Dining in Honolulu: A Unique Experience
Dining in Honolulu is a unique vacation experience that stands apart from eating at restaurants anywhere on the US mainland.
One of the coolest differences is restaurants’ immersion in Hawaii’s tropical environment and vibrant culture.
The best Honolulu restaurants with a view often take advantage of the island’s natural beauty, offering open-air seating with oceanfront views, swaying palms, and sunsets over the Pacific. The atmosphere here is relaxed, blending luxurious settings with a casual island vibe including live Hawaiian music or hula performances.
Hawaiian cuisine is shaped by its melting pot of cultures, with influences from Polynesian, Japanese, Filipino, Chinese, and Western traditions.
A top-rated restaurant on Oahu is likely to feature locally sourced ingredients, including fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and taro.
Some common and much-loved entrées include dishes like poke bowls (marinated raw fish served over rice), kalua pig (slow-cooked pork), and ahi tuna prepared in a variety of styles, such as seared, poke-style, or sashimi.
If you’re looking for some of the best affordable restaurants in Honolulu, these are the ones we recommend.
Best Restaurants in Honolulu Recommended by Locals
If you’re excited to try some of the best local restaurants in Honolulu, here are some standout spots that residents rave about.
Azure
This very highly-rated seafood restaurant is one of the island’s best.
Location
Right on Waikiki Beach, close to Duke’s Waikiki and the Cheesecake Factory. 2259 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815. Part of the Royal Hawaiian Hotel.
Cuisine
Upscale seafood-focused menu featuring fresh, local ingredients. Popular dishes include poached scallops, Snake River Farms Wagyu, and the vegetarian-friendly seared tofu.
Dining experience
A four-course prix-fixe dinner with optional wine pairings. The menu changes seasonally to ensure freshness and creativity.
Ambiance
Beachfront setting with options for candle-lit indoor seating or outdoor patio dining offering stunning ocean and Diamond Head views. Cabana seating is available for a more private experience.
Dress Code
Resort wear is required.
Hours
Open Wednesday to Sunday, 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Closed Monday and Tuesday.
Reservations
Strongly recommended, a must for groups, outdoor seating & cabanas.
Parking
The first four hours are complimentary with a $25 minimum spend at the restaurant.
Payment
Cash is not accepted; bring a credit or debit card.
Pricing
Premium ($$$$), reflecting the luxurious dining experience and location.
Highlights
Signature dishes like asparagus salad, Russian honey cake, and coconut milk vinaigrette on scallops stand out. Wine pairings enhance the flavors of each course.
House Without A Key
For an iconic Honolulu experience, head to this beachfront restaurant at the Halekulani Hotel. It’s famous for its expertly crafted Mai Tai, live Hawaiian music and hula performances. Their fresh catch of the day and Hoisin Coconut Ribs are local favorites.
Location
At the prestigious Halekulani Hotel in Waikiki, Honolulu. Situated beachfront, with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The restaurant’s address is 2199 Kalia Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815.
Cuisine
House Without a Key specializes in contemporary Hawaiian and American cuisine. Signature dishes include hoisin coconut ribs, coconut shrimp, and fresh-catch-of-the-day options. The restaurant is renowned for its unique Mai Tai cocktail, considered one of the best on the island.
Dining experience
Casual yet elegant, this open-air restaurant focuses on creating a relaxed ambiance where guests can enjoy ocean views and sunset dinners. It offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients for lunch and dinner.
Ambiance
Located at the iconic Halekulani Hotel, the restaurant offers an oceanfront setting with views of Diamond Head. Live Hawaiian music and hula performances enhance the tropical atmosphere every evening. The seating includes shaded areas and tables lit by tiki torches during the evening.
Dress Code
Casual resort wear is recommended, making it accessible yet aligned with the upscale setting of the Halekulani Hotel.
Hours
Breakfast from 7-10:30 AM; Lunch 11:30-4 PM; Dinner 5-9 PM.
Reservations
Reservations are strongly recommended for dinner or prime sunset seating. Walk-ins are accepted but can involve a wait, especially for groups during peak times.
Parking
Complimentary valet parking is available for restaurant guests. Validation is provided upon dining.
Payment
Credit and debit cards are accepted. Cash is not preferred, aligning with the hotel’s general policies.
Pricing
Moderate to premium ($$$). Most menu items range between $30 to $60, with special cocktails and higher-end entrées at a premium price.
Highlights
Live Hawaiian music and hula performances each evening. Iconic Mai Tai cocktails with a perfect beachfront backdrop. A prime location at the Halekulani Hotel, offering views of Diamond Head and the Pacific Ocean.
Upstairs at Pier 38
Upstairs at Pier 38 in Honolulu features fresh, locally sourced seafood and USDA Prime steaks, blending island and French flavors. Signature dishes include Bubu Arare-crusted seared ahi, traditional French onion soup, and decadent Basque cheesecake.
Location
Upstairs at Pier 38 is located at 1129 N Nimitz Hwy, Honolulu, Hawaii, on the second floor of the Pier 38 complex near the fish auction, offering great views of the harbor.
Cuisine
Roy’s has fresh, local seafood with a menu influenced by island flavors and rustic French techniques. It also features USDA Prime steaks and unique dishes like Bubu Arare-crusted seared ahi.
Dining experience
Upstairs at Pier 38 offers an upscale and relaxed dining experience with a seasonally changing menu. The food is complemented by thoughtfully crafted cocktails, making it a perfect spot for both casual and special occasions.
Ambiance
With serene views of the harbor and fishing boats, the ambiance combines a coastal charm with rustic elegance. The intimate space is perfect for enjoying a relaxing meal in a peaceful setting.
Dress Code
The dress code is casual but neat, ideal for a comfortable yet refined dining experience.
Hours
Upstairs at Pier 38 is closed for lunch and open Tuesday through Friday from 4 PM to 9 PM and Saturday and Sunday from 5 PM to 9 PM. It is closed on Mondays.
Reservations
Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to ensure seating. Walk-ins are welcome, but availability may vary.
Parking
Parking is available on-site with easy access to the restaurant located at Pier 38.
Payment
The restaurant accepts credit and debit cards. Cash payments are not listed as an option.
Pricing
Pricing is moderate to high-end, reflecting the quality of the seafood and steaks, and the sophisticated dining experience. Not one of the most affordable restaurants.
Highlights
Signature dishes include the Bubu Arare-crusted seared ahi, French onion soup, and Basque cheesecake. The restaurant is known for its fresh, local ingredients, innovative flavors and dinner with a view.
Roy’s Hawaii Kai
Roy’s has been part of Hawaii since 1988 and has been a local favorite ever since. Their six locations span three Hawaiian Islands, all with outstanding ratings and reviews. Combining French, Japanese, and other Asian food influences, Roy’s is an upscale dining experience that blends the best of both cuisines. Chef Roy Yamaguchi’s signature fusion dishes make this a top choice for special occasions.
Location
Roy’s Hawaii Kai is located at 6600 Kalanianaole Hwy, Honolulu, Hawaii, in the Hawaii Kai neighborhood, offering picturesque views of Maunalua Bay and the nearby coastline.
Cuisine
Roy’s Hawaii Kai is known for its unique fusion of Hawaiian ingredients with French, Asian, and European culinary influences. Popular dishes include their signature misoyaki butterfish and a variety of seafood and steaks.
Dining experience
The restaurant offers an upscale yet relaxed dining experience, with a combination of traditional Hawaiian flavors and sophisticated presentations. The menu offers both à la carte items and prix-fixe options.
Ambiance
The ambiance is warm and welcoming, with an elegant interior that reflects Hawaiian culture and ocean views that enhance the dining atmosphere. It’s an ideal setting for special occasions or a romantic evening.
Dress code
Resort casual or upscale casual is recommended, reflecting the upscale yet laid-back vibe of the restaurant.
Hours
Roy’s Hawaii Kai is open daily from 5 PM to 9 PM, offering both dinner service and a bar menu.
Reservations
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekends or special events. Walk-ins are welcome, but wait times can vary.
Parking
On-site parking is available for guests, with plenty of spaces near the restaurant entrance.
Payment
Roy’s Hawaii Kai accepts credit and debit cards. Cash payments are also accepted.
Pricing
Roy’s Hawaii Kai offers a premium dining experience, with pricing on the higher end of the spectrum, particularly for their seafood and specialty dishes.
Highlights
Signature dishes like misoyaki butterfish, Roy’s famous Hawaiian fusion appetizers, and decadent desserts such as their molten lava cake are not to be missed. Our personal favorite is the seared ahi! The wine list and cocktail menu are carefully curated to complement the flavors of the dishes.
Final Thoughts on Restaurants and Dining in Honolulu
Honolulu offers a diverse and vibrant food scene, combining international flavors with local Hawaiian ingredients. Whether you’re seeking a high-end beachfront dining experience, authentic local dishes, or a laid-back brunch, the city has something to offer every palate.