Hawaii is the 50th and most recent state to join the United States, situated in the central Pacific Ocean. An archipelago of 137 islands and atolls, Hawaii is renowned for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and rich Polynesian culture. The eight main islands — Oahu, Maui, Hawaii (Big Island), Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, Niihau, and Kahoolawe — each offer a distinct personality and experience.
Top restaurants
Handpicked picks for the best dining experiences.
Alan Wong's Honolulu
The flagship restaurant of James Beard Award-winning chef Alan Wong, widely considered the father of Hawaii Regional Cuisine. Features locally sourced ingredients transformed with Asian and Pacific influences. A Honolulu institution since 1995.
1857 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96826
Mama's Fish House
Widely considered Maui's most beloved restaurant, Mama's Fish House has been serving fresh-caught Hawaiian fish since 1973. Set in a stunning oceanfront location, the menu credits each fish with the name of the fisherman who caught it. Book 6 months in advance.
799 Poho Pl, Paia, HI 96779
La Mer
Hawaii's only AAA Five Diamond restaurant, La Mer at the Halekulani Hotel offers neoclassical French cuisine with Pacific influences in an elegant oceanside setting. Jacket recommended for gentlemen. An unrivaled fine dining experience in Hawaii.
2199 Kalia Rd (Halekulani Hotel), Honolulu, HI 96815
Morimoto Maui
Celebrity chef Masaharu Morimoto's oceanfront Maui restaurant blends Japanese cuisine with Hawaiian ingredients. The open-air dining room overlooks the Pacific, and the sushi and omakase menus are exceptional.
3550 Wailea Alanui Dr (Andaz Maui), Wailea, HI 96753
Roy's Hawaii Kai
The original location of chef Roy Yamaguchi's empire, Roy's Hawaii Kai pioneered Euro-Asian cuisine in Hawaii. Open kitchen, knowledgeable staff, and consistently excellent food have made this a Hawaii dining icon since 1988.
6600 Kalanianaole Hwy, Honolulu, HI 96825
Duke's Waikiki
Named after Duke Kahanamoku, the father of modern surfing, Duke's offers beachfront dining on Waikiki Beach. Famous for its hula pie dessert, fresh fish tacos, and lively atmosphere. Live Hawaiian music on weekends.
2335 Kalakaua Ave (Outrigger Waikiki), Honolulu, HI 96815
Helena's Hawaiian Food
A James Beard Award-winning local institution serving traditional Hawaiian plate lunches since 1946. Helena Chock's recipes have been passed down through generations. Simple cafeteria-style dining with authentic kalua pig, laulau, and pipikaula.
1240 N School St, Honolulu, HI 96817
Ono Seafood
A tiny local institution widely considered one of Oahu's best poke spots. Offers a rotating selection of fresh poke bowls made with high-quality ahi tuna, salmon, and octopus. Small space with limited seating — most people take out.
747 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816
Restaurants by cuisine
Browse picks grouped by cuisine type.
Hawaii Regional
Alan Wong's Honolulu
Roy's Hawaii Kai
Hali'imaile General Store
Merriman's Waimea
Eating House 1849 by Roy Yamaguchi
Merriman's Maui
Hawaiian Seafood
Mama's Fish House
Duke's Waikiki
Kimo's Restaurant
Hula Grill Waikiki
Lahaina Fish Company
French-Hawaiian
La Mer
Japanese-Hawaiian Fusion
Morimoto Maui
Traditional Hawaiian
Helena's Hawaiian Food
Hawaiian Poke
Ono Seafood
Da Poke Shack
Dining etiquette & tips
Navigate the local food scene confidently.
Tipping practices vary — check local customs. Service charge is often included.
Restaurants may close between lunch and dinner. Plan meals around local dining hours.
Popular restaurants may not take reservations — arrive early or be prepared to wait.
Food budget guide
What to expect at different price points.
| Level | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $5-15/meal | Street food, local eateries, and simple restaurants. |
| Mid-range | $15-40/meal | Sit-down restaurants with good service and varied menus. |
| Upscale | $40+/meal | Fine dining, international cuisine, and premium experiences. |