Honolulu Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Honolulu. Your complete guide to dining in Honolulu.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Honolulu! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Honolulu has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase Honolulu's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Honolulu like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- Honolulu offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
- Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
- Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
- Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
- Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere
Must-Try Restaurants
From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in Honolulu.
Duke's Waikiki
Highly rated Seafood in Honolulu with 4.4 stars from 18031 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 2335 Kalākaua Ave #116, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Seafood cuisine
Barefoot Beach Cafe @ Queen's Surf Beach
Highly rated Restaurant in Honolulu with 4.4 stars from 4470 reviews.
📍 2699 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Castro's
Highly rated Restaurant in Honolulu with 4.8 stars from 1240 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 2113 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Fête
Highly rated American in Honolulu with 4.6 stars from 1519 reviews.
📍 2 N Hotel St, Honolulu, HI 96817, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
Sweet E's Café
Highly rated Restaurant in Honolulu with 4.7 stars from 3087 reviews.
📍 1006 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Hula Grill Waikiki
Highly rated Seafood in Honolulu with 4.4 stars from 5004 reviews.
📍 2335 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic Seafood cuisine
House Without A Key
Highly rated American in Honolulu with 4.5 stars from 2491 reviews.
📍 2199 Kālia Rd #1936, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
DECK. at Queen Kapiʻolani Hotel
Highly rated Restaurant in Honolulu with 4.4 stars from 4090 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 150 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Senia
Highly rated American in Honolulu with 4.6 stars from 760 reviews.
📍 75 N King St, Honolulu, HI 96817, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
Monkeypod Kitchen - Waikiki
Highly rated Restaurant in Honolulu with 4.3 stars from 1660 reviews.
📍 2169 Kālia Rd unit 111, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Earls Kitchen + Bar - Waikiki
Highly rated Restaurant in Honolulu with 4.9 stars from 1992 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 201 - 2280 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Hau Tree
Highly rated Restaurant in Honolulu with 4.3 stars from 1770 reviews.
📍 Lobby floor of the Kaimana Beach Hotel, 2863 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
Street Food & Food Markets
Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in Honolulu.
Waikiki Market
Highly rated International in Honolulu with 4.5 stars from 712 reviews.
📍 2380 Kūhiō Ave. 2nd Floor, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Foodland Farms Ala Moana
Highly rated Bakery in Honolulu with 4.5 stars from 5916 reviews. Fresh baked goods and pastries daily.
📍 1450 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96814, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bakery cuisine
Kekaulike Market
Highly rated International in Honolulu with 4 stars from 217 reviews.
📍 1039 Kekaulike St, Honolulu, HI 96817, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
KCC Farmers’ Market
Highly rated International in Honolulu with 4.4 stars from 2986 reviews.
📍 Parking Lot B, 4303 Diamond Head Rd, Honolulu, HI 96816, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
Maunakea Marketplace
Highly rated Restaurant in Honolulu with 4.1 stars from 1453 reviews.
📍 1120 Maunakea St, Honolulu, HI 96817, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
Mitsuwa Marketplace
Highly rated International in Honolulu with 4.4 stars from 1424 reviews.
📍 2330 Kalākaua Ave # 250, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Dukes Lane Market & Eatery
Highly rated Cafe in Honolulu with 4.3 stars from 923 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 2255 Kūhiō Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Whole Foods Market
Highly rated International in Honolulu with 4.4 stars from 2606 reviews.
📍 388 Kamakee St Street 100, Honolulu, HI 96814, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Honolulu.
Cafes & Bakeries
Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Honolulu.
Kona Coffee Purveyors
Highly rated Cafe in Honolulu with 4.4 stars from 3719 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Kuhio Mall Entrance, 2330 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Island Vintage Coffee Waikiki
Highly rated Cafe in Honolulu with 4.4 stars from 3393 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 2301 Kalākaua Ave #C215, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Barefoot Beach Cafe @ Queen's Surf Beach
Highly rated Restaurant in Honolulu with 4.4 stars from 4470 reviews.
📍 2699 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Green World Coffee Farm
Highly rated Cafe in Honolulu with 4.6 stars from 4696 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 71-101 Kamehameha Hwy, Wahiawa, HI 96786, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Better Daze
Highly rated Cafe in Honolulu with 4.9 stars from 151 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 737 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Kai Coffee Hawaii at Hyatt Regency Waikiki
Highly rated Cafe in Honolulu with 4.4 stars from 1313 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 2424 Kalākaua Ave #129, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Aloha Kitchen
Highly rated Cafe in Honolulu with 4.5 stars from 2222 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 432 Ena Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Shoreline Cafe
Highly rated Cafe in Honolulu with 4.8 stars from 219 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 2113 Kalākaua Ave STE 104, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Local Specialties & Signature Dishes
Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Honolulu.
Signature Dish
A must-try Honolulu specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Local Delicacy
This beloved Honolulu dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Traditional Recipe
Experience the authentic taste of Honolulu with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Street Food Favorite
Discover why this Honolulu specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Regional Specialty
This iconic Honolulu creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Seasonal Treat
A Honolulu classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Classic Comfort Food
A must-try Honolulu specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Modern Fusion
This beloved Honolulu dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Artisanal Product
Experience the authentic taste of Honolulu with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Heritage Recipe
Discover why this Honolulu specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Bars & Nightlife
Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Honolulu.
HIDEOUT
Highly rated Bar in Honolulu with 4.4 stars from 1069 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 2299 Kūhiō Ave. 1st Floor, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Surf Bar Waikiki
Highly rated Bar in Honolulu with 4.9 stars from 1036 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Inside Waikiki Resort Hotel, 2460 Koa Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Duke's Waikiki
Highly rated Seafood in Honolulu with 4.4 stars from 18031 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 2335 Kalākaua Ave #116, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Seafood cuisine
Bar Leather Apron
Highly rated Bar in Honolulu with 4.7 stars from 437 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 745 Fort St #127a, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Skull & Crown Trading Co.
Highly rated Bar in Honolulu with 4.8 stars from 395 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 62 N Hotel St, Honolulu, HI 96817, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Lulu's Waikiki
Highly rated Restaurant in Honolulu with 4.3 stars from 5726 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 2586 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Essential Tips
- 🍽️Make reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
- 🍽️Try local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
- 🍽️Ask locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
- 🍽️Visit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
- 🍽️Don't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
- 🍽️Take a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
- 🍽️Check restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
- 🍽️Bring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
- 🍽️Pace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
- 🍽️Document your culinary journey with photos and notes
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
Honolulu's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.
Average Price
Dining costs in Honolulu vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Honolulu is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.
For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.
Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.
Most restaurants in Honolulu offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.
Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for Honolulu specifically.
Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.
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