The Nobu mystique is alive and well at this Honolulu outpost, which counts Robert De Niro among its owners. Even without a celebrity connection, the restaurant would be a culinary destination, courtesy of chef Nobu Matsuhisa's spectacular food and the place's careful service. Sushi and saké get lots of attention, but so, too, do tobanyaki and tempura selections. Omakase dinners are popular as well, especially when you want to splurge. Quality does come at a price, so be forewarned, but it's hard to bypass Nobu when you crave excellent Japanese fare. The ambiance is a balance between dark and mysterious, and crisp and refreshing.
Recommended for Japanese because: Sleek. Delicious. Modern. Fun. Words that all describe Nobu Waikiki.
Local Expert tip: Make reservations.
Although prices run a bit steep, no one can quibble over the quality of Suntory's food or its terrific preparation. Authentic cuisine draws on the best culinary traditions, and rooms devoted to sushi, shabu shabu, and the like are set aside for themed dining. For groups looking to share flavor and engage in a fun and flavorful night, shabu shabu is the way to go In addition to the impeccable raw cuisine and hot-stock-cooked dishes, patrons can also count on teppanyaki and tempura items. All of the fish is fresh and locally caught. The restaurant's interior is stunning and provides an apt backdrop for the spectacular food.
Recommended for Japanese because: Authentic Japanese dishes, from shabu-shabu to sushi, teppanyaki and elegant kaiseki dinners.
Local Expert tip: Don't forget to make reservations for Suntory's.
Sushi, sushi, and more sushi - all made from locally caught fresh fish and seafood can be found at the North Shore's Banzai Sushi Bar. And yes, there's definitely a full bar boasting a varies amount of beers, wine and specialty cocktails. Live music happens throughout the week and it's best to check beforehand what's going on that night. In addition to the delicious menu and casual Hawaiian ambiance, Banzai Sushi is also a hot spot for nightlife. From a mellow bar scene to wild dance parties boasting unique and fun themes, Banzai Sushi is an all around fun place. Cs
Recommended for Japanese because: Banzai Sushi blends amazing Japanese food and unique nightlife on the North Shore of Oahu.
Local Expert tip: Happy hour is 5 to 6 p.m. daily and they don't take reservations on Friday and Saturday.
Yanagi's been around for decades and is a favorite destination of celebs, so it's frequently crowded, especially at dinner. That's hardly a surprise when you consider its impeccable food and convivial atmosphere. Sushi is outstanding, and the chefs take great pride in their skills. Table service is also available, and folks take advantage of cooked dishes, like shabu shabu, tempura, and teriyaki items. Great sakes and late-night hours add to the appeal, and lunch is a more affordable option that offers fewer crowds. Private dining room separated from the rest of the restaurant with shoji doors make this a unique place to dine.
Recommended for Japanese because: Yanagi Sushi serves up traditional Japanese food in a traditional and fun environment.
Local Expert tip: Call in advance to reserve a private dining room.
In a textural, contemporary space, this well-received restaurant tempts diners with its updated Japanese cuisine. The original location of the expanding chain offers a number of innovations, most notably Kumi's Special, an appetizer composed of halibut, crab, and avocado. Other signature dishes include baked scallops topped with spicy aioli and the Hawaiian roll, a sushi offering that incorporates Spam and pineapple. Naturally, you'll find plenty of seafood, and it all gets a kick from Wasabi's forward-thinking chefs and owners. To add excitement to your dinner, choose a front row seat at the sushi bar and be amazed. You'll be intrigued by — and sold on — their creativity.
Recommended for Japanese because: Wasabi Bistro lends a modern take to traditional Japanese food with an exquisite element to its ambiance.
Local Expert tip: Sit front row at the sushi bar to view the mastery first hand.
It's dinner and entertainment rolled into one at this Japanese hot spot. Vivacious chefs chop, slice, and sauté steak, chicken, shellfish, and vegetables right before your eyes in an exuberant display of teppanyaki cooking. It's just the place to visit if you're in the mood for an evening of sociability and fun. If you need a sushi fix along the way, don't despair — they'll set you up with an assortment of your favorite rolls. The superb bar begins serving drinks at 5pm, including sake and Japanese beer. The fished served on the menu is all fresh and locally caught.
Recommended for Japanese because: After nearly 40 years of exquisite service and food, it's impossible not to love Kobe Steak House.
Local Expert tip: Don't forget to make reservations.
Aficionados clamor to this upscale sushi joint, where everything from crab to sea urchin has a story and a provenance. While you sit at the bar, the chef gifts you with what he desires, so you may end up with scallops, squid, blue-fin, or even monkfish liver. As a result, your palate has to have a wide range and your trust has to be substantial. If both conditions fit, you'll revel in the exquisite offerings and the attention given to everything from the cut of a filet to the texture of the rice. Take a walk from the restaurant around the beautiful sights of Waikiki.
Recommended for Japanese because: Their dishes are comprised of the freshest and locally sourced fish around.
Local Expert tip: Weekends are the most crowded, so make a reservation on these nights.
Traditional Japanese entrees and some of the freshest sushi around are on offer at this resort mainstay. Let superb ocean views soothe you as you indulge in dishes like Asian shrimp cakes and Japanese calamari salad. Inventive sushi rolls include the Sansei Special, a combination of spicy crab, cilantro, fresh cucumber, avocado, and sweet Thai chili sauce. Open from 5:50 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Weekends, Sansei combines amazingly fresh fish with nightlife entertainment that is central to the rest of the Waikiki nightlife. Menu samplers are a great way to span the culinary offerings in a single evening and are available in a wide price range.
Recommended for Japanese because: Open from 5:50 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Weekends, Sansei combines amazingly fresh fish with nightlife entertainment.
Local Expert tip: Make reservations on Weekends.