Duke's Waikiki

Duke's Waikiki at 2335 Kalakaua Avenue in Honolulu, Hawaii, is a beachfront restaurant on Waikiki Beach named for Duke Kahanamoku, the Hawaiian Olympic swimmer and the father of modern surfing. It sits in the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort area and has become one of the most recognizable casual restaurants in Waikiki, with a setting that blends open-air seating, surf memorabilia and views of the beach. The Duke theme runs through the decor, which honors his life and the surfing heritage of the islands.

The menu focuses on Hawaii-style seafood and steak. The fresh catch of the day, prepared in several ways, is a common order, and the teriyaki steak and chicken are long-standing favorites. The salad bar is a distinctive feature that draws families and groups. Hula Pie, a dessert of macadamia nut ice cream in a cookie crust topped with fudge and whipped cream, is the item most closely tied to the restaurant and is considered its emblem.

The atmosphere is lively and casual, with a relaxed tropical feel. There is no strict dress code, and beachwear is common at breakfast and lunch. Live music is held on select evenings, which adds to the energy and noise levels in the open-air areas. The beverage programme includes tropical cocktails, beer and wine, and the bar is a popular spot around sunset.

Reservations are recommended for dinner and can be made through the restaurant's website, particularly for beachfront tables and during peak travel periods. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served daily. Prices are in the upper-moderate range, roughly US$35-60 per person, with lunch typically cheaper than dinner and the entrees at the higher end. The central Kalakaua Avenue location is within walking distance of most Waikiki hotels, so no transport is needed. Visitors who want a table with a view should request one when booking.