International influences have shaped Waikiki’s fabulous foodie scene, while food truck stops favoured by locals still punch above their weight. From local beach faves to restaurants on paths more paved, here’s the lowdown on our top Waikiki restaurants.
1. Roy’s Waikiki
Address: 226 Lewers, Honolulu, Hawaii.
Acclaimed Japanese-Hawaiian chef Roy Yamaguchi has several restaurants peppered throughout the Hawaiian islands, since the successful launch of his first 30 years ago. When in Waikiki, don’t miss his outpost, nor the “Roy Classics” tasting menu that features time-tested Japanese and Hawaiian land and sea delicacies. Vegans will also be in paradise here — Roy’s vegan tasting menu, featuring creative items like cauliflower chowder with crostini and truffle emulsion, would even make even the most bloodthirsty carnivores drool with anticipation.
2. The Veranda
Address: 2365 Kalakaua Ave, Moana Surfrider A Westin Resort & Spa, Honolulu, Hawaii.
The halcyon days of Hawaii are best enjoyed by kicking back in the elegant surroundings of The Veranda. Located in the beach house of Moana Surfrider Hotel by Westin, this relaxed yet refined restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea, under the shade of a majestic Banyan tree. The beautiful atmosphere and attentive service transport guests to Hawaii’s colonial days, especially during traditional afternoon tea, with its soothing selection of locally-crafted teas.
3. Waikiki Beachside Kitchen
Address: 2556 Lemon Road, Honolulu, Hawaii.
The name is straight-to-the-point, and so is the food. A local hangout (mind you, only for a few locals, given its small scale!) Waikiki Beachside Kitchen is a hole-in-the-wall delivering authentic Hawaiian dishes on, you guessed it, Waikiki Beach. Grab a quick, delicious breakfast that will satisfy for hours, or an afternoon poke (as in bowl) will delight your taste buds as well as your wallet.
4. Hula Grill’s Waikiki
Address: 2335 Kalakaua Ave, Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort.
We love this spot for its happy hour specials, a diverse menu and oceanfront location. It’s tiki without being tacky, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Reasonably priced, these are perfect beach eats with Hawaiian flair. You don’t have to be a hotel guest to enjoy Hula Grill’s bountiful breakfast selection, which goes from light and tropical fare to hearty Hawaiian-style egg plates. Refreshing libations, from exotic cocktails to tried and true with a twist (Hula-jito, anyone?) are the ideal accompaniment to Hula Grill’s nightly live music.
5. Azure
Address: 2259 Kalakaua Avenue The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Honolulu, Hawaii.
If fresh fish is your wish, the culinary wizards at Azure, in the luxury Royal Hawaiian Hotel, will grant it tenfold. Preparing locally-caught fish selected at daybreak from the renowned Honolulu Fish Auction, Azure’s chefs meticulously create works of mouthwatering art. The dazzling oceanfront dining room seduces with plush pillows, banquettes and intimate tables soaked in candlelight. To start your romantic dinner for two, we suggest an initial encounter at The Royal Hawaiian’s Mai Tai Bar, deserving of the name from repeat awards of its signature cocktail. As one of the best restaurants in Waikiki, Azure is indulgence at its finest.
Care to try these wonderful Waikiki restaurants yourself? Speak to a Flight Centre travel expert to customize your Better Beach Hawaii Vacation. Call 1 877 967 5302, enquire online or visit us at a store near you. Let’s help you work up an appetite for the ultimate Hawaiian holiday.