and the setting is so lovely.

The four course dinner is $130/person and there are quite a few options for each course. Plus there’s a $75/person wine pairing.

HeyDay

This is one of the cutest pool bars in Waikiki and definitely worth a stop at happy hour. The bar has swings!

La Mariana Sailing Co

After hearing about this place for so long, I went out of my way to finally go here on my last trip (it’s in a weird spot in Honolulu…you need a car and it’s not really near anything except the airport).

Unfortunately, it was pretty disappointing in pretty much every way (food, drinks, service, etc.), but I still put it on this list because I REALLY appreciate an old fashioned tiki bar and there just aren’t that many in Hawaii.

If you are a hard core tiki bar lover, you’ll probably still want to come here.

If you’re casually interested or just heard it was a great “local” place to go…skip it.

Castro’s

I got quite a few recommendations to check this place out and I’m so glad I did! It’s not usually as busy as some of the other popular breakfast spots in Waikiki, but all of the food is fresh and FUN.

Plus their coffee is phenomenal.

Tommy Bahama

I don’t normally do chain restaurants in Hawaii, but the rooftop bar is nice, the coconut shrimp is yummy and they have a great frozen mai tai which is unique.

Vamin Dessert Bar

I stumbled into this place by accident (it’s next door to Castro’s), and I can’t believe more people don’t talk about it.

Their coffee might be the best in Waikiki and their pastries are DIVINE. Go early because they sell out.

Beach House

There’s one in Haleiwa, but the one at Turtle Bay has a better view.

I had a really nice dinner here on my last trip. The burrata with beet hummus, Banzai roll, lobster mac and cheese, and crispy brussel sprouts were all big hits.

Island Vintage Coffee

Yes, the tourists really love this place, but gosh if it isn’t the best coffee and smoothie bowls in Waikiki!

The line gets pretty long so go early or order online. Their island latte is my favorite, plus their smoothie bowls are as good as anywhere on the island.

P.S. One of the reasons I’m able to travel to Hawaii so often is because I get free flights with my Southwest credit card AND I can fly someone with me for free with my Companion Pass.

I have this Southwest Premier Rapid Rewards Visa card through Chase. The current sign up offer is 50,000 points. Depending on where you live and fly from, that’s at least one completely FREE ticket to Hawaii and it could be two depending on the time of year (or more if you catch a crazy sale).

But the real pro travel hack is getting the Southwest Companion Pass.

If you acquire a certain amount of annual points with Southwest (either through flying or credit card spend), you get a companion pass where you can bring someone with you on every flight you take FOR FREE for the entire year. I can’t tell you how many thousands of dollars I save using this every year.

What makes this doable is that the sign up bonuses from Southwest credit cards goes towards the point requirement.

By far the quickest way to qualify for the companion pass is by signing up for a personal AND business card through Southwest.

**Besides being a business owner, if you’re self-employed, a freelancer or contractor, a gig economy worker, if you own rental properties, etc…you qualify for a business card.

And you’ll be most of the way towards qualifying for a Companion Pass PLUS you’ll have 110K points to book flights to Hawaii. That’s enough points to book 3-4 flights to Hawaii! AND you can take someone with you for FREE.

P.P.S. Here’s one more really important thing you need to know before your Hawaii trip…

You’ve got your airfare, hotel, rental car and your big activities booked, so you should be good to go, right? Wrong!

Travel is BOOMING in Hawaii and a lot of state and national parks have instituted reservation systems at some of the island’s most popular spots to help manage the crowds and make things a little more sustainable.

That means that there are now over half a dozen sites (beaches, trailheads, etc.) that require advance reservations. And some sell out well before you arrive on the island so you really need to have some sort of a plan.

I recently saw somebody in a Hawaii travel group post in a panic that they didn’t know they had to make reservations for things in advance…they thought they could just show up and “go with the flow.” I was tempted to say, well, “as long as the flow doesn’t take you somewhere that requires reservations, you can!” ; )

But I don’t want YOU to be that person, so I’ve pulled together a list of all the places you need to reserve entry in advance (plus all the details on booking windows, price, links, etc.) and a handful of popular tourist hotspots that book out really far in advance too.
Get that info >> HERE