Your 2025 Guide to Oʻahu’s Top Dining Experiences

Oʻahu offers a culinary experience for all tastes, from local eateries to upscale dining. With fresh seafood and dishes by top chefs, the island has a range of dining spots from casual to divine. Explore our top ten dining experiences on Oʻahu that you shouldn’t miss.

Aliʻi Lūʻau at the Polynesian Cultural Center

Address: 55-370 Kamehameha Hwy, Lāʻie, HI, 96762
Phone: 808-293-3333

The Aliʻi Lūʻau at the Polynesian Cultural Center offers an authentic Hawaiian experience with a fresh, all-you-can-eat feast inspired by traditional celebrations. Guests enjoy a meal fit for royalty, crafted by Executive Chef Felix Tai. The event also includes “‘Onipa‘a: A Tribute to Queen Liliuokalani,” featuring music, dance, and culture.

Koko Head Cafe

Address: 1120 12th Ave, Honolulu, HI, 96816
Phone: 808-732-8920

Established in 2014, this east Oʻahu gem, led by Top Chef finalist Lee Anne Wong, offers a diverse dining atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating. The menu features scratch-made dishes like the Koko Moco, Cornflake French Toast, and a poke omelet. Specializing in Asian-fusion brunch with Hawaiian influences, Koko Head Cafe provides an innovative culinary experience that’s a must-visit.

Gateway Buffet at the Polynesian Cultural Center

Address: 55-370 Kamehameha Hwy, Lāʻie, HI, 96762
Phone: 808-293-3333

Enjoy island-fresh dishes at the largest buffet on the island, located in the Polynesian Cultural Center’s Gateway Building. Savor poke, sashimi, catch of the day fish, kalua pork, sirloin roast, chicken, fresh fruits, vegetables, and an array of island flavors.

Waiāhole Poi Factory

Address: 48-140 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe, HI, 96744
Phone: 808-845-8044

Waiāhole Poi Factory, located near Kāneʻohe on Oʻahu’s Windward Side, is a family-run eatery offering authentic Hawaiian food in a historic former poi factory. Known for dishes like laulau, kālua pig, lomi salmon, haupia, and poi, this local favorite often has lines—arrive early!

Ken’s Fresh Fish

Address: 55-730 Kamehameha Hwy, Lāʻie, HI, 96762
Phone: 808-385-1740

This simple take-out spot is rated #1 by locals and visitors. They offer the best Ahi Katsu, catching, cooking, and serving the fish directly. Bring your meal to the nearby beach for the full experience.

Kona Coffee Purveyors

Address: International Marketplace, 2330 Kalakaua Ave #160, Honolulu, HI, 96815
Phone: 808-450-2364

This café in Waikīkī serves expertly crafted Kona coffee. Whether you want a full tasting flight or a quick cup, you can pair your drink with a pastry from the renowned b. patisserie, bringing Parisian flair to your Hawaiian morning.

Pounders Restaurant at the Hukilau Marketplace

Address: 55-370 Kamehameha Hwy, Lāʻie, HI, 96762
Phone: 808-293-3287

Pounders Restaurant delivers flavorful, Hawaii-inspired dishes from appetizers to desserts. With fresh ingredients and island-style creations, every bite promises a memorable dining experience.

Seven Brothers

Address: 56-565 Kamehameha Hwy, Kahuku, HI, 96731
Phone: 808-852-0040

Owned by the Hanemann brothers, this famous burger spot serves fresh, large burgers with island toppings like avocado, grilled pineapple, and spicy BBQ sauce. Come hungry — these burgers are massive! Locations include Lāʻie, Kahuku, Haleiwa, and Sharks Cove.

Sweet E’s Cafe

Address: 1006 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI, 96816
Phone: 808-737-7771

A local breakfast favorite since 2011, Sweet E’s is often voted one of the best breakfast spots on Oʻahu. The menu features omelets, waffles, pancakes, and other hearty breakfast classics.

DK Steakhouse

Address: 2552 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI, 96815 (Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa)
Phone: 808-931-6280

This locally owned Hawaiian steakhouse specializes in dry-aged steaks using their in-house system. Known for high-quality cuts and local culinary expertise, it’s a perfect spot for a premium dining experience.

About the Author

Antoniette Caryl Yee-Liwanag is a multilingual Filipina with a passion for culture, travel, and food. Fluent in Tagalog, Kapampangan, English, and Spanish, she brings a rich cross-cultural lens to her work at the Polynesian Cultural Center. Through her blog, she shares meaningful moments that highlight global traditions and local flavors.