From U.S. Mainland chains like Red Lobster to only-in-Waikiki eateries like The Seaside, this neighborhood is packed with places to please every palate!
1. The Sweet Spot
Located across from Fort DeRussy, treat yourself to a pineapple smoothie, a scoop of ice cream, or any of the many island style treats. The Sweet Spot truck is embellished with murals and palm trees conveniently positioned about a five-minute walk to the beach. And not only will you experience an environment with the Spirit of Aloha, you’ll also be supporting a business that’s using locally grown fruits and ingredients – supporting the island’s farmers and reducing the carbon footprint of food transportation.
1958 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, (808) 724-5706, thesweetspotwaikiki.com, @brokefolkstruck
2. Tanaka of Tokyo
Be wowed with onion volcanos and flying food tricks while eating ono (delicious) food, like steak, chicken, shrimp, fried rice, and more. Tanaka of Tokyo is Hawaii’s best locally owned family Japanese teppanyaki restaurant, and they have two Waikiki locations.
First location: Ohana Waikiki East Hotel, 1st Floor, 150 Kaʻiulani Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, (808) 922-4233, Second location: Waikiki Shopping Plaza, 3rd Floor, 2250 Kalākaua Ave 3rd Fl, Honolulu, HI 96815, (808) 922-4702, tanakaoftokyo.com, @tanakaoftokyo
3. Hard Rock Cafe
Situated in the heart of Waikiki, find an array of collectible fashions and music-related merchandise on the first floor – perfect for souvenirs and gifts. Then, follow the sweeping artistic guitar wave up to an open-air second floor with a sticking ocean-blue wave bar for a truly unique dining experience.
280 Beach Walk, Honolulu, HI 96815, (808) 955-7383, hardrock.com, @hrchonolulu.
4. Teddy’s Bigger Burgers
Presenting 100% ground chuck burgers, this local favorite restaurant serves burgers drizzled with tasty sweet and tangy sauce in small to triple sizes. Also, try the fries and thick shakes!
Located in Waikiki Grand Hotel, 134 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, (808) 926-3444, teddysbb.com, @teddysburgers
5. Maui Brewing Co.
Featuring an expansive open-air interior and a family-friendly vibe, this “Brewery-to-Table” dining experience delivers a variety of cold brews and Hawaii-inspired fare. Check the website for specials and entertainment schedules.
Located in Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel, 2300 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, (808) 843-2739, mbcrestaurants.com, @mauibrewingco
6. House Without A Key
Dine in this classy, clean restaurant located inside the upscale Halekulani Hotel. Favorites include the coconut cake and mai tais. They also have live hula dancing some evenings. And, its outdoor seating makes it a favorite for families.
2199 Kālia Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815, (808) 923-2311, halekulani.com
7. Mahina & Sun’s
Inspired by Hawaii’s people and places and utilizing the best ingredients, Chef Erik Leong welcomes you to relax while enjoying local Hawaiian comfort foods. ‘Mahina’ in Hawaiian means moon with the sun, and these two celestial bodies are essential to traditional Hawaiian sailing navigation. This eatery is located next to a pool and recommended for families with older children – especially since they have special events where kids can meet the hotel mascot, a friendly dog.
Located in the Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club, 412 Lewers St, Honolulu, HI 96815, (808) 924-5810, mahinaandsuns.com, @mahinaandsuns
8. M.A.C. 24/7
This upscale hotel diner with ‘modern American cuisine’ (M.A.C) serves eclectic entrees, including jumbo pancakes. (Ask about the pancake challenge!) Their chic bar and highly-rated comfort food almost always satisfies appetites.
Located inside Hilton Waikiki Beach Hotel, 2500 Kūhiō Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815, (808) 921-5564, mac247waikiki.com, @mac247waikiki
9. Hiking Hawaii Café
Are you looking for a healthy breakfast, brunch, or lunch? Or perhaps you need your coffee fix? Hiking Hawaii Café is the place to go in Waikiki. Using local organic products and offering vegan and gluten-free options, the quality of their food is to be trusted.
Located inside the Doubletree Alana Waikiki by Hilton, 1956 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96815, (808) 445-1717, hikinghicafe.com, @hikinghawaiicafe
