Eat like a local in Waikiki, from sunrise coffee & pastries to late-night izakaya. This dining guide helps travelers plan where to eat at every price point while enjoying the best of Oahu. Pair your stay with a direct booking at Aliʻi Beach Rentals for the most convenient Waikiki experience.
Breakfast & Coffee
Island Vintage Coffee: Famous for acai bowls and Kona coffee.
Kona Coffee Purveyors: Known for their premium, single-origin 100% Kona coffee, paired with exceptional fresh French-style pastries like their famous flaky Kouign Amanns
Knots Coffee Roasters: Specialty coffee and pastries to go.
Musubi Cafe Iyasume: Spam musubi and cheap grab-and-go snacks.
Lunch & Casual Eats
Marugame Udon: Fresh udon and tempura at budget-friendly prices.
Royal Hawaiian Center (Pā‘ina Lanai): Poke, bento, and local eats under one roof.
Teddy’s Bigger Burgers: Classic burgers with an island twist.
Dinner with a View
Duke’s Waikiki: Iconic beachfront dining, best for sunset reservations.
House Without a Key: Romantic oceanfront dinners with live music and hula.
Michel's: Local favorite for special-occasion dinners.
Late-Night Eats
Izakayas & Korean BBQ (Sikdorak, Izakaya Naru, Sura): Perfect for groups past midnight.
Marugame Udon (late): Comfort food when everything else is closed.
Fine Dining in Waikiki
For travelers seeking Fine Dining in Waikiki, these restaurants offer elevated cuisine, exceptional service, and memorable settings. Perfect for anniversaries, honeymoons, and special occasions in Waikiki Honolulu.
La Mer (Halekulani): One of the most acclaimed fine dining restaurants in Waikiki, offering French cuisine with ocean views and an elegant atmosphere.
Empire Steakhouse (Ilikai Hotel): Offering upscale USDA Prime steaks, fresh seafood, luxury wines, and a sophisticated ambiance with panoramic views, making it ideal for special occasions.
Arancino at The Kahala (near Waikiki): Upscale Italian dining featuring handmade pasta and premium ingredients.
Hy’s Steak House: A standout choice for fine dining Waikiki Honolulu guests seeking premium steaks and classic service.
These restaurants consistently rank among the best dining options in Waikiki for guests looking to elevate their culinary experience.
Sweets & Treats
Shave ice: Cool off with this island classic.
Leonard’s Malasadas: Worth the short trip to Kapahulu for Hawaii’s best pastries.
Local Tips
Happy hour deals: Many Waikiki spots run 2–5 pm specials.
Takeout picnics: Grab food hall plates from Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center and watch the sunset on the beach.
Reservations: Essential for Duke’s, House Without a Key, and Michel's.
FAQs
Where to find cheap eats in Waikiki? Marugame Udon, Musubi Cafe, and Pā‘ina Lanai food court located at the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center.
Best romantic sunset dinner? Duke’s Waikiki or House Without a Key.
Plan Your Stay + Dining
Waikiki tastes even better when you stay nearby. Book direct with Aliʻi Beach Rentals for the best rates, insider tips, and properties within walking distance to these popular dining spots. If you like these restaurants, you might like these other restaurants in Waikiki too.