When it comes to Hawaiian food in Waikiki, the options range from iconic oceanfront institutions to humble plate-lunch counters that deliver real local flavor. I pulled together this guide combining my own verified picks with the area's best-rated spots across all 11 qualifying restaurants โ so you can eat with confidence whether you're a first-time visitor or a Waikiki regular.
At the top of the list is Duke's Waikiki, one of my personal recommendations and a true Waikiki landmark. Set right on the beach at the Outrigger, it's the kind of place that checks every box โ live music every night, the legendary Barefoot Bar on the sand, Taco Tuesday, Thursday Prime Rib Night, and the world-famous Hula Pie. For plate-lunch lovers, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue is a reliable island-themed staple known for its traditional Hawaiian plate lunches, while Zippy's Kapahulu is a beloved local chain celebrated for its stews, chili, and comfort-food classics.
Spots that Nate has personally visited and recommends carry the NateEatsHawaii badge on the page โ look for it to know which restaurants have his stamp of approval. The rest of the list is rounded out by the area's highest-rated spots by reputation, so every entry is worth your time.
The ranking
Top pick1
Iconic beachfront restaurant at the Outrigger with live music every night, the famous Barefoot Bar on the sand, Taco Tuesday, Thursday Prime Rib Night, and Hula Pie. Named after Duke Kahanamoku. A Waikiki staple since 1999.
2
3$$Popular window-serve grill offering American eats, plus a market for prepared foods & baked goods.
4$$
5$$
6$Island-themed fast-food chain whose menu features traditional Hawaiian plate lunches.
7$Funky, compact Japanese spot dishing up plate lunches & musubi specialties for dine in or take-out.
8$$Hawaiian casual dining chain known for its stews, chili & other comfort-food dishes.
9$Chef-curated shave ice in Waikiki with 44 housemade syrups. All items $10 with ice cream base, premium toppings, and ocean views at Twin Fin Hotel.
10Korean-Hawaiian fusion food truck serving the signature K-Loco Moco ($15) with bulgogi patty and kimchi gravy, Animal Style Fries ($10), and handmade fried mandoo. Open late until midnight on weekends.
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FAQ
Duke's Waikiki is a top pick โ it's an iconic beachfront spot at the Outrigger featuring live music nightly, the famous Barefoot Bar, and crowd favorites like Hula Pie. It carries the NateEatsHawaii badge as one of Nate's personally recommended restaurants.
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue is a popular island-themed fast-food chain known for traditional Hawaiian plate lunches at budget-friendly prices, and Pioneer Saloon is a compact spot well-regarded for its plate lunches and musubi specialties.
This is a curated BEST guide โ Nate's verified picks appear first, followed by the area's best-rated spots based on real visitor ratings collected on NateEatsHawaii. The list is reviewed regularly to make sure it reflects what's currently open and worth visiting.