Oʻahu offers a culinary experience for all tastes, from local eateries to upscale dining. With fresh seafood and dishes by top chefs, the island has a range of dining spots from casual to divine. Explore our top ten dining experiences on Oʻahu that you shouldn’t miss. 

luau food presentation at the alii luau

Lūʻau food presentation at the Ali’i Lūʻau. Photo by Polynesian Cultural Center.

  1. Aliʻi Lūʻau at the Polynesian Cultural Center
    55-370 Kamehameha Hwy, Lāʻie, HI, 96762
    808-293-3333 

The Aliʻi Lūʻau at the Polynesian Cultural Center offers an authentic Hawaiian experience with a fresh, all-you-can-eat feast inspired by traditional celebrations. Guests enjoy a meal fit for royalty, crafted by Executive Chef Felix Tai. The event also includes “‘Onipa‘a: A Tribute to Queen Liliuokalani,” featuring music, dance, and culture. 

A serving of Koko moco.

A serving of Koko moco. Photo by Koko Head Cafe.

  1. Koko Head Cafe

1120 12th Ave, Honolulu, HI, 96816 

808-732-8920 

Established in 2014, this east Oʻahu gem, led by Top Chef finalist Lee Anne Wong, offers a diverse dining atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating. The menu features scratch-made dishes like the Koko Moco, Cornflake French Toast, and a Poke omelet, ensuring fresh, quality flavors. Specializing in Asian-fusion brunch with Hawaiian influences, Koko Head Cafe provides an innovative culinary experience that’s a must-visit for anyone seeking local flair.  

Photo of a beautiful couple wearing Aloha attires dining in our Gateway Buffet at the Polynesian Cultural Center.

Our Gateway Buffet is our most popular dinner package. Photo by Polynesian Cultural Center.

  1. Gateway Buffet at the Polynesian Cultural Center
    55-370 Kamehameha Hwy, Lāʻie, HI, 96762
    808-293-3333 

Enjoy island-fresh dishes at the largest buffet on the island, located in the Polynesian Cultural Center’s Gateway Building. Savor poke, sashimi, catch of the day fish, kalua pork, sirloin roast, chicken, fresh fruits, vegetables, and an array of island flavors. 

Some Hawaiian dishes like laulau, lomi salmon, kālua pig, haupia and poi.

Some Hawaiian favorites like laulau, lomi salmon, kālua pig, haupia and poi. Photo by Hawaiimagazine.com.

  1. Waiahole Poi Factory
    48-140 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe, HI, 96744 808-845-8044 

Waiāhole Poi Factory, located near Kāneʻohe on Oʻahu’s Windward Side, is a family-run eatery offering authentic Hawaiian food in a historic former poi factory. Since 2009, it has been known for dishes like laulau, kālua pig, lomi salmon, haupia, and poi. Poi, made from kalo (taro), is deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture. Make sure to arrive early to avoid the long lines. 

White rice topped with ahi katsu.

White rice topped with ahi katsu. Photo by Hawaiimagazine.com.

  1. Ken’s Fresh Fish
    55-730 Kamehameha Hwy, Lāʻie, HI, 96762
    808-385-1740 

This simple take-out spot is rated #1 by locals and visitors. They offer the best Ahi Katsu, catching, cooking, and serving the fish directly. Enjoy it at the nearby beach. 

Pastries and drinks from Purveyors.

Pastries and drinks from Purveyors. Photo by Kona Coffee Purveyors.

  1. Kona Coffee Purveyors
    International Marketplace 2330 Kalakaua Ave #160 Honolulu, HI, 96815
    808-450-2364 

If you’re in Waikiki and craving a world-class coffee experience, this is the place to be. Nestled in the heart of the bustling city, this café offers expertly crafted Kona coffee, whether you prefer a tasting flight, or a quick cup to-go. Pair your coffee with a delicious, flaky pastry from the renowned b. patisserie, adding a touch of Parisian delight to your Hawaiian morning. 

Mango pizza is one of the best choices at Pounder’s Restaurant.

Mango pizza is one of the best choices at Pounder’s Restaurant. Photo by Hukilau Marketplace.

  1. Pounders Restaurant at the Hukilau Marketplace
    55-370 Kamehameha Hwy, Lāʻie, HI, 96762
    808-293-3287

Pounders Restaurant offers exceptional Hawaii-inspired dining. The menu impresses, but the first bite confirms you’ve found paradise. Pounders delights with dishes from appetizers to desserts, with sweet treats that will captivate your taste buds. 

Four different kinds of burgers from Seven Brothers.

Big burgers can be ordered at Seven Brothers. Photo by Seven Brothers.

  1. Seven Brothers

56-565 Kamehameha Hwy Kahuku, HI, 96731

808-852-0040 

Owned by the Hanemann brothers, this is a popular burger spot in Oʻahu. They serve fresh, large burgers with island-style toppings like avocado, grilled pineapple, and spicy BBQ sauce, along with a variety of sides. The burgers are notably big, so come hungry! Locations include Lāʻie, Kahuku, Haleiwa, and Sharks Cove. 

A breakfast plate of hashed potatoes and eggs with fruits on the side.

A must try breakfast when you’re around Honolulu. Photo by Trip Advisor.

  1. Sweet E’s Cafe

1006 Kapahulu Ave Honolulu, HI, 96816 

808-737-7771 

This local eatery, a favorite since 2011, often tops Oʻahu’s “best breakfast” lists. Their award-winning menu features a wide selection of omelets, pancakes, waffles, and more, all centered around the letter “E.” 

 

A steak on a plate.

Enjoy a steak while watching the sunset. Photo by DK Steakhouse.

  1. DK Steakhouse

2552 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI, 96815 Waikki Beach Marriot Resort & Spa 

808-931-6280

Local Hawaiian steakhouse specializes in dry-aged steaks, using their own drying system on-site. Locally owned and operated, they offer expertise in local tastes.

Toni imageAntoniette Caryl Yee-Liwanag is a multilingual Filipina with a passion for culture, travel, and food. Fluent in Tagalog, Kapampangan, English, and Spanish, she brings a rich cross-cultural lens to her work at the Polynesian Cultural Center. Through her blog, she shares meaningful moments that highlight global traditions and local flavors.