Honolulu is home to over 833 restaurants, and this list cuts through the noise. Every ranking here is driven by real visitor ratings submitted on NateEatsHawaii — no algorithms, no ad placements, just honest feedback from people who've actually eaten here.
The list spans the breadth of Honolulu dining: Duke's Waikiki, the iconic beachfront spot at the Outrigger known for live music nightly, the Barefoot Bar on the sand, and the legendary Hula Pie, is one of Nate's personal recommendations and carries the NateEatsHawaii badge. Marugame Udon, also recommended by Nate, is Waikiki's most popular udon shop serving fresh Sanuki-style noodles made in-store daily. Beyond those, you'll find everything from Mimi's Peruvian Cuisine — Hawaii's only family-owned Peruvian restaurant — to the made-to-order Hawaiian-twist burgers at Banzai Burger.
Spots that Nate has personally visited and recommends are marked with the NateEatsHawaii badge on every listing. Whether you're after a sunset dinner on the beach, a quick bowl of udon, or something totally off the beaten path, this ranked list is your starting point.
The ranking
Top pick1$$Made-to-order burgers with a Hawaiian twist inside Waikiki's Kuhio Avenue Food Hall. The $19 Waimea double is the move — juicy, cooked medium, and not drowning in sauce. Indoor + outdoor seating, now open for breakfast at 8am.
2bb.q Chicken Waikiki is a korean spot in Waikiki.
3
Iconic beachfront restaurant at the Outrigger with live music every night, the famous Barefoot Bar on the sand, Taco Tuesday, Thursday Prime Rib Night, and Hula Pie. Named after Duke Kahanamoku. A Waikiki staple since 1999.
4Waikiki's most popular udon shop — fresh Sanuki-style noodles made in-store daily. Cafeteria-style ordering, famous Nikutama Udon ($12.99), crispy tempura counter. Two people eat for under $45. 14,000+ Yelp reviews. Read our full guide for menu prices, what to order, and how to beat the line.
5$$Soba noodles are the main draw at this compact Japanese place that also serves tempura & udon.
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7$$Hawaii's only family-owned Peruvian restaurant on Keeaumoku — Lomo Saltado, ceviche, Aji de Gallina, the off-menu Papa Rellena, and the last-Sunday all-you-can-eat Peruvian buffet ($45, BYOB).
8$$
9$$$New American & Pacific Rim fare, plus an upscale buffet including tempura & crab legs.
10$$Southeast Asian delicacies served in a sophisticated eatery featuring a bar & outdoor seating.
11$$Tucked into Waikiki, 206 BCE Waikiki serves seafood at mid-range prices. Look for takeout — known as a solid pick.
12$$$Chic, but comfortable restaurant serving innovative European-Asian fusion cuisine.
13$$$$Chic, glass-walled dining room & terrace with bay views, serving creative meat & seafood dishes.
14$$
15Acai Republic brings brazilian to Waikiki. Family-friendly casual dining.
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17$$Hawaiian spot in Ala Moana Center's Makai Market Food Court serves kalua pig, lau lau & plate lunch.
18$Small hideaway featuring tacos, burritos, rice bowls & other Mexican staples in counter-serve digs.
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23ALO Cafe Hawaii is a vegan spot in Waikiki. Locals consider it a consistent local favorite with takeout.
24$$
25$$ALOH Health Bar & Cafe brings cafe to Waikiki at a mid-range price point. Lively atmosphere perfect for groups and celebrations.
26$$Chill hangout at a brewery showcasing its original beers, craft cocktails & unique pub fare.
27American fare in Waikiki. Aloha Bowls and Tea is a solid pick and offers takeout.
28$$Food Delivery fare in Waikiki. Aloha Mac Shack is a reliable choice and offers takeout.
29$$Restaurant dishing up grilled cheese sandwiches in a compact setting.
30$See every spot on a live map
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FAQ
Based on real visitor ratings on NateEatsHawaii, Banzai Burger in Waikiki currently tops the list, known for made-to-order burgers with a Hawaiian twist inside the Kuhio Avenue Food Hall. Rankings update as new ratings come in, so check back regularly.
Several highly rated spots on this list are wallet-friendly — Marugame Udon in Waikiki is well-known for fresh, affordable Sanuki-style udon, and Banzai Burger at the Kuhio Avenue Food Hall is a great budget option. Look for the NateEatsHawaii badge to see which spots Nate personally recommends.
The rankings are based on ongoing visitor ratings submitted to NateEatsHawaii and are updated continuously, so the list always reflects the most current community feedback across Honolulu's 833+ cataloged restaurants.
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