Top pick1$$$$22 Kailua
Kailua·Sushi Restaurant
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🍱Japanese Food·Kailua
Best Japanese Food in Kailua
Kailua may be best known for its beaches, but the windward side punches well above its weight when it comes to Japanese food. From sit-down sushi bars to casual ramen shops, I pulled together the six spots worth knowing — whether you're a local or just passing through after a morning on Kailua Beach.
Updated September 2026
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6 japanese food in Kailua
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This is a curated BEST guide, meaning our editors' hand-picked recommendations lead the list, followed by the area's highest-rated spots as scored by real visitors on NateEatsHawaii. Any restaurant our editors have personally visited will carry the NateEatsHawaii badge on the page — keep an eye out for it.
The list covers a solid range: 22 Kailua brings a dedicated sushi experience to the neighborhood, Daiichi Ramen - Kailua is the go-to for ramen on this side of the island, and Rai Rai Ramen rounds things out as a cash-only noodle spot beloved for its gyoza and chicken katsu alongside a deep ramen menu. Whatever kind of Japanese craving you're working with, Kailua has you covered.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What is the best Japanese restaurant in Kailua?
Kailua has a handful of strong options depending on what you're after. For sushi, 22 Kailua and Kailua-Waipuna Sushi are well-regarded local choices, while Daiichi Ramen - Kailua and Rai Rai Ramen are the neighborhood's top picks for ramen. Spots carrying the NateEatsHawaii badge are our editors' personally verified recommendations.
Where can I find affordable Japanese food in Kailua?
Ninja Sushi Kailua is a counter-serve chain offering sushi, udon, donburi, and bento at casual prices, and Rai Rai Ramen is a no-frills, cash-only noodle shop that keeps things budget-friendly. Zippy's Kailua also offers Japanese-influenced comfort dishes as part of its broader Hawaiian casual menu.
How is this Kailua Japanese food guide put together, and is it kept up to date?
This is a curated BEST guide for NateEatsHawaii — our editors' verified picks appear first, followed by the best-rated spots based on real visitor ratings collected on the site. The list is reviewed regularly to reflect the current restaurant landscape in Kailua.
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