16 Best Oahu Restaurants You Need to Try
Oahu is the place you want to be if you want to satisfy a foodie craving.
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
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
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.
3. Leonard’s Bakery
Leonard’s Bakery is a spot that takes you back to the old days, with their old-fashioned storefront.
They’re famous for their 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.
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
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.
It’s 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
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.
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.
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.
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.
15. Eggs ‘n Things
Eggs ‘n Things is a locally owned and operated restaurant that 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. Ted’s Bakery
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.
