Honolulu is one of the best cities in the world to eat on a budget — and this list proves it. These 210 cheap eats spots are ranked purely by real visitor ratings submitted on NateEatsHawaii, so the order reflects what actual diners across the city keep coming back to.
Topping the list is Marugame Udon in Waikiki, a spot Nate personally recommends for its fresh Sanuki-style noodles made in-store every day — look for the NateEatsHawaii badge on his verified picks. Beyond udon, the list spans everything from Alejandro's Mexican Food's tucked-away tacos and rice bowls to Andy's Sandwiches & Smoothies in Manoa, a long-time neighborhood fixture beloved for its freshly baked bread and juices.
Whether you're hunting for a quick lunch in Ala Moana, a late-night bite in Waikiki, or hearty Thai in Nuuanu, this ranked guide covers every corner of Honolulu. Spots Nate has personally visited are marked with the NateEatsHawaii badge on the page — a handy signal when you're deciding where to go next.
The ranking
Top pick1
Waikiki's most popular udon shop — fresh Sanuki-style noodles made in-store daily. Cafeteria-style ordering, famous Nikutama Udon ($12.99), crispy tempura counter. Two people eat for under $45. 14,000+ Yelp reviews. Read our full guide for menu prices, what to order, and how to beat the line.
2$Bakery fare in Ala Moana. 85°C Bakery Cafe - Honolulu (Ala Moana Center) is a well-loved spot.
3$Small hideaway featuring tacos, burritos, rice bowls & other Mexican staples in counter-serve digs.
4$
5$Tucked into Downtown Honolulu, Aloha Tortilla Factory & Cafe serves mexican at budget-friendly prices. Look for outdoor seating — known as a well-loved spot.
6$
7$A handful of tables fill this compact, no-nonsense spot for Italian staples like calzones & pasta.
8$Tiny fixture for breakfast, sandwiches made with freshly baked bread, vegetarian treats & juices.
9$Hip, plant-filled coffee shop offering light fare such as toast with unique toppings.
10$
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12$Outpost supplying hearty portions of homestyle Thai fare in easygoing accommodations.
13$Bakery fare in Waikiki. Bean About Town is a well-loved spot and offers outdoor seating.
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16$Blue Ocean Seafood & Steak is a budget-friendly seafood spot in Waikiki. Locals consider it a reliable choice with outdoor seating.
17$Cozy mainstay for Chinese fare including noodles, plus handmade wontons & dumplings.
18$Window-serve shack since 1978 with outdoor seating & late hours, selling Hawaiian BBQ plates.
19$Homey, checkered-tablecloth spot for 19-inch, Boston-style pizza with fresh topping options.
20$
21$Easygoing restaurant plating traditional Sichuan dishes, such as dry noodles & twice-cooked pork.
22$Family-owned local chain offering quick-serve plate lunches, manapua & noodles in no-frills digs.
23$Family-owned local chain offering quick-serve plate lunches, manapua & noodles in no-frills digs.
24$Bakery fare in Ala Moana. Cinnabon draws a steady crowd.
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27$No-frills, family-owned eatery draws locals with a menu of traditional Hawaiian plates.
28$Da Spot is a casual stop in Moiliili at a budget-friendly price point.
29$Casual diner chain dishing up classic American comfort fare, including all-day breakfast favorites.
30$See every spot on a live map
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FAQ
Based on real visitor ratings on NateEatsHawaii, Marugame Udon in Waikiki currently sits at number one — it's also one of Nate's personal recommendations, earning the NateEatsHawaii badge on the page.
Honolulu's cheap eats scene stretches across neighborhoods like Waikiki, Ala Moana, Manoa, Kaimuki, Moiliili, and Downtown — this list ranks 210 qualifying spots so you can find great value wherever you are in the city.
The ranking is driven by ongoing visitor ratings submitted to NateEatsHawaii, so it reflects current diner sentiment and is refreshed as new reviews come in.
Honolulu