Top pick1$$Doraku Sushi Kaka'ako
Kakaʻako·Sushi Restaurant
Modern Japanese gastropub specializing in craft cocktails, Izakaya cuisine & innovative sushi.
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Kakaʻako has quietly become one of Honolulu's most exciting dining neighborhoods, and its Japanese food scene is a big reason why. From craft-cocktail izakayas to wagyu shabu shabu and all-you-can-eat sushi, there's something here for every kind of Japanese food lover. I pulled together the 12 spots worth knowing — a mix of my own verified picks and the area's highest-rated restaurants.
This is a curated guide, meaning Nate's hand-picked recommendations come first, followed by the best-rated Japanese spots in Kakaʻako according to visitor ratings on NateEatsHawaii. Standouts on the list include Doraku Sushi Kaka'ako, a modern Japanese gastropub known for innovative sushi and craft cocktails, and Junpuu, a snug, bustling eatery celebrated for its unique takes on Japanese noodle soups. Kats Sushi rounds things out as an unassuming, BYOB-friendly spot popular for its all-you-can-eat sushi roll offerings.
Spots that Nate has personally visited and verified carry the NateEatsHawaii badge on the page — look out for that badge when deciding where to eat next.
The ranking
Top pick1$$Modern Japanese gastropub specializing in craft cocktails, Izakaya cuisine & innovative sushi.
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4$$This snug, bustling eatery with outdoor seating offers unique versions of Japanese noodle soups.
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7$$Sushi, sashimi & other classic Japanese fare in a contemporary eatery offering cocktails & sake.
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11$$Japanese specialties include inventive sushi rolls & tempura in a festive space with late hours.
12$$Unassuming Japanese spot known for array of all-you-can-eat sushi rolls in a casual, BYOB setting.
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FAQ
Doraku Sushi Kaka'ako consistently stands out for its innovative sushi and izakaya-style dining with craft cocktails, making it a top pick in the neighborhood. For something more casual, Kats Sushi is popular for its all-you-can-eat sushi rolls in a relaxed, BYOB setting.
Kats Sushi is well regarded as a budget-friendly option, offering an array of all-you-can-eat sushi rolls in a no-frills, BYOB environment. Junpuu is also known for hearty Japanese noodle soups at accessible price points.
This guide combines Nate's personally verified picks — marked with the NateEatsHawaii badge — with the top-rated Japanese restaurants in Kakaʻako based on visitor ratings collected on NateEatsHawaii. The list is reviewed and refreshed regularly to reflect the current dining scene.
Kakaʻako