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Where to Eat in Waikīkī

Where to Eat in Waikīkī

Sarah Burchard
By Sarah Burchard, EditorUpdated November 3, 2026

Waikīkī, the world-famous tourist district of Oʻahu, has every eating experience imaginable, from fine dining to street food. Popular dishes here include poke, açaí bowls and udon. Hidden gems are everywhere, tucked away on a side street or in a food truck park. Since this is the area with the highest concentration of visitors, there are also many chain restaurants, kid-friendly menus and higher price points. Quality can be hit or miss, because of the abundance of options here. As someone who has worked in Waikīkī restaurants and has lived a short walk from the neighborhood for the past 10 years, here is my advice.

Get out and walk around. Leave the convenience of your hotel and walk across the neighborhood, down Kalākaua and back up Kūhiō. If something catches your eye on a side street, go check it out. If you stumble across a food truck park, peruse its options. Most times (not all the time), the best food in Waikīkī is from small vendors not attached to any hotel.

Skip the chain restaurants. The Cheesecake Factory in Waikīkī is one of the highest-grossing Cheesecake Factories in the country. That is wild to me, in a city with so much good food that is unlike anything you have at home. Take a chance, try something new. Don't get stuck waiting in line for an hour for something you can have back home.

Yes, it is worth it to leave the neighborhood for food. Waikīkī is not the best neighborhood on Oʻahu for dining — I would put Chinatown and Kaimukī ahead of it, as well as Kapahulu Avenue, Kakaʻako and Ala Moana/Midtown — but it does have a lot to offer.

If you can only do one, go to: Arden Waikiki for dinner.

If you have time for two, add: the dessert omakase at Asato's Waikiki.

We may earn a commission from bookings and purchases made through links on this page.

Best Waikīkī Dining by Cuisine

Hawaiʻi Regional

Monkeypod Kitchen Waikiki

Chef and co-owner Peter Merriman is one of the co-founders of Hawaiʻi Regional Cuisine — a movement that began in the late '80s with the opening of his first restaurant, Merriman's in Waimea, Hawaiʻi Island. I like this restaurant for families and large groups especially, because it has a large dining room, a kids' menu and a kitchen willing to modify dishes when possible for dietary restrictions. However, the menu doesn't have much for gluten-free options, has limited vegetarian options and hardly any vegan options — it’s not the best for diners with those restrictions.

Reservations recommended

Open daily, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Located inside Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort, 2169 Kālia Road, Unit 111

Monkeypod Kitchen mai tai and poke tacos. Hawaii.
Monkeypod Kitchen. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

ʻOlili

A fresh spin on Hawaiʻi Regional Cuisine from the people who bring you Foodland and its famous poke counters. Good for couples or groups of up to six people. I would also eat alone at the bar. Children's menu and happy hour menu available. If you are a picky eater and are afraid to try new things, I would skip this restaurant. If you are excited to try local Hawaiʻi food, I think this menu is a good representation. Since the restaurant is located inside Waikiki Market, you can pick up items for the following day's breakfast on your way out.

Walk-in OK, reserve ahead of time for large groups

Open Wednesday through Sunday, 4 to 10 p.m. (closed Monday and Tuesday)

Located inside Waikiki Market, 2380 Kūhiō Ave., 2nd floor Parking: $4 for 2 hours

ʻOlili Restaurant at Waikiki Market Oahu Hawaii.
ʻOlili at Waikīkī Market. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Roy's Waikiki

This is the most expensive and high-end out of these three options. Roy Yamaguchi was also one of the co-founders of Hawaiʻi Regional Cuisine and was the first Hawaiʻi chef to win a James Beard Foundation Award (Best Pacific Northwest Chef) in 1993. His restaurants are known internationally. Roy's restaurants can be found in Japan, Guam and throughout the U.S. I recommend this for a special occasion due to the price point. For something more casual, try to snag a seat at the lively, open-air bar for cocktails and pūpū, or go to Monkeypod or ʻOlili instead.

Reservations recommended

Open daily, 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Located at 226 Lewers St.

Japanese

Zigu

The outdoor courtyard at Zigu is one of my favorite locations in Waikīkī to dine. In the evenings, diners celebrate birthdays and kampai with sake and Japanese beer. The sashimi and small izakaya plates to share are always tasty and fresh. I would not recommend this for diners who don't enjoy raw seafood (although there are plenty of cooked items on the menu) or anyone looking for a quiet evening — Zigu's party atmosphere is part of its charm.

Reservations recommended

Open daily, 4 to 11 p.m.

Located on the first floor at 413 Seaside Ave.

Zigu Restaurant Waikiki Oahu Hawaii.
Zigu. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Marugame Udon

Don't be put off by the long line — it moves fast, and the hand-made noodles are worth it. Super casual and affordable spot for udon, tempura and onigiri. Can be tough for large parties. I recommend coming with parties of four or fewer to easily find a table. Local tip: There is also a Marugame Udon in Chinatown, and it never has a line.

Walk-in only

Open daily, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Located at 2310 Kūhiō Ave.

Tim Ho Wan

In my opinion, this is the best spot for dim sum on Oʻahu. The menu is huge, and everything comes out quickly and is expertly executed consistently every time. You may have to wait in line, but it's worth it. Breakfast time and Sundays are the busiest. Go for lunch or dinner and you may not have to wait in line. Definitely order the steamed rice rolls, barbecue pork buns and custard sesame balls. There is also a daily happy hour from 2 to 6 p.m. and takeout if you want to bring a feast back to your hotel room for a large group. Not a good option for diners who are gluten-free.

Reservations recommended

Open daily, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Located on the third floor of Royal Hawaiian Center, Building A, 2201 Kalākaua Ave.

Tim Ho Wan restaurant Waikiki Oahu Hawaii.
Tim Ho Wan. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Tsuru Ton Tan

Near Tim Ho Wan inside Royal Hawaiian Center is another good udon spot. Where Marugame is more like street food, Tsuru Ton Tan is a restaurant with table service and a full bar. In addition to udon every way imaginable, there is also an extensive sushi roll selection, grilled dishes, rice dishes and Japanese-style ice cream sundaes for dessert. If you have kids open to trying Japanese-style dishes, they will enjoy the kids' menu.

Reservation recommended.

Open daily, 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Located on the third floor of Royal Hawaiian Center, Building B, 2233 Kalākaua Ave.

Tsuru Ton Tan Waikiki oahu hawaii.
Tsuru Ton Tan. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Aloha Steakhouse

An open-air Japanese steakhouse where you can find whole tomahawk chops, dry-aged steaks and a raw bar. I love sitting outside on the lanai for people-watching or ordering a glass of wine and pūpū at the wraparound bar. Don't miss the watermelon soft-serve for dessert. Great for families with kids and large groups or a fun couples night out. Not a good choice for vegetarian or vegan diners.

Walk-ins usually available, reserve to be safe

Open daily, 5 to 9:30 p.m.

Located at 364 Seaside Ave., between Kūhiō and Kalākaua

Aloha Steakhouse Waikiki oahu hawaii.
Aloha Steakhouse. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Restaurant Suntory

What's fun about this restaurant is how many different kinds of experiences you can have here. You can enjoy Japanese sukiyaki, or hot pot, with vegetables, tofu and thinly sliced beef simmered in broth, then dipped in raw egg and eaten with rice. For the teppanyaki menu, chefs cook your meal in front of you on a flat-top grill. There is also sushi, sashimi, tempura, noodles and tasting menu options. Great for special occasions or an elegant lunch. Not advisable for anyone with severe allergies, as the kitchen cannot accommodate.

Reservations recommended

Open daily, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 5 to 9:30 p.m.

Located at Royal Hawaiian Center, third floor, Building B, 2233 Kalākaua Ave.

Restaurant Suntory Waikiki oahu hawaii.
Restaurant Suntory. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Spanish/Italian/Mediterranean

Botanico

Mediterranean and Italian dishes served in a cozy, elegant setting. A respite from busy Kūhiō and Kalākaua avenues. Come for craft cocktails, frutta di mare salad, tomato-braised sardines and rich, comforting pastas. Best for adults and parties of four or fewer.

Walk-ins OK, reservation recommended

Open daily, 3 to 10:30 p.m.

Located at Waikiki Shopping Plaza, first floor, 2250 Kalākaua Ave.

Proscuitto and zeppoli at Botanico Restaurant in Waikiki Oahu Hawaii.
Botanico Restaurant. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

El Cielo

An excellent tapas restaurant with affordable wine, jamón ibérico and sizzling paella platters. The bacon-wrapped dates and frozen turrón are must-order dishes. Best for groups of four or fewer. Not recommended for kids. Highly recommended for a romantic night out.

Reservation recommended

Open daily, 5 to 10 p.m.

Located on the first floor at 346 Lewers St.

Pate at El Cielo Restaurant in Waikiki Oahu Hawaii.
Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Quiora

An open-air Italian restaurant perfect for a sunset dinner. Come for large portions of fresh salads, elegant handmade pastas and roasted meat platters. Kids' menu available. Good for large groups and families.

Reservations recommended

Open daily, 6 to 9:30 p.m.

Located inside The Ritz-Carlton Residences, 383 Kalaimoku St.

Pasta at Quiora restaurant in Waikiki Hawaii.
Quiora Restaurant. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Best for Poke

Maguro Brothers

Fresh local tuna poke, sashimi and rice bowls. Expect a line. Not recommended if you are looking for a place to dine in.

Takeout only

Open Tuesday through Friday, 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 to 8 p.m.; Saturdays, 5 to 8 p.m. Closed Sundays.

Located in Waikiki Shopping Plaza, basement floor (outside of Stix Asia), 2250 Kalākaua Ave.

Paradise Poke

Poke and plate lunches with a mission to support local fishers. A great option for picking up food for the beach.

Takeout

Open daily, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Located in the Waikiki Marina Resort at the Ilikai, 1777 Ala Moana Blvd.

Waikīkī Market (Foodland)

The same famous poke counter you will find at Foodland all over Hawaiʻi. Try the limu, spicy or shoyu poke by the pound. Since it’s located inside a grocery store you can pick up food items the whole family enjoys. There are also plate lunches, hot malasadas, freshly prepared bentos, packaged salads, sandwiches and more.

Takeout only

Open daily, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

2380 Kūhiō Ave.

Poke Waikiki oahu hawaii.
Poke. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Best for Açaí Bowls

Nalu Health Bar & Cafe

With açaí bowls, sometimes I feel like I'm getting açaí sorbet with sugary toppings, and at places like Nalu, I feel like I'm ordering a healthy treat. Nalu also serves sandwiches, salads, fresh juices and smoothies if you are looking for a light lunch option.

Walk-in only

Open daily, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Located on the Waikiki Beach Walk at 226 Lewers St.

Acai bowl. Nalu Health Bar Waikiki oahu hawaii.
Nalu Healthy Bar. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Banan

Located conveniently right off Waikīkī Beach means you can pick up an açaí bowl or one of Banan's banana soft-serve sundaes — all dairy-free — without ever changing out of your swimsuit. One of my favorite stops for a healthy (enough) sweet treat on Oʻahu.

Takeout only

Open daily, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Located on surfboard alley between Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort and Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center, 2301 Kalākaua Ave.

Banan Waikiki oahu hawaii.
Banan. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Tropical Tribe

Build your own Brazilian açaí bowl with a massive selection of toppings that include goji berries, bee pollen, cacao nibs and guaraná powder — an energy enhancer made from a plant native to the Amazon. Also serves coffee drinks and Brazilian pão de queijo.

Takeout only

Open daily, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Located on the basement level at 2161 Kālia Road

Acai bowl at Island Vintage Coffee Waikiki Oahu Hawaii.
Acai bowl at Island Vintage Coffee. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Best for Pastries

Halekulani Bakery

Famous for its French-inspired pastries, this bakery sits across the street from the Halekulani hotel, inside sister property Halepuna Waikiki. Grab something sweet with your morning coffee. This is not just a hotel bakery, it's a destination in its own right. Parking is validated for customers at the Halepuna lot.

Walk-in only (indoor and outdoor seating)

Open daily, 6:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Located at 2233 Helumoa Road, adjacent to Halepuna Waikiki

Pastries from Halekulani Waikiki oahu hawaii.
Pastries from Halekulani Bakery. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

B. Patisserie at Kona Coffee Purveyors

The Hawaiʻi outpost of San Francisco's beloved b. Patisserie, paired with locally roasted Kona coffee. Come for the kouign-amann — it's the pastry that built this bakery’s reputation, and it often sells out. Lines get long during breakfast hours.

Walk-in only

Open daily 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Located on the ground floor of International Market Place, 2330 Kalākaua Ave.

Hala Tree Cafe

This family-owned Hawaiʻi Island coffee farm recently moved its flagship café into Waikīkī, inside Lilia Waikiki, with an in-house bakery led by pastry chef Abigail Langlas. Coffee is 100% Kona grown and roasted on their own farm. Good for a sit-down breakfast or afternoon coffee and pastry break.

Walk-in only (indoor and outdoor seating)

Open 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily

Located at Lilia Waikiki, 2380 Kūhiō Ave., Entrance on Kānekapōlei St.

Best for Frozen Treats

Asato's Waikiki

The most unique dessert experience on this list. Order sherbet by the scoop at the walk-up counter, or book the Flavor Lab Experience — a four-course, $58-per-person shave ice omakase inspired by Hawaiʻi "small kid time" candy-shop memories. This is the one I'd recommend splurging on if you only try one dessert spot in Waikīkī. Free validated parking at Hyatt Regency Waikiki when booking the Flavor Lab Experience.

Reservations required. Book online in advance.

Flavor Lab Experience: Tuesday through Saturday, 2 and 4 p.m.

Located inside Kings & Queens store at Hyatt Regency Waikiki, 2057 Kalākaua Ave

Shave ice at Asatos Waikiki oahu hawaii.
Dessert omakase at Asato's Waikiki. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Gelatissimo Waikiki

This tiny kiosk on Kalākaua makes some of the creamiest gelato I’ve had in Hawaiʻi. The gelato is made in small batches in a building next door to constantly replenish the kiosk throughout the day so it’s always freshly spun. Flavors rotate daily. There are dairy-free options too.

Takeout only

Open daily 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

2201 Kalākaua Ave

Island Vintage Shave Ice

A longtime Waikīkī favorite from the same company behind Island Vintage Coffee, known for shave ice made with housemade syrups and fresh fruit. Expect a long line. It moves pretty fast and is 100% worth it.

Takeout only

Open daily 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Located in a kiosk in front of Royal Hawaiian Center, 2201 Kalākaua Ave.

Island Vintage Shave Ice Waikiki hawaii.
Island Vintage Shave Ice. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Banan

(See details above)

Ululani's Shave Ice

This beloved Maui-born shave ice chain opened its first Waikīkī location on Seaside Avenue, its 15th location overall. Classic Hawaiian shave ice with housemade syrups, finely shaved ice and add-ons like mochi or ice cream.

Takeout only

Open daily, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Located near Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach, 349 Seaside Avenue

Matcha Cafe Maiko

Part of a small international chain specializing in matcha soft serve, parfaits and lattes made with Kyoto-grown matcha. A fun, photogenic stop if you want something different from the usual shave ice or açaí bowl.

Takeout only

Open daily 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Located at 2310 Kuhio Ave.

Best Food Halls & Trucks

Stix Asia

Asian food hall featuring a full bar and several eateries. I recommend Good Chicken for Korean food, Ribs & Broth Waikiki for Vietnamese food and Nana's Green Tea for Japanese soft serve and dessert tea drinks. Great for restaurant hopping or grabbing a quick, affordable meal. Not recommended for kids.

Walk-in only

Open daily, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Located on the basement level of Waikiki Shopping Plaza, 2250 Kalākaua Ave.

Ohana Hale Food Truck Park

More than 25 food trucks serving cuisines including Greek, Mexican, Southern barbecue, Thai, Vietnamese, plate lunch and more. Kid-friendly. Affordable takeout food.

Communal outdoor seating available

Open Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Sundays, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Located at 1944 Kalākaua Ave.

Thai Tacos Waikiki food truck oahu hawaii.
Thai Tacos. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Food Trucks at 2460 Kūhiō Ave.

Small food truck park with covered seating. One of my favorite food trucks, Thai Tacos, is located here. Kid-friendly. Affordable takeout food.

Open 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Best Waikīkī Dining by Occasion

Large Groups/Family

Monkeypod Kitchen Waikiki

(See details above)

Deck.

The draw of Deck. is the close-up view of Lēʻahi (Diamond Head). Enjoy Waikīkī’s unbeatable weather with one of the outdoor tables and order dishes family-style to share. This is a lively, often busy spot, great for casual meals or hanging out drinking with friends. There’s also a kids menu and high-chairs for family dining.

Reservations recommended

Open Monday through Friday 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays 6:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Located on the third floor of Queen Kapiʻolani Hotel Waikīkī Beach, 150 Kapahulu Ave.

The view of Diamond Head at Deck Restaurant Waikiki Oahu Hawaii.
Deck. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Breakfast

Heavenly Hawaiian Lifestyle

Order breakfast all-day if you like. I love the “healthy” version of a loco moco served with 10-grain rice, lentils and vegetables alongside the traditional hamburger patty topped with gravy (in this case, ginger-soy gravy) and fried egg. Order that and a smoothie and you’ll be feeling great for hours.

Walk-in or reserve ahead

Open daily 7 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Located at 342 Seaside Ave.

Heavenly Island Lifestyle restaurant waikiki oahu hawaii.
Heavenly Island Lifestyle. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Goofy Cafe & Dine

A sweet little “surf shack” serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. I come for the acai bowls and classic American breakfast plate. This is a great option for anyone staying at Hilton Hawaiian Village or Ilikai — Goofy is less than a five minute walk from there. The dining room is on the small side, so I wouldn’t recommend for large parties.

Reservations recommended (there can be a line at breakfast)

Open daily 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 5 to 9 p.m.

Located on the second floor at 1831 Ala Moana Blvd.

Acai Bowl at Goofy Cafe and Dine Waikiki Oahu Hawaii.
Goofy Cafe & Dine. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Bloom Cafe & Restaurant

There are a lot of hotel buffet breakfast options in Waikīkī, but I was especially impressed with the value and quality of Ka Laʻi’s. Breakfast comes with not only an extensive buffet, with one of the best corned beef hash I’ve ever had, but also with two made-to order dishes from the ala carte menu and coffee or tea. It was so much food I wasn’t hungry again until later that evening. I recommend this for families and anyone staying in Waikīkī, whether they are staying at Ka Laʻi or not. $48 per adult, $19 per child (ages 6-12, free for kids 5 and under with the purchase of an adult meal.

Reservations recommended

Open daily 6:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Located at Ka Laʻi Waikiki Beach, 223 Saratoga Rd.

Breakfast at Ka Lai Waikiki Oahu Hawaii.
Bloom Cafe and Restaurant at Ka Laʻi. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Happy Hour

Island Vintage Wine Bar

Owned by the creators of Island Vintage Coffee (and acai bowls!) and Island Vintage Shave Ice, this tucked away wine bar serves not only a fun wine list, but great food too. I recommend ordering the charcuterie and cheese board and a wine flight. You can also get a great breakfast here too. As well as locally made mead, cider and craft beer.

Walk-ins welcome

Open daily 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Happy Hour 3 to 5 p.m.)

Located at Royal Hawaiian Center, second floor, 2301 Kalākaua Ave.

Island Vintage Wine Bar. Waikiki Oahu Hawaii.
Island Vintage Wine Bar. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Appetito Craft Pizza & Wine Bar

One of the best values for happy hour in Waikīkī with $6 draft beer, $8 glasses of wine and $11 cocktails. I recommend ordering an Italian salame or boquerones pizza from the wood burning oven to enjoy alongside. Indoor and outdoor seating. Good for large parties. Fun atmosphere, with sports on TV.

Walk-ins welcome

Open daily from 6 to 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

150 Kaʻiulani Ave.

Happy Hour Appetito. Waikiki Oahu Hawaii.
Appetito. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Heyday

Where else are you going to drink a frozen pina colada made daily with fresh pineapples while sitting in a swing (at the bar) poolside? Nowhere, that’s where. Happy hour lasts the majority of the day here and the bartenders are some of the best on island. Local tip: If you stay at White Sands Hotel, you can take your cocktail to the grotto hot tub behind the bar.

Walk-in only

Open daily noon to 10 p.m. (Happy Hour noon to 6 p.m.)

Located inside the White Sands Hotel, 431 Nohonani St.

Heyday. Waikiki hawaii.
Heyday. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Late Night Cocktails

The Green Lady

For the sophisticated drinker who fancies speakeasy-era cocktails and absinthe drips. The head bartender here is one of the best in the state.

Walk-in only

Open daily 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Located inside the White Sands Hotel (ask for room 8), 431 Nohonani St.

Cocktail at The Green Lady in Waikiki Oahu Hawaii.
Photo courtesy of The Green Lady.

RM38

Inspired by the year 1938, this speakeasy-style cocktail bar specializes in whiskey and cigars. Look for the Pawn Shop.

Reservations recommended

Open Sunday through Wednesday 5 p.m. to midnight and Thursday through Saturday 5 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Located in the Imperial Hawaii Resort lobby, 205 Lewers St.

Lewers Lounge

A classic hotel lounge inside the Halekulani known for live jazz and well-made classic cocktails in an elegant, old-Waikīkī setting. Good for a dressed-up nightcap rather than a casual drink.

For reservations, call (808) 923-2311

Open daily from 7 p.m.

Located inside Halekulani, 2199 Kālia Road

Lewers Lounge Waikiki oahu hawaii.
Lewers Lounge. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Afternoon Tea

Dean & Deluca, Ritz-Carlton Residences Store

This is a great value for what you get — 2 hot teas, amuse bouche, chilled soup, 6 savory bites, 5 sweet bites and a palette-cleansing scoop of sorbet at the end. Price is $59 per person ($54 for kamaʻāina). I had to take food home, I was so full. Menu items change regularly. Mother’s Day is an especially fun time to come in when dishes are prepared under the theme: Pink & Floral. Recommended for adults only.

Reservations required

Open daily 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Afternoon Tea is offered Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursdays)

Located at 383 Kalaimoku St.

Afternoon tea at Dean & Deluca Waikiki oahu hawaii.
Dean & Deluca. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Hau Tree

Hau Tree’s tea service, “Mu‘u & Mimosas,” is offered every Saturday at 2 p.m. on the oceanfront second floor of Kaimana Beach Hotel. This afternoon tea has more of a boozy vibe, but still focused on exquisite sweet and savory small bites and locally produced tea. Large tables make it easy to celebrate with groups of 6 to 8. Recommended for adults only. $55 per person.

Reservations required

Saturdays, 2 p.m.

Located inside Kaimana Beach Hotel, 2863 Kalākaua Ave.

Hau Tree mumu and mimosas afternoon tea waikiki oahu hawaii.
Hau Tree. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Halekulani

One of Waikīkī's most popular afternoon tea spots. Hosted at House Without a Key, an oceanfront lounge named for the 1925 Charlie Chan novel is a Waikīkī institution. Come for garden views and a Japanese-island-inspired tea service. Recommended for adults only. From $75 per person.

Reservations required, call (808) 923-2311

Available Tuesday through Saturday 2 to 5 p.m.

Located inside Halekulani, 2199 Kālia Road

Moana Surfrider

Afternoon tea on the Banyan Veranda under the hotel's famous century-old banyan tree is a classic oceanfront Waikīkī experience. Recommended for adults only. From $73 per person.

Reservation required

Available Wednesday through Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Located on the veranda at Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikiki Beach, 2365 Kalākaua Ave.

Lobby of Moana Surfrider Hotel in Waikiki oahu hawaii.
Photo courtesy of Moana Surfrider.

Mugen

This is the most high-end tea experience in this list. Guests can choose their own unique teapot with a variety of rare teas. Served with extravagantly plated miniature sandwiches, scones and desserts. Offered weekly. Recommended for adults only. From $120 per person.

Reservations required

Saturdays, 1 p.m.

Located inside Espacio Hotel, 2452 Kalakaua Ave.

Romantic/Special Occasion

La Mer

Hawaiʻi's longest-running AAA Five Diamond restaurant, La Mer serves French cuisine infused with local ingredients inside the Halekulani, with doors that open to the ocean. This is about as formal as Waikīkī dining gets with jackets required for men. Recommended for special-occasions.

Booked reservations well in advance, (808) 518-2019

Open Tuesday through Saturday 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Located inside Halekulani, 2199 Kālia Road

La Mer Halekulani Waikiki Oahu Hawaii.
La Mer. Photo courtesy of Halekulani.

Nature Waikiki

A hidden gem located on the top floor of the same two-story walk-up that houses Zigu. Come for French-island-inspired cuisine made with Japanese technique and hospitality. Book a cozy corner table in the bar for the à la carte menu, or for a special occasion, the chef's counter for a five-course tasting menu. Recommended for adults only. Vegan-friendly.

Reservations recommended

Open daily 5:30 to 11 p.m.

Located above Zigu, 413 Seaside Ave.

Nature Waikiki Oahu Hawaii
Nature Waikiki. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Sushi Sho

The ultimate high-end sushi omakase experience in Hawaiʻi. Chef Keiji Nakazawa's intimate counter was his first outside Tokyo, and it's considered one of the hardest reservations to get in the islands — plan to book at least six to eight weeks ahead. Omakase runs around $300 per person. If you can't snag a seat, ask about the takeout bento for a smaller taste of the experience.

Reservations required, book well in advance

Open Tuesday through Sunday 5 to 10:30 p.m.

Located inside The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach, 383 Kalaimoku St.

Sushi Sho Waikiki oahu hawaii.
Sushi Sho. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Arden Waikiki

My top pick if you only eat at one restaurant in Waikīkī. New American cooking overlooking Kapiʻolani Park, known for its technique-driven dishes, use of local ingredients and exceptional desserts — be sure to order the Baked Hawaiian. Good for a special night out without the extreme formality (or price tag) of La Mer or Sushi Sho.

Reservations suggested

Open Wednesday through Sunday, 5 to 9 p.m.

Located inside Lotus Honolulu Hotel, 2885 Kalākaua Ave.

Desserts at Arden Waikiki.
Arden Waikiki. Photo by Sarah Burchard.

Practical Tips

  • Reservations at least a week in advance are highly recommended for any restaurant in Waikīkī due to the high volume of visitors the neighborhood gets on a daily basis.
  • During the holidays or with groups of five or larger, book one to two weeks out.
  • Tipping 20% is standard in Hawaiʻi. Many restaurants add automatic gratuity for parties of six or more.
  • Most restaurants stop serving food by 9:30 to 10 p.m.
  • Bars stop serving alcohol at 1:45 a.m.

Food Tours

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Sarah Burchard
Sarah Burchard

Editor · Oʻahu

Sarah Burchard has called Oʻahu home since 2017. com, Hana Hou, FLUX Hawaiʻi, Forbes, Hawaiʻi Magazine and Honolulu Magazine.

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