Hi! I’m Sierra and I’m a recovering food addict. Except…I’m not really recovering. I will not tell a lie, I am quick to book a trip based on something I’ve drooled over on Instagram. As if the sandy beaches, beautiful landscape, and culture were not enough; Hawaii has some pretty fantastic food. This place is literally so good at EVERYTHING. Their cuisine is made up of Traditional local favorites, American and Japanese cuisines and it does not disappoint. So today, I am sharing some of our Honolulu Food Finds and the Best Places to Eat in Honolulu. There are a ton but these are what we could squeeze into our trip.
M.A.C 24/7 Waikiki
2500 Kūhiō Ave
Honolulu, HI 96815
United States
Mac 24/7 is Waikiki’s premiere 24- hour restaurant that serves their take on “Modern American Cuisine”. Oh, and This isn’t your classic 24- hour greasy spoon either. Their skilled chefs create a large menu of diverse food that mix American with Hawaiian Island style comfort foods. You can choose from Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner menu items at any time of the day which is a great thing because you’ll want to taste it ALL.
If you’re wondering, this was hands down my favorite restaurant from the entire trip + undoubtably the best restaurant to eat in Honolulu (They were voted as such). Each dish was flavorful and stunning (because instagrammable food totally matters). We tried 3 courses of meals and none of them disappointed our taste buds even the slightest bit. I only wish that the mainland has a restaurant open 24/7 with as much class and dignity as this one.
Blue Water Shrimp & Seafood Market (Hilton Hawaiian Village)
2005 Kalia Rd
Honolulu, HI 96815
United States
One thing you must try during a trip to Hawaii is Garlic Shrimp. Seafood and Garlic? Yes Please! We couldn’t make it all the way to the North Shore for Giovanni’s Food truck on the north shore but our hunt led us to Blue Water Shrimp & Seafood Market right on the property of Hilton Hawaiian Village. I feel confident in saying that its one of the Best Places to Eat in Honolulu for seafood and garlic shrimp!
They have nearly all the seafood you can think of (although the shrimp is my absolute favorite) served with rice, corn and salad.
We also tried the fresh salmon and it was good as well. While you’re there, enjoy a fresh pineapple juice or refreshing coconut water.
Shave Ice
Another must try food/sweet on your Hawaiian vacation is Shave Ice (Not to be confused with Shaved Ice or a Snow Cone). Shave ice is flavor covered ice that’s so soft it melts on your tongue. Not only does it taste amazing, it is perfect for beating the heat and year- round sunshine. Get your ice covered with tropical flavors or get fancy with it by adding condensed milk.
The most famous place to try shave ice is Motsumoto Shave Ice which has a location in Honolulu and the North Shore. Also noted is Waiola Shave ice in Honolulu. However, we couldn’t make it out there and tried the Shave Ice at Wiki Wiki Market.
Henry’s Place Ice Cream and Sorbet
234 Beachwalk Dr Honolulu, HI 96815 United States
I love a good hidden gem and this one is Honolulu’s Best kept secret. Henry’s Place doesn’t look like much but it packs a huge punch. They offer 100% natural and no preservative ice cream and sorbets with a huge variety of flavors to choose from. They are each so delicious and affordable. If you enjoy snacks, you can also find huge homemade baked goods like Blueberry muffins made with fresh blueberries or pick up some fresh picked island fruits.
This place is the definition of a hole in the wall but it is truly worth the walk to find it hidden between downtown condos. As a landmark, it is located directly in front of the Embassy Suites hotel and I have included the address below.
CJ’s New York Style Deli (Hilton Hawaiian Village)
2005 Kalia Rd
Honolulu, HI 96815
United States
While CJ’s New York Style Deli doesn’t sound like anything you’ll typically try in Hawaii, I was pleasantly surprised by their authentic Hawaiian options for breakfast. If you’re a fan of coconut then you will absolutely love their Haupia (Coconut) French toast served with fresh strawberries and coconut run sauce.
I can’t lie, I am a huge fan of a sweet breakfast and this hit the spot. My husband is a fan of savory and really enjoyed the omelets with grilled peppers, onions and Homestyle crispy breakfast potatoes.
Tropics Bar and Grill (Hilton Hawaiian Village)
2005 Kalia Rd
Honolulu, HI 96815-1917
United States
Want breakfast, lunch or dinner right on Waikiki Beach? This is the place for you! Tropics Bar and Grill has a large menu of locally sourced Hawaiian ingredients and they are delicious + the up close and personal view of the beach isn’t half bad. Keep this in mind for a sunset dinner.
We went to Tropics for Breakfast one morning and the entire experience was stunning. On the weekend (especially Friday nights) you can enjoy live island music by Tiki torch candle light and it is stunningly perfect for date night or a family dinner. Tropics Bar and Grill is also a part of the Hilton Hawaiian Village property. If you’re a guest, I high recommend dining here during your stay.
Hawaiian Aroma Café
2300 Kalākaua Ave
Honolulu, HI 96815
United States
Who doesn’t love a cool coffee shop vibe, good food and good coffee? Sign me up! Hawaiian Aroma Café is the perfect eclectic coffee shop to help you relax and/or inspire you. They serve amazing Hawaiian coffee and healthy menu items like Acai Bowls, Turkey Avocado Sandwiches, fluffy waffles with fresh fruit and locally sourced ingredients. I enjoyed a panini during my visit but I wish I stopped by to indulge in one of their famous breakfast menu items.
There are multiple locations around Honolulu and they are each unique in their experience. I highly recommend visiting a location and sticking around to enjoy the vibe. You won’t be disappointed.
Waikiki Starlight Luau
2005 Kalia Rd
Honolulu, HI 96815
United States
If you’re going to experience Hawaii then going to a Luau is absolutely a must do. The entertainment is phenomenal but the food…omg the food. A Luau is the best way to experience a variety of Hawaiian and Polynesian foods in one place. From Kalua pig to mac salad and Poi to Malasadas.
We attended 2 Luaus in Hawaii. One at the Polynesian Cultural Center and the other at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Starlight Luau right on Waikiki. The Starlight Luau was my absolute favorite and you can learn more about the “Best Luau in Oahu” by clicking HERE. You owe it to yourself to experience at least one authentic Luau and experience the yummy food.
Hi Blend Health Bar & Café’
661 Keʻeaumoku St Unit 105A Honolulu, HI 96814 United States
Just like you must try shave ice, an Acai Bowl is a part of the territory as well. Acai and smoothie bowls are so good and healthy for you with fresh fruit and toppings like Granola and honey. Not to mention, they are cold and refreshing which is amazing in the heat of Hawaii.
There’s about 100 places to get Acai bowls on Oahu and in Honolulu but we chose Hi Blend Health Bar and Café’ at the Honolulu Café location.
Note: If you happen to be in the military stationed in the Wahiawa area, there is a Hi Blend Café right outside the Military base that offers a military discount. Be sure to visit in you’re in the area.
Honorable Mentions “Best Places to Eat ” on the Island of Oahu
During our trip, we explored a couple of spots on the island of Oahu. If you’re a foodie like me, then you’ll definitely want to try these two honorable mentions because they are worth the drive.
Dole Plantation
64-1550 Kamehameha Hwy
Wahiawa, HI 96786
United States
Hawaii is like the Capital of Pineapples. If you’re going to try super sweet and delicious pineapples, there’s no better place to try It than at the Famous Dole Pineapple Plantation. The plantation has been open since 1950 and today, it’s one of Hawaii’s most popular tourist attractions. Explore the grounds with activities or eat pineapple flavored foods till your heart’s content.
You must try the Famous Dole Whip served a couple different ways and the fresh cut pineapple. The Plantation Grill also offers traditional Hawaiian and Traditional American items. You can easily make a day out of this experience.
Aulani Character Breakfast
92-1185 Aliʻinui Dr
Kapolei, HI 96707
United States
Another famous resort on the Island of Oahu is the Aulani, A Disney Resort and Spa. While we didn’t get to stay here during our trip, you do not have to be a guest of the hotel to attend character breakfast or dinner at Makahiki.
Character breakfast at Makahiki is a magical experience. Not only are you dining with some of Disney’s most beloved characters but the buffet is immaculate. Get classic dishes like Mickey shapes waffles, classic American Breakfast items, made to order omelets, fresh cut island fruit or Asian inspired meal items. Oh, and don’t leave without trying Hawaii’s famous P.O.G or Passion Orange guava. It’s delicious! To learn more about character breakfast at Makahiki at Disney’s Aulani Resort, click HERE for a full detailed blog post and video!
This concludes my “Best Places to Eat in Honolulu” Have You been to Honolulu? If so, what’s your favorite places to eat. Share them with me!
Visit my other Blog Posts to Learn More About Oahu, Hawaii
Getting Around Oahu: Do I Need A Rental Car?
Is Disney’s Aulani Character Breakfast at Makahiki Worth the Price?
Best Luau in Oahu: Hilton Hawaiian Village Resort Waikiki Starlight Luau
I am Sierra Redmond; a mom, military spouse and travel industry expert on a mission to inspire families to travel near and far. On the blog, you’ll find travel and food guides, tips for traveling with kids, Military, all things Disney and our chronicles as new Las Vegas locals.
