14 Best Restaurants in Waikiki From a Local + Which One to Avoid
Since moving to Oahu, our love for exploring new dining spots has only grown. Having visited the island several times before making it our home, my girlfriend and I had already picked out some favorite restaurants.
But, as we continued to explore, we found more gems to add to our list. Now, we’re excited to share with you our top restaurants in Waikiki.
Our list covers a range of dining experiences, from restaurants with stunning views and fine dining to the best spots for breakfast, lunch and affordable eats. Some are even where we take our family when they visit from the mainland.
For those of you in a hurry or simply looking for the top picks without the details, here’s a quick rundown of our favorite spots in Waikiki:
- Best restaurant with a view: Azure Restaurant
- Best for fine dining: Roy’s Waikiki
- Best for budget travelers: Aloha Melt or Marugame Udon
(1) Roy’s Waikiki
Roy’s is our go-to for fine dining in Waikiki. It’s less formal than other high-end places but delivers a fantastic dining experience. The ambiance is welcoming, and the service is top-notch, making you feel right at home without the intimidating vibe some upscale restaurants have.
What sets Roy’s apart is the value. The prices are more affordable compared to places like Azure or La Vie. Yet, there’s no compromise on the food quality. If anything, the dishes here might edge out the competition.
What we order: They offer a four-course pre-fixe menu for $125 with a $35 optional wine pairing and a diverse a la carte menu. We’ve ordered from both and have always been satisfied!
Our favorites include the beef short rib, bacon tarragon creme filet mignon, hibachi grilled Atlantic salmon, and crispy zucchini.
Don’t skip the pineapple upside-down cake for dessert; it’s a must-try.
We love Roy’s because they don’t cater to a specific palate. Whether you’re a die-hard meat lover, seafood enthusiast, or prefer vegetarian options, there’s something on the menu designed to impress.
This combination of a relaxed yet refined atmosphere, exceptional service, great value, and a diverse, high-quality menu makes Roy’s Waikiki our go-to recommendation for anyone looking to enjoy fine dining in Waikiki.
Best For: Fine Dining
Price: $$$
Location: Click here for Google Maps
Visit Website: Here
(2) Eating House 1849 Waikiki
Eating House 1849 is another gem in Waikiki that we love to visit for dinner. The food here is not just good, it’s fantastic, and the ambiance quickly became one of our favorites across the island.
We particularly love the menu’s diversity, offering various options for different tastes and budgets. This flexibility means you can choose a casual meal or a more upscale dining experience without changing locations.
For example, I ordered the $25 Hapa Burger, my girlfriend opted for the $48 Mahi Mahi, and our friend ordered the $66 8. oz filet mignon. Each dish was impressive, and the quality and flavors were spot on.
What we order: We always come here for the burger and any of their seafood options. The place is also known for its sushi.
Now let’s talk starters. The edamame here is something we can’t get enough of, always asking for seconds. Their chicken spring rolls are another hit, perfectly crispy and flavorful.
A unique feature I love is the “build your own local catch” dish. I usually pair my catch with the ginger scallion sauce, but you have seven sauces to choose from, allowing for a new experience each time you dine. You also get to decide how you want it prepared: grilled, sautéed, tempura, or steamed.
Best For: Casual or Fine Dining
Price: $$$
Location: Click here for Google Maps
Visit Website: Here
(3) Azure Restaurant
Azure Restaurant at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel is my top recommendation for anyone seeking the best dining with a view in Waikiki. The views of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head from this spot are nothing short of breathtaking, combining the natural beauty of Hawaii with the elegance of fine dining.
Azure operates on a pre-fixe four-course menu priced at $130 per person, with an optional $55 wine pairing.
What we order: I opted for the mixed green salad over the beet salad (we asked to substitute) for our first course. For the second course, the Ahi Crudo was our favorite compared to the other options on the menu. The short rib was a unanimous favorite for the third course, perfectly cooked and incredibly flavorful.
The ambiance at Azure strikes a perfect balance between laid back and elegant. There’s something quite special about the casualness of people strolling along the beach juxtaposed with the refined atmosphere of the restaurant. It captures the essence of Hawaii—laid-back yet sophisticated.
Tip: If you’re aiming for the ultimate dining experience with a sunset view, I recommend booking in advance and specifying your preference for one of those coveted seats. While we were content with our seating, securing a spot with an unobstructed view of the sunset would have made our evening even more magical.
Best For: Fine dining with a view
Price: $$$$
Location: Click here for Google Maps
Visit Website: Here
(4) Hula Grill
Hula Grill, located above Duke’s Restaurant and Bar at the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort, is a spot we frequently visit, particularly for its breakfast and weekend brunch. You get gorgeous views of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head, and you can’t beat the food and drinks.
What we order: We personally love their omelets. The seafood omelet is a standout choice for anyone who loves seafood. It’s packed with fresh, local seafood and prepared just right, making it a popular choice on the menu. Another favorite of ours is the mochi waffles. These are by far some of the best waffles we have ever had.
No visit to Hula Grill would be complete without indulging in the famous Hula Pie. Despite hearing mixed reviews and thinking it might be overrated, we decided to try it. It’s one of those iconic dishes you have to experience to understand its appeal. The combination of creamy ice cream, a crunchy chocolate crust, and that sweet, fluffy whipped cream topping is irresistible.
While we mainly come here for breakfast, Hula Grill is also an excellent spot for lunch and dinner. The menu offers a variety of Hawaiian-inspired dishes, as well as classic American favorites with a twist.
Best For: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner with a view
Price: $$
Location: Click here for Google Maps
Visit Website: Here
(5) Duke’s Waikiki
Duke’s Waikiki is a name you’ll inevitably come across when scouring recommendations for where to eat in Waikiki. Despite its fame and the bustling tourist vibe, there’s no denying the appeal of this beachfront dining spot.
It’s not at the top of my list, but the food quality and the stunning views of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head make it a place worth visiting.
What we order: Lunch at Duke’s is a highlight for us, perfectly suited for a break from a day spent on the sands of Waikiki Beach. The menu is packed with typical touristy foods like burgers, tacos, and sandwiches, all of which we love.
A personal favorite is the panko-crusted calamari, a deliciously crunchy and flavorful starter that we can’t get enough of. And, of course, no visit to Duke’s is complete without sharing a Hula Pie with our guests.
We’ve also ventured here for the breakfast buffet, which was excellent. Dinner at Duke’s has its own charm, with our top pick being the sauteed mac nut & herb-crusted fresh fish.
While Duke’s may carry the ‘touristy’ tag, it doesn’t detract from the fact that the food is excellent, the views are spectacular, and the vibe is incredible.
Best For Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner with a view
Price: $$
Location: Click here for Google Maps
Visit Website: Here
(6) House Without a Key
Located within the prestigious Halekulani Hotel, House Without a Key is another great restaurant on the island with gorgeous views. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy the sunset with a cocktail and spectacular views of Diamond Head.
The atmosphere here is enhanced in the evening by live performances and hula dancing, typically from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
While dinner might be the time most people flock to House Without a Key, we find ourselves drawn here for lunch. The ambiance is just as lovely and less busy than around dinner time.
What we order: We love ordering the grilled fish tacos. They’re light, flavorful, and just what we usually need.
Another favorite is anything from their brick oven, particularly the Country Comfort Pizza Margherita or the Pizza Arugula & Prosciutto. Both are delicious and perfect for sharing.
We’ve also had the House Without a Key Burger and the island loco moco on various visits, and both dishes are excellent if you want a satisfying and hearty meal.
We recommend coming here for dinner if you are celebrating a special occasion. The setting is romantic, and the ambiance is perfect for a special night out.
Best For: Fine Dining with a view
Price: $$$-$$$$
Location: Click here for Google Maps
Visit Website: Here
(7) Aloha Melt
Aloha Melt is a complete shift from the other restaurants we’ve discussed, marking the most affordable option on our Waikiki dining list. But don’t let its budget-friendly tag fool you—this spot is a hidden treasure, especially for those seeking comfort food with a twist.
Aloha Melt elevates the humble grilled cheese sandwich into a culinary delight that’s hard to resist. It’s the perfect cure for a hangover or when you need a satisfying, cheesy treat. The place might seem simple, but the flavors packed into each sandwich tell a different story.
What we order: Our go-to order here is the Aloha Patty Melt. It features a spicy beef patty with cheddar, mozzarella, provolone, American, caramelized onion, bacon, and pickled jalapeno. For those who prefer a milder taste, they also offer a non-spicy version.
And you absolutely cannot skip the tomato basil soup—it’s the perfect companion to your sandwich, with its rich, comforting flavor.
A heads-up for first-timers: Seating is limited, and you might find yourself facing a long line. However, don’t let this deter you. The queue moves quickly, and many take their orders to go.
Best For: Cheap eats
Price: $
Location: Click here for Google Maps
Visit Website: Here
(8) Marugame Udon
Marugame Udon has become one of our go-to restaurants in Waikiki, especially if we have friends and family visiting. This restaurant is a haven for udon lovers, offering fresh, made-to-order bowls that are a cut above the rest.
Marugame Udon is known for its consistently long lines that are a testament to the quality and affordability of the food here.
Initially, we hesitated to join the queue, deterred by the wait. However, we quickly learned that the lines move surprisingly fast, which we always appreciate.
For those times when patience runs thin, we’ve found that ordering to-go is a fantastic option. We order our food beforehand, pick it up, and enjoy it at home or at the beach nearby. You can also go outside of the regular peak hours (after 3:00 pm and before 5:00 pm).
What we order: Our usual picks include the Curry Udon, with its rich, flavorful broth, and the Beef Udon, which is always a great choice.
Beyond udon, they also serve a variety of rice bowls, salads, and tempura.
Marugame Udon stands out not just for its delicious food but also for its value. In Waikiki, where dining can often come with a hefty price tag, finding a spot that offers both quality and affordability is rare.
Whether you’re an udon enthusiast or simply looking for a tasty, budget-friendly meal, Marugame Udon is a must-visit. Its popularity is well-deserved, and once you’ve experienced it for yourself, it’s easy to see why it’s become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Best For: Lunch or Dinner
Price: $$
Location: Click here for Google Maps
Visit Website: Here
(9) Paia Fish Market
Paia Fish Market, located in the heart of Waikiki, brings a piece of Maui’s seaside charm to Oahu. This restaurant quickly earned its place on our list of must-visit spots in Waikiki, thanks to its relaxed vibe and exceptional seafood.
The ambiance here is casual and inviting, making it the perfect spot to unwind after exploring or lounging on the beach.
The food here is always top-notch, focusing on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu offers a variety of classic seafood dishes such as fish and chips, fish tacos, and grilled fish plates.
For those looking for something beyond the typical seafood fare, Paia Fish Market also serves delicious burgers, sandwiches, quesadillas, pasta, and fajitas.
What we order: Obviously, we come here for seafood, especially the fish tacos and the fish and chips. The clam chowder is our favorite appetizer, but the calamari is always a great choice, too.
If you’re looking for a laid-back dining experience and love to people-watch as much as we do, add Paia Fish Market to your list of must-visit spots in Waikiki. Trust us, you won’t regret it!
Best For: Lunch or Dinner
Price: $$
Location: Click here for Google Maps
Visit Website: Here
(10) Heavenly Island Lifestyle
Heavenly Island Lifestyle is a gem in Waikiki for those who prioritize healthy yet delicious dining options without stretching the budget. This restaurant captures the true spirit of island dining by focusing on fresh, local ingredients and nutritious and tasty meals.
While they serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, we are drawn here primarily for breakfast or lunch.
What we order: One of our all-time favorites is their loco moco. It’s a dish offered by many places on the island, but Heavenly Island does it with a flair that sets it apart, making it one of the best versions we’ve enjoyed in Waikiki.
The Power Breakfast Skillet and the Local Egg Flat Omelet are another must-try. The Honey French Toast is a delight for those with a sweet tooth, offering the perfect balance of sweetness and texture.
We also tried their acai bowls, hoping they would match the high bar set by their other dishes. While it was okay, we recommend trying other restaurants on the island that have the best acai bowls on Oahu.
Best For: Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner
Price: $$
Location: Click here for Google Maps
Visit Website: Here
(11) Orchids
Orchids at the Halekulani Hotel offers a dining experience with views of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head.
While it may not have the most spectacular views, the scenery is pleasing and complements the dining experience well. Whether you’re seated indoors or out, the ambiance is impeccably inviting.
Their Sunday brunch has become quite the draw, but our visits are usually for breakfast and lunch.
What we order: The Haupia French Toast is one of our favorite items on the menu, with its unique blend of local flavors. We’re also fond of the corned beef hash, steak & eggs, and the loco moco for breakfast options that start the day off right.
Also, trying the catch of the day is always a good idea for fish enthusiasts. That’s assuming you like what the fish of the day is!
For those who enjoy seafood, my girlfriend recommends the homemade lasagnette. While the portion is small, it’s filled with big flavors and worth trying.
Note: If you plan to go during Sunday brunch, make sure to make your reservation in advance, especially if you are going during the summer months (June-August)
Best For: Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner
Price: $$
Location: Click here for Google Maps
Visit Website: Here
(12) Basalt Waikiki
Basalt Waikiki, located within Duke’s Lane Market and Eatery, offers a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for brunch and dinner, with indoor and outdoor seating options.
This place has quickly become our go-to, especially for brunch, thanks to its wide-ranging menu that caters to all sorts of cravings. We love their omelets and eggs benedict.
For those times when making a decision seems impossible, the Basalt Breakfast is a fail-safe option. It’s a hearty plate featuring two eggs, your choice of bacon or Portuguese sausage, and potatoes—a classic breakfast combo that’s hard to beat. It’s like ordering a traditional breakfast option.
Another dish that stands out is the loco moco, a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its comfort food qualities and rich flavors.
A little tip from personal experience: if you’re not a fan of greasy food, mention that when ordering the meat omelet. We’ve had a couple of instances where the oiliness was a bit much for our liking, but a quick word with the staff can easily solve this issue.
And for those who appreciate a good happy hour, Basalt is one of the best spots in Waikiki to enjoy discounted drinks and appetizers. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring or beach-going, offering excellent deals and a pleasant atmosphere.
Best For: Brunch or Dinner
Price: $$
Location: Click here for Google Maps
Visit Website: Here
(13) Island Vintage Coffee
Island Vintage Coffee, located in the Royal Hawaiian Center, has earned its reputation as one of Waikiki’s busiest and most loved brunch spots. They have multiple locations on the island, but the one at the Royal Hawaiian is the most popular.
The long lines are a testament to its popularity, but the wait is worth it, especially if you’re hunting for some of Honolulu’s best coffee.
What we order: They have an all-day breakfast menu, making it the perfect spot for those (like us) who believe breakfast is a meal that deserves to be enjoyed at any time.
The eggs benedict here are a solid choice, but the real star of the show is the wagyu loco moco. This luxurious take on the classic Hawaiian dish elevates it to new heights and is an absolute must-try.
They also offer a variety of bagels, along with an impressive selection of vegan and vegetarian options.
When it comes to lunch, the chicken pesto panini never disappoints, offering a flavorful and satisfying option. For those seeking a vegetarian meal, the grilled mushroom sandwich is a delicious choice packed with flavor.
Given its popularity, Island Vintage Coffee is almost always busy. A bit of patience can make the experience more enjoyable, or consider arriving early – right at their opening time of 7:30 am or before the 10:00 am rush – to dodge the crowds.
Best For: Breakfast or Lunch
Price: $$
Location: Click here for Google Maps
Visit Website: Here
(14) La Vie
Located at the Ritz Carlton, La Vie caters to those who love adventurous fine dining.
The ambiance and the views here are just spectacular, especially during dinner time, and you can see the beautiful city lights twinkling in the distance.
The service is exceptional, and the staff are knowledgeable and attentive when recommending dishes and pairings.
The not-so-good: To be transparent, La Vie didn’t quite hit the mark for us, but we recognize that dining preferences are deeply personal. The restaurant offers a pre-fixe menu at $139 per person, with an optional $89 wine pairing.
Our visit was impromptu, and we didn’t look at the menu beforehand. The selection, featuring dishes like tuna tartare, Sonoma duck, roasted foie gras, veal, and frog legs, wasn’t to our liking.
If you are the type to love raw seafood, caviar, and more adventurous culinary experiences, you will love this place. However, for guests whose tastes align more closely with traditional or less experimental dishes, exploring other dining venues like Roy’s or Azure might be the better choice. Definitely skip this one if you are not adventurous when it comes to food.
After our visit, we’re interested in checking out La Vie’s brunch to see if it might be more of our style. The brunch menu looks great, and we will report back after we try it out.
Best For: Brunch or Dinner
Price: $$$$
Location: Click here for Google Maps
Visit Website: Here
How Expensive Is It to Eat in Waikiki
The cost of eating in Waikiki can vary widely depending on your dining preferences. It’s possible to enjoy meals on a budget just as much as it is to indulge in more luxurious dining experiences.
We’ve managed to keep our daily food expenses to about $50 per person when we’re mindful of our budget. However, there have been occasions where we’ve spent up to $250 per person for a day’s worth of meals, especially when we’ve decided to treat ourselves.
It’s important to note that we don’t often spend a lot on alcoholic beverages, which helps keep our overall dining costs lower. Ultimately, how much you spend on food in Waikiki depends on your choices and preferences.
