7 of Oahu’s Most Popular Restaurants

Oahu, the third-largest island in Hawaii, is known for its diverse and delicious food scene. From traditional Hawaiian cuisine to Asian fusion dishes and contemporary farm-to-table fare, Oahu has something to offer for every taste bud. Here are some of the most popular restaurants on Oahu:

1. Alan Wong’s Honolulu: This upscale restaurant in the heart of Honolulu serves contemporary Hawaiian cuisine with an emphasis on local ingredients. The restaurant’s signature dish is the ginger-crusted onaga (red snapper) served with a soy-vinaigrette sauce.
2. Helena’s Hawaiian Food: This family-owned restaurant in Kalihi is a local favorite for traditional Hawaiian dishes like laulau (pork wrapped in taro leaves) and kalua pig (slow-roasted pork). The restaurant has been serving authentic Hawaiian food for over 70 years.
3. Roy’s Waikiki: This Hawaiian fusion restaurant in Waikiki was founded by celebrity chef Roy Yamaguchi and features a blend of Hawaiian and Asian flavors. The restaurant’s signature dish is the blackened island ahi (yellowfin tuna) served with wasabi soy butter.
4. Marukame Udon: This casual noodle shop in Waikiki is known for its fresh, made-to-order udon noodles and variety of tempura dishes. The restaurant has a cafeteria-style setup, with guests choosing their noodles and toppings as they move down the line.
5. Nico’s Pier 38: This seafood restaurant in Honolulu’s industrial district is known for its fresh fish dishes, including the popular fish and chips and the ahi poke (raw tuna salad). The restaurant also has a fish market where guests can purchase fresh seafood to take home.
6. The Pig and the Lady: This Vietnamese-inspired restaurant in Honolulu’s Chinatown serves a range of creative dishes with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s signature dish is the pho french dip, which features slices of tender beef in a flavorful broth, served with a side of banh mi-style bread for dipping.
7. Leonard’s Bakery: This iconic bakery in Honolulu is famous for its malasadas, a Portuguese doughnut-like pastry that is a staple of Hawaiian cuisine. The malasadas are available in a variety of flavors, including plain, filled with custard or haupia (coconut pudding), and coated in sugar.

These are just a few examples of the many fantastic restaurants on Oahu. With such a diverse range of cuisines and dining options available, there is something to suit every taste and budget.