Honolulu has one of the most exciting Japanese food scenes outside of Japan — and this list ranks the best of it based on real visitor ratings from the NateEatsHawaii community. With 178 qualifying Japanese restaurants across the city, there's something for every craving, whether you're after a steaming bowl of ramen, fresh sushi, crispy yakitori, or a proper izakaya night out.
Topping the list is Marugame Udon in Waikiki, a spot Nate personally recommends for its fresh Sanuki-style noodles made in-store every day — it's one of the most beloved udon shops on the island. Also earning a NateEatsHawaii badge is Pitch Sports Bar in Kakaako, where $3 happy hour sushi rolls and a dog-friendly patio at SALT Kakaako make it a go-to for a more casual Japanese-inspired night out. Further down the rankings, ASAHI GRILL KAIMUKI in Kapahulu is well known for its oxtail soup and no-fuss Japanese comfort food.
Spots that Nate has personally visited and vetted carry the NateEatsHawaii badge on the page — keep an eye out for that marker as you browse. Whether you're a local or just visiting Oahu, this ranked guide pulls together the Japanese dining experiences in Honolulu that visitors keep coming back for.
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.
2Honolulu's newest food hall featuring 12 local restaurants with diverse cuisines from sushi to BBQ to banh mi. Located at The Park on Keeaumoku with free validated parking. Note: While the bar stays open until posted hours, most food vendors close between 8–9 PM.
3Best sports bar in Honolulu with $3 happy hour sushi rolls, NFL Sunday Ticket, NBA & MLB packages, omakase dining, and dog-friendly patio at SALT Kakaako. Opens early for game days.
4$$Soba noodles are the main draw at this compact Japanese place that also serves tempura & udon.
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7$$CAMADO RAMEN TAVERN brings ramen to Waikiki at a mid-range price point. Casual and welcoming atmosphere.
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11$$Modern Japanese gastropub specializing in craft cocktails, Izakaya cuisine & innovative sushi.
12$$Modern Japanese gastropub specializing in craft cocktails, Izakaya cuisine & innovative sushi.
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15$$Family-owned delicatessen serving local-style Japanese cuisine & offering catering services.
16$$Snug sushi house for classic rolls, seafood salads & Japanese mains in colorful, homey quarters.
17$$Diners pluck sushi & maki rolls from a moving conveyor belt at this Japan-based chain outpost.
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19$$Spicy Tokyo-style ramen & draft beers are served up in a casual locale at the Ala Moana Center.
20$$Family-friendly, casual establishment serving an extensive menu of Japanese specialties.
21$$Family-friendly, casual establishment serving an extensive menu of Japanese specialties.
22$$Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ brings asian to Waikiki at a mid-range price point. Lively atmosphere perfect for groups and celebrations.
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24$$$$High-end locale with Miyazaki & Kuroge Washu beef, plus a robust list of wine, cocktails & spirits.
25$Sashimi, maki & other Japanese eats offered in a snug, comfy space with sushi bar seating.
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27$$Cheerful counter-service place offering sashimi, rolls & rice bowls featuring local fish.
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30See every spot on a live map
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FAQ
Based on real visitor ratings on NateEatsHawaii, Marugame Udon in Waikiki currently ranks #1 for Japanese food in Honolulu — it's known for fresh Sanuki-style udon noodles made in-store daily and is also a personal recommendation from Nate.
Several highly rated spots on this list are known for budget-friendly options — Pitch Sports Bar in Kakaako offers $3 happy hour sushi rolls, and BRUG in the Ala Moana area is a no-frills Japanese bakeshop popular for loaf breads and savory pastries at the counter.
This list is ranked dynamically based on real visitor ratings submitted to NateEatsHawaii, so rankings reflect what Honolulu diners are actually saying right now — check back regularly as new ratings come in across all 178 qualifying Japanese restaurants.
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