RESTAURANTS BY LOCATION
Located outside the Waikiki area, this wonderful neighborhood bistro-style restaurant serves contemporary American cooking such as braised short ribs, pork chops, Big Island ribeye steak and organic chicken breast.
In a residential area just outside Waikiki, this place is popular with diners out for special occasions. The flavors of Hawaii and Asia come together in dishes such as the signature ahi Katsu and New York steak Alaea.
Understated elegance, contemporary Continental cuisine and a spectacular ocean view make this restaurant perfect for a quiet, romantic dining experience.
A longtime favorite, Alan Wong's entices eager patrons to head to the outskirts of Waikiki. Here, eager and thoughtful younger servers deftly guide you through the impressive menu--which flags fantastic signature dishes with a pineapple symbol--and follow through like it's second nature.
Guests can expect well-prepared entrees and an extensive, highly specialized wine list at the elegant eatery. Favorites include steak, such local seafood as roasted ahi tuna, lamb shank and Azul's dessert sampler for two.
On the second floor of the Rainbow Tower, Bali by the Sea lures you with its skillfully prepared food, including creatively presented caviar, terrines, venison cutlets and souffles, as well as Black Angus beef, mahi mahi, macadamia nut-crusted opakapa and poached Hawaiian snapper.
At the Historical Sheraton Moana Surfrider Resort, the delightful dining room is filled with Hawaiian tradition and is well worth a visit for breakfast, traditional afternoon tea or a sunset dinner.
Visit Brew Moon for lunch or dinner to sample pizza, salad, a burger or an entree with one of the restaurant's smooth brewed-in-house beers.
In the Aloha Tower Marketplace, the bistro prepares fresh island fare with an Asian flair. Vegetarians will find several options on the menu. Free valet parking and nightly entertainment enhance the restaurant's appeal.
For nearly four decades, Chart House Waikiki, one of the original Chart House restaurants, has put forth a menu of excellent steaks and seafood with signature desserts and drinks.
Those looking for a burger will find it here. Several styles of burgers are served with sides of fries and onion rings that are meant to be shared. An enthusiastic young staff handles service in the open-air setting.
Named for its famed chef, patrons can expect a tableside visit by Chef Mavro at this smart, boutique-style restaurant. Subtly creative presentations of the Provence French-influenced three-, four- and six-course meals make for an especially delightful dining experience. A nice selection of wine pairings is available.
The pleasant oriental decor, attentive service and consistently tasty Northern China and Szechuan-style cuisine makes China Garden Seafood Restaurant a good dining choice. A nice selection of combination meals is available, as well as a la carte plates.
A great steak with a huge baked potato and traditional salad bar is what makes the steakhouse popular with locals and tourists alike. Traditional fare is served in a true Hawaiian setting: a fabulous location overlooking Waikiki Beach. Covered indoor and outdoor patio seating are offered.
This quietly elegant dining room graced with original artworks and Chinese sculptures serves both Chinese and Italian cuisines in a family-style format, including hot bean salmon alla Siciliana and Chinese roast duck canneloni.
Choose a dry-aged or classically aged cut of U.S. high-grade beef, prepared to your specifications, then add wine from d.k.'s outstanding list, which includes 16 by-the-glass selections. If beef isn't striking the right note with you, consider the fresh catch of the day. The children in your party can order from the keiki menu, where items come with a soft drink and a choice of ice cream for dessert.
Make your way to the second floor of the sophisticated W Hotel, where stunning views of Diamond Head and Kapiolani Park await from this funky, nouveau eatery. Graze from the appetizer bar as you watch food being prepared. You can count on the server to give you a thorough description of the day's choice of fresh island seafood, which is caught in local waters.
The name Don Ho evokes images of Hawaii and this restaurant delivers the taste of Hawaii. Indulge in Chinatown pot stickers, Big Island kal-bi short ribs or crispy tortilla-style pizzas. Iconic Hawaiian images prevail at this welcoming spot.
The sands of Waikiki Beach rise up to the door of this lively, beachfront restaurant and pub. Photographs and memorabilia of Duke Kahanamoku, the famous Olympic swimmer and Hawaiian surfer, adorn the walls.
Relive a bygone era in a setting evocative of an outdoor Asian marketplace. You'll be surrounded by distinctive bamboo accents, bright lanterns and rich colors. E & O Trading Company's menu mixes Asian, Thai, Vietnamese and Indian cuisine, and you can choose small plates along the lines of Indonesian corn fritters and mango-glazed Thai ribs or such big plates as Singaporean seafood curry and tandoori-style chicken with Indian flat breads.
As the name implies this restaurant features fresh, brewed-on-site beer which is crafted in a German tradition. What may not be evident is the wide variety of foods like meal-sized salads, burgers and sandwiches, pizza, pastas, steaks and seafood that is also a huge draw for an upscale, casual dining experience.
It's known as "ten-pura" not "tem-pura" -- a crispy, light batter covering and quickly deep fried serving of vegetables -- and it's popular among diners. Gyotaku's menu is visually appealing with pictures of all the items making it easy to decide on what to order. Order individual sushi or complete meals at very reasonable prices.
Rock 'n' roll memorabilia decorates the walls of the popular theme restaurant. Live music on the weekends contributes to the bustling atmosphere.
Hoku's is popular for both its varied menu of whole fish, lobster and curry dishes and the wonderful daylight views of the Pacific Ocean and Diamond Head. The chef's tasting menu is worth the splurge.
The popular spot features not only an outstanding location on the shores of Waikiki Beach but also a distinctive Hawaiian menu.
The locals love this place and with good reason: flavorful steaks, an attentive wait staff and cozy surroundings. For starters, diners can perk up their appetite with the much-talked-about cheese bread. Then, they can select one of several steaks grilled over native kiawe wood.
Ensconced in a historic brick storefront with a garden at the back, the restaurant transports guests to the alleys of Bangkok or Hong Kong. Try dim-sum appetizers such as lobster pot stickers, goat cheese wonton or lemongrass chicken brochettes. Reservations are recommended on performance nights at nearby Hawaii Theatre.
Park at the nearby Embassy Suites, for which you can get validation, then make your way to the second floor of the new Beach Walk area on Lewers Street, home to Kaiwa Modern Japanese. Inspired by Tokyo and the high energy of Waikiki, this ultra-chic place deftly prepares teppan fusion fare and sushi rolls. Sip Japanese sake with dishes made from fresh ingredients from the Hawaiian waters.
Once you've decided among Kaka'ako Kitchen's fresh sandwiches, gourmet salads and daily meat and veggie specials, order from the counter, plunk down at an outside table and wait for your food to be brought to you. Local professionals frequent this simple spot.
Keo's open-air setting lets you people-watch in the heart of Waikiki as you sample preparations of wonderful Thai food. Not sure what to order? Ask about the set dinner menu, which you can get in portions for two, four or six people.
If you're here with a party of two, four or six, you might consider Keoni by Keo's prix fixe menus, which offer a varied sampling of the fare. Otherwise, the standard menu lists Thai classics, which you can enjoy as you take in the people-watching from inside the restaurant's dining room not far from the beach.
This popular restaurant has a bustling, warm ambience. The varied menu includes seafood, steak and excellent prime rib. Ample wine and dessert choices round out the meal.
For more than 35 years, diners have flocked here to watch the Japanese chefs entertain with their skilled antics. Choose from selections of steak, chicken or seafood, which are made tableside for groups of eight people.
Situated on the second floor, almost every table at this elegant restaurant affords patrons views of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head. When you're not mesmerized by the views, you'll be dazzled by the meticulously prepared Provence-style French dishes.
A landmark since 1929, Lau Yee Chai is said to hold the distinction of being Waikiki's first Chinese restaurant. Skilled Chinese chefs create dishes in four styles: Cantonese, Szechuan, Shanghai and Hong Kong. The grand-scale setting on the fifth floor of Waikiki Shopping Plaza wraps you in comfort.
On the third floor of Neiman Marcus, modestly upscale Mariposa will earn your amazement with its lunch and dinner selections, including the lobster club sandwich, Maui taro burgers and wood-roasted turkey. At dinner, contemplate such choices as wok-fried Australian white prawns, Colorado lamb chops, island snapper and Alaskan king crab risotto.
Get to Matsugen early to minimize the amount of time you have to wait. (Reservations aren't an option.) This small, inviting spot prepares Japanese soba noodles on site and serves them hot or cold in large bowls.
Naupaka Terrace, Ihilani's informal all-day dining room, lets you sample contemporary island cuisine that blends fresh local ingredients or perhaps a wide range of seafood via the Saturday night buffet. Look out over the pool as you enjoy lunch or dinner.
In addition to the varied island and mainland fish choices you'd expect of a place named Nick's Fishmarket--including mahi mahi, Hawaiian ahi, swordfish and opakapaka--you'll find savory New York steak and Australian rack of lamb. Your youngsters will find almost as diverse an offering on the keiki (kids') menu.
Located on the docks at Pier 38 in Iwilei, this small eatery commands excellent views of fishing vessels unloading their daily catches. While this basic eatery is often crowded and there can be a short wait for the rather limited seating, the daily special of incredibly fresh fish sells out quickly.
Don't be surprised if you find yourself lined up on the sidewalk among locals with six packs tucked under their arms. Ono Hawaiian Foods may lack a liquor license, but who needs one when you've got simple Hawaiian favorites prepared this well. Combination plates with poi or rice give credence to the restaurant's name, which means "delicious." The tiny dining room means you may have to wait a while for a seat or even opt to picnic instead.
Like its namesake flower, Orchids is elegant, uncomplicated and understated. For the best seating, request a table located around the lower patio where you can enjoy the ocean views and cool breezes. Offering creative regional Pacific cuisine, the restaurant offers patrons a relaxed, open-air setting.
Located just outside of the Waikiki area in a residential neighborhood, this is a pleasant little restaurant offering some wonderful Italian food at reasonable prices, including daily pasta specials as well as market fish specials.
Located on the third floor of Macy's in the Ala Moana Center, the restaurant features the chef and his staff offering a unique taste of Hawaii Regional Cuisine with the freshest locally grown produce and the bounties of Pacific Ocean.
Since 1961, this classic style drive-in has been a local favorite for inexpensive plate lunches and burgers such as teri beef, boneless chicken, beef stew and barbecue beef sandwiches.
Enjoy fusion of fresh Pacific seafood, French sauces and Asian seasonings. The ever-changing menu has many entrees such as, grilled salmon and barbecue lamp rack, and the signature dessert, chocolate souffle.
The main fare is steak, which is prepared from several cuts of prime beef and cooked to perfection, but the menu also lists lamb, chicken and seafood dishes. Guests should come hungry because the side dishes, which are among the a la carte offerings, could make a meal in themselves.
Tight table spacing lends to the busy feel at Sam Choy's, where huge portions of good food tame your appetite. A warehouse facade belies the family-friendly eatery's bright, colorful and funky interior.
This upbeat, welcoming second-floor restaurant is a popular addition to Waikiki's dining scene. The menu centers on fine Japanese cuisine, including specialty sushi rolls, Asian rock shrimp cake with a ginger lime cilantro pesto, panko-crusted ahi with a soy wasabi butter sauce and local fresh fish specialties.
An attentive young staff serves up Sarento's hallmark regional Italian fare in any one of four ocean/city view dining rooms. Homemade ravioli stuffed with deepwater Caribbean lobster meat and served in a white wine cream sauce is the house specialty.
Tableside and flambe presentations rev up the romance at charming Sergio's. Sit amid murals of Italian scenes while savoring plates of savory seafood, veal, beef, chicken and pasta.
On the second floor of the shopping plaza in the Hyatt Regency Resort & Spa, the restaurant offers a steak and seafood experience for those with discriminating tastes.
On the second floor of Neiman Marcus, the delightful little cafe entices you with a wonderful selection of salads and sandwiches, all made fresh when you order them. Each day brings a featured dessert, in addition to ice creams and sorbets. You can order all of The Mermaid Bar's menu items as take-out selections.
For those looking for a traditional steak and seafood menu and an extensive salad bar, this is the perfect match. This is a great choice for those at the resort wanting to stay on property, or those taking a look and wanting to stay for a meal. The portions are hearty, tasty and hit the spot.
After being closed for seven years, one of Hawaii's original "garden restaurants" is back serving locals and tourists with a magnificent buffet lunch and dinner. What makes this restaurant special is the wonderful setting, with its many waterfalls and lush tropical touches.
People-watching, sunsets and food all vie for your attention at Tikis Grill, which benefits from an outstanding second-floor location on wonderful Waikiki Beach. In addition to the many local seafood dishes you'd expect, you'll find burgers, sandwiches and other simple preparations, not to mention a large patio bar that's almost always busy.
Although you can choose from a range of contemporary Japanese foods such as steamed onaga with red miso vinaigrette or crab and avocado wrapped in halibut, Tokyo Tokyo specializes in robata, artistically prepared grilled local meats, chicken and incredibly fresh fish served with traditional Japanese hospitality.
Located in the trendy neighborhood of Kaimuki, this slightly ecelctic and throughly casual American bistro aims to serve "local first, organic whenever possible, with aloha always".
After a day of enjoying the sun and sea, savor the best of island cuisines from locally caught fish to favorites such as prime rib. The dining experience begins at the entrance, where a serene waterfall and lush foliage greet you to the charming restaurant. Stunning views of Turtle Bay can be enjoyed from the floor-to-ceiling windows; make sure you request seating near the window. After your meal, sit back and enjoy one (or more) of the restaurant's 21 hand-crafted martinis.
You'll find parking only in pay parkades at long-established Villa Paradiso, a Waikiki favorite for delicious pasta and a smattering of seafood dishes.
Reasonably priced, Wailana offers good food in a casual setting. Friendly waitresses serve up breakfast, burgers and dinner entrees. Across from the Hilton Hawaiian Village, this is the place to go when feeding a family on a budget.
Lively, loud and bustling with classic rock music blaring in the background best describes this popular ale house and dinner spot. Come thirsty! The bar area takes center stage, boasting over 100 beers on tap from around the world and the kegs viewable from the transparent keg room. Menu items range from steaks and burgers to chicken, fish and pastas.
Sit down at simple concrete tables to sample the signature favorite at Alexander's Fish & Chips--fresh fish and chips with a choice of three types of local fish. The Kalama Village shopping area spot also tempts you with ribs, chicken and shellfish. Don't pass on the delicious cornbread.
A Hawaiian tradition, the restaurant's namesake refers to a dish comprising a huge plateful of rice, macaroni and a choice of meat or fish. Guests sit outside under the stars and eat in simple surroundings with the sound of the water and the nearby luau.
Big Wave Cafe opens early for breakfast and keeps on serving it until 2:30 p.m. If you're looking for simple lunch fare, grab a burger or sandwich with a tasty thirst quencher, including fruit smoothies, iced cappuccino and strawberry lemonade. One downside: You won't find restrooms in this place and instead must use the malls.
Easy to find and hard to forget, C J's lets you surf the web wirelessly while noshing on breakfast or lunch. Bite into awesome sandwiches or pick up the Hana box lunch, a take-out meal perfect for a beach trip or the long drive to Hana.
Explore a broad spectrum of flavor at this spot inside the Rainbow Mall. This great seafood, sushi and steak restaurant prepares lunches of specially made sandwiches--such as macadamia nut-crusted breast of chicken and roasted fresh Maui vegetables in virgin oil with mild goat cheese--and sophisticated dinner fare along the lines of local fish and fresh sushi. Your little ones can order from the "keiki" (kid's) menu.
Braised beef short ribs with roasted Kula onions, baby back ribs with orange-mango barbecue sauce and more traditional offerings of prime rib and surf and turf grab your attention from the interesting menu at Canoes. And, to make sure no one leave hungry, everyone gets a trip to the vast salad bar. The covered open-air setting affords beautiful views of the ocean.
Cheeseburgers are the house specialty at the casual and rustic beach house, where live music adds to the festive atmosphere most nights.
There is no other way to enjoy dinner in Hawaii than a visit to family-friendly Ferraro's. Seated at the cozy outdoor patio with flickering tiki torches surrounding you, enjoy romantic views of the sunset tucking behind the distant ocean while listening to the traditional blowing of the conch shell to bid farewell to yet another day. The menu focuses on fresh ingredients and rustic Italian fare. Signature dishes include lobster risotto and homemade ravioli for dinner or wood-oven pizza and Dungeness crab panini at lunch.
Hawaiian snapper and the shiitake mushroom and oyster puff pastry are two excellent examples of the chef's dazzling contemporary Island/French dishes, which center on seafood. A signature favorite is ahi tartare and Maui taro chips. You can request seating on the large verandah or in the air-conditioned dining room. You can park at no charge in the gravel lot beside the restaurant, but you will need to get a pass from the staff before leaving the eatery.
Well worth the drive "upcountry" as this restaurant is renowned for its regional Hawaiian cuisine. This former general store nurtures a friendly, bustling atmosphere is a great place to relax and enjoy a fine meal.
If you're making the drive to Hana, this is a convenient spot for a quick lunch. Located near Hotel Hana on SR 360, the take-out window accepts orders daily starting at 7 a.m. Hana Ranch will sometimes open for dinner on Wednesday and Friday nights but you'd be wise to phone ahead to confirm the hours.
Rock 'n' roll memorabilia decorates the walls of the popular theme restaurant. Live music on the weekends contributes to the bustling atmosphere. On the menu is a wide variety of American cuisine--from burgers and sandwiches to seafood, steaks and pasta
Swivel your hips into Hula Grill, where you can sample regional Hawaiian cuisine, including the signature hula pie dessert, and watch dancers perform the hula every night. Varieties of fresh local fish are prepared in varied ways, and you'll find more casual menu items available on the terrace, from which the sunset views catch your breath.
Humuhumunukunukuapua'a is a tongue-twister, but the restaurant is named after Hawaii's state fish, which can be seen frolicking in the eatery's huge fish tank. The floating restaurant hovers over a lagoon and offers a unique, open-air dining experience. Savor local favorites, such as ahi or sashimi, while you enjoy the spectacular views and sounds.
In the city's heart, the lovely restaurant offers a fine selection of Pacific cuisine, including such delights as crispy ahi, lemongrass coconut fish, foie-gras-crusted catch and lamb "pa." Selections from an excellent wine cellar complement the fine cuisine.
This funky cafe offers a full menu of soups, salads, burgers and sandwiches. Works from local artists line the wall, giving the dining room a cozy, hometown ambiance. Those looking for a great cup of soup and a good cuppa joe need look no further.
Need a healthier alternative to burgers? Joy's Place offers healthy, homemade sandwiches and soups made from organically grown, low-fat, low-salt, wheat-free ingredients. Served delicatessen-style, it's a great place to grab a picnic lunch before heading to Kalama Park, located across the street.
Considered one of the best places to eat in town, the open-air design allows the gentle Hawaiian breezes to flow freely while patrons enjoy the beautiful ocean views. Background music from the bar sets the scene as guests settle in to enjoy the imaginative and inventive kitchen creations. This is a great spot for special occasions or for those who have just finished the drive to Hana. If you weren't planning a trip here, you might want to reconsider; this place is worth the trip.
Overlooking Lahaina Harbor, the casual restaurant is particularly romantic to diners who visit during lovely sunsets. Fresh local fish is prepared in a variety of ways. Also on the menu are prime steaks, shellfish and Kiawe wood-smoked ribs and chicken. Park at various pay lots, street parking is limited.
Gather around the sizzling grill, which can accommodate up to eight people, to watch a Japanese chef prepare each order teppanyaki style while putting on an exceptionally skilled cooking show. If it's sushi you desire, served until 11 p.m., you'll have to take a seat on the opposite side of the restaurant.
Take a break from exploring Queen Ka'ahumanu Center for burgers, sandwiches, plate lunches, fajitas and tempting desserts. You can get breakfast, lunch or dinner (after 5 p.m.) at this simple spot. Count on quick, pleasant service.
In an area known as Upcountry Maui, this restaurant is located on the road to Haleakala and makes a convenient stop for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Stunning panoramic views of west Maui enhance the dining experience.
Overlooking the ocean this restaurant serves wonderfully fresh, locally caught fish. For those looking for something other then fish try their fresh homemade pasta's, hand carved steaks and local poultry. Kids menu available. Park at various pay lots and enjoy the walk as street parking is limited.
Avoid the hassle of tracking down hard-to-find street parking, and use one of the pay lots. Then make your way inside Lahaina Grill, where New America-, Southwest- and Asian-inspired dishes tickle your palate with distinctive flavors. A Cape Cod feel emanates from the sophisticated dining room, where friendly, capable servers attend to your needs.
Wander in from Front Street to sample burgers, oven-roasted sandwiches, crabs, seafood and steak, in addition to oysters flown in from all over the world. If you arrive after 5:30 p.m., request a seat on the rooftop patio, where you'll be treated to great views of Hawaiian sunsets.
Dining rooms decorated in a casual Polynesian style are open to ocean breezes and provide lovely sunset views. Fresh local fish is thoughtfully prepared in a variety of ways. Also available are grilled steaks, shellfish and Kiawe wood-smoked ribs and chicken. The signature dessert is hula pie.
Located along the waterfront, this restaurant offers a covered open-air setting with two floors of dining. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, where the menu is verbally described to diners. Highlights include fresh seafood, fine cut steaks, and a variety of homemade pastas. Desserts are worth saving room for. Park at various pay lots and enjoy the walk, street parking is limited.
At the Shops of Wailea, the casual restaurant features open-air seating in a comfortable setting. At breakfast, lunch or dinner, menu offerings are sure to sate the heartiest of appetites. Local island seafood shares menu space with made-to-order pasta and local farm vegetables. For an unusual taste sensation, try the steamed artichoke appetizer finished with melted butter. This place is known for its complimentary pizza bread to start.
In Historic Old Wailuku Town, Main Street Bistro hones its focus on lunch. Ravenous? Check out the "big plate" menu, which lists such choices as roasted Chinese chicken salad, curried roast turkey breast salad, Maryland-style crab cakes and Mother's roast beef sandwich. You can get lunch from 11 am to 3 pm and tasty tapas until 7 pm. Park in the back or on the street.
Serving Maui for over 30 years, this local, longtime establishment boasts about their freshest fish, and printed right on the menu it will say where the fish was caught! The unique Polynesian decor and its beautiful beachfront setting makes this a truly memorable stop. Complimentary valet parking available for lunch and dinner. Drive through the town of Paia to mile marker 8.
You'll find fun and funky Manana Garage hidden away across the street from the Chevron station. The appropriately named spot fashions its interior after a funky garage. You'll be intrigued by eclectic Latin American dishes that take on a Tex-Mex influence. Like a bargain? Arrive between 5 and 6 pm to get your second dinner entree for half-price.
An Italian feel punctuates the casually upbeat dining room, in which diners can choose from a full range of American and Italian specialties. This place is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
This is a comfy eatery featuring delicious Thai food. Selections worth noting include spicy shrimp; chicken topped with a unique coconut/peanut sauce and served over rice; and traditional spring rolls. A selection of vegetarian dishes is also available.
Just a short walk down Baldwin Avenue, delightful Moana Bakery & Cafe keeps the food fresh and the service friendly. Follow your nose and buy a sweet (or several) to take home. If you can't find parking on the street, head for the nearby public lot.
Request a table overlooking bustling Front Street, and you'll enjoy interesting people-watching. Moose McGillycuddy's casual second-floor site gets particularly boisterous and lively between 3 and 6 p.m., when legions visit for the well-known happy hour. Dig in to ample portions of fun food--including burgers, meal-size salads, steaks and seafood--for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
A lovely location on the grounds of the Fairmont Kea Lani Hotel, Nick's provides patrons a wonderful setting for a memorable dining experience. Highly trained staff will graciously assist patrons in making a final menu selection that is sure to please the palate. Tropical breezes, candlelit tables and views of the surrounding grounds (which is softly lite by tiki torches) creates a sophisticated, romantic ambiance in the evenings.
Look out over the ocean from Pacific'O's inviting open dining room, appointed in contemporary Hawaiian decor, or torch-illuminated patio. The bounty of the Pacific merits top menu placement at the south-side spot, which occupies the 505 Front Street shopping area. In addition to fresh local seafood prepared in innovative ways, you can order lunch and dinner preparations of beef, lamb, pork, pasta and duck. Start off your meal with the signature shrimp wonton appetizer.
Watch the activity out on Bay Golf Course or on the nearby tennis courts as you unwind in this air-conditioned spot inside the clubhouse. Scan a selection of 30 by-the-glass wines for a good choice to pair with your Pacific Island cuisine.
Enjoy fusion of fresh Pacific seafood, French sauces and Asian seasonings. The ever-changing menu has many entrees such as, grilled salmon and barbecue lamp rack, and the signature dessert, chocolate souffle.
With a fork in one hand and a refreshing tropical drink in the other, you're set for a relaxed experience at Rusty Harpoon, a welcoming open-air spot in the clubhouse at Kaanapali Golf Course. Here, you can choose from a large array of breakfast, lunch and dinner favorites, all served in ample portions.
The main fare is steak, which is prepared from several cuts of prime beef and cooked to perfection, but the menu also lists lamb, chicken and seafood dishes. Guests should come hungry because the side dishes, which are among the a la carte offerings, could make a meal in themselves.
The main fare is steak, which is prepared from several cuts of prime beef and cooked to perfection, but the menu also lists lamb, chicken and seafood dishes. Guests should come hungry because the side dishes, which are among the a la carte offerings, could make a meal in themselves.
Browse the menu for a good variety of sushi and other fine Japanese cuisine. You'll unwind in an upbeat, inviting atmosphere, which gets kicked up a notch with karaoke on Thursday and Friday night until 1 a.m.
You may encounter a wait to be seated, but you won't mind once you look at and taste the artistic food. The laid-back sushi and seafood restaurant, in a small shopping complex, entertains with free karaoke from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. Thursday through Saturday.
Reservations at sunset, which is when Sarento's on the Beach opens, should be a priority for enjoying this beachfront spot's sights and sounds, as well as its menu. Listen to the ocean as you unwind in a modern, sophisticated setting over a meal of creative fine Italian or Continental cuisine. The team approach to service works well, as staff highlight the chef's menu creations and tempt you with daily selections.
This restaurant lures guests from miles away for its great food and beachfront setting. The decor and service is casual. On the menu are creative entrees and salads, as well as delicious desserts.
Spago, Wolfgang Puck's signature restaurant, is located in the fabulous Four Seasons Resort. The contemporary dining room offers spectacular ocean views from the second floor outdoor terrace. Be sure to reserve in advance to get a prime seating location. Tempting both the locals and tourists, the innovative dinner menu draws from the islands with daily locally-caught fish specials as well as mainland staples like steak, chicken and pork. Free valet parking is available.
Offering a fine selection of traditional Thai dishes as well as fresh local seafood that's prepared to the diner's tolerance for spiciness, the restaurant is tiny so be prepared to wait for a table. Although the restaurant is not licensed, you're welcome to bring your own bottle of wine.
Catering to diners seeking exceptionally flavorful and creative cuisine, this casual, open-air restaurant provide magnificent views of the ocean and distant Moloka'i. Knowledgeable and competent staffers are happy to provide recommendations. The skilled chef combines Hawaiian and Asian traditions in artfully presented dishes. The luxury resort setting provides the perfect spot for a special meal.
Open for lunch, patrons can enjoy views of a secluded public beach that's accessible through the elegant Ritz-Carlton grounds. Burgers, fresh fish, baby back ribs, appetizers and salads take center stage on the menu. If you're too full to tackle the uphill climb back to the hotel, you can ask the staff to summons the property's shuttle bus.
A delightful stop for those touring Maui's west side, The Plantation House occupies the clubhouse of a magnificent golf course just beyond the Ritz-Carlton. Take in splendid views of the course and ocean as you explore the breakfast and lunch choices between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. or the dinner choices thereafter. You'll be treated to some of the island's best sunset views in the evening but arrive early as this is a popular event.
Prompt, pleasant servers dutifully carry out their responsibilities at The Seawatch, a sophisticated restaurant on the golf course just up from the Wailea resort area. Take in beautiful sunset views as you savor preparations of local seafood.
Choose from yummy options such as soups, entree salads and sandwiches at Tommy Bahama's Tropical Cafe, a sultry spot inside the upscale Wailea shopping center.
The open-air design affords patrons grand views of tropical waterfalls and the ocean, creating a wonderfully romantic setting. The highly innovative menu features an exotic blend of island and Asian cuisine, with tempting starters such as Thai coconut cappuccino or lava-grilled fire sticks. Follow this with Chinese-style rack of lamb or stuffed prawns for a special treat.
The relaxed, open-air restaurant offers a romantic setting with candlelit tables and peaceful ocean views. The menu offers a good selection of regional Hawaiian cuisine prepared with fresh local ingredients.
Friendly, laid-back servers circulate through the dining room of Brennecke's Beach Broiler, where you can watch fabulous sunsets over the ocean while you savor items from the all-day selection of pupus, appetizers, salads and burgers, as well as a dinner menu with seafood, beef and pasta selections.
Since 1977, Kauai's own original "super" pizza has been hearth-baked with a homemade touch at Brick Oven Pizza. Choose between whole wheat or white crust, and say "yes" to having garlic butter added to the edges of the pizza for added flavor.
Old-fashioned hamburgers are made of fresh, 88 percent fat-free Kauai beef. This is a good place for a bite and a beer.
In the Princeville Shopping Center, C J's Steak & Seafood plies you with juicy steaks for dinner and burgers and hot or cold sandwiches during lunch. This place has satisfied loyal patrons for three decades.
At the Kauai Marriott right next to Dukes, the cafe overlooks beautiful Kalapaki Bay. The menu comprises fine Italian specialties. Call ahead to determine whether the restaurant may open for lunch. Parking at the Marriott is recommended.
Start off with one of the nice choice of pupus (appetizer-type dishes), focus on a risotto or pasta dish, and wrap things up with luscious baked Hawaii, a close cousin of baked Alaska. In a residential neighborhood, romantic Casa di Amici satisfies with its Italian dishes, many of which incorporate wonderfully fresh, locally caught fish.
Experience the wonderful flavors of Mediterranean cuisine on the South Shore of Kauai at this open-air restaurant, which is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and which overlooks the tennis courts and swimming pool used by resort guests.
Laid-back and stylish Coconuts has a broad slate of offerings to grab your interest, most notably lobster ravioli, tempura-dipped ono and grilled teriyaki.
The attractive dining room is reminiscent of Old Italy with upscale European decor throughout. The staff offer professional, attentive service and the chef is always willing to make your favorite dishes.
The surf is up at Duke's Canoe Club Kauai, which pays tribute to famed Hawaiian surfer Duke Kahanamoku with memorabilia spread over two levels of seating. On the fun and laid-back beachfront spot's downstairs level, you'll browse a light casual menu with appetizers, burgers and salads, while upstairs--where many seats afford spectacular views--the offerings center on full American entrees. The friendly, casual staff helps you kick back and enjoy.
To get a taste of what Eggbert's can do with eggs, try one of the specialty omelets. If you have a sweet tooth, the family restaurant's signature banana pancakes brim with flavorful appeal.
Call ahead to confirm show times for Garden Luau at Smith's Tropical Paradise, where you'll start your authentic experience with a stroll through the gardens to the imu pit for the uncovering of the roasted pig.
Nestled in a restored plantation estate, diners flock to Gaylord's not only to enjoy the American fare but to relish in the tranquil, outdoor setting and soak up the beautiful views of the lush lawns and mature trees.
Hamura Saimin (pronounced "sigh-Min") Stand can be tricky to find, but make the effort to seek it out. This only-in-Hawaii kind of spot lines you up at a winding saimin bar, where you'll slurp bowls of steaming-hot Japanese noodles with a wide range of loyal patrons.
With special treats like "20 great wines for under $20", nightly pupu creations, savory Kauai fresh cuisine of locally caught fish and weekly evening entertainment, you'll be tempted to never leave.
At Kalapaki Bay, the restaurant features casual dining on its outdoor patio and in the second-level dining room. The menu features hearty portions of traditional favorites, such as steak, seafood and barbecue ribs. Dinner entrees include a "make at your table" salad bar. Be prepared to leave full and satisfied.
Sashay into a jungle-like atmosphere at Keoki's Paradise, where a tropical waterfall welcomes you into the casual, open-air dining room and lush tropical plants abound. Indulge in ample portions of American fare, ranging from preparations of fresh local fish to beef dishes and the ever-popular grilled ribs.
The appropriately named Lighthouse Bistro is a convenient and casual stop on your way to or from Kilauea Lighthouse. Tropical decor surrounds you in the covered open-air dining room, where friendly, efficient servers hustle between tables with burgers, wraps and salads at lunch and steak, pasta, veal and seafood dishes at dinner. A vast wine list includes a broad sampling of interesting complements to the fare.
From the second floor of Harbor Mall, you'll be able to nosh on authentic Mexican dishes prepared with flavorful sauces that the kitchen creates from scratch every day.
You'll find a wonderful mix of Thai and Chinese cooking in a Thai atmosphere. Choose from red, green and yellow curry dishes, stir-fried cashew nut chicken or shrimp, sweet and sour dishes, Chinese fried rice and such noodle dishes as pad thai.
Olympic Cafe's second-floor location gives you a great perch for looking out over the street and shops. Park for free behind the building, then come in for a hearty breakfast; a burger or wrap for lunch; or a filling entree at dinnertime.
Patrons at this rustic restaurant can watch residents and guests of the Poipu Kai condo complex partake in a game of tennis from the open windows that overlook the courts. A Hawaiian decor, complete with bamboo-style placemats, dominates here. A limited bar menu is available during Happy Hour, beginning at 2 p.m. For more extensive offerings, the dining room open at 5 p.m. and features a menu of burgers, steaks and some seafood dishes.
Enjoy fusion of fresh Pacific seafood, French sauces and Asian seasonings. The ever-changing menu has many entrees such as, grilled salmon and barbecue lamp rack, and the signature dessert, chocolate souffle.
It's easy to miss Tae Bull Shed's driveway entrance; look directly across the street from McDonald's in the Mokihana condominium complex. The local favorite has occupied this location since 1973. Scan the menu for reasonably priced steaks and seafood, as well as an all-you-can-eat salad bar.
Simple decor and a laid-back atmosphere characterize this popular spot, where locals rub shoulders with tourists while enjoying dishes from an all-day pu pu menu or from the lighter lunch menu, which lists such choices as fish and chips or fin burgers. A family-style salad and homemade bread accompany heartier dinner options, including preparations of fish, lobster, chicken or steak.
On the tropical grounds of the Hyatt Regency Kauai Resort & Spa, the thatched-roof, open-air restaurant is surrounded by torch-lit fish ponds with resident swans. Candlelit tables and cool ocean breezes lend to a romantic ambiance. Service is casual and relaxed.
A Kauai-style luau gives diners a feel for the flavor of Hawaii. Dinner includes the "All-Hawaiian" show, highlighting the legend of the Garden Isle, and an all-you-can-eat buffet.
Fresh seafood, steak and pasta dishes are served in a relaxed, island-style setting. Guests would need a snorkel to see more fish.
On Kauai's west side, Waimea Brewing Company brews its own beers to complement choices from a broad lunch and dinner menu that draws on the island's multicultural heritage.
Open every day for lunch and dinner, the steakhouse prepares sandwiches, seafood, house specials and combination plates. Lunch served in a traditional plantation kau kau tin is a unique Hawaiian experience.
In a historic theater complex, this cafe brings in crowds for tasty breakfast and burgers. Diners order at the counter and grab a seat, then servers deliver hearty portions of fluffy omelets, French toast, juicy burgers and homemade desserts. Table service is offered on the evenings this place serves dinner.
Round up the family for wholesome, wallet-friendly food at Big Island Grill, which enjoys a loyal local clientele so don't be surprised to find a line.
Friendly servers bring patrons plenty of pizza, as well as hearty portions of casual Italian fare.
In a beautiful location overlooking a pool and the ocean, this lovely, open-air restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere, with most of the dining room situated under pleasant umbrellas. The menu offers a very creatively-prepared selection of fresh, local seafood and some meat entrees. Whatever you order, leave room for one of their heavenly desserts.
If you're intrigued by the idea of a wood-fired pizza, calzone or pasta or risotto dish, don't hesitate to make the short drive from the Kohala Coast resorts to the relaxed cafe, where friendly servers further add to the experience. Also on the menu are creative Pacific Rim dishes, including wok-fried shrimp and scallops.
The restaurant features open-air candlelight dining on the terrace or indoor dining in a bright, tropical setting. Spectacular views of the ocean and sunset are highlights. The ever-changing menu reflects Hawaii's multicultural influences, and the chef prides himself on dishes that reflect a strong focus on regional specialties and fresh local ingredients.
For traditional European ambience and an outstanding selection of fine Italian cuisine, diners should plan for an evening here. Tucked in a quiet section of the large Hilton Waikoloa Resort, the elegant oasis offers indoor and outdoor patio dining. The menu offers a high level of sophistication in its selection and presentation, with choices such as carpaccio, fried calamari and minestrone, followed by a wide selection of pastas, veal and the popular rack of lamb.
The restaurant provides a romantic atmosphere with panoramic windows overlooking Reed Bay and a Hawaiian fish pond that is illuminated at night. The atmosphere is relaxed and casual. Steak and seafood are at the heart of the menu.
You'll find this charming little cafe hidden away in the Waiakea Center Pavilion. Open for lunch and dinner, Hilo Bay piques your interest with such intriguing menu choices as cobb and blackened ahi Caesar salads; cornmeal-crusted soft-shell crab and Mediterranean chicken salad sandwiches; and the wonderfully flaky chicken pot pie. Indulge your sweet tooth with lava cake with molten chocolate or macadamia nut strawberry shortcake.
Hualalai Grille's delicious preparations of fine seafood and meats, as well as a fabulous tasting menu that highlights the best the islands have to offer, don't come cheap, but you won't find a much more memorable meal. On the second floor of the golf clubhouse, the restaurant's upscale yet relaxed setting sees plenty of diners in shorts and T-shirts.
Those who want to dine where the locals do should stop by this relaxed restaurant. It's hard to beat the location, which takes full advantage of an oceanfront setting through a casual, open-air dining room. The menu features hearty portions of island fare, with fresh local fish and beef selections. Save room for the "mile high" ice cream pie, served in a huge portion that's more than ample for sharing.
The restaurant's outstanding location offers breathtaking views of the surf from its outdoor patio and covered, open-air dining room. The menu features a good mix of fresh seafood and local Hawaiian cuisine with lighter luncheon entrees also available. Walls are covered in fine local artwork from a nearby gallery, and several tropical fish tanks enhance the relaxed mood. This place is popular, so diners should allow adequate time to enjoy a leisurely experience.
This casual restaurant lets diners sample fresh regional Hawaiian cuisine. The dining room delights with hidden tables overlooking the tropical grounds, pool and waterfalls, as well as the popular outdoor patio, which affords sweeping views of the ocean. The menu offers selections such as fresh local beef and macadamia nut-crusted fish. Creative and decadent desserts are fitting ends to a delicious meal.
Not far from the Kohala Coast resorts, the popular restaurant treats you to a wide variety of fresh local seafood in a relaxed setting marked by nautical decor. You might start with clam strips, steamers or the always fresh daily chowder before digging into charbroiled, sauteed or Cajun-style island fish, barbecue ribs or Huli-style chicken.
Views to the ocean are distant from Keei Cafe's second-floor location (in a two-story building), but you'll still benefit from refreshing breezes at the open-air spot. Be sure to bring cash to this charming spot, as it's the only payment accepted for the juicy lunch burgers and fresh catches.
On your way to or from Volcano National Park? You won't find a much more convenient spot to grab a bite for either lunch or dinner. Consider wood-fired pizza, great sandwiches and pasta specialties, in addition to a good array of by-the-glass wine choices.
Kirin's choices of classic Chinese fare range from dim sum offerings at lunch to full-course and a la carte specialties at dinner. Servers at this inviting spot, between Ocean and Palace towers, offer suggestions if you ask.
Popular with the local crowd, the casual restaurant is the perfect spot to go for a fun meal and a sampling of some local beers. The menu features hearty portions of simple fare, such as sandwiches, finger foods and the ever-popular made-to-order pizzas. If time allows, brewery tours can be arranged. Surrounded by tropical greens, the small outdoor patio is ideal for a relaxing meal.
Flip through the pages of Hawaiian history--in a figurative sense--at Kona Inn, which has undergone many changes since it originally was built as an inn in 1928. Nostalgic charm envelops the welcoming setting for laid-back dining. You'll be treated to beautiful views of the ocean from the comfortable and decidedly island-style dining room, where you'll savor well-prepared steak and seafood.
The fun, casual restaurant is the "little sister" of Merriman's in Waimea. Representative of high-quality delicatessen fare are sandwiches and salads for lunch, and pasta, fresh fish of the day and full chicken or steak entrees for dinner.
Its out-of-the-way location makes this restaurant a well-kept secret. Offering soups, pastas and noodles and for dinner fresh island fish and meats. All of their greens and seasonal veggies are organic, all baked goods are done in-house. From 10am-noon try their late breakfast specials, till 2pm Sat and Sun.
The sounds of live music and crashing waves combine with the smell of salt air to provide a relaxed, yet sophisticated, essence of the traditional Hawaiian experience. Centered on Pacific fusion cuisine, the menu uses the finest fresh regional ingredients in distinctive presentations of island fish, produce, herbs and spices. If available, the sumptuous walu (butterfish) is a must. Follow it with the house dessert specialty: a sampling of Kona-flavored creme brulees.
This centrally located restaurant, which serves fine Italian fare in a cozy, European-style dining room, is a favorite with the locals. Diners face difficult decisions among the daily specials that servers detail and the wonderful menu preparations. Entrees include a wide selection of fresh pastas, as well as seafood, veal, lamb and chicken dishes. Portions are of a good size and are prepared fresh to order with piquant spices.
You have the options of sitting on the terrace, in the air-conditioned dining room or at the bar at Quinn's, a casual seafood spot near the Kailua-Kona harbor. Give extra thought to order the popular ono fish and chips.
Enjoy fusion of fresh Pacific seafood, French sauces and Asian seasonings. The ever-changing menu has many entrees such as, grilled salmon and barbecue lamp rack, and the signature dessert, chocolate souffle.
You'll find plenty of free parking at Shiono Sushi in the Sunset Plaza along Alii Drive. Pick and choose a la carte sushi items, or indulge in full lunch and dinner plates with miso soup and rice.
Request seating indoors or on the oceanfront terrace at casual Thai Rin, where you'll browse a menu of diverse Thai dishes.
Oceanfront at the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel, the restaurant provides fine regional cuisine in a romantic, open-air setting. Torchlight gardens surround tables bathed in candlelight, and the sounds of crashing waves contribute to an air of tranquility. Servers offer warm Hawaiian hospitality and go out of their way to explain the history and preparation of some of the more traditional menu items.
Next to Waikoloa Beach Golf Course, Waikoloa Beach Grill shares its clubhouse just past the King's Shops. Sandwiches and daily specials merit consideration at lunchtime, while such entrees as chicken pot pie, a 10-ounce burger and the fresh catch of the day give you a little more substance at dinner. The acclaimed pastry chef, who doubles as one of the owners, tickles your taste buds with fantastic desserts prepared on site. If you just want a drink and appetizers, you can get them all day and night.

