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Famous for its surfing culture, Honolulu also boasts a dining scene that offers a range of options, from Korean, Japanese and Chinese foods, to exquisite cuisines from other corners of the globe. This Hawaiian spot really has something for everyone’s taste buds. An updated version of our previous list, here are the 10 best cultural restaurants in Honolulu you shouldn’t miss.
© Library of Congress/WikiCommons

h Ave Grill

Bar, Restaurant, American, Contemporary, Vegetarian, Cocktails

An award-winner for its gourmet comfort food, menu, and quality service, 12th Ave Grill is owned by Kevin Hanney and has been open since 2013. 12th Ave Grill’s family-style atmosphere provides its guests with the unique experience of traditional all-American recipes, such as free-range jidori chicken served with Hamakua mushroom ragout and mashed potato, and marinated grilled pork chop, served with crispy potato pancakes and baked chutney-stuffed apple. When it comes to its bar, 12th Ave Grill’s signature drinks have guests coming back for more, from the 12th Ave Pimms Cup to the lemon-ginger-mint cocktails.

Hiroshi Eurasion Tapas

With a contemporary European-Asian fusion cuisine, a traditional Hawaiian décor and location in the heart of Honolulu, Hiroshi Eurasion Tapas is a great spot where guests can choose from Hiroshi’s regular or large tapas, influenced by either Asian or European cuisine. Among the favourites tapas are the sizzling Hawaiian Kampachi carpaccio, a combination of julienned ginger, Wow Farm tomato coucasse, along with Mrs Chea tofu. When it comes to the larger tapas, Hiroshi’s menu offers a selection of mahi mahi with crispy skin, or the local fish, along with traditional desserts and crafted martinis.

House Without A Key

For an informal dining experience at any time of the day, House Without A Key is the place to go. The restaurant’s name is derived from the infamous 1925 Charlie Chan novels and films. Located in the Halekulani resort, the restaurant offers its visitors indoor and outdoor seating, where they can enjoy the Waikiki Beach breeze and the romantic location; all this, while savouring unique recipes, such as the loco moco braised short rib, served with Hamakua mushrooms, rice and fried eggs, or the chicken curry, steamed and served with mango chutney. Visitors can indulge in a wide variety of local and international wine as they enjoy live Hawaiian entertainment.
House Without A Key, 2199 Kalia Rd, Honolulu, HI, USA, +1 808 923 2311

Jinroku Pacific

A combined bar and grill serving the best of Japanese teppanyaki cuisine, Jinroku Pacific is a place where Japanese simplicity and class meet. With its Aloha Spirit service, Jinroku Pacific’s menu provides its guests with authentic Japanese-inspired combinations, such as the prime New York strip or the prime filet mignon, served with grilled vegetables. In addition to the teppanyaki dishes, Jinroku offers a variety of signature Japanese fried-rice dishes, accompanied with traditional desserts and drinks.
Jinroku Pacific, 2427 Kuhio Ave, Honolulu, HI, USA, +1 808 926 8955

Lulu’s Waikiki

Its casual surfer-style atmosphere and open-air terrace make Lulu’s Waikiki a highly recommended place to visit, its menu filled with recipes to be served at any given time of the day. Lulu’s guests have the choice to savour a traditional breakfast such as the Grecian Sunrise, or the Big Kahuna for lunch, but there is also a variety of dishes such as Thai apricot wings, teriyaki steak bites, the Aloha burger, and the Hot Lava burger. As for dinner at Lulu’s, try either the chicken fettuccine or the Lulu’s surf and turf steak. The venue is located right across the street from the magical Waikiki Beach.
Lulu’s Waikiki, 2586 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI, USA, +1 808 926 5222

Orchids

Restaurant, American, Seafood, Vegetarian

Orchids
Image courtesy of Pint + Jigger
Located on the oceanfront in the Halekulani resort, Orchids’ casual yet elegant environment offers guests not only the ultimate Honolulu experience, but also a menu of local and international award-winning dishes, eloquently crafted by Orchids’ own chef. Organic chicken tagine, the olive oil-poached salmon, or the roasted lobster, give guests a worldly experience. Orchid’s Sunday brunch, which was selected by Honolulu Magazine as Honolulu’s legendary weekend brunch, makes this a magical weekend spot, while signature desserts and drinks ensure the ultimate enjoyment of Waikiki’s famous beach view.

Pint + Jigger

Offering a classic atmosphere, Pint + Jigger is located in the heart of Honolulu, and is the perfect place to socialise while enjoying traditional fried American cuisine. Dishes such as the whiskey-flambéed mushrooms, served on crostini with garlic parmesan cream cheese, or the Manila clams, cooked in either white wine or Dijon broth, make Pint + Jigger all the more special. Each meal can be accompanied by Pint + Jigger’s professional suggestions from a selection of 41 kinds of beers and first-class cocktails. Along with its friendly dining atmosphere, Pint + Jigger offers its guests the famous Fall Sausage Fest every year.
Pint + Jigger, 1936 S King St, Honolulu, HI, USA, +1 808 744 9593

Image Courtesy of Roy’s

Roy’s

Roy’s is named after its founder, Roy Yamaguchi, whose entrepreneurship and passion has led him to open 31 restaurants around the globe, six of which are located on different parts of the island. In 1988, Roy’s first opened its doors to its Honolulu residents and guests, with the aim to provide the best of international cuisine with a Hawaiian touch. When it comes to its culinary experience, Roy’s menu offers global recipes with a selection of Yamaguchi sushi and sashimi, to local Waikiki pork and stuffing. Every classic dish can be accompanied by Roy’s elegant cocktail creations.
Roy’s 226 Lewers St. Honolulu, HI, USA, +1 808 923 7697

Image Courtesy of The Pig and the Lady

The Pig and the Lady

With a unique name, The Pig and the Lady’s culinary reputation has landed it a spot on a list of the top 50 American restaurants. Located in the Pacific Gateway Center Building (they also have a booth at the farmers’ market), The Pig and the Lady has dedicated itself to bridging the best of Asian and Pacific cuisines, with inspiration from Mama Le’s recipes, which were carefully adapted by Chef Andrew Le. The Pig and the Lady is the place for either a light lunch or a casual dinner. Its welcoming atmosphere accommodates everyone’s taste.
The Pig & The Lady, 83 N King St, Honolulu, HI, USA, +1 808 585 8255

Top of Waikiki

Pizzeria, Restaurant, American, Vegetarian, Vegan, Cocktails, Wine, Beer

Opened in 1965, Top of Waikiki is located on the 18th floor of Waikiki Plaza, and has a retro elegant décor. Guests are able to enjoy the finest of Hawaii’s cuisine, with the exotic Waikiki Beach sunset and remarkable setting. The exclusive dinner and happy hour menus, which are both elegantly crafted by Top of Waikiki’s Executive Chef Lance Kosaka, give guests the chance to enjoy award-winning Hawaiian regional dishes, from appetisers to mouth-watering entrées and desserts, along with signature drinks. With its popularity and reputation, Top of Waikiki has attracted visitors from all corners of the globe. Due to its limited seating, a reservation ahead of time is required.

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