Last Updated on April 15, 2026 by Tori Pines

Oahu, Hawaii offers some of the most mouth watering, incredible restaurants you’ll find in the world. Although it’s obviously in the US, the cuisine here has a life of its own. The Hawaiian islands serve endless fresh seafood from the surrounding ocean since it’s all so fresh and easy to access. But Hawaiian food also features pork and tons of local fruits and veggies. This list of the best restaurants on Oahu focuses on the restaurants serving the most authentic and local cuisine on the island.

These restaurants serve tons of seafood, fresh fruit (omg the fruit here is out of this world) and Hawaiian dishes. But they also have a huge influence from asian cuisines and other international cuisines from around the world.

I’ve made this list to include some of the local’s favorites, hidden gems, and also the famous tourist spots that are actually worth visiting. There’s a ton located in the Waikiki area, but many are scattered around the rest of the island. So a rental car is an absolute must if you want to try some of the best places to eat on Oahu.

Why Trust Me?

You can trust my list of best places to eat on Oahu because I have been to the island several times now and have actually tried out these spots for myself. And no, I’m not including everywhere I’ve eaten in this list, because they are definitely not all worthy of a spot! I’m only including the places that are actually incredible and worth a stop during your next trip to the beautiful island of Oahu.

Best Places to Eat on Oahu (Quick List)

1. Duke’s (Waikiki)
2. Hula Grill (Waikiki)
3. Doraku Sushi (Waikiki)
4. Marugame Udon (Waikiki)
5. Sky Waikiki (Waikiki)
6. Maui Brewing Co (Waikiki)
7. Sansei Waikiki (Waikiki)
8. Leonard’s Bakery (Waikiki)
9. The Sunrise Shack (Waikiki and North Shore)
10. Island Vintage Coffee (Waikiki)
11. Island Vintage Wine Bar (Waikiki)
12. Ono Seafood (Honolulu)
13. Koko Head Cafe (Honolulu)
14. The Pig & The Lady (Honolulu)
15. Kona Brewing Company (Eastern Shore)
16. Polynesian Cultural Center (Eastern Shore)
17. Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck (The North Shore)
18. Chill Grill (The North Shore)
19. The Dole Plantation (The North Shore)
20. Haleiwa Joe’s (The North Shore)
21. Matsumoto’s Shave Ice (The North Shore)
22. Makahiki (Ko Olina)
23. Kono’s (Multiple Locations)
24. Rainbow Drive-In (Multiple Locations)
25. Foodland (Multiple Locations)

Oahu Food Tour

While you can and should visit many of these places to eat on Oahu on your own, I also love taking food tours in new places that I visit. And Oahu is no exception!! It’s an amazing way to taste a bunch of different dishes, learn more about what you’re eating and the history of it, plus getting to see the island with a local guide! Here’s a few awesome tours I recommend.

• Oahu Sights and Bites Circle Island Foodie Tour
• All Inclusive Hawaiian Food & Scenic Sights Tour
• Waikiki Food Tour with Local Guide

Looking into a travel credit card? I swear by the Southwest Credit Card for earning free flights around the US and the ability to earn the companion pass where you can take anyone on a flight with you for FREE!

Map of the Best Places to Eat on Oahu

Best Restaurants in Waikiki

Sure, Waikiki is the most touristy spot on the island, but for good reason. It’s the easiest place to stay for visitors with loads of hotels right along the beach. Plus the views are gorgeous, you can walk around to everything and there is some incredible food despite there being a bunch of bad tourist food mixed in. Wish is why many of the best restaurants on Oahu are located here.

1. Duke’s Waikiki

Website
Hours: 7am-12am Daily
Address: 2335 Kalākaua Ave #116, Honolulu, HI 96815
What to Order: Panko Crusted Calamari, Coconut & Ginger Braised Seafood, Hula Pie

Hands down my favorite spot for dinner on the entire island is Duke’s Waikiki. Well truthfully, it’s tied with the next spot on the list, Hula Grill, and that’s because they’re sister restaurants and are very very similar! This restaurant is definitely touristy, and you’ll see it recommended by everyone which shows that this spot is no hidden gem. BUT it’s recommended by everyone because it really is just that good.

I’m not usually a fan of expensive sit down restaurants as I usually don’t think they’re worth the money, especially on vacation. I’m usually looking for the most authentic, raw experience where the locals eat. But y’all, this place blows me out of the water every single time I eat here, and I’ve been here so many times now. The cuisine is upscale Hawaiian with a focus on fresh seafood. And everything is jaw-dropping delicious.

The meals are incredible, but the absolute star of the show is the Hula Pie for dessert. It’s almost like a next-level ice cream cake and is out of this world.

On top of the food being amazing, it’s also located in the best spot possible. Right in the middle of the action in the center of Waikiki, directly on the beach overlooking the ocean and the best views of the sunset. The vibes here are totally tropical with live music every night.

And if you ever visit California as well, you can dine at their locations there! We went to Duke’s during our winter trip to San Diego.

Tori Tip: Come back every night and pick up Hula Pie to-go from the to-go window on the side of the building. Take it back to the room, or enjoy it on the beach while watching the sunset. It’s even better when it’s slightly melted.

2. Hula Grill

Website
Hours: Mon-Sun: 7am-10pm
Address: 2335 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
What to Order: Honey Mac Nut Shrimp, Coconut Seafood Chowder, Hula Pie

The slightly less famous sister restaurant to Duke’s is Hula Grill. It’s located right above and offers a very similar menu and vibe. I would honestly say that I like Hula Grill slightly more. The seafood stew that they offer is slightly better than the one downstairs, and the views of sunset are even better since you can see over the line of palm trees. However, it’s probably a bit fancier, so if you’re bringing kids, Duke’s is probably the way to go.

My favorite meal (possibly that I’ve ever had in my life) is the Coconut Seafood Chowder from Hula Grill. It’s full of seafood with a sweet and savory coconut broth served over rice. I actually lick the bowl. It’s so incredible. And as with Duke’s, definitely order the Hula Pie for dessert, it may or may not be the sole reason we keep returning to Hawaii.

3. Doraku Sushi

Website
Hours: Sun-Thurs: 11:30am-10pm, Fri & Sat 11:30am-11pm
Address: 2233 Kalākaua Ave Suite 304, Honolulu, HI 96815
What to Order: Edamame, Seaweed Salad, Jidori Chicken Yakisoba, Hamachi Garlic Roll, Steak & Shrimp Roll

This sushi spot is our absolute favorite on Oahu. They’ve got a great variety of options on the menu, a nice but casual atmosphere and pretty reasonable prices for being right in Waikiki!

We have dinner here at least once each trip to Oahu, sometimes twice. The sushi is so fresh and delicious and they have a great variety of roll options. Plus there are plenty of other things on the menu to enjoy if you are not a sushi fan.

Tori Tip: The happy hour here is awesome, and a great way to save some money since Waikiki can be pretty expensive! Get here Monday-Friday from 4-6pm to enjoy discounted drinks, apps and sushi rolls!

4. Marugame Udon

Website
Hours: Mon-Sun 10am-10pm
Address: 2310 Kūhiō Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815
What to Order: Udon bowl topped with shrimp tempura

Marugame Udon, is still authentic, but has really caught on to tourists, and you can see the popularity first hand just by walking past the long line of people waiting to enter the building. The line usually wraps around the building. Yes, even if you get there at 4:30pm like we did on our last trip to Oahu!!

This Japanese-style noodle shop in Waikiki is famous for its freshly made udon noodles and incredibly affordable prices. Everything is prepared right in front of you, so you can watch the team rolling, cutting, and cooking the noodles throughout the day. The cafeteria-style line lets you build your meal by choosing your udon bowl first and then adding tempura favorites like shrimp, sweet potato, or chicken. The broth is rich and comforting, the noodles have the perfect chewy texture, and portions are generous. It’s no surprise there’s almost always a line out the door, but it moves quickly and is absolutely worth the wait.

5. Sky Waikiki

Website
Hours: Sun-Thurs: 4-10pm, Fri & Sat: 4pm-2am
Address: 2270 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
What to Order: Oyster Shooters and Ahi

If you’re looking for a dinner spot with incredible views, SKY Waikiki is one of the most unique places to eat in Waikiki. Located 19 stories above Kalākaua Avenue, this rooftop restaurant and bar offers sweeping views of Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, and the Honolulu skyline. The food menu is teeny tiny, but they focus on handcrafted cocktails and champagne. It’s especially popular around sunset when you can watch the sky change colors over the ocean while enjoying dinner. Later in the evening, the vibe shifts into more of a lively rooftop lounge with DJs and nightlife, making it a great spot if you want dinner with a view and a fun atmosphere.

6. Maui Brewing Co.

Website
Hours: Mon-Sun: 11am-11pm
Address: 2300 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
What to Order: Roasted Pork Belly Bao Buns, The Hunter Pizza, Baja Fish Tacos

If you’re looking for a fun spot with great food and local beer, Maui Brewing Company Waikiki is a great casual place to grab a meal. Located inside the Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel, this spacious brewpub is known for its laid-back atmosphere, live music, and impressive selection of locally brewed beers on tap.

The menu features island-inspired comfort food like fish tacos, ahi poke stacks, burgers, and macadamia nut–crusted mahi mahi, making it a great spot whether you’re stopping in for lunch, dinner, or just a cold beer after a day at the beach. With dozens of craft beers available, beer lovers will definitely want to add this spot to their list.

If you want a relaxed, upbeat restaurant in the heart of Waikiki with plenty of beer options and a menu full of Hawaiian-inspired dishes, Maui Brewing Company is a solid choice.

Tori Tip: Happy Hour here is Monday-Friday from 3-5pm and you can get discounted drinks, half price apps and $14 pizzas. It’s a great casual option if you’re looking for something simple and cheap!

7. Poke Bar

Website
Hours: Mon-Sun: 11am-10pm
Address: 226 Lewers St # L106, Honolulu, HI 96815
What to Order: Create Your Own Poke Bowl

Let me be totally clear, Poke bar is definitely not the authentic poke experience on Oahu, but it is what you’d expect when ordering Poke if you’re used to getting it  on the mainland. So it is a delicious option if you’re looking for a poke bowl like you are used to. Poke Bar has two locations in Waikiki, one right by the Sheraton Waikiki and the other at the end of the strip close to the zoo. Both are great locations and are located close to all the hotels and a ton of other sights.

The food here is delicious and great quality, but nothing incredibly special about the menu. You’ll build your own bowl to make it exactly how you like it, and then I recommend taking it out to the beach to enjoy with a view!

8. Leonard’s Bakery

Website
Hours: Mon-Sun: 5:30am-7pm
Address: 933 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816
What to Order: Any Malasada, especially the featured flavor!

No trip to Oahu is complete without stopping at Leonard’s Bakery for one of Hawaii’s most famous sweet treats, malasadas. What the heck are malasadas you ask? They’re fluffy Portuguese-style donuts that are fried fresh and rolled in sugar, then sometimes filled with yummy creams and jellies! This famous bakery has been serving visitors and locals alike since 1952. They’re the BEST sweet treat to start off your day right while on vacation on Oahu.

The classic malasada is simple and perfect, but you can also order filled versions with flavors like haupia (coconut), custard, chocolate, or macadamia. If you’re staying in Waikiki, it’s an easy stop just outside the main tourist area and well worth the short trip. There’s usually a line, but it moves quickly. Get here when they open for the least wait.

Since my body is used to central time, I always wake up super early when in Hawaii. So I like to get there right as they open at 5:30am then bring them back to the hotel room to enjoy on the balcony.

9. The Sunrise Shack

Website
Hours: Waikiki Location temporarily closed and will reopen in October 2026!
Address: 2335 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
What to Order: Acai Bowl, Monkey Toast, Latte, Turkey Avo Aioli Sandwich

You cannot miss one of my absolute favorite places to eat on Oahu, the Sunrise Shack! If you’re looking for a quick, healthy bite with a great beachy vibe, Sunrise Shack is a fun stop while exploring Oahu. This bright yellow stand has become an island favorite for its tropical smoothie bowls, coffee, nutrient-packed drinks and super cute photo ops. Their menu focuses on superfood ingredients like blue spirulina, açai, bananas, and local honey, making it a perfect spot for a refreshing breakfast or post-beach snack.

The original location sits right across from the beach along the North Shore, a must see on your drive around the island. There’s five locations now on the island including a much more convenient stand in the heart of Waikiki, which is great if you want something quick and healthy while exploring the main strip. No matter which location you visit, the acai bowls are outstanding and filled with fresh fruit.

10. Island Vintage Coffee

Website
Hours: Mon-Sun: 6am-10pm
Address: 2301 Kalākaua Ave #C215, Honolulu, HI 96815
What to Order: Island Latte, Avocado Toast, Original Acai Bowl

If you’re looking for one of the most popular breakfast spots in Waikiki, Island Vintage Coffee is a must. Located inside the Royal Hawaiian Center, this café is known for its high-quality 100% Kona coffee and beautifully presented, super fresh food. Although fairly expensive, the location and yummy food and drinks make it worth it.

You’ll find a surprisingly extensive menu with everything from hearty loco moco and poke bowls to lighter options like avocado toast, acai bowls and smoothies, making it a great spot whether you want something indulgent or healthy. I personally recommend getting an iced latte and something quick to-go, like acai bowls or avocado toast.

The open-air seating overlooking Waikiki adds to the experience if you want to dine here. Just be prepared for a line, this place is popular for a reason, especially during breakfast hours!

11. Island Vintage Wine Bar

Website
Hours: Mon-Sun: 7am-10pm
Address: 2301 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
What to Order: Locally made fresh burrata with prosciutto, Brie and Apple baguette, Seasonal salad, Steamed Clams

Part of the Island Vintage name is the delicious Island Vintage Wine Bar. If you want something a little more elevated for dinner but still relaxed, Island Vintage Wine Bar is such a great spot in Waikiki. Located in the Royal Hawaiian Center, this sit-down concept from the creators of Island Vintage Coffee combines a full restaurant menu with an impressive wine selection, making it perfect for a slower, more upscale meal. We really enjoyed our dinner here and although not an authentic Hawaiian spot, it was a nice break from what we had been eating all week.

The menu focuses on fresh, local, farm-to-table ingredients and offers everything from poke, garlic shrimp, and charcuterie boards. What really sets it apart, though, is the wine experience. You’ll find dozens of wines available by the glass, bottle, or even tasting flights, so it’s a fun place to try something new.

Best Local Food Spots in Honolulu

Since you’re most likely staying in Waikiki, getting to Honolulu is a quick drive, and worth the effort! The city offers much more authentic cuisine, as it’s where many of the locals dine! Try some of these places to eat on Oahu in Honolulu!

12. Ono Seafood

Website
Hours: Tues-Sat: 9am-4pm
Address: 747 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816
What to Order: Poke Bowl with Hawaiian Style Ahi, Seaweed Salad, Edamame

If you’re craving some of the freshest poke on the island, Ono Seafood is a must-visit. This no-frills, takeout-only spot is consistently ranked as one of the best places for poke on Oahu, and once you try it, you’ll see why. But you need to know before you visit, this is not poke like you’re probably used to seeing in the rest of the country. Authentic Hawaiian poke is focused on the rice and the meat and NOT loaded with veggies and sauces.

The menu is simple and all about quality. You can build your own poke bowl by choosing from options like shoyu ahi, spicy ahi, miso tako, or salmon, all served over rice. Everything is incredibly fresh, flavorful, and generously portioned. There’s no seating, so plan to grab your bowl and head to the beach or a nearby park to enjoy it. It’s quick, casual, and hands-down one of the best local food experiences you can have on Oahu. 

13. Koko Head Cafe

Website
Hours: Breakfast – Mon-Thurs: 8am-2pm and Fri-Sun: 7am-2pm
Dinner – Fri-Mon: 5pm-9pm
Address: 1120 12th Ave #100, Honolulu, HI 96816
What to Order: Egg Handwich, Breakfast Bibimbap, Volcano Eggs and Ricotta Pancakes

A place to eat on Oahu that we prioritize every single trip is the famous Koko Head Cafe! Created by celebrity chef Lee Anne Wong, this local favorite is known for its creative, Hawaiian-inspired brunch dishes with bold flavors and fun twists. And while the menu has a bunch of super unique looking options, there’s also some classics for the less adventurous like pancakes and breakfast sandwiches.

The menu is packed with unique options, but a few standout favorites include the famous Cornflake French Toast and the Koko Moco (their elevated take on loco moco). But my personal favorites include the Egg Handwich and Breakfast Bibimbap and my husband LOVES the Volcano Eggs. Everything is beautifully presented and full of flavor, making it feel like more than just your average breakfast spot.

It’s a small, casual space that gets busy quickly, so expect a wait, especially on weekends, but it’s absolutely worth it. Try to get there early if you can! We like to go on a sunrise hike to Diamond Head or Koko Crater first and then celebrate with breakfast here after.

14. The Pig & The Lady

Website
Hours: Lunch – Wed-Sun: 11am-2:30pm
Dinner – Tues-Sat: 5pm-9:30pm
Address: 3650 Waialae Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816
What to Order: Le Fried Chicken Wings, Pho French Dip, Pho 75, Bo Luc Lac Saltado

If you’re looking for one of the most unique and flavorful dining experiences on Oahu, The Pig & The Lady is an absolute must. Located in Chinatown, this award-winning restaurant is known for its modern take on Vietnamese cuisine, blending traditional flavors with creative, elevated twists. And let me tell you, it is famous. Everywhere you read you’ll hear about this restaurant in Honolulu, so we knew we had to pay a visit. We ended up going here for lunch one day as it worked out best for our Oahu itinerary.

The menu is full of standout dishes, but their pho is what really put them on the map with its rich, deeply flavorful broth. Other favorites include the wings, sandwiches and inventive small plates that are perfect for sharing.

During our visit, we understood the hype. The food was extremely bold and flavorful and the service was perfect. However, it was definitely a tad out of our comfort zone, and we are pretty adventurous. So we only had a handful of options on the menu that we fully understood the ingredients and were interested in trying. That being said, I love my meal and would definitely go back and try something new!

Best Places to Eat on the Eastern Shore

While Waikiki is the most popular spot, and the North Shore is the more local favorite, my favorite part of the island (by far) is the Eastern Shore! This part of the island is home to all of my favorite hikes on Oahu, my favorite beach (Lanikai Beach), my favorite activity (Kualoa Ranch), and some of my favorite local chain restaurants which I talk about at the bottom of this post under the “Best Places to Eat Around Oahu” section. But here’s a few others that we’ve eaten at on this side and have loved!

15. Kona Brewing Company

Website
Hours: Mon-Sun: 11am-9pm
Address: 7192 Kalanianaʻole Hwy Bldg I, Honolulu, HI 96825
What to Order: Hawai’i Kai Pie, Macadamia Nut Fresh Catch, The Paniolo, Fish Tacos

Kona Brewing Company Hawaii Kai is a laid-back spot with good food and local beer, and a great option for a place to eat on Oahu. Located in the Hawaii Kai area on the eastern side of the island, this waterfront restaurant offers a super relaxed, open-air setting that’s perfect after a day of exploring. It has very pretty views over the lake and with mountains in the background.

We happened upon this spot by accident one day after hiking along this side of the island and were so glad we did. The menu offers a good variety of classic American food with a Hawaiian flare. None of the food was out of this world, but it’s a great place in this area for reliable dishes and local beer with great views and a casual atmosphere. We really loved sitting out on the porch for lunch! With views of the marina, a breezy atmosphere, and live music on select nights, it’s a fun place to unwind and enjoy a more local, less touristy side of Oahu’s dining scene.

16. Polynesian Cultural Center

Website
Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri & Sat: 12:15-9pm
Address: 55-370 Kamehameha Hwy, Laie, HI 96762
What to Order: Aliʻi Lūʻau Buffet

If you’re looking for a dinner experience that’s more than just a meal, Polynesian Cultural Center is a must-visit on Oahu’s North Shore. While it’s best known for its immersive cultural experience, the food is a huge part of what makes a visit here so memorable.

The Aliʻi Luau is the highlight when it comes to dining, featuring a traditional Hawaiian feast with dishes like kalua pig, lomi lomi salmon, poi, and fresh tropical fruits. You’ll also find a variety of other Polynesian-inspired dishes, giving you a chance to try flavors from across the islands all in one place. I definitely did not find the food at the buffet to be the best of our visit, but it was a great way to try a bunch of the traditional island dishes at one time.

The best part is that dinner is paired with live music, hula performances, and cultural storytelling, making it a full evening experience rather than just a meal. If you want to try traditional Hawaiian cuisine while also learning more about Polynesian culture, this is one of the most unique dining experiences on Oahu.

My husband and I had a great time, but would have appreciated it so much more now that we have kids. The luau ticket includes access to the property with many other activities all day long so you can bring the kids and make a whole day of it. That’s what I would recommend!

Best Places to Eat on the North Shore

Oahu’s North Shore is all about laid-back vibes, legendary surfing, and some of the most iconic food on the island. This is where you’ll find famous food trucks, roadside stands, and casual local spots that are just as memorable as the beaches. Come hungry, this area is perfect for hopping from one delicious stop to the next.

17. Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck

Website
Hours: Mon-Sun: 10:30am-5pm
Address: 66-472 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712
What to Order: Shrimp Scampi

No trip to Oahu’s North Shore is complete without stopping at Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck. It’s easily one of the most iconic food spots on the island. Known as the original North Shore shrimp truck, Giovanni’s has been serving up its famous garlic shrimp since the early 1990s and is a major reason many tourists rent a car and drive north.

The menu is simple, but that’s part of why they’re so good at it. Most people come for the shrimp scampi, huge shrimp cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce and served with rice to soak up every last bit. There’s also a hot and spicy version if you want some heat (and they mean it when they say spicy).

The experience is just as memorable as the food. The truck itself is covered in graffiti signatures from visitors over the years, and you can add your own when you stop by! Expect a line, sometimes a long one, but it moves fairly quickly and is absolutely worth it for one of the most classic food experiences on Oahu.

We have been twice, both times were delicious! The first visit we both ordered from Giovanni’s, but the second time we shared a plate and also ordered from the food truck next door, Chill Grill, and that was the best decision! More on that now.

18. Chill Grill

Website
Hours: Unknown
Address: 66-472 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712
What to Order: Kalua Pork Sliders, Street Tacos, Loco Moco

Right next to Giovanni’s in the food truck park is another incredible food truck (that I possibly liked even more??) called Chill Grill.  I know, that’s a tall order, but the food really was so so so good. We had the kalua pork sliders which is a local specialty on Oahu and was definitely worth trying at this spot. And this is also the great thing about coming to a food truck park for a meal. People in your group can order from different spots if they want different things, plus you can order from a few different trucks to share and get to try a bunch of different dishes.

19. Dole Plantation

Website
Hours: Mon-Sun: 9:30am-5:30pm
Address: 64-1550 Kamehameha Hwy, Wahiawa, HI 96786
What to Order: Dole Whip, Chocolate Covered Pineapple

When it comes to the best places to eat on Oahu, sometimes it’s not just about full meals, it’s about iconic food experiences, too. A stop at Dole Plantation is worth adding to your list for one reason: the legendary Dole Whip. Disney fans, unite! Dole whip is here. This refreshing pineapple soft serve is one of the most famous treats in Hawaii and an absolute must-try while you’re on the island.

The menu features many other pineapple options including a pineapple split and chocolate covered pineapple. And there’s an entire lunch/dinner menu including sandwiches, pizzas and entrees. It’s not food you’re going to write home about, but it’s an option when you come here for the Dole Whip. We chose to only enjoy Dole Whip and then continue on to the other great places to eat on the North Shore for lunch. And yes, dessert before lunch is definitely acceptable in this case.

It’s important to note that the Dole Plantation is about way more than what to eat. There’s many fun things to do here, and it is an especially great place to go on Oahu with kids.

20. Haleiwa Joe’s

Website
Hours: Mon-Thurs: 4:30-9pm, Fri-Sun: 11am-9pm
Address: 66-011 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712
What to Order: Calamari Fries, Coconut Shrimp, Crab & Avocado Salad, Grilled Fish, Sticky Ribs

If you’re looking for a restaurant with incredible views and a more laid-back, local feel, Haleiwa Joe’s is one of my favorite spots on Oahu. Located on the North Shore, this waterfront restaurant is known for its stunning sunset views over the harbor and relaxed, open-air seating. There’s nothing more perfect after a day of exploring or beach hopping.

The menu focuses on fresh seafood, quality steaks, and island-inspired dishes, with favorites like prime rib, coconut shrimp, and fresh catch of the day. Everything is made with locally sourced ingredients and generous portions, so you definitely won’t leave hungry.

There’s also a second location at Haleiwa Joe’s Haiku Gardens if that’s better for your itinerary. Just a heads up, both locations are first come, first served and don’t take reservations, so it’s best to arrive early or be prepared to wait. But between the views, the food, and the overall experience, it’s absolutely worth it!

21. Matsumoto’s Shave Ice

Website
Hours: Mon-Sun: 10am-6pm
Address: 66-111 Kamehameha Hwy #605, Haleiwa, HI 96712
What to Order: The “Hawaiian” topped with ice cream and condensed milk

If you know anything about the best food to eat in Hawaii, then you know the sweet treat they’re best known for is shave ice! You’ll find these bowls of sugary goodness all over Oahu, but easily the most loved spot is Matsumoto’s Shave Ice.

And I can see why. We made sure to pay this beloved spot a visit during one of our trips and it was worth the hype. The line was out the door and around the building as we expected, and the flavor options were endless. Plus they can top them with ice cream and condensed milk (which is definitely how it should be eaten).

Do I think it’s thaaaat much better than any other shave ice spots? Not necessarily. But, it is way better than the shaved ice you find on the mainland.

Where to Eat in Ko Olina

Ko Olina is one of the least visited spots on the island, but does offer some huge, beautiful resort hotels like the beloved Disney Aulani Resort and the Four Seasons Resort. Most of the places to eat in Ko Olina are not local spots, but I do have one favorite restaurant that is definitely worth going despite being touristy.

22. Makahiki

Website
Hours: Breakfast – Mon-Sun: 7-11am
Dinner – Fri-Tues: 5-8:30pm
Address: 92 Aliinui Dr, Kapolei, HI 96707
What to Order: Malasadas, Loco Moco, Sweet Bread French Toast, Mickey Waffles

Okay, so Makahiki isn’t your typical local hole‑in‑the‑wall restaurant, but it’s an experience and for Disney lovers, there is no price you wouldn’t pay for a Disney experience. It’s nestled in the gorgeous Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Kapolei and celebrates the bold island artwork, stained‑glass murals, and a lively, upbeat vibe.

Makahiki is best known for its character breakfast, and honestly the only meal I recommend coming here for because dinner doesn’t have characters. For breakfast you’ll pay a hefty pricetag for a “three course breakfast” featuring fresh fruit and malasadas to start and fairly typical island‑inspired mains (like loco moco and macadamia nut pancakes). The food is good but nothing incredibly special. The real stars here are the Disney pals popping by your table for photos and aloha! I recommend snagging reservations as early as you can (like the day they become available) because this breakfast fills up fast!

Best Places to Eat Around Oahu

These beloved restaurants have multiple locations around the island. Find a location that best fits your Oahu itinerary!

23. Kono’s Northshore

Website
Hours: Varies
Address: Northshore: 66-250 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712
     Kailua: 131 Hekili St #102, Kailua, HI 96734
     Waikiki: 2310 Kūhiō Ave. #1-A, Honolulu, HI 96815
What to Order: Chuns Bomber, Local Bomber, Queens Bomber

If you want a quick but super yummy breakfast on the go to enjoy as you run between activities on Oahu, Kono’s should be where you go! Born right on the North Shore in 2002, this casual favorite has grown into several locals’ go‑to spots (including Waikiki, Haleiwa, and Kailua) where they serve hearty portions and fresh ingredients.

Kono’s is all about celebrating Hawai‘i’s bold, slow‑roasted flavors without killing your budget. It’s perfect for fueling up before surfing, hiking, or beach hopping! Their signature ingredient is tender 12‑hour slow‑roasted kalua pork that shows up in everything from breakfast burritos to bowls, sandwiches, and plate lunches.

Breakfast Bombers are their most popular item on the menu. They’re massive burritos stuffed with eggs, pork, and all the fixings that’ll keep you full for hours. We loved grabbing some from the Kailua location before heading to Kualoa Ranch!

24. Rainbow Drive-In

Website
Hours: Varies
Address: Kapahulu: 3308 Kanaina Ave. Honolulu, HI 96815
     Pearlridge: 98-1005 Moanalua Road Aiea, Hawaii 96701
What to Order: Mix Plate, Loco Moco Plate, Chili Tots

If you want the ultimate iconic place to eat on Oahu, you’ve gotta include Rainbow Drive‑In on your itinerary! This humble, counter‑service staple has been feeding locals and visitors hearty Hawaiian plate lunches since 1961, starting right at the doorstep of Waikiki and now with a few spots around the island.

Rainbow is no frills with a walk‑up counter and outdoor seating. This is comfort food served with large portions and authentic style. Rainbow Drive-in is best known for its classic Hawaiian plate lunches that come with two scoops of rice and a scoop of macaroni salad alongside your choice of local favorites. Some options include the famous loco moco, barbecue beef, shoyu chicken, spicy chili, and more.

25. Foodland

Website
Hours: Varies
Address: Find a Location
What to Order: Poke, Sushi, Seaweed Salad
18 locations

If you want some of the freshest and most affordable food on the island, don’t overlook Foodland. This local grocery store is famous for its incredible poke counter, where you’ll find a huge variety of freshly made options like shoyu ahi, spicy tuna, and creative island-inspired flavors. They also have a great selection of grab-and-go sushi, making it an easy stop for a quick beach picnic or casual lunch. It’s one of those spots locals actually go to—which is how you know it’s good.

My husband still dreams about the poke from Foodland. It was genuinely the best poke he’s ever had. I was pregnant when we visited foodland, so to be safe I avoided trying it. But I can confirm that the sushi and seaweed salad was outstanding.

Tips for Eating Your Way Around Oahu

No matter where you eat on Oahu, be sure to try as many of the local and most authentic dishes that the island is known for. Don’t be afraid to try hole-in-the-wall places and food trucks to find the best meals. Expect lines at popular spots and bring cash for some food trucks. Oahu’s food scene is one of the best parts of visiting the island, so enjoy as much as possible during your trip to Oahu!