From a buzzing beachside spot to the crème da le crème of Hawaiian fine dining, we’ve rounded up the best bars and restaurants in Waikiki.
Found on the south shore of Honolulu, the world-famous neighbourhood of Waikiki was once a playground for the movers and shakers of Hawaii. Beloved for its popular surf beaches, vibrant night life and decadent dining, it’s a region adored by locals and tourists alike thanks to its endless offering of stylish boutiques, waterside cocktail bars and famous Kuhio Beach hula shows.
A dream destination for foodies and cocktail connoisseurs alike, Waikiki has an impressive offering of eateries that will satisfy all manner of palates.
Duke’s
Something of an iconic Hawaiian watering hole, no trip to Hawaii is complete without indulging in a tipple or two at Duke’s. One of the best bars and restaurants in Waikiki, Duke’s is a much-loved spot known for its beachfront location, surf ‘n’ turf, tiki vibe and umbrella drinks.
It honours local legend Duke Kahanamoku – who grew up swimming, surfing, canoeing and bodysurfing, and in 1929 rode a monster wave for 11/8 miles (considered to be one of the longest rides in modern times). He won his first Olympic gold medal for swimming at age 21, and continued to represent the US in the Olympics for another 20 years.
Duke’s too has become Insta-famous thanks to its prime location and their signature Hula Pie, which is macadamia ice cream stacked on a layer of chocolate cookie crust and topped with cool chocolate fudge and whipped cream. After a tropical sundown drink? Try the lychee martini or the coconut mojito.
Merriman’s
The award-winning Merriman’s is a vibrant, stylish and spacious eatery known as one of the best bars and restaurants in Waikiki.
Offering local seafood alongside wine, cocktails and live music, Merriman’s have established themselves as a pioneer of the “Farm to Table” movement in Hawaii, thanks to the perfect fusion of a neighbourhood bistro vibe with hints of old Hawaii. Chef Peter Merriman works directly with ranchers and growers to plan menus inspired by the produce available that week. It also keeps money in island communities to support family farms and reduce the need for imports.
Lively, urbane, and whimsical, Merriman’s Honolulu is a great eatery for a special occasion, but also makes a great every-day place for great food and impeccable service. Stop by for happy hour drinks between 3:00 and 5:30 pm, where you can get a farm-to-table cocktail invented by the bartenders for only $11, or any house wine for $10.
Tommy Bahamas
Tommy Bahamas is a three-story oasis where diners will find a farm-to-table restaurant, a gorgeous living wall of herbs and tropical plants, and an open-air rooftop that comes complete with sand, a cosy fire pit, lively live music, and unrivalled views of Honolulu.
Perched on top of the much-loved Tommy Bahamas store, the scenic locale and wide selection of traditional Hawaiian-inspired items that incorporate locally sourced produce and seafood make it one of the best bars and restaurants in Waikiki. Tuck into pork ribs with jerk rub, mango guava BBQ, island slaw and yukon golf mash, or try the wagyu burger with smoked gouda, peppadew and sweet onion jam, spicy aioli and fries. Of course, every dish is best served with a refreshing cocktail or wine, which you can get at a discount every day from 3-5pm. During happy hour, you can also grab a bar burger slider for $7, and blackened mahi mahi taco for $8.
DECK.
Situated on the 3rd floor rooftop pool deck of the Queen Kapiʻolani Hotel, DECK. boasts panoramic views of the iconic Diamond Head steps from world famous Waikiki beach. It’s a stunning backdrop from which to enjoy a mouth-watering menu inspired by the American Pacific.
DECK. works closely with local farms, ranches, distilleries and breweries to curate a farm-to-table dining experience. It also prides itself on the zero-waste cocktail philosophy, which means every single component of an ingredient is used in the signature Hawaiian cocktails. For example, the pineapple fruit is used to make a rich cordial, the rind is fermented into a pineapple vermouth and the frond is repurposed as a garnish.
Don’t forget to check out the weekly specials, including Tequila Tuesdays for $12 cocktails and a $35 tequila flight, or Thirsty Thursday for 50 per cent of select bottled wines.
Solera
At Solera, Executive Chef Reid Matsumura has designed a menu inspired by the local and seasonal flavours of Hawaii, but with a distinctly Japanese twist.
Begin your day with breakfast favourites such as Okonomiyaki chicken and waffles and breakfast ban mi, and return at dinner for elevated fare in the refined piano lounge. Think tapas, caviar and seafood platters delivered straight to your table, with the option to dine on the Chef’s Pre-Fixe Menu, which is a three-course dinner featuring chef’s signature dishes for only $100.
If you’re short of time, the takeout bento boxes take an on-the-go lunch to the next level, featuring a perfectly prepared protein, rice, and assorted sides.
Halekulani
A cherished luxury Waikiki oceanfront hotel offering some of the finest dining options in Waikiki, Halekulani has something for everyone.
Orchids celebrates the sophisticated flavours of the Italian coast, and Executive Chef Christian Testa has designed signature dishes including the lasagnette with handmade pasta, Kahuku prawns, scallops and avocado. Each dish at Orchids is prepared in the Mediterranean style, with minimal seasoning to allow the natural blend of flavours to take centre stage.
If you aren’t sure where to start, the Tasting Menu is a chef’s selection of favourite dishes including Hawaiian yellow fin ahi tartare, and tenderloin fillet with portobello confit foie gras.
Halekulani is an absolute must-visit for anyone with a passion for decadent dining and one of the best bars and restaurants in Waikiki.
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