Honolulu’s dining scene is a vibrant reflection of its multicultural history, but no cuisine is more deeply woven into the fabric of the city than Japanese food. From humble noodle counters to high-end omakase bars, the capital of Hawaii offers an unparalleled depth of Japanese culinary tradition. This is not just a trend; it is a legacy built over generations by Japanese immigrants who brought their regional recipes and techniques to the islands.
The unique geography of Hawaii plays a significant role in the quality of the food here. Unlike mainland restaurants that must wait for long-haul flights, Honolulu chefs often receive fish within hours of it being unloaded at the Honolulu Fish Auction. This direct access to the Pacific ensures that the sashimi and sushi served in this city possess a freshness and vibrancy that is difficult to match anywhere else in the United States.
However, the excellence of Japanese food in Honolulu extends far beyond raw fish. The city is a sanctuary for comfort food, where a steaming bowl of rich tonkotsu ramen or a plate of crispy katsu curry is treated with the same reverence as a piece of otoro. This dedication to craft means you can find world-class noodles in a strip mall and elegant kaiseki in a luxury hotel, often within the same neighborhood.
Navigating the sheer volume of options can be overwhelming for both visitors and locals. Many restaurants have cult followings, long waitlists, and specific hours that require planning. Knowing where to go for a specific craving—whether it is hand-pulled udon, smoky yakitori, or delicate tempura—can make or break your dining itinerary.
To help you cut through the noise, we have compiled a list of the best establishments that consistently deliver exceptional quality and authentic experiences. These selections are based on ingredient quality, technique, consistency, and the overall atmosphere that makes dining in Honolulu so special.
Whether you are a first-time visitor looking for a memorable meal in Waikiki or a local searching for a new favorite spot in Kapahulu, this guide has you covered. Here are the standout Japanese restaurants that define the culinary landscape of Oahu.
Kaimuki Shokudo
| Address | 1127 11th Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 11:30 AM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (808) 367-0966 |
Visited here with my family. (Made reservation before coming and was sit right away)
A great place for some drinks with yummy foods! It was perfect way of finishing our day after beach and hiking 🙂
Portion isnt big so we ordered multiple foods.
Their highball and chu-high were 👍🏼👍🏼 highly recommend either of them if you like light and refreshing drinks.
In terms of foods, i pretty much loved all of them. Their tempuras were definitely fresh and crispy. Their grilled vegetables were also very tasty, which isnt easy to deliver with vegetables alone.
Staff here are also friendly!
Im definitely coming back here next time visiting the town.
Dont think you can go wrong for coming here for refreshing drinks and well made foods 🙂
Thank you to this restaurant for yummy food during girls night out (dinner) and fantastic (casual) lunch specials. You can come for dinner (tapa, small portions) or lunch time special!
Excellent customer service, easy online booking reservations and good parking lot. I think this is an all around great restaurant - all occasions with friends, family, or business lunches.
For dinner, I was blown away by their miso marinated pork. Melted in my mouth. All their food was good though! The server gave us excellent recommendations and recommended portion sizes for us girls.
For their lunch special, it's very reasonable and very yummy! Picture included, I really extra loved their potato salad which was ... Purple? Maybe yam? Maybe sweet potato?
All in all, their food has a slightly different twist though from regular Japanese food. Enough to be pleasantly surprised and excited to try! I feel like their soba and food is a different & elevated experience.
What an amazing tasty surprise! Chase Sapphire recommended this restaurant and it was amazin. Staff was great and all the small plates made a great full meal for the 4 of us ! Cyrus B was our server! Go Pokes
WOW! Found this place from a ‘food near me’ search on Google Maps. I was genuinely blown away by the quality, service, and love put into every single bite. Drinks were absolutely amazing and our server suggested some great options that were so good! Tried the lychee lemon mojito, and the drop as well as a light beer can’t quite remember the name but all drinks were amazing. 🤩
The food was on a different level and every bite was delicious. We tried the fries, spicy tuna don, miso pork chop, and some of the incredibly fresh tuna!
Leon was wonderful from beginning to end. We came super late and he accommodated us openly. Every fish was also spectacular… Scallop dish, cucumber salad, Niki tofu and kanoachi were all excellent!!
Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House | Honolulu
| Address | 1221 Kapiolani Blvd #104, Honolulu, HI 96814 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (808) 330-0999 |
It was the perfect rainy day to have shabu-shabu, and Mikiya did not disappoint. We chose the Silver Wagyu set, and the quality of the meat was really impressive. We tried all the different wagyu selections included, and every single one was so good, tender, flavorful, and high quality.
We also ordered the wagyu nigiri and wagyu tartare. The wagyu nigiri was my favorite, it literally melts in your mouth. So rich and buttery.
The set also comes with vegetables and seafood. Unfortunately, the oyster wasn’t available that day, which made me a little sad, but overall everything else was great.
As for the service, I understand they had just opened when we came in, but it did take quite a while for someone to assist us. It wasn’t busy, and we had to stand up just to get their attention since most of the staff were in the kitchen. I hope service improves over time because the food quality is definitely there.
This spot is definitely on the fancier side for shabu-shabu.
Worth the visit. All you can eat kick our belly to the curb since we couldn't eat more than 2 servings. Love the bone marrow and wagyu.
Mikiya is my go-to all-you-can-eat shabu shabu spot in Honolulu.
Yes, it can be a little pricey, but if you’re someone who can really eat, it’s absolutely worth it. I highly recommend getting the membership. Not only do you get a discount for yourself, but you can also bring a friend and they receive the discount as well, which makes it a great value.
What really sets Mikiya apart is the service. A lot of all-you-can-eat restaurants tend to slow down service once you start ordering, but Mikiya is the complete opposite. The staff is incredibly fast, attentive, patient, and friendly. Refills and additional orders come out quickly, and we’ve always felt well taken care of.
The quality of the meat is excellent, and I love the sauce bar. Everything is always fresh, well-stocked, and there are so many options to customize your meal exactly how you like it.
If you’re thinking about trying Mikiya, definitely come hungry! Great food, great service, and consistently a great experience every time. It’s easily one of my favorite restaurants on the island.
It was my first time coming to Mikiya. I appreciate the amazing food and atmosphere of the restaurant. However, after ordering, I realized the broth was a bit spicy and I asked my server if it would be alright if I switched out the broth because it was a bit too spicy for me. The server we had wasn’t too happy that we asked but we mentioned it would be okay if it was not possible. We appreciate that he was able to switch out the broth but his demeanor changed a bit to where it made us uncomfortable. He didn’t smile and spoke in a rude manner. As we paid it seemed like there was something wrong with payment so we asked “would you like another form of payment?” and he didn’t respond to us and stood there for 5 minutes in silence. He also prefixed a tip amount so that we would tip 22% We appreciated other staff members as they were kind to us but our server made the experience a bit uncomfortable for us.
I was super sceptical at the fact that Waygu loves to be thrown into the menus but when it reaches the table, what is that!!
Let me tell you, this place is nothing like that! It definetly lives to it’s name the Waygu house. The soup base choices had added flavors. Our group of friends did the Diamond choice and seriously told the waiter we wanted 100 servings of Waygu. No joke, I’m pretty sure we reached that amount by the time we were done. We had BYOB, our friends brought in ume beer, which went well with our meal. The seafood choices were aesthetically presented. We sat outdoors, which we loved this option because our clothes didn’t smell. The waiter was amazing, we weren’t even done taking the orders, and our food was out!
The Waygu though , butter soft, thin cut, and perfect to the taste of all 4 soup bases we chose.
We signed up for membership when we paid 😍
Waikiki Shokudo
| Address | 355 Royal Hawaiian Ave #201, Honolulu, HI 96815 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM Tuesday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM Thursday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM Friday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM |
| Phone | (808) 425-4061 |
First time to this location and left extremely happy and with full belly.
PARKING- at Hyatt Centric... walk if possible, or drive the smallest vehicle as reaching the designated 6th floor and maneuvering the narrow & tight turns was anxiety-filled. Super short walk to the restaurant.
FOOD- a lot of different items than the kaimuki shokudo which we thoroughly enjoyed a little bit of everything- salads, kauai shrimp, garlic pepper rice, gyutan, tonjiru soup, mentai mochi.... and rolls, ALL goodies. Ended the evening with honey toast because it's an absolute must.
SERVICE- our online res didn't go thru, however were added to the queue and seated in 5 minutes even with a line of patrons waiting on the stairs. super attentive server (she was awesome i'm sorry didn't recall her name) checked on the 5 of us frequently, refilled water/coke so we didn't have to ask, ensured we received our items as quickly as possible, and apologetic when we had a long stall in time for the last couple of dishes. as local residents, we would def return and even if it's a bit more calmer at kaimuki as we have two great options for yummy food.
We had such a good experience here. Gyutan was probably our favorite thing we tried. We’re from Turkey, and beef tongue is usually prepared very differently there, mostly boiled and served cold, so having it grilled like this was completely new for us. It was seriously so good.
The pork belly was also amazing. I don’t even know how, but it felt surprisingly light while still being really flavorful. The Shiso Hamachi Rolls were fresh, tasty, and had a really nice mix of flavors.
Mentaiko Cheese Mochi was a little strong for our taste, but still very good and definitely interesting to try.
Service was super fast, everything came out smoothly, and we left really happy. We’d definitely come back.
Located right at the heart of the busy Waikiki, the spot was unsurprisingly packed even during weekdays dinner time. Reservations certainly recommended as walk-ins were available but might end up requiring bit of wait.
Plenty of options from the menu but seemed like almost all tables having the Garlic Beef Rice hence we went for it. Luscious balanced of pepper and garlic flavors to enjoy with warm beef rice!
The Miso Butterfish was so moist but we thought the seasoning marination could’ve been better as it’s strong on the edge part but not equally at the center.
Our highlight was the Mentaiko Cheese Mochi being so distinctive that we’ve never seen anything similar elsewhere. The mochi was flawlessly chewy and the overall flavor and texture mix this dish nailed was on point. The broth was a surprise element to us, yet what we did love the most.
Overhyped and overpriced. If I am paying something pricey for food, I would expect it to wow me. However, the majority of the food was either average or below average. I've been to other Japanese restaurants that offer flavorful foods for a better price and portion size. The tiny $20 Ichibo Steak was sad in taste, even with the salt. The grilled Shishito veggies were not very good. Got the Aburi Salmon roll and was left disappointed. In general, I love a good seared salmon sushi roll, but this was disappointing. Even more disappointing when you spend lots of money on food and it is not satisying. The only things I liked were the Garlic Pepper Rice and lychee soda. The portion of the rice should be bigger considering it costs $16. Honestly, everything was overpriced for what you get. The people that rate this place high don't have a good palate. Would not recommend this place to others.
A disappointing experience overall. The service was abysmal. We had a table for five and the server didn’t provide enough menus. I asked for another menu and the waitress gave me attitude for asking. Finally, she begrudgingly gave me another menu. Later, we ordered cocktails and she slammed them all down at once. She placed them at the edge of the table, leaving us to distribute the drinks ourselves. The food was decent, but nothing outstanding.
This establishment has a fun vibe and a cool menu. It has a lot of potential and could use some fine tuning to be great.
Visited Mar. 2025
Tonkatsu Kuro
| Address | 1000 Auahi St Sute 134, Honolulu, HI 96814 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 4:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 4:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (808) 867-1212 |
Soba and half katsu set is so worth it because you get to try the TENDER tenderloin pork katsu. It melts in your mouth and has the perfect breading.
Lemon soba was refreshing and had a nice clean taste. The soup it came with was also lovely. We preferred the tenderloin katsu to the loin katsu. The loin katsu set was also really delicious though.
Oreo gelato was a nice dessert to finish on.
Free parking garages. Recommend making a reservation as it gets busy.
What an unexpected find in Honolulu! The Tonkatsu is tender, flavorful and the panko crust is light, crispy and does not have that oily greasy taste. You can tell that they change their cooking oil frequently b/c it doesn’t taste rancid or burnt. The tonkatsu reminds me of the restaurants in Japan. We ordered the Assorted Katsu Couple Set for $68. It was a full meal with unlimited cabbage, rice and soup. Thenset came with two types of pork and one large shrimp per person was a large jumbo shrimp.
Very trendy, contemporary decor. I love that they have robot waiters and the order iPad is easy to navigate. I’m so happy to discover this restaurant and will definitely return.
It was the first time we went in a tonkatsu restaurant and it was a really good experience.
The panko was incredibly crunchy and light, and the meat super tender and juicy 🤤. The cabbage was really good to balance the fat of the fried meat and it comes with rice and a miso soup.
It is a little bit pricier than other Japanese restaurants but you got free cabbage / rice / miso soup refills ( around 30-40$ per person) so worth the price, and the ordering station was really easy to use 👌🏾
We didn’t order the soba but they seemed like a must try
My wife and I really enjoyed it 👍🏾
Food was delicious. Got the pork loin and loin katsu, with a side of shrimp katsu. Everything was nice and juicy with a great crunch without feeling greasy and heavy. The sauces were yummy but that tartar sauce was my favorite by far. I loved the free refills on the cabbage, rice, and miso soup. 10/10 will recommend and will be back!
Ordered the Bibim soba and half katsu combo: if you like Tonkatsu, then you should just get the Tonkatsu set cause for the same price you are paying for the soba, may be better value just have more Tonkatsu.
Interesting discussion. I have the tenderloin, and couple had loin. Supposedly, they think the loin was better than tenderloin. I didn't try the loin but the tenderloin was quite tender.
Rice, cabbage and soup free refill up to 2 times.
YOSHITSUNE
| Address | 2586 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 – 10:30 AM, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:30 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 – 10:30 AM, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:30 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 – 10:30 AM, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:30 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 – 10:30 AM, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:30 – 10:00 PM Friday: 8:00 – 10:30 AM, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:30 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 – 10:30 AM, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:30 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 – 10:30 AM, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:30 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (808) 926-5616 |
Felt like I was transported back to Osaka eating here. Establishment can be found in the lobby of Park Shore Hotel and is ran by a Japanese couple.
The food is extremely fresh and can be seen being prepared by the chef in the main area. Highly recommend eating here if you’re looking for authentic Japanese food in Waikiki.
Obsessed with this place. Perfect spot for a filling yet still light, nutrient dense yet satisfying breakfast. I’d come here 10 times over. The calm atmosphere and sweet people running this place only add to the charm. Arigato !
This used to be one of my favorite places, so it’s genuinely disappointing to see how much it has gone downhill.
The food was average at best, but the service was the real issue. Despite having a reservation, I still waited about 30 minutes, and the staff showed no real concern for the delay or the customer experience. The attitude felt dismissive, as if they did not care whether customers returned or not.
With so many better options nearby, I would recommend going somewhere else.
One of the most authentic Japanese food experience you can have in Honolulu. This is actually the first restaurant I ever visited in Hawaii, and I’m super impressed by their food.
Even tho it could be a little pricey, but you get a whole experience of multiple courses Japanese food. Nearly fine dining level, you’ll find the food fresh and delicious and could never go wrong picking anything on the menu.
Love it! I have revisited multiple times and will continue to do so.
A true hidden gem, this place is as authentic as it gets when it comes to Japanese food. My partner and I tried the udon and the tonkatsu, and both tasted amazing, it truly was a taste of home. The staff are all very friendly, and the place is cute.
Marugame Udon
| Address | 2310 Kūhiō Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (808) 931-6000 |
Marugame Udon is a place we come back to every single time we’re in Honolulu, and truthfully, it never disappoints. It is absolutely outstanding.
Our go-to order is the sweet beef udon with curry sauce, fresh pulled noodles, and a perfectly cracked egg on top and it is pure comfort food perfection. The noodles are always fresh and chewy, the broth is rich and flavorful, and everything just comes together so perfectly.
Honestly, this is the kind of meal that feeds and soothes the soul. Simple, comforting, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Even with the lineups, it’s always worth the wait.
If you’re visiting Waikiki and want something warm, authentic, and unforgettable, Marugame Udon is a must. Don’t be intimidated by the line up, it does move quite quickly and well worth the wait!
Had a great lunch at Marugame Udon Waikiki! We arrived around noon and were pleasantly surprised there was no long line. We ordered the kake udon with tempura and the nikutama udon, and both were delicious. The udon noodles tasted freshly made with the perfect chewy texture, and the broth was rich and flavorful. Everything tasted fresh and satisfying. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in Waikiki and craving comforting udon!
Had to try Marugame while I was in Waikiki since the line is always insane
The udon was good and I noticed the menu is a little different from the mainland locations, which was nice to see
That said, if I’m spending time right by Waikiki Beach, I’m not sure this would be my first choice again. There are so many great local places and Hawaiian food I’d probably rather try
On the other hand, if you’re visiting from the mainland and already like Marugame, it’s still a solid option. It’s familiar, affordable, and easy after a long day walking around Waikiki
Marugame has also been expanding a lot across the mainland over the past few years, so I think it would be cool if the Hawaii locations leaned even more into local flavors or exclusive menu items. That would make it feel a little more special and worth going out of your way for
Overall, good meal, just not a must-do for me when I’m in Hawaii
The line moves fast and there’s always seats. We got large #1 (soup udon with thinly sliced beef) and a #12 (tempura don/rice bowl) to share. In hindsight, we should’ve replaced #12 with a basic udon and added tempura on the side, as it’s the noodles that are special! The tempura comes with two shrimp, a dark meat chicken, a zucchini spear, and a slice of sweet potato. Surprised there’s no kabocha pumpkin. Imitation crab meat and cheese are among the additional tempura you can add.
It so efficient. Everyone was really nice. Food quality, quantity, time to make were incredible. I really enjoyed the #6 tan tan vegan bowl. Zucchini tempura and kushiage or cheese tempura was perfect. They serve ginger in packets in paste form. It was great. I took home 1/3 as leftovers.
Restaurant SUNTORY
| Address | 2233 Kalākaua Ave B307, Honolulu, HI 96815 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM, 5:00 – 9:30 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM, 5:00 – 9:30 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM, 5:00 – 9:30 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM, 5:00 – 9:30 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM, 5:00 – 9:30 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM, 5:00 – 9:30 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM, 5:00 – 9:30 PM |
| Phone | (808) 922-5511 |
I don’t hand out many five star reviews, but Restaurant Suntory earned one without hesitation. In fact, it earned three visits during a single vacation.
We started with teppanyaki and it reminded me why Japanese cuisine is my favorite in the world. The quality of the ingredients speaks for itself. Beautifully marbled wagyu, perfectly cooked vegetables, exceptional rice and absolutely get the garlic rice upgrade. Every bite felt intentional.
Traveling with a two and four year-old can change the way you judge a restaurant and this is one of the most family friendly fine dining experiences I’ve had. They don’t just tolerate children, they genuinely welcome them. The coloring books, kid sized utensils, thoughtful plates and little details made our kids feel included instead of like an inconvenience.
We came back for the hand roll set and somehow it was just as memorable. From the amuse bouche through dessert, it felt like a carefully paced tasting menu. Every course had purpose and the sashimi and hand rolls were some of the freshest we had anywhere in Hawaii. Even the kids couldn’t get enough of the udon.
Before flying home, we made one last stop for shabu shabu and sukiyaki with my parents. Again, perfectly portioned, beautifully presented and deeply satisfying. It was the perfect way to end the trip.
What impressed me most wasn’t just one spectacular meal, it was the consistency. Three different experiences, three different styles of dining and every visit delivered the same level of craftsmanship and care.
There are restaurants that chase trends and there are restaurants that dedicate themselves to doing things the right way year after year. Restaurant Suntory feels like the latter. It’s the kind of place that reminds you why Japanese cuisine has earned its reputation for precision, restraint and respect for ingredients.
My favorite restaurant in Hawaii and honestly one of my favorite restaurants anywhere. I sincerely hope it stays around for generations.
We had a great dinner at Suntory! The food and service were both excellent. Everything we ordered was delicious, from the nigiri and the black cod to the starters. The quality of the ingredients and the presentation were outstanding, and the staff was attentive throughout the evening.
The only downside was the air conditioning. It was so cold inside that I was freezing throughout the entire meal, which took away from an otherwise wonderful dining experience.
Overall, I’d definitely recommend Suntory for the food and service, just bring a sweater!
Five bright, shining stars all around! We were flying in from Kauai and our flight was delayed TWICE, and it was our last night on Oahu, so we were so grateful that the receptionists were flexible in pushing our dinner reservation back. Upon entering, there is a huge display of Japanese whiskeys. We were promptly seated, and I ordered the $85 Teppan and my BF ordered the $125 steak & lobster. Both meals include panko shrimp, veggies, and salmon. To our surprise, a tasting plate of thin roast beef slices and cheese was brought along with salads. Our entire meal was so flavorful that I did not add any shoyu or dip into the roasted garlic sauce. Also, the garlic fried rice with bits of egg and bacon was tasty all on its own. We both selected the 5 oz. Washu filets, and we were beyond satisfied. The grill master never once rushed us even though we were the last patrons of the night. The restaurant is divided into two elegant rooms: teppanyaki and sushi/sashimi.
I had an amazing time at Restaurant Suntory. I came in for lunch on a Tuesday, and there were already people waiting outside before the open time at 11:30. I ordered the Suntory Course (the teppayanki), and it was extremely delicious. The steak was just a bit more rare than medium rare, which is what I asked for. Our server Mat was very kind and attentive, and he made sure that the chefs were free enough to do the Teppanyaki course. Overall, the food and service were stellar, and I’d definitely be coming back. It did get really busy and full, so be prepared to wait if you come in later!
Had the special $28 lunch teppanyaki sirloin steak and beef tendon curry. Added $5 for fried rice. Phenomenally cooked lunch, and the addition of the best Japanese beer, The Premium Malts. Highly recommend for lunch.
Torishin Hawaii
| Address | 1001 Queen St STE 104, Honolulu, HI 96814 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 5:30 – 9:30 PM Wednesday: 5:30 – 9:30 PM Thursday: 5:30 – 9:30 PM Friday: 5:30 – 9:30 PM Saturday: 5:30 – 9:30 PM Sunday: 5:30 – 9:30 PM |
| Phone | (808) 600-5057 |
A perfect dining experience. All skewers cooked to perfection, and other dishes with so much thought and dedication you could obviously tell. The service is also super warm and detailed. Will definitely come back next time we visit. 10/10 recommend!
Torishin Hawaii was a standout dining experience and a welcome addition to Honolulu’s food scene.
I was looking for yakitori and discovered this spot, which is the Hawaii offshoot of the one-time Michelin-starred NYC restaurant. The fact that it’s still in soft opening made the evening feel even more special and intimate.
What impressed me most was how elevated the experience felt. This is not your typical yakitori dinner. Every skewer was thoughtfully prepared with clear attention to technique, timing, and flavor. Simple ingredients executed at a very high level.
A real highlight was having the GM from the NYC location serve as our chef for the evening, bringing that Torishin pedigree and hospitality directly to Honolulu.
Beyond the food, the atmosphere struck a nice balance — refined without feeling overly formal, with an energy in the room that made the dinner enjoyable and memorable.
If you appreciate yakitori and want an experience that feels both authentic and elevated, Torishin Hawaii is absolutely worth a visit.
Very happy to finally have great toritake yakatori in Hawaii so we won't need to go to Japan! I'm not surprised that the NYC location has a Michelin star. The food, chicken, was excellent. Great flavors and perfectly prepared. Excellent service. Knowledgeable and attentive servers. Very good sake and drink selection. The sake we ordered paired perfectly with all the dishes. The chefs were friendly. They are still in soft opening mode, probably waiting to get everything perfect before being fully open, that's how you get a Michelin star 😉. We will definitely return.
A phenomenal addition to Ward Village in Kaka’ako. Bringing staff from their Michelin starred New York City restaurant, Torishin brings authentic Japanese Yakitori cooking and flavors. Opting for the tasting menu, I was greeted with nine delicious courses that were full of flavor and subtle nuance. The staff were welcoming and friendly, offering suggestions on the best spices to pair with each course or the best way to eat a course. The sake selection offered a variety of options to fit any palate. Choose the chef’s counter dining for the best experience and the optimum view of the chefs at work.
👥 2 pax on weekday night, reservation must
🍽️ Omakase course, bottle of wine, glass wine, beer
💵 approx. $300 per person
Excellent course with chicken cooked to perfection, inventive incorporation of local ingredients and non-chicken dishes (grilled eel, vegetables, and desserts were stellar). Store interior was spacious with a separate bar seating, overall very clean with plenty of counter seating, with friendly and engaging staff.
At the end of the course you can opt to add a few more skewers—highly recommended if your appetite will allow for it. Any leftover rice from the end of the course can be wrapped up into onigiri rice balls to take home.
Overall excellent experience, would definitely visit again.
Onigiri Onibe
| Address | 921 Alakea St, Honolulu, HI 96813 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (808) 260-9906 |
Oh wow! First time trying Onigiri Onibe and it did not disappoint. Grabbed a couple of rice balls to go the tuna mayo had a nice wasabi flavor that was spot on, and the spicy mentaiko was my favorite of the two, packed with flavor. Rice was fresh and perfect, nori was crisp.
At $4 each, this is a steal for Honolulu. Quick, delicious, and easy grab-and-go lunch. Already planning my next visit to try more flavors. Highly recommend if you’re in the area and want a fast, authentic bite.
A quaint little onigiri shop from Fukuoka. They cook the specialty rice in clay pots. All the onigiri is handmade fresh, they do have some premade donburi available. We arrived at 9:45 on a Saturday they open at 10 and by that time they were 15 people waiting in line on the first floor. There is only six-ish counter seats with more upstairs I believe. Everyone orders at the kiosk if you select dine in, they will bring the food to you. If you order their fresh egg or seasoned egg, it is very fragile so they caution you to eat it quickly (if you takeout/drive home). The nori was very crispy. Each item is approximately $3-5 and 2-3 onigiri may fill up an average female adult. Sometimes they have a daily special with more fillings and it cost a little more. I would definitely come back.
Genuinely perfect onigiri-bar/restaurant concept. Hours are limited for reasons, but I love how it's organized. Open kitchen entices you while waiting, small prepared to-go section for busy people unable to eat in and a mini seating bar for dine-in. Prices hover $5~. Perfect for a light breakfast/lunch since you could order as many or little as you'd like. I'd say 2-3 is a good range for a decent pick-me-up. Going with multiple people is nice since you can potentially try the whole menu.
Good onigiri! I go the kakuni and the miso beef with shiso, the wife got salmon and tuna mayo. I enjoyed both of my onigiris, good pork flavor with a hint is sesame from the nori. Miso beef with shiso was good - love the fresh bite from the shiso. Wife enjoyed her onigiri - she has high standards being Japanese.
Not too filling and y ou can taste the quality of the ingredients and it will temporarily satisfy your food cravings until the next food destination.
Hours of operation.. 7am-2pm.... From the moment you step inside, you’re met with a warm welcome that makes you feel like family. It’s a cozy, intimate spot—limited seating, but enough for a small group to tuck away from the island heat.
While it’s designed as a "quick sit-down, eat, and go" kind of place, the staff is incredibly gracious. They never make you feel rushed, which honestly made me want to linger just a little bit longer.
The Service is definitely 10/10. The genuine "aloha spirit" here is palpable, from the greeting at the door to the sincere goodbye as you leave.
The menu offers an ample selection of onigiri, and choosing just one is the hardest part. The presentation is phenomenal—it's almost too pretty to eat.
These aren't just rice balls; they are flavor bombs!! The fillings literally melt in your mouth and the flavor...It’s a "mesmerize your brain" kind of delicious. Every bite is packed with seasoned, high-quality ingredients that burst with local flair.
Price: Remarkably reasonable, especially for Hawaii. You get incredible value for the quality of the food. Don't let the "snack" size fool you—they are surprisingly filling. Two or three of these and you’re set for the afternoon.
This place is a must-visit. It’s rare to find a spot that balances speed, price, and "bursting-in-your-mouth" flavor so perfectly. I’d come back to Hawaii just for this restaurant. Don't skip this one! 🤙🔥
ZIGU
| Address | 413 Seaside Ave #1f, Honolulu, HI 96815 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 4:00 – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 4:00 – 11:00 PM Thursday: 4:00 – 11:00 PM Friday: 4:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 4:00 – 11:00 PM Sunday: 4:00 – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (808) 212-9252 |
Best wagyu hands down in Hawaii. The mochiko fried chicken is also one of the sofest and tender chicken we've ever had. Was so full but didnt want to let it to go waste.
Our server was extremely helpful, friendly, and knowledge.
The food was amazing! Every bite was full of flavor! The atmosphere and friendly staff were a pleasant surprise, and our waiter, Daniel helped make it a memorable experience! Highly recommend the daily special steak, the sweet potato salad, Sumida Farm Watercress Mini Salad, Spicy Chilled Soba, Local Power Natto Ahi Poke, Mochiko Fried Chicken, and the miso soup. Job well done!
We came over since we couldn’t get a reservation for 4 at other places that we frequently visited. It turned out that we all enjoyed the food and service here. The food was not quite traditional Japanese, but instead it used locally sourced ingredients and added a bit of creativity to come up with some really tasty dishes. For example, the local cucumber salad and the Maui pickled onions were great appetizers. The poke was fresh as was the seared ahi (very tasty). The mochiko chicken was tender and tasty (pieces could be a bit smaller). The ginger Kona pork (not sure if the pork is form Kona or just the taste was created in Kona) was tasty but could use a bit more ginger. I am sure the chef has a good reason for that, but I just love ginger in just about any dish. Finally, the spicy soba was quite unique, tasted nothing like soba that we had known and loved. It was excellent and perfect to finish our meal with a bowl.
We also tried its 3-sake flights and even though our server told us the names of each, but we couldn’t remember them, but they all tasted very good.
Our server, David, was entertaining and attentive. We sat outside in the patio area, which was comfortable and looked better than its tiny indoor dinning area. It was a bit pricy even for Waikiki, but definitely acceptable for the nice dining experience. We will add this to our regular dining spots in Waikiki
We tried Zigu and had the Ahi cutlet, spicy chilled soba, and the Zigu roll. The food was okay overall—nothing particularly memorable. Service was fine, though it felt a bit pretentious at times.
Unfortunately, we found a hair on one of the sushi plates. We mentioned it to the server, and while the plate was brought back very quickly, there was no apology or acknowledgment. Given how fast it returned, it didn’t feel like it was actually remade—more like the hair was simply removed.
Overall, an average experience that didn’t quite meet expectations.
I never write reviews, but after eating at Zigu tonight I feel like I need to write one. This was the best food I have ever had. The blue fin tuna melts in your mouth, we ended up getting three orders, and I NEED to come back to get some more wagyu. Service was great and the staff seems to love working there, everything was great.
Kaiten Sushi Ginza Onodera
| Address | 2700 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96826 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (808) 691-9020 |
Lunch Set was nice and a good price, $30. Tempura, 3pcs sushi and a choice of miso soup or $3+ for udon. We chose to have it with udon. Everything was tasty, from the quality of the sushi and the tempura. I have no complaints, some of the items are a little pricey but its worth it for the quality.
Best kaiten place I've been to, by a mile (be it in Japan or the US). A bit different in a few ways.
All orders are placed a la carte on the tablet in front of you and then sent to you by conveyor, rather than having plates of various price points circling the restaurant. Nice that you get everything right after it's made! Good sushi preparation; very good nigiri.
This does all come at a noticeably higher price point though - you get what you pay for.
Easily recommendable, just worth noting that this is more like genuinely good stuff sent by conveyor, rather than a cheap bite.
This is my second time here. It's a direct conveyer belt sushi service, kind of like Genki sushi, but better because your order arrives directly to you.
I only come when there are specials that I like (I believe they run specials all the time). Otherwise, their prices are quite a bit higher, like $24 for two ama ebi. When the specials are running, they are priced really reasonable for those items.
This time, they had Tuna on special. We were interested mostly in the O-toro but was surprised when the Chu-toro was way better than the O-toro.
We tend to eat more than usual and go to lots of omakase and sushi restaurants, so quality is what we look for and they have it.
Service is good when ordering on the tablet but getting wait staff is another thing, they do tend to get busy so raise your hand and wait for them to come.
The decor in restaurant is just kind of meh, it has both booths and a long shared table with pull up seats along the conveyer belt. Although I've never sat at the regular tables, I would think it's good for 6 or less parties. They get busy so try making a rez. We tried calling but no one answered so we decided to get there early and they were already packed just before 6pm
We had a 300ml bottle of Kubota saki on special for $12 (cheap!) along with all the sushi and our bill came out to just over $200 with tip.
It's not the ideal place for a first date but if they are having a special that you like and or you want good quality sushi, its a good place. I'll be back for sure.
Couple of tips:
Order the wasabi and ginger first (on the tablet) before ordering sushi
If you're wanting alcohol, let the staff know so they can unlock the feature
IYKYK: 20 restaurants, 3 countries, and 15 time Michelin Star recipient.
Found in Japan, China, and America (in beautiful Honolulu and Houston), it's Kaiten Sushi Ginza Onodera!
There are meals one enjoys. Meals one admires. Meals one respectfully documents, notes the flavor balance of, and later describes using words like "elegant" and "well-executed."
And then there are meals that rock your world. This was one of them.
Kaiten sushi, or conveyor belt sushi, is a casual, affordable Japanese dining style invented in 1958 where plates of sushi rotate on a motorized belt passing diners, allowing them to select dishes directly. Here at Kaiten Sushi Ginza Onodera, it's not the typical catwalk of pre-made maki rolls, nigiri, and other offering. You order off a kiosk and then it is fast-tracked to your table via sushi belt.
Here at Kaiten Sushi Ginza Onodera, you are granted the ability to try their Edomae-style sushi for a more affordable price. Edomae-style sushi is a traditional Tokyo cuisine originating in the 1820s, featuring seafood, often cured, marinated, or simmered, served atop rice seasoned with red vinegar (akasu). It focuses on enhancing fish flavor through technique rather than just raw freshness, historically acting as fast food for 19th-century Edo residents.
That said, dare I say the best meal I had during my stay on Oahu? I DARE! This was an excellent place suggested by Randy S. I really can't tell you all we had because Randy took charge but every bite? Certified bangers. Not one bad bite had.
Pro-tip: If you want to feel like you are being mugged by Neptune, the God of the Sea, have the chawanmushi. Oceanic and delish!
Hands down the best sushi place I have ever been too! From the beginning we walked in with my family. We were greeted with a huge smile and got seated in a private booth. The service, the staff and atmosphere there is really nice and kid friendly! After we payed our meal. The host/server gave my son a free toy. Thank you so much for not rushing him because he couldn’t decide what to pick. We had a great time here and we can’t wait to be back again!!
Toro Honolulu
| Address | 1130 N Nimitz Hwy Ste C-130, Honolulu, HI 96817 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 8:30 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 8:30 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 8:30 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 8:30 PM Saturday: 4:00 – 8:30 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (808) 583-2492 |
Toro has been consistently excellent both times I’ve visited. I did the lunch omakase on each visit, and the quality of the fish was outstanding. Everything tasted fresh, well-prepared, and thoughtfully put together. The service is also amazing. Everyone was welcoming, attentive, and made the experience feel relaxed and enjoyable.
The only thing that would make Toro truly next level for me would be offering a vegetarian omakase option at dinner so it could accommodate more dining preferences, but I completely understand why they may not offer it if the demand isn’t there. Overall, definitely an amazing omakase experiences! Highly recommend
Really cute omakase restaurant hidden and tucked away in the back corner. There were like 10 seats and 3 staff members, whom were all super friendly. We had the $100 omakase set and it came with all the premium goodies! Super happy with how fast the food comes out, the freshness and quality, and how delicious each piece tasted. Definitely going to be my go to omakase spot now.
We celebrated my wife’s birthday at this place with $125 menu. Most of the food was good. We love the Hokkaido scallop and Toro(?) with a touch of Yuzu Kosho (in picture). The worst dish was one of the appetizers made with spicy tuna and deep fried sushi rice. I shouldn’t have forced myself to finish that.
I visited this restaurant once, and I don’t think I ‘ll be going back.
The food was okay, but there are three things that I didn’t like.
1. Not enough menus.
We had to share one and pass it to next party.
2. Each dish is served on one plate.
We had to share the dishes, even though we ordered separately.
3. No split checks
We couldn’t pay individually.
We visited Toro recently for the second time, and it was... okay. The 80s music is fun, and the intimate 10-seat sushi bar make for a nice atmosphere only slightly marred by the mess of Stanley mugs and water bottles at the end of the bar.
Service was mostly friendly and accommodating, although there was confusion between our allergies and another party which resulted in us getting the wrong dish. Not a big deal, but chef was just like "oh, my bad. Enjoy."
The food was good, but they have you select your omakase course before arriving ($100, $200, or $300, and that's how you select them). We ordered the $300 course expecting lots of premium ingredients, but we left somewhat disappointed. Some dishes were truly excellent and creative, such as the tako poke made with fresh Osaka seaweed. Much of the fish was very good to excellent, but the rice was cold and hard and the wasabi was not fresh real wasabi (aside from one dish that used minced wasabi). Flavors were hit or miss, with the hits being amazing and the misses being okay but not great.
Overall the meal was okay with some highlights that would have been at home in a Michelin star restaurant. Nonetheless the $300 price tag was more than the meal warranted, and better omakase is available for less in Honolulu. We might visit again and order a la carte, but we don't feel Toro is worthwhile for omakase.
Nori Bar Hawaii - Ward / Kakaako
| Address | 1000 Auahi St, Honolulu, HI 96814 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (808) 379-1144 |
Amazing quality sashimi for reasonable prices. Bar seating only. Easy parking. They take reservations or walk in! You can also do take out orders online. Famous for their rolls!
Really enjoyed the nice service and delicious fish! The ordering system is through a QR code, but it’s easy to open a tab and view the menu.
Happy hour from 2:30-5!
We are pleasantly surprised of how good the food was. We are not big eater but everything we order is delicious. We will definitely come back to try other stuff on the menu. Waiters are very nice and attentive. The ambiance is intimate and modern. The area are also beautiful in the early evening.
This is a great new Waikiki sushi and Japanese restaurant. We sat at the bar. It was a very cool vibe. The staff were great to talk the sushi chefs as they made our food.
All of the fish is stored wrapped now just sitting out. It was all very fresh.
They have great Happy Hour food and drink specials.
I highly recommend it.
My bestie and I did the Omaske (forgive me as the spelling is likely wrong) experience which is $80 a person. Absolutely worth it as it gently fills you up and takes you on a delightful sushi journey that ends with green tea ice cream. Absolutely recommend for a special outing out catching up with a friend or celebrating a special occasion with a loved one as all the fish was fresh and delicious. 13/10 will have again!
Some of the dishes I had are pictured below some of them were way too good to wait to take a photo of.
P.S. Be sure to make a reservation as the bar seating is limited
Amazing quality food for a really good price! My husband and I celebrated our wedding in Hawaii and visited the Nori bar during this time and really enjoyed our time there. Not only was it some of our favorite hand rolls and sashimi, but the staff’s service was amazing. We were especially impressed by the attentiveness and quickness of the hand rolls chef! Everyone was so kind, making for an overall 10/10 experience.
FUJIYAMA TEXAS
| Address | 2065 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96826 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 3:30 AM Tuesday: 5:00 – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 3:30 AM Thursday: 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 3:30 AM Friday: 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 3:30 AM Saturday: 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 3:30 AM Sunday: 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 3:30 AM |
| Phone | (808) 955-0738 |
My favorite restaurant on Oahu. They're finally open for lunch again. So glad they're back.
A friend and I needed to kill some time before heading to watch the University of Hawaii men’s basketball game so decided to stop here. And boy are we glad we did. This place was busy when we got there but they were still able to squeeze us in at the counter which I highly recommend.
We watched the fry chef prepare all the delicious kushikatsu that were ordered and fry them to perfection. We enjoyed an assortment ourselves over a nice cold Asahi draft beer. Definitely get the fried chicken wing, Tamago egg, pork, beef, salmon and hasu.
The food was fantastic and service was great. Loved the ambiance as well. We’ll definitely be back here again soon. 🤙🏼🤙🏼🤙🏼
We came after a friend’s recommendation. Since it was last minute on our part, we did not make a reservation. We only waited a few minutes to get seated for three. We arrived just before 8 and it looked like all seats were taken and the bar was almost full. After being seated, the tables cleared out a bit more, and we looked over the menu. We added our orders to the sheet on the table, but it took at least 15 minutes for us to get the server’s attention to take our order sheet. When he did, it seemed he wanted to take it as quickly as possible as we couldn’t get our full drink order in. We ordered the Takoyaki, Yakisoba, 10 Piece Platter, Ahi with Avocado, and Donburi. The woman who served us our food was kind enough to share with us what was on the platter, and offered to top the Takoyaki with kewpie mayo. However, the other person serving our table did not ask if we needed anything in the time we were there. We waited at least 20 minutes to get our check (which we had to walk up to the register and ask for ourselves). It is also worth noting that this same server had been talking with his friends (who he was serving next to us) and making plans to meet, and showing them extra care throughout their meal. This server/lack of service is the main reason for my 3 star review.
Aside from the service, the food was great. The yakisoba, takoyaki, and the platter were really good. I really liked the Kushi-Katsu (the mochi and prime rib especially)! We also had Dry Asahi on draft to go with our meal and it was served in a cooled mug which is always great.
Our first choice of Tori Ton was booked up solid for a Friday night, so my friends and I decided on Fujiyama Texas Izakaya after calling and confirming they had a table for six available. As we entered we were immediately greeted and seated. After placing our order for Izakaya, Japanese comfort foods, and drinks that’s when our service went downhill. One of my friends ordered a Lilikoi Lychee Chuhai, but requested only Lilikoi. The waitress agreed it was possible, however instead served her the Lilikoi Lychee without alcohol. Basically a drink my friend did not not order, so after a sip she waved the waitress down and the waitress insisted my friend was wrong even though we all heard the order. The cringe part is when the waitress became confrontational and gave attitude the entire night. Realize our table ordered lots of food & drink. Overall the skewers, dishes, curries were delish. The Japanese beer… well it’s always good. The vibe was good except for that one sour waitress. We still tipped as normal, but most of us agreed on never returning (we’ll spend elsewhere).
Takeout experience to share!
Everything arrived crispy and warm. It was enjoyable experience eating Izakaya style food takeout at home.
I liked the quail eggs kushi!!
Izakaya Harumi
| Address | 339 Royal Hawaiian Ave #101, Honolulu, HI 96815 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (808) 691-9031 |
This was the best Omakase/Sushi I’ve ever had the service was amazing. Our server was so sweet and so nice! The food came out so quickly, and the atmosphere felt like we stepped into a Tokyo Izakaya. Drinks were great too, definitely recommend the Waikiki Rainbow. Overall, would definitely recommend if you want some high-quality Omakase and delicious skewers in Waikiki!
I love this izakaya because everyone is so friendly and the food is absolutely amazing. I’d absolutely kill for their chutoro again even at $15, it was perfect. Their tako wasabi was also excellent, with just the right amount of wasabi. I also loved the tonkatsu, sweet potato tempura, saba, and uni nigiri. Everything was so fresh and flavorful. Their drinks are perfect, and the music was so good too. Definitely one of my favorite spots.
We came from Maui and met up with family at this restaurant for dinner. The food was fantastic, and the cocktails were absolutely adorable. Most importantly, we were able to stay and enjoy our meal until after 11 PM. It’s rare to find restaurants in Hawaii that stay open this late, which made the experience even better. We’ll definitely be coming back on our next visit. Highly recommend!
Came here with my family. Great atmosphere. I like the aesthetic Japanese decorations, would definitely take my significant other here for a date or somethin. Lots of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drink options. Personally really liked the yuzu soda, which had chunks of yuzu. Bonus: fun straw 😊. I really liked the karage chicken. Different from other local karage chicken, this one is soft yet crunchy. It’s not overly crunchy to the point it hurts, but it’s also airy. My favorite part of the meal. The sauce was also a delight. Not too powerful. Had a bunch of rolls, there’s so many variety of rolls. My siblings got to go ham. Especially love the Godzilla roll, so fun. The sashimi didn’t taste fishy. The pairing with their homemade soy sauce and sashimi was delicious. Not to mention the sauce trays. So beautiful! The yakitori was also tender and lightly charred, perfect if eaten with beer. I left super full. Definitely stop by if in the Waikiki area!
Choosing this Japanese restaurant for a get-together with my girls was absolutely the right decision ✨
The moment we walked in, we were drawn to the ambiance.it’s incredibly warm and cozy, making it the perfect spot to relax, chat, and enjoy each other’s company.
The food definitely did not disappoint. Every dish was thoughtfully prepared and truly delicious. The fish, in particular, was extremely fresh—you can really taste the quality in every bite. And I have to give a special shoutout to the drinks: they not only look amazing but taste just as good—refreshing and flavorful!
Every moment spent here felt so comfortable and enjoyable. It’s definitely a place I’ll want to come back to again and again ❤️
Essential Tips for Dining at Japanese Restaurants in Honolulu
Before you set out on your culinary tour, it is important to understand the local dining culture and logistics. A little preparation can save you from long waits and ensure you get the best possible experience at these popular spots. Here is what you need to know before you go.
1. Make Reservations Early
The most popular sushi bars and izakayas in Honolulu are often booked out weeks in advance. If you have your heart set on a high-end omakase experience or a trendy late-night spot, do not wait until you arrive on the island. Check their booking policies online; some use reservation platforms, while others may require a phone call or Instagram direct message to secure a seat.
2. Understand "Hawaii Style" Japanese Food
While you will find incredibly authentic Edomae sushi, Honolulu also has its own unique fusion known as "local style" Japanese food. This includes dishes like Spam musubi, mochiko chicken, and ramen with local twists like char siu or Portuguese sausage. Don’t be afraid to try these hybrid dishes; they are a vital part of the island’s culinary identity and history.
3. Check for Cash-Only Policies
While credit cards are widely accepted in Waikiki, many of the older, family-run noodle shops and hole-in-the-wall spots in neighborhoods like Moiliili or Kalihi are cash-only. It is always wise to carry at least $40 to $60 in cash per person to avoid missing out on a legendary bowl of saimin or udon due to a lack of funds.
4. Be Prepared for Parking Challenges
Honolulu is a densely populated city, and parking can be the hardest part of the meal. Many restaurants in strip malls share very small lots with strict tow-away policies for neighboring businesses. Read the parking signs carefully, or consider using a rideshare service if you plan to enjoy sake or beer with your meal. The cost of a ride is often cheaper than a tow truck.
5. Respect the Omakase Etiquette
If you are dining at a high-end sushi counter, remember that this is a performance. It is considered poor etiquette to wear heavy cologne or perfume, as it interferes with the aroma of the fish. Additionally, avoid asking for extra wasabi or soy sauce unless the chef offers it; the chef has already seasoned each piece perfectly to balance the flavor of the rice and the neta (topping).
6. Look for the "Local Favorites"
While tourist guides often focus on Waikiki, some of the best Japanese food is found in residential areas. Don’t hesitate to venture out to neighborhoods like Kaimuki, McCully, or Kapahulu. If you see a line of locals stretching out the door at lunchtime, that is usually a better indicator of quality than a flashy website or a paid advertisement.
The beauty of Japanese cuisine in Honolulu lies in its spectrum. You can spend an entire evening savoring a multi-course kaiseki dinner that feels like a work of art, and the next morning, grab a perfectly crafted onigiri from a corner store for a few dollars. Both experiences are equally valid and equally delicious.
Ultimately, the best meal is the one that satisfies your specific craving. Use this guide as a starting point, but don’t be afraid to wander into a random spot that smells good. In a city with this much culinary talent, it is rare to have a bad meal; you might just stumble upon your new favorite restaurant that didn’t make the list.
