Honolulu Restaurant Guide

Although it was once a well-kept secret, Helena’s isn’t much of a secret anymore. Known as one of the best spots on the island of Oahu for Hawaiian cuisine, you can expect a wait at Helena’s. Part of the appeal is the eatery’s legacy, Helena’s has been open since 1946, and people continue to return time and time again to this still-excellent local favorite. Try the pipikaula short ribs or order one of the set menus to get all the fixings with your meal, including rice or poi, lomi salmon, raw onions, a side of salt, and haupia to finish.

Ethel’s Grill has served chefs, politicians, truck drivers, and tourists alike for decades. Today this local favorite serves comfort food that reflects the mixed heritage of the original owners, including Japanese, Okinawan, Mexican, and local Hawaiian favorites. Make sure to try the seared ahi sashimi topped with soy-marinated garlic chips. Or delight your taste buds with the Okinawa-inspired taco rice, composed of layers of rice, ground beef, lettuce, and shredded cheese topped with a fried taco shell. Ethel’s only offers takeout, which you can enjoy waterside at the nearby Kakaako Waterfront Park.

If there is one thing you must try while in Honolulu, it’s poke. There are plenty of great places to sample the island’s poke, but you will want to head to Maguro Brothers. Their authentic version of poke highlights the fresh fish and is tossed to order with minimal seasonings of salt, limu, shoyu, and onion. You can expect a line in Waikiki after they open. However, the Chinatown location is far less busy and stays open until the early afternoon. Additional menu favorites include ahi belly and chirashi with grilled hamachikama.

You might have heard of The Pig and the Lady’s famous ph​​ở French dip. This eatery was one of the first on the island to serve this version of ph​​ở and still serves up, arguably, the best version. The sandwich is only available for lunch, but it’s also worth stopping by for their braised brisket-stuffed creation with a side of phở broth for dipping. You’ll love the atmosphere in the industrial chic dining room and The Big Trouble in Little China-themed bathroom. The fusion of Vietnamese and other Southeast Asian ingredients combine to make incredible fusion dishes like Baked Escargot in a seafood curry sauce and the Bun Cha Hanoi  a vermicelli noodle dishes that will have you wanting more. If you love sweets, save some room for the soft serve swirl.

Lucky Belly is loved by locals for its fantastic cocktails and gigantic bowls of noodles with a modern twist. This popular fusion ramen bar is known for savory broths and trendy small plates with offerings like pork belly buns and oxtail dumplings. Make sure to dig into a bowl of ramen, complete with sesame seeds, green onion, ginger, a soft egg, and dried seaweed. Add the exceptional oxtail wontons and togarashi shrimp with house made kimchi to spice things up a bit. You’ll love the atmosphere if you dine in, but Lucky Belly also offers takeout.

If you love dipping freshly caught seafood creations in buttery sauces, you must take a trip to Karai Crab. A Honolulu favorite, this restaurant proudly serves what you’re craving in huge portions. Due to Karai Crab’s popularity, making reservations before your visit is best. Shrimp Chips are a favorite menu item, with their deep-fried crispiness and housemade dipping sauces. You should also try the loaded fries or choose between all the fantastic seafood creations, such as Lobster Tail, King Crab Legs, and Live Clams.

Roy’s has been an institution in Honolulu for many years. The chefs here utilize the freshest local ingredients, bold Asian spices, and European sauces; and focus on fresh seafood for a mouthwatering menu you will love. Often packed with food-savvy visitors and residents alike, Roy’s has become known for classics like smoked Szechuan baby back ribs or blackened ahi with soy mustard butter sauce. Local favorites include the miso butterfish and chocolate soufflé. There are also several vegetarian and vegan options, not to mention a fantastic wine list.

Azure serves a dinner to remember at their world-class beachfront location in Waikiki. Located at the Royal Hawaiian Resort, you can enjoy a handcrafted four-course dinner menu created by the talented chef at Azure. Grab a table on the outdoor patio for a fantastic oceanfront dining experience. Although the Azure menu changes seasonally, you can expect a flavorful and delicious cuisine year-round. When dining at Azure, they request that you wear resort or business casual attire to your meal.

Located in the Kahala Hotel and Resort, this sophisticated eatery offers tantalizing Hawaiian-inspired global cuisine. Where elegant and refined dining combines with a welcoming and relaxed setting, and trust us, you can’t beat the ocean views at this romantic restaurant. The tasting menus change frequently and focus on seasonal cuisine made with the freshest local ingredients. The menu showcases local ingredients perfectly in Asian and Mediterranean dishes, such as the Ahi Poke Musubi and Foie Gras with macadamia nuts. To start, try the Sautéed Kauai Shrimp, then dine on the delicious Duck Waialea or the delectable Waygu Steak. Make sure to leave room for a Hawaiian classic, Pineapple Shave Ice.