25 BEST Oahu Restaurants That Locals Love to Recommend
Top Authentic Oahu Restaurants
When you're staying at Royal Kuhio in the heart of Waikiki, you're perfectly positioned to explore Oahu's incredible dining scene beyond the typical tourist traps. While many flock to hotel restaurants and chain establishments, locals know where to find the island's true culinary gems.
From hole-in-the-wall poke shops to hidden izakayas, family-run plate lunch counters to innovative fusion kitchens that honor Hawaii's multicultural heritage, Oahu's food scene is one-of-a-kind. Residents and visitors alike will enjoy a delicious meal where Native Hawaiian traditions meet the flavors of China, Japan, Korea, the Philippines, Portugal, Puerto Rico, and beyond.
Plus, in between eating at all the delicious spots, you'll want to check out the best things to do in Oahu! From hiking to surfing and visiting Hawaiian's cultural experiences, there's something for everyone on the island to enjoy.
Eat Like a Local at These Oahu Restaurants
Whether you’re looking for legendary plate lunch spots that have been serving the community for generations or innovative new restaurants pushing culinary boundaries, check out the 25 best Oahu restaurants! Ready to eat like a local?
1 | Helena's Hawaiian Food | Since 1946, Helena's has been the gold standard for authentic Hawaiian cuisine. This isn't just a restaurant, it's a living piece of Oahu's culinary history.
While parking is notoriously difficult and hours are limited, locals endure these inconveniences because the food is simply that good.
Local Tip: Arrive early, as they often sell out of popular items. And don't skip the lomi salmon, it's some of the best on the island.
Where: 1240 N School St, Honolulu, HI 96817 | Who: (808) 845-8044
2 | Ono Seafood | This tiny takeout counter in Kapahulu is a local institution for one thing: incredibly fresh, simply prepared poke. No frills, no fancy toppings, just pristine fish tossed to order with minimal seasonings that let the quality shine through.
Must-Order: The shoyu ahi poke is consistently excellent, but locals also love the spicy ahi and Hawaiian-style poke with limu and sea salt.
Where: 747 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816 | Who: (808) 732-4806
3 | Rainbow Drive-In | An Oahu icon since 1961, Rainbow Drive-In represents everything great about local plate lunch culture. This open-air institution serves affordable, satisfying comfort food that draws everyone from tourists to Barack Obama (yes, he's stopped by).
Local Tip: Go for lunch when the vibe is most authentic. The outdoor seating under the canopy is part of the experience.
Where: 3308 Kanaina Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 | Who: (808) 737-0177
4 | Sushi Izakaya Gaku | Reservations at this intimate izakaya book up fast, and for good reason. Gaku has been a local favorite for nearly 20 years, serving impeccable Japanese small plates with both classic preparations and creative twists.
Must-Order: The dashimaki tamago (Japanese omelet) is perfect, and the homemade tofu with ikura and shoyu jelly showcases the chef's creativity. Watch for the fish drying on bamboo racks, a sure sign of authenticity.
Where: 1329 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96814 | Who: (808) 589-1329
5 | The Pig and the Lady | This restaurant pioneered the now-iconic pho French dip sandwich, and while you'll find versions elsewhere, this original remains the best.
The Vietnamese-inspired menu with Southeast Asian influences has made this a local favorite for both lunch and dinner.
Local Tip: The Big Trouble in Little China-themed bathroom is Instagram-worthy. Great for groups thanks to the loud, energetic atmosphere.
Where: 83 N King St, Honolulu, HI 96817 | Who: (808) 585-8255
6 | Tonkatsu Tamafuji | This intimate Japanese restaurant has become one of the hardest reservations to get on Oahu, and for good reason. The attention to detail here is extraordinary, including fresh-ground ingredients served table-side.
Reservations often book up months in advance online; however, they also offer takeout bentos if you can't get a table.
Must-Order: The aged pork loin katsu is their most popular item, but the oyster katsu is a local favorite. Try the "ume mizore" pork tenderloin that comes with grated daikon and ume for a refreshing twist.
Where: 449 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 | Who: (808) 922-1212
7 | Maguro Brothers | When locals crave poke, many head to Maguro Brothers for perfectly fresh fish tossed to order with minimal seasonings. You’ll love this fresh, no-frills poke that highlights quality fish without overwhelming it with sauces and toppings – just limu and salt or shoyu and onion.
Local Tip: The Chinatown location stays open until early afternoon and has shorter lines than the Waikiki spot, which opens late afternoon.
Where: 2250 Kalakaua Avenue by Royal Hawaiian Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 | Who: (808) 230-3470
8 | Fête | This intimate bistro brings Brooklyn-meets-Hawaii-meets-French vibes to Honolulu, serving exceptional food from lunch through dinner. The constantly changing specials often feature locally sourced ingredients, including pork from Kualoa Ranch.
Must-Order: Listen carefully to the specials, which often feature local fish and the chef's recommendations. The carbonara with Portuguese sausage and the Korean fried chicken sandwich from the core menu are consistently excellent. Save room for housemade Rocky Road ice cream.
Where: 2 N Hotel St, Honolulu, HI 96817 | Who: (808) 369-1390
9 | Mitch's Fish Market & Sushi Bar | Located in a warehouse-style building near the airport, Mitch's is a prerequisite stop for locals leaving or arriving in Honolulu. The sushi features incredibly fresh seafood from around the world.
Must-Order: Anything lobster! You can’t go wrong with the Van Van roll (broiled with mayo) or lobster sashimi with miso soup made from the lobster head. Also, try specialty fish like engawa and kinmedai.
Where: 524 Ohohia St, Honolulu, HI 96819 | Who: (808) 837-7774
10 | i-naba| This cozy spot specializing in soba noodles also serves some of the best tempura and sushi in Honolulu. It’s the perfect dining experience for anyone craving authentic Japanese comfort food in a warm, intimate setting.
Must-Order: Soba noodles topped with uni and ikura, or duck. The tempura is remarkably light and crisp.
Where: 1610 S King St # A, Honolulu, HI 96826 | Who: (808) 953-2070
11 | Olay's Thai Lao Cuisine | One of the few excellent outdoor dining spots in Honolulu, Olay's courtyard garden with palms and a koi pond creates a peaceful oasis.
The Lao and Thai menu is consistently excellent. Diners rave about the fried fish with cilantro and lime sauce, Lao sausage, and the crispy rice salad with fermented pork sausage.
Local Tip: It's BYOB, so grab beer from nearby Kaka'ako breweries like Hana Koa to complement your meal!
Where: 66 N Hotel St, Honolulu, HI 96817 | Who: (808) 536-5300
12 | Pate Vietnamese Restaurant | This tiny spot specializes in southern Vietnamese hu tieu, a lesser-known alternative to pho that locals love.
Pate even lets you customize your hu tieu with half thin rice noodle, half egg noodle, a combination of seafood and pork, and broth on the side. The bun bo hue and Vietnamese coffee are also excellent.
Local Tip: Arrive before peak dinner hours or on warm evenings to avoid long waits. The cold nights (by Honolulu standards) bring extra crowds for soup.
Where: 655 Ke’eaumoku St #104, Honolulu, HI 96814 | Who: (808) 940-5432
13 | Yakiniku Korea House | Among Honolulu's many Korean BBQ and yakiniku spots, Korea House hits the perfect middle ground: casual enough for two people, great for groups, consistently excellent quality.
Must-Order: The beef combination with kalbi and tongue easily feeds three people. The constantly changing banchan are generous, and the cold noodles in icy broth are perfect for hot days.
Where: 2494 S Beretania St., Honolulu, HI 96826 | Who: (808) 944-1122
14 | Aburiya Ibushi | This small, friendly izakaya requires reservations but rewards you with expertly charcoal-grilled skewers and standout small plates like potato salad sprinkled with "chicken dust."
Need help deciding? The watercolor drawings of dishes on the walls help with ordering.
Local Tip: After dinner, visit Cha to Gelato Zen next door for excellent matcha and black sesame gelato.
Where: 740 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816 | Who: (808) 738-1038
15 | Sushi ii | Tucked away in a strip mall, Sushi ii offers excellent omakase with creatively cooked dishes alongside impeccable sushi. The ikura pan (salmon roe and creme fraiche on a King's Hawaiian roll) is a beloved fusion creation. For an extra treat, aim for counter seats to interact with the skilled sushi chefs.
Must-Order: Omakase at the sushi bar is where you can watch chefs work. Don't miss the ikura pan and dishes featuring local, live baby abalone.
Where: 655 Ke’eaumoku St #109, Honolulu, HI 96814 | Who: (808) 942-5350
16 | Nico's Pier 38 | This two-in-one operation includes a daytime fish market with incredible poke and smoked fish, plus evening dining with live music by the harbor. The industrial waterfront setting is authentically Honolulu.
Local Tip: Prioritize the fish market for beach and hiking snacks. For dinner, try the surf and turf with deep-water shrimp.
Where: 1129 N Nimitz Hwy, Honolulu, HI 96817 | Who: (808) 540-1377
17 | Highway Inn | This local institution serves Hawaii's favorite comfort foods, representing the multicultural influences that define local cuisine.
From Puerto Rican pastele to Japanese mochiko chicken, Filipino pork adobo, Hawaiian kalua pig, lau lau, and fresh poke, enjoy a fusion of international flavors.
Local Tip: Take your spread to nearby Honolulu Stadium Park for a picnic.
Where: 680 Ala Moana Blvd #105, Honolulu, HI 96813 | Who: (808) 954-4955
18 | Fort Ruger Market | This general store dates back to 1942 and has been a long-time favorite for locals. A casual and affordable joint near Diamond Head with great takeout options, this is a hotspot for surfers and construction workers to fuel up on exceptional poke and lechon.
Must-Order: The Rugerlicious poke (ahi mixed with taegu) and crispy-skinned lechon on rice. Grab dried ahi, smoked ahi, and boiled peanuts for snacking.
Where: 1600 Seven Seas Drive, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830 | Who: (407) 934-7639
19 | Mud Hen Water | While dinner features modern Hawaiian cuisine, brunch is where this restaurant truly shines.
The airy, light-filled space and colorful patio murals create the perfect weekend atmosphere. Plus, the reclaimed wood and murals make this especially Instagram-worthy.
Must-Order: Sourdough banana pancakes, pork sisig made with pig's head, and fresh fish with luau (taro leaf cooked in coconut milk).
Where: 3452 Waialae Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816 | Who: (808) 737-6000
20 | Nami Kaze Hawaii | This izakaya-style spot by Honolulu's commercial fishing pier serves creative dishes from brunch through dinner.
From a honey walnut shrimp waffle for brunch to a dinner of cold-smoked tomatoes with tofu and hamachi crudo, the menu is intriguing and sometimes overwhelming, but embrace the surprises!
Local Tip: The industrial location by the fishing pier means authentically fresh seafood. Great for groups with plenty of seating and bar spots for watching sports.
Where: 1135 N Nimitz Hwy, Honolulu, HI 96817 | Who: (808) 888-6264
21 | Mariposa | Yes, it's in Neiman Marcus, but locals make rituals out of lunching here for the complimentary popovers, lobster club, and Ala Moana Beach Park views. A recent chef change elevated the menu even further.
Local Tip: Come for sunset lounge on Thursday through Saturday for views and great food in the elegant open-air dining room.
Where: 1450 Ala Moana Blvd, Level Three, Honolulu, HI 96814 | Who: (808) 951-3420
22 | Aiea Bowl | A bowling alley restaurant with fantastic oxtail soup and some of Oahu's crispiest, juiciest fried chicken? Locals know this surprising gem delivers.
You don't have to bowl to eat here, but it's great for groups and makes the experience more fun.
Must-Order: Oxtail soup, fried chicken, and absolutely the lemon crunch cake – soft, fluffy layers with lemon and toffee bits.
Where: 99-115 Aiea Heights Dr, Suite 310, 3rd Level, Aiea, HI 96701 | Who: (808)488-6854
23 | Zippy's | This local chain with over 20 locations serves way better food than typical fast food. Everyone has their go-to Zippy's order, making it a true local favorite.
Must-Order: The chili with rice is famous, but try the Zip Pac bento with teriyaki beef, Spam, fried chicken, and fried fish. Get the saimin with griddled cornbread (specify griddled for crispy crust).
Where: 1725 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96826 | Who: (808) 973-0877
24 | Chillest Shave Ice | This pop-up at Fishcake (Saturdays) and Island Boy (Sundays) serves the finest-textured shave ice with housemade syrups that aren't artificially flavored.
Enjoy classic Hawaii flavors like liliko'i and lychee, plus housemade strawberry milk, kinako latte, and haupia syrups.
Local Tip: Only open weekends, so plan accordingly.
Where: 3408 Waialae Ave #102, Honolulu, HI 96816 | Who: N/A
25 | Pipeline Bakeshop & Creamery | Pipeline has revolutionized the way Oahu thinks about malasadas. These Portuguese donuts feature a beautiful, crispy exterior and a fluffy interior.
Beyond malasadas, Pipeline is known for its signature Cake Bombs, homemade ice cream, and custom Hawaiian coffee from Maui and Ka'u, specifically paired with the creamy desserts.
Must-Order: Hot malasadas made to order! The classic with white sugar is beloved, but locals also rave about the li hing powder version and the cocoa- or coffee-dusted options.
Where: 3632 Waialae Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816 | Who: (808) 738-8200
Navigating Oahu's Restaurant Scene Like a Local
Eating your way through Oahu like a local requires a different mindset than typical vacation dining. Forget the hotel restaurants and resort buffets, the island's best food comes from unassuming storefronts, takeout counters, and family-run establishments where generations have perfected their recipes.
From finding hidden gems to making sure you get a table, here are a few tips to help make the most out of your Hawaii dining experience!
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Embrace the Wait: The best local spots often have lines, limited hours, or both. Arrive early, be patient, and know it's worth it.
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Understand Local vs. Hawaiian Food: "Hawaiian food" refers to Native Hawaiian cuisine (like what you'll find at Helena's), while "local food" describes the multicultural cuisine that defines modern Hawaii dining.
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Cash and Parking: Many beloved local spots are cash-only or cash-preferred. Parking can be challenging, especially at popular restaurants in residential neighborhoods.
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Reservations Matter: For sit-down restaurants, especially izakayas and sushi spots, book well in advance. Some places, like Tonkatsu Tamafuji, book months out.
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Takeout Culture: Many of the best meals on Oahu are designed for takeout. Don't hesitate to grab food and head to a beach or park; it's how locals do it.
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Portion Sizes: Plate lunches and local restaurants serve generous portions. Don't be surprised when your "single serving" could easily feed two people.
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Try Everything: The multicultural nature of Oahu's food scene means incredible variety. Don't stick to what you know; branch out and try the Filipino, Portuguese, Korean, Japanese, and Native Hawaiian influences that make local food unique.
Ready to Try the Best Local Oahu Restaurants?
Oahu's dining scene tells the story of Hawaii itself: a beautiful collision of cultures, traditions, and flavors that you won't find anywhere else in the world.
Whether you're grinding sesame seeds at your table at Tonkatsu Tamafuji, waiting in line at Ono Seafood for the freshest poke, or discovering the perfect malasada at Pipeline Bakeshop, you're not just eating, you're experiencing one-of-a-kind food that locals have loved for generations. So, pack your appetite, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare to eat like a true local.
For more foodie guides, travel inspiration, or to start planning a getaway to one of the beautiful Hawaiian resorts on the island, visit our Westgate Resorts Travel Blog.
RELATED ARTICLE: The 50 BEST Things to Do in Oahu
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* Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.
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