25 Essential Honolulu Institutions
From neighborhood classics to high-wire tasting rooms, these are the places shaping the modern dining identity of Honolulu.
Earls Kitchen + Bar - Waikiki
Hawaii
an everyday essential restaurant address in Honolulu, pairing editorial magnetism with a Beam Score of 93.9.
Ruth's Chris Steak House
Hawaii
Outpost of upmarket steakhouse chain known for sizzling, butter-topped beef in an elegant setting.
Sweet E's Café
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.
Amina Pizzeria LLC
Honolulu, Hawaii
A handful of tables fill this compact, no-nonsense spot for Italian staples like calzones & pasta.
Kono's Northshore - Haleiwa
Honolulu, Hawaii
Breakfast burritos, pulled pork & milkshakes round out the menu at this funky, counter-serve joint.
Taormina Sicilian Cuisine
Honolulu, Hawaii
Elegant, modern restaurant serving Southern Sicilian fare & an extensive wine selection.
Over Easy
Honolulu, Hawaii
Cheery spot for creative breakfast & lunch made using local ingredients, plus cocktails.
Hiro No Uchi
Honolulu, Hawaii
Service options: Curbside pickup, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Popular for: Dinner, Solo dining. Offerings: Alcohol, Healthy options. Dining options.
Maguro Brothers Hawaii Chinatown
Honolulu, Hawaii
Simple & snug counter serve providing market-fresh takes on poke bowls inside Kekaulike Market.
Helena's Hawaiian Food
Honolulu, Hawaii
Simple restaurant specializing in local classics such as kalua pork, lomi salmon, and ribs.
The Alley Restaurant at Aiea Bowl
Honolulu, Hawaii
Creative Asian-inspired takes on classic comfort eats served in a low-key bowling alley setup.
Chef Chai
Honolulu, Hawaii
Sleek contemporary venue with a long bar serving Hawaiian regional fare from a celebrated chef.
Roy's Waikiki
Honolulu, Hawaii
High-end chain serving notable chef Roy Yamaguchi's Hawaiian fusion fare in a contemporary setting.
Mud Hen Water
Honolulu, Hawaii
Group-friendly place by Town's Ed Kenney for inventive Hawaiian small plates & cocktails.
Koa Pancake House
Honolulu, Hawaii
Casual chain serving classic omelets, waffles, pancakes, crêpes & sandwiches with a Hawaiian spin.
Tommy Bahama Restaurant, Bar & Store
Honolulu, Hawaii
Casual clothing store featuring men's & women's apparel, plus shoes & accessories.
Jalapeños 808
Honolulu, Hawaii
Service options: No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeout, Dine-in. Popular for: Solo dining. Offerings: Quick bite. Atmosphere: Casual. Payments: Credit cards.
Blue Water Shrimp & Seafood Hilton Hawaiian Village
Honolulu, Hawaii
Easygoing, aquarium-themed eatery in the Hilton turning out seafood, steak, and BBQ dishes.
Forty Niner Restaurant
Honolulu, Hawaii
This simple kitchen serves down-home local chow from saimin & garlic chicken to burgers & pancakes.
Moku Kitchen
Honolulu, Hawaii
Cool, creative eatery serving locally sourced, modern American fare & cocktails, plus live music.
Da Seafood Cartel
Honolulu, Hawaii
Service options: Outdoor seating, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Serves local specialty. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner.