25 Essential Hawaii Tables
From coastal enclaves to downtown institutions, these are the restaurants defining the dining conversation across Hawaii.
Earls Kitchen + Bar - Waikiki
Honolulu
an everyday essential restaurant address in Hawaii, pairing editorial magnetism with a Beam Score of 93.9.
Mama's Fish House
Paia
Local landmark wins fans with its seafood-driven Hawaiian menu, Polynesian decor & epic ocean views.
Órale Taco
Hana
an everyday essential favorite for readers tracking Hawaii's most persuasive taco restaurant rooms, anchored by a Beam Score of 91.3.
The Fish And The Hog
Waimea, Hawaii
Local fare such as seafood & slow-cooked BBQ star at this rustic cafe & bar in a historic building.
Sale Pepe Pizzeria e Cucina
Lahaina, Hawaii
Italian bistro with a changing menu of brick-oven pizzas, housemade pastas & small plates.
South Maui Fish Company
Kihei, Hawaii
Popular, rustic food cart dispensing the catch of the day, plus poke bowls, fish tacos & chowder.
Ruth's Chris Steak House
Honolulu, Hawaii
Outpost of upmarket steakhouse chain known for sizzling, butter-topped beef in an elegant setting.
The Coffee Shack
Honaunau-Napoopoo, Hawaii
Island-style breakfast & lunch fare, pizza & coffee, plus a lanai overlooking 26 miles of coastline.
Hawaiian Style Cafe
Waimea, Hawaii
Classic Hawaiian comfort dishes are served at this casual establishment with a cheerful atmosphere.
Sweet E's Café
Honolulu, Hawaii
French toast & other breakfast/brunch dishes in a cozy space with comfy-chic decor.
Tikis Grill & Bar
Honolulu, Hawaii
Lively oceanfront restaurant featuring signature tiki cocktails along with live music.
Ruth's Chris Steak House
Honolulu, Hawaii
Outpost of upmarket steakhouse chain known for sizzling, butter-topped beef in an elegant setting.
Palace Saimin
Honolulu, Hawaii
Saimin, a Hawaiian-style Japanese noodle dish, is the specialty of this basic eat-in/take-out joint.
Nico's Pier 38
Honolulu, Hawaii
Large waterside hub showcasing locally sourced seafood & dishes mixing French & Hawaiian styles.
Maui Thai Bistro
Kihei, Hawaii
A mix of classic & contemporary dishes share the menu at this casual Thai bistro with a bar.
Sushi Blue Wave
Lihue, Hawaii
Service options: Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Serves local specialty. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance.
KP Lihue
Lihue, Hawaii
Classic Italian staples served up in large portions in a simple but elegant atmosphere.
IHOP
Hilo, Hawaii
Long-standing chain serving a wide variety of pancakes & other American breakfast & diner fare.
Peace Love Shave Ice
Kihei, Hawaii
A small shopping center stand serving shaved ice with an array of colored, flavor toppings.
Tidepools
Poipu, Hawaii
Grand Hyatt destination offers upscale Hawaiian cuisine in open-air thatch huts along a lagoon.
Amina Pizzeria LLC
Honolulu, Hawaii
A handful of tables fill this compact, no-nonsense spot for Italian staples like calzones & pasta.
La Spezia
Koloa, Hawaii
Cozy atmosphere for homestyle Italian dishes paired with selections from the wine bar.
Kono's Northshore - Haleiwa
Honolulu, Hawaii
Breakfast burritos, pulled pork & milkshakes round out the menu at this funky, counter-serve joint.
Don's Grill
Hilo, Hawaii
Easygoing, window-filled eatery for American comfort eats & combo platters with Hawaiian flair.
Taormina Sicilian Cuisine
Honolulu, Hawaii
Elegant, modern restaurant serving Southern Sicilian fare & an extensive wine selection.