If you’re planning a trip to Oahu, one of the most popular islands in the Hawaiian archipelago, you’re in for a treat. Not only is Oahu home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, it’s also a foodie paradise. From traditional Hawaiian dishes to fusion cuisine, this article will cover the best food on Oahu.
The Best Food on Oahu: Types and Locations
One dish that you absolutely must try while on Oahu is plate lunch. Plate lunch is a quintessential Hawaiian meal that usually consists of a protein (such as teriyaki chicken or Kalua pork), a scoop of rice, and a scoop of macaroni salad. It’s a hearty, filling meal that can be found at many local restaurants and food trucks on the island.
Another local favorite is poke, a dish made of diced raw fish (usually tuna) mixed with a variety of seasonings and sauces. You can find poke at many markets and supermarkets on the island, but for the best poke, head to a local fish market. There, you’ll be able to choose from a variety of freshly caught fish and customize your own poke bowl.
If you’re in the mood for something a little more upscale, Oahu has no shortage of fine dining options. One restaurant that stands out is Alan Wong’s, which serves contemporary Hawaiian cuisine. The restaurant has received numerous accolades and is a must-visit for any foodie visiting the island.
But Oahu isn’t just about Hawaiian food. The island is home to a diverse population, which means you’ll also find a wide variety of international cuisine. For example, if you’re craving sushi, you can’t go wrong with Nobu, a high-end sushi restaurant with locations in Waikiki and at the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina. Or, if you’re in the mood for Italian, check out Assaggio, a popular chain of Italian restaurants with several locations on the island.
If you prefer a more casual dining experience, there are plenty of options for that as well. One popular choice is Ono Seafood, a hole-in-the-wall seafood market and takeout counter that serves some of the freshest poke on the island. Another local favorite is Leonard’s Bakery, which is known for its delicious malasadas (Portuguese donuts).
No matter what you’re in the mood for, you’ll find something to love on Oahu. The island is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide variety of local and international cuisine to choose from.
Oahu, the third largest island in Hawaii, is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant food scene. The island is home to some of the best restaurants in Hawaii, ranging from local food trucks to world-class fine dining establishments. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a great meal, Oahu has something for everyone. Here are five of the best restaurants on Oahu to add to your dining list.
The Best Food on Oahu: Restaurant Edition
- Alan Wong’s Honolulu – Alan Wong’s is a world-renowned restaurant that has been serving up award-winning cuisine in Honolulu since 1995. The menu features a fusion of Hawaiian, Asian, and European flavors, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients. Some of the standout dishes include the misoyaki butterfish, ginger-crusted onaga, and the signature coconut haupia cake.
- Roy’s Waikiki – Roy’s is another world-class restaurant that has been a staple of the Hawaii food scene since 1988. The menu is a fusion of Hawaiian and European flavors, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients. Some of the standout dishes include the misoyaki butterfish, blackened ahi, and the chocolate souffle.
- Helena’s Hawaiian Food – Helena’s is a local institution that has been serving up traditional Hawaiian food since 1946. The menu features classic dishes like kalua pig, laulau, and lomi salmon, all made with authentic Hawaiian ingredients and cooking methods. The restaurant is small and unassuming, but the food is delicious and the atmosphere is welcoming and authentic.
- The Pig and the Lady – The Pig and the Lady is a modern Vietnamese restaurant that has been making waves in the Oahu food scene since it opened in 2013. The menu is a fusion of traditional Vietnamese flavors and modern culinary techniques, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients. Some of the standout dishes include the pho French dip, banh mi, and the crispy pork belly.
- Marukame Udon – Marukame Udon is a local favorite that serves up delicious and affordable udon noodles in a casual, cafeteria-style setting. The noodles are made fresh in-house and are served piping hot, with a variety of toppings and sauces to choose from. The restaurant is always busy, but the line moves quickly and the food is well worth the wait.
Honorable Mentions:
- Ono Seafood – Ono Seafood is a local food truck that serves up some of the best poke on the island. The poke is made fresh daily and is available in a variety of flavors and styles.
- Rainbow Drive-In – Rainbow Drive-In is an Oahu institution that has been serving up classic plate lunches since 1961. The menu features local favorites like the mixed plate, chili dog, and saimin.
- Duke’s Waikiki – Duke’s is a classic beachfront restaurant that has been a favorite of locals and tourists alike since it opened in 1993. The menu features classic Hawaiian dishes like poke, kalua pig, and coconut shrimp, as well as American favorites like burgers and steak.
Oahu is home to some of the best restaurants in Hawaii, with a variety of cuisines and styles to choose from. From world-class fine dining to local food trucks, the island’s food scene has something for everyone. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a great meal, be sure to add these five restaurants to your dining list and explore the many culinary delights that Oahu has to offer.
Scott Sweeney is the creator of Virtual Hawaii 360. Scott is a professional marketer and a lifelong Hawaii enthusiast. Scott splits time between Oahu and Dayton, Ohio. In addition to his marketing endevours, he is also a published Ukulele musician.
