It's fast food � Hawaiian-style! And it's ono! These convenient eateries satisfy local folks with a focus on regional cuisine, including chili and saimin. Plate lunches make for good eating and feature everything from lamb curry to kalua pig to tripe stew. You'll also find shoyu chicken, sweet-and-sour spareribs, and roast turkey to tempt your tastebuds. Fantastic desserts and pastries are reason in themselves for a trip!
Local Expert tip: This is where you go for a local style breakfast.
In tribute to Duke Kahanamoku, Hawaii's renowned swimmer, surfer and Olympic athlete, this casual restaurant offers patrons a wealth of island culture. Memorabilia, live Hawaiian music, and fresh local seafood are among the attractions that have folks returning again and again. Food is served all day, and lunchtime brings fresh fish, steaks, burgers, pizza, and sandwiches. A midday buffet features kalua pork, teriyaki chicken, just-caught fish, and a salad bar. The hula pie, a house special, is not-to-be-missed. Dinner reservations are a must, and this is a perfect place for a fun group dinner or date night. Dress up a bit, but keep it island style.
Recommended for Breakfast/Brunch because: Duke's is famous for serving delicious regional dishes and tropical cocktails in a beautiful, oceanfront location.
Local Expert tip: They do brunch!
Trying to please a number of different tastes? This wonderful, beachfront eatery deftly provides plenty of territory for satisfaction. Throughout the day, you'll find everything from ahi sandwiches to grilled steaks, steamed fish, savory pastas, and roasted chicken. Better yet, fixed-price buffet options ply diners with a wealth of delights at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Find an outdoor table, browse the menu, and enjoy anything you choose, be it Asian, American, Mediterranean, or Hawaiian. Great for groups and families.
Local Expert tip: It's out in Kahala so it's an ideal place to eat at when heading east.
Dining beneath a graceful, arching hau tree by the water � could there be any more gracious setting? This outdoor venue delights diners with its idyllic ambience and then confirms the pleasure with delicious cuisine. Dinner, especially at sunset, is sublime, and fresh fish is de rigueur. Grilled, steamed, or blackened, its delicate flavor matches the setting; you'll also find shrimp and crabcakes to sample. Other enticing options include an amazing rack of lamb and wonderful vegetarian dishes.
Local Expert tip: Make reservations for brunch.
This old-style eatery has tons of character, and you'll enjoy stepping in to watch the short order cooks work their magic. If you want to grab a homey breakfast or a burger, have a seat at the counter and place your order. If you want a slice of pie, savor it there, or have it wrapped up for home. They also sell terrific cakes, flaky pastries, and other baked goods, such as brownies and doughnuts. Their coco puffs � something like profiteroles but with the addition of chocolate pudding � are incredible, but unfortunately, they go fast.
Local Expert tip: A local staple so perfect for those who want to experience what the locals like.
If you're the sort who likes a touch of culinary drama, keep an eye on the open kitchen at this striking restaurant. Wood-burning ovens, a grill, and sizzling woks provide spectacle as the staff prepares roast fish, grilled rack of lamb, and stir-fried lobster. Quality, however, isn't lost amid the machinations; rather, everything is first-rate, especially crisped whole island fish, osso bucco, and ahi tuna in its many incarnations. Terrific views complement the experience, as does an attentive staff. Pricey but worth the expense.
Local Expert tip: A juice, coffee or mimosa is included with brunch.
Boasting lovely views of Diamond Head and an abundance of signature flowers, this celebrated restaurant does everything right. Breakfast each day is an event, whether you opt for a Continental, American, or Japanese morning meal. Sunday brunch, however, is an absolute extravaganza known the island over. Its legion of stations features breakfast favorites and adds in pastries, fruit, hot entrees, soups, salads, fresh fish, and desserts aplenty. Live music adds another layer of sensation, and the entire affair is not-to-be-missed.
Local Expert tip: Come hungry for brunch, they have everything!
At this fantastic caf�, you can either step in for a smoothie or a full-bodied cup or coffee, or you can stay awhile and have a light meal as well. Cr�pes are a specialty, both savory and sweet, and you can also pick up an omelet, salad, sandwich, or stir-fried dish. Cakes and cookies make an appearance as well, as do some great vegetarian options, including vegan, low-fat, and tofu-based fare. Consider Mocha Java a stop-off while you run errands, or make it a destination for a satisfying, tasty meal.
Local Expert tip: Perfect for a sit down breakfast or to take to go.
Bogart's is one of those hole-in-the-wall places that is a tried and true reliable joint for locals in search of that perfect breakfast. Whether taken to eat on the go or eaten at one of their small sidewalk or indoor tables, Bogart's is a not to miss place for anyone vising Honolulu. The tiny cafe has an extensive hand written menu on the wall, and although it's quite varied and long, everything is really good. The coffees are also great and they have every type of espresso you could want. A real hit is the breakfast bagel sandwich, can't go wrong with that.
Recommended for Breakfast/Brunch because: Bogart's is one of the top spots for wonderful coffee, breakfast, brunch and lunch that can be eaten in the small cafe or taken to go.
Local Expert tip: It's a good idea to call ahead and order, they can be quite packed in the mornings.