17 Must Eat Places in Oahu: Where to Find the Best Food
Oahu is the place you want to be if you want to satisfy a foodie craving. From authentic Hawaiian cuisine served out of roadside food trucks, to classic American staples like burgers and barbecue, there’s something for everyone.
So whether you’re looking for a bite during lunch or a late-night snack after hours, these are the best places to eat in Oahu.
1. Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck
Who doesn’t love garlic shrimp? Giovanni’s is an award-winning food truck that serves arguably the best garlic shrimp on the island.
The line of hungry locals and tourists start early at Giovanni’s and it doesn’t matter what time of day you go.
Whether it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner, expect to wait patiently for your turn. Tip: Remember to bring cash or you’ll have to miss out 🙁
2. Helena’s Hawaiian Food
You’ve tried the rest, now try the best! Helena’s is a family-owned restaurant known for their authentic Hawaiian dishes, prepared just the way you would at home.
Any local will tell you this is one of the best restaurants in town. Order the Pipikaula Short Ribs with a side of Beef Stew; you’ll leave with a full tummy and a smile on your face.
3. Leonard’s Bakery
Leonard’s Bakery is a spot that takes you back to the old days, with their old-fashioned storefront. Taste of Leonard’s Bakery starts with malasadas – a deep-fried ball of dough that tastes like heaven.
You can get your choice of toppings or just enjoy the simplicity of the doughy goodness by itself with a dusting of sugar.
Besides their world-famous Portuguese donuts, they also serve other sweet treats such as pao doce, coffee cakes, and pies.
4. Koko Head Cafe
To say Koko Head Cafe is a hidden gem…would be a lie. Famous Chef Lee Anne Wong is the inspiration behind this famous brunch eatery, using her talent to create an amazingly unique menu that’s sure to please your taste buds.
The menu offers classic dishes like French-style omelets, breakfast sandwiches, and eggs benedict to more adventurous plates including Breakfast Bibimbap and Koko Moco.
5. Matsumoto Shave Ice
If you’re in need of a cold dessert to relieve yourself from the Hawaiian sun, look no further. This local spot serves the best shave ice in Oahu, and you’d be a fool not to try it.
The flavors are amazing, with a wide range of syrups to choose from. You can never go wrong with classic shave ice, or why not go the extra mile and top it with a generous portion of soft-serve ice cream?
6. Rainbow Drive-In
Don’t be fooled by the name, Rainbow Drive-In is actually a dine-in restaurant and not a place with a lot of colorful décor and rainbow props lying around.
Highly rated as one of the best hole-in-the-wall eateries for Hawaiian comfort food.
The Loco Moco is a fan favorite – double hamburger patties topped with two scoops of white rice and covered with special gravy and fried eggs.
7. Arvo Cafe
In the mood for a light meal? Arvo Cafe is a small, quaint coffee shop in Honolulu and is the perfect place to go for breakfast or brunch.
This trendy cafe offers delicious quick bites such as Loaded Avocado Toast and Matcha Chia Pudding.
You’ll also find your usual caffeine fixes at Arvo, like lattes and iced mochas – all of which are made with freshly ground house blends.
8. Goofy Cafe & Dine
Offering an all-day breakfast menu that’ll excite your taste buds and leave you feeling fulfilled, Goofy Cafe & Dine is the perfect place to get your morning meal.
With its surf-inspired decor, the cafe has an open-air dining style with plenty of natural light.
You can enjoy delicious classic American dishes like eggs benedict or french toast with a Hawaiian twist.
Try out their Morning Power Salad if you want something lighter for breakfast or lunch. If you’re looking for something sweet, be sure to try one of their signature Acai Bowls.
9. Waiola Shave Ice
Waiola Shave Ice is a family-owned and operated shave ice shop in Honolulu.
These delicious treats have been the talk of the town for years – it’s easy to create your perfect dessert with a large selection of syrups and toppings to choose from. You can’t say no to Waiola Shave Ice!
10. Marukame Udon
Marukame Udon is a small chain of restaurants in the USA that specializes in udon bowls – thick white noodles served in a hot and flavorful broth, with toppings such as beef teriyaki, chicken tempura, and potato croquettes.
Located across from the Ala Wai Golf Course, the lines at this popular eatery always seem to be out the door. But don’t let that deter you – the udon bowls served at Marukame is definitely worth the wait.
11. Mud Hen Water
Mud Hen Water is a farm-to-table organic experience that has been drawing rave reviews from locals and tourists.
Whether you’re looking for something on the lighter side, or you want to tuck into a more hearty dish, this Asian-fusion eatery has something for everyone.
Fun Fact: Mud Hen Water is named after the literal translation of the road the restaurant sits on, Waialae Avenue.
12. Monkeypod Kitchen
Monkeypod Kitchen is a restaurant in Ko Olina that features fresh, locally sourced ingredients and an imaginative approach to cooking.
The menu includes everything from hand-tossed pizzas made from scratch, to seared ahi steaks…but with an island twist, of course.
Classic cocktails and original concoctions are also on the menu, guaranteed to satisfy your boozy cravings.
13. Haleiwa Bowls
With its local charm and laidback vibe, it’s no wonder that this little thatched roof kiosk has become famous for one dish: the acai bowl.
Alongside their delicious acai treats, they also offer real fruit smoothies that are refreshing and healthy. Haleiwa Bowls is the place to go for all your acai bowl cravings in Oahu.
14. Ono Seafood
About a 5-minute drive away from Waikiki Beach, Ono Seafood is a low-key eatery that’s great for grabbing a quick bite.
Specializing in poke bowls, everything is made in-house with locally sourced ingredients and the fish is always fresh and never disappoints. If you’re looking for a quick meal on the go, Ono Seafood is the place.
15. Eggs ‘n Things
Eggs ‘n Things is a breakfast spot that offers an assortment of delectable dishes.
This locally owned and operated restaurant has been around for over 40 years and continues to be one of the most popular breakfast joints in Oahu.
It’s not just breakfast though! You’ll also find burgers and comfort finger food on the menu for those who want something other than breakfast.
16. Piggy Smalls
The small, independently owned eatery Piggy Smalls is located across the street from Ala Moana Park.
Serving up home-style Vietnamese favorites like pho, it’s the perfect place for a laid-back lunch or dinner. The Classic Pho French Dip Banh Mi and Oxtail Bo Kho are a must-try!
Besides Mondays, this restaurant is open every day to cater to hungry guests. It also has an outdoor seating area to accommodate customers who want to enjoy their meal in the sunshine.
17. Ted’s Bakery
Oahu is a foodie paradise with a diverse selection of restaurants to choose from.
But one of the most popular spots in town is Ted’s Bakery in Haleiwa, where you can catch some waves and enjoy some tasty sweet treats afterward.
Located on Oahu’s North Shore, they’re known for their pastries and pies, but also serve up some delectable sandwiches and hot food plates.
