Where to Eat on Waialae Avenue—A Hidden Culinary Treasure on Oʻahu
Nestled in the heart of Kaimuki on Oʻahu, a few short blocks of Waialae Avenue pack a serious culinary punch. From traditional Japanese katsu to bold Hawaiian fusion, this walkable stretch has quietly become one of Honolulu’s most delicious neighborhoods. Whether you’re here for a morning stroll, a dinner crawl, or a spontaneous bite, this “gourmet ghetto” is worth carving out time for.
Nana Ai Katsu
3585 Waialae Ave
A small space with big flavor. Nana Ai Katsu serves up crispy, golden katsu made with care and tradition. Each meal is a perfectly composed Japanese set—comforting miso soup, crunchy pickles, fluffy rice, and pork or chicken katsu that’s fried to perfection. Come hungry, leave happy.
Don’t miss: Uzumaki Shiso Katsu Roll Bento. These sell out so pre-order them if you don’t want to miss out.
Mud Hen Water
3452 Waialae Ave
Chef Ed Kenney’s flagship eatery captures the spirit of modern Hawaiʻi cuisine. Celebrating its 10 year anniversary this year, Mud Hen Water is hyper-local and inventive, transforming traditional ingredients into bold, memorable dishes. With an indoor-outdoor vibe and a menu designed to share, it’s a place to celebrate the roots of the islands—past, present, and future.
Know this: The restaurant is open for brunch Friday, Saturday and Sunday and dinner every night but Monday.
Restaurant XO
3434 Waialae Ave
For a totally different experience, Restaurant XO offers playful, Asian-fusion dishes that break the mold. Expect furikake waffles, uni butter pasta, and dishes inspired by chef Kenneth Lee’s Korean roots and local upbringing. It’s fine dining flavor in a casual, energetic space.
Why we love it: The unexpected flavor combos—and the rotating chef’s menu that keeps regulars coming back.
Pipeline Bakeshop & Creamery
3632 Waialae Ave
Got a sweet tooth? Pipeline Bakeshop is the go-to spot for malasadas made fresh to order. They’re warm, pillowy, and just sweet enough. Pair with a scoop of island-inspired ice cream and you’ve got a perfect afternoon treat.
Local tip: Order the cinnamon-sugar malasada and grab it hot!
Kaimuki Shokudo
1127 11th Ave
With close to 20 Soba options for lunch, Kaimuki Shokudo is a noodle-lovers dream. Dinner features both hot and cold Pupu options and rice dishes that will satisfy the most discerning taste.
For drinkers: The restaurant has a liquor license so in addition to sake and beer, check out the cocktail menu featuring inventive drinks such as the Shiso-Crazy, with lemon, cucumber and ginger beer.
Talk Kaimuki
3601 Waialae Ave
Part café, part cocktail bar, part local institution, Talk Kaimuki is a relaxing hangout with strong brews and a steady hum of community. Whether you’re writing, catching up with friends, or just people-watching, it’s got a welcoming energy and plenty of seating.
Pro move: Pair your coffee with one of their rotating house-made scones.
Explore by Foot
Everything is within a short, pleasant walk—no car needed once you’re there. Spend a lazy afternoon grazing your way down the avenue, or make dinner a multi-stop experience. Either way, you’ll find yourself in the heart of a neighborhood that’s creative, rooted, and always cooking up something good.
Planning Your Trip to Kaimuki?
Waialae Avenue is just a short drive from Waikīkī and well worth the detour.
