While on vacation in Oahu, Hawaii, there are many different types of food. Although most people think of Hawaiian food as consisting primarily of seafood, there are many dishes to choose from. There are myriad establishments to suit any taste and budget, from cheap and cheerful local dives to high-end restaurants. Here are just a few great places to eat 1n Oahu.
1. Duke’s Canoe Club
It’s hard to beat the classics. When in doubt, visitors to Oahu almost always find themselves at Duke’s Canoe Club for pupus (appetizers) and mai tais. The menu features fresh fish, seafood, and steaks with a Hawaiian flair. You’ll find traditional favorites like the Loco Moco (a burger patty over rice with gravy) and more adventurous dishes like the Ahi Katsu (crusted yellowfin tuna). The restaurant has an open-air dining room with views of Waikiki Beach, making it the perfect place to watch the sunset over the water.
2. Romy’s Kahuku Prawns & Shrimp
Just a short drive from Waikiki is the town of Kahuku, home to one of Oahu’s most popular seafood restaurants, Romy’s Kahuku Prawns & Shrimp. The restaurant is in a food truck park, so don’t be fooled by its humble exterior. The seafood is fresh, and the prices are more than reasonable. The shrimp scampi is a must-try, as are the garlic shrimp and the famous coconut shrimp. The shrimp is caught daily and served grilled, sauteed, or tempura. The prawns are also a popular choice and can be ordered in a variety of ways.
3. Helena’s Hawaiian Food
Helena’s Hawaiian Food has been serving up some of the best Hawaiian food on Oahu for over 60 years. The restaurant is unpretentious, and the food is simple, but it’s some of the most delicious you will find on the island. The menu features Hawaiian classics like laulau (pork and fish wrapped in ti leaves), kalua pig (slow-cooked pork), and poi (taro root paste). The restaurant is in the historic Chinatown district of Honolulu, so it’s a great place to get a taste of Hawaii’s history and food.
4. Rainbow Drive-In
No trip to Oahu is complete without stopping at Rainbow Drive-In, a local institution that has been serving Hawaiian comfort food for over 50 years. The menu features all the Hawaiian classics, from Loco Moco to Spam Musubi, as well as burgers, sandwiches, and salads. The reasonable prices and large portions make Rainbow Drive-In an excellent choice for budget-minded travelers. The restaurant is in Waikiki, so it’s convenient to get to no matter where you’re staying on the island.
5. Rinka Japanese Restaurant
Japanese food is always a good choice when dining out, and the Rinka Japanese Restaurant is one of the best in Oahu. The restaurant is in the Ala Moana Shopping Center, so it’s convenient to get to no matter where you’re staying. They serve traditional Japanese cuisine, with a focus on sushi and sashimi. The fish is fresh, and the sushi is some of the best on the island. The menu also features a variety of hot and cold dishes, as well as a selection of sake and beer. The prices are reasonable, and the quality of the food is excellent.
6. Uncle Clay’s House of Pure Aloha
Uncle Clay’s House of Pure Aloha is a unique destination for those looking to try something different while on vacation in Oahu. The restaurant is dedicated to serving up healthy, locally sourced food with a Hawaiian twist. The menu features fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, and meats grown or caught on the island. Although the menu changes frequently, some popular dishes include the Kalua Pork Belly Bao and the Ahi Tuna Poke Bowl. Uncle Clay’s is also home to Hawaii’s first and only acai bowl bar, where you can customize your bowl with various toppings.
7. Timmy T’s Gourmet Grinders
Another great seafood restaurant on Oahu is Timmy T’s Gourmet Grinders. It is a great place to stop for lunch if you spend the day at the beach. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, all of which are caught fresh daily. Timmy T’s Gourmet Grinders also serves up an assortment of salads and sides. As a sandwich shop, they’ve got you covered with various sandwiches, including a fresh catch of the day. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are large, making Timmy T’s Gourmet Grinders an excellent choice for budget-minded travelers.
Conclusion
While there are many great places to eat in Oahu, these are just a few of the best. No matter your budget or taste, you’re sure to find something to your liking. So, get out there and explore the culinary wonders of Oahu!