10 Best Restaurants in Waikiki

Waikiki, known worldwide for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, also boasts a diverse and tantalizing culinary scene. The neighborhood is a gastronomic paradise, offering everything from high-end dining experiences to affordable local eateries. This article will guide you through the top 10 restaurants in Waikiki, helping you navigate through the myriad of dining options and ensuring that every meal you enjoy in this tropical paradise is nothing short of extraordinary.

Situated right on the sandy beaches of Waikiki with stunning ocean views, Duke’s Waikiki pays tribute to the legendary surfer, Duke Kahanamoku. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience blending Hawaii’s local flavors with the classic American cuisine. Known for its fresh seafood and island-inspired dishes, Duke’s Waikiki is particularly popular for its fish tacos and huli huli chicken. The restaurant also boasts a breakfast buffet that includes made-to-order omelets, fresh fruit, and Hawaiian specialties like loco moco. A visit to Duke’s Waikiki is incomplete without trying their famous hula pie, an iconic dessert that’s a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Marugame Udon offers an authentic taste of Japan with its exceptional range of Udon noodle dishes. This restaurant is often bustling with locals and tourists alike, all seeking to indulge in its fresh, hand-made noodles served in a variety of flavorful broths. The restaurant’s open kitchen allows guests to witness the meticulous process of noodle making, adding to the overall dining experience. Popular dishes include the Nikutama Udon, a bowl of warm noodles topped with sweet caramelized onions and thinly sliced beef, and the tempura selections, particularly the crispy shrimp tempura.

Hula Grill has the perfect blend of mouthwatering food and breathtaking views. Located in the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort, it offers an authentic Hawaiian dining experience with a stunning view overlooking Waikiki Beach. The restaurant is renowned for its Pacific Rim cuisine, attracting food enthusiasts with its popular dishes such as hula pie, ahi poke tacos, and jumbo lump crab & macadamia nut wontons. The festive atmosphere and exceptional service make it a must-visit dining spot for anyone exploring Waikiki’s vibrant food scene.

This is another culinary gem in Waikiki known for its lively ambiance and exquisite range of dishes. Tiki’s Grill & Bar offers stunning oceanfront views that add charm to the dining experience. The restaurant is famous for its Pacific Rim and Asian-inspired dishes. The huli huli chicken, coconut shrimp, and kalua pork nachos are among the favorite dishes that patrons frequently rave about. The tropical cocktails served here are also very popular and worth trying.

Situated in the heart of Waikiki, Hy’s Steak House has been a popular dining spot for locals and tourists alike for over 40 years. The establishment boasts a warm, classic ambiance, complete with dark wood interiors and a serene vibe. The menu is a testament to its reputation as a steakhouse, with the Prime Rib, an exquisitely cooked, tender, and flavorful dish, being a crowd favorite. Another highlight is the Kiawe wood-broiled steaks that are cooked to perfection in an open grill, offering a unique taste and experience to its patrons.

Roy’s Waikiki brings forth a unique blend of Hawaiian, Japanese, and European cuisines. The brainchild of culinary genius Chef Roy Yamaguchi, this restaurant is renowned for its innovative and mouthwatering dishes. The “Hawaiian Style Misoyaki Butterfish” and the “Blackened Island Ahi” are among the must-try items on the menu. A trip to Roy’s Waikiki promises an unforgettable dining experience with its array of eclectic flavors and its warm, inviting ambiance.

Just a short distance from Waikiki, Ono Seafood is a hidden gem that serves some of the freshest seafood in the area. The unassuming storefront belies the culinary delights that await within. It’s most renowned for its poke bowls, a traditional Hawaiian dish that features cubes of raw, marinated fish usually served over rice. The ‘Ono Special’ bowl, combining Ahi tuna with a secret sauce, remains a perennial favorite among both locals and tourists alike.

Known for its American comfort food, M.A.C. 24/7 is conveniently located in the Hilton Waikiki Beach Hotel. As the name suggests, it is open 24/7, making it a perfect spot for any meal or late-night cravings. The restaurant is famous for its enormous pancakes, succulent burgers, and a varied menu that caters to different dietary needs.

Situated in the heart of Waikiki within the stately Halekulani Hotel, House Without a Key is an iconic destination, offering patrons a taste of the island’s unique charm and cuisine. The restaurant boasts of a mesmerizing beachfront view and is famous for its laid-back atmosphere, a perfect reflection of the aloha spirit. Its menu is a delightful medley of Hawaiian and contemporary flavors, but guests particularly rave about the signature “Coconut Cake” and the assortment of seafood dishes. A visit to this establishment is not just about the food, but the whole Hawaiian experience.

Heavenly Island Lifestyle serves up fresh, organic cuisine that embodies the vibrant, health-conscious spirit of the island. The restaurant is located on Seaside Avenue, a stone’s throw from the beach, and offers a unique blend of Hawaiian and Asian culinary traditions. Their specialties include the island-style acai bowl, full of antioxidants and tropical flavors, and the divine organic egg benedict with taro bread, a dish that perfectly captures their farm-to-table philosophy.

As you navigate through the culinary landscape that Waikiki proudly offers, you’ll find an exciting opportunity to experience. Each restaurant is a testament to the multicultural heritage of the island, mixing local ingredients with dishes from around the world. You’d be missing out if you didn’t explore the rich array of flavors in each dish. No matter what cuisine you fancy, the vibrant and diverse restaurant scene in Waikiki is ready to surprise you!