Best Upscale Carnivore Restaurants in Honolulu | Upscale & Carnivore

22 restaurants in Best Upscale Carnivore Restaurants in Honolulu | Upscale & Carnivore

• Patisserie La Palme D'Or — French · rated 5/5: This elegant patisserie invites guests into a world of refined indulgence, where the buttery aroma of freshly baked whole wheat croissants—filled with savory bacon or sweet almond cream—wafts through the air. Delicate fruit tarts and airy strawberry shortcakes showcase a masterful blend of traditional technique and modern artistry, creating a serene sanctuary for those seeking a perfectly flaky, golden-brown escape.
• natuRe waikiki — French · rated 4/5: This sophisticated sanctuary in the heart of Waikiki transforms Hawaii’s local harvest into an art form, where the "Hale" and "Āina" tasting menus offer a poetic tribute to the island’s land and sea. The experience balances modern culinary innovation with a deep respect for nature, inviting guests to savor everything from briny oysters and rich Maui Nui venison pâté en croute to the comforting warmth of house-made sourdough. Every course reflects a refined yet soulful connection to the environment, creating an immersive dining journey that celebrates the true essence of the islands.
• Eggs'n Things Restaurant — American: Sun-drenched and welcoming, this island-inspired haven captures the spirit of aloha through the sweet aroma of griddled batter and the vibrant colors of fresh tropical fruit. Guests indulge in towering stacks of rainbow-hued pancakes alongside savory Pacific staples like rich loco moco and fresh line-caught ahi, creating a bright, soulful dining experience that feels like a permanent Hawaiian vacation. Every plate, from the sizzling Portuguese sausage to the golden-yolked eggs benedict, celebrates a hearty approach to the morning that leaves every visitor feeling nourished and celebrated.
• Eggs n' Things — American: Sun-drenched and welcoming, this island-inspired destination captures the spirit of aloha with a vibrant atmosphere that turns every morning into a tropical getaway. The air carries the sweet scent of golden pancakes topped with a kaleidoscope of fresh fruit, while savory aromas of sizzling Portuguese sausage and rich, gravy-smothered Loco Moco promise a hearty start to the day. From delicate crab cake benedicts to fresh line-caught ahi, each plate celebrates the bold, comforting flavors of the Pacific in a space where casual warmth meets culinary tradition.
• Island Vintage Coffee — American: Sun-drenched and inviting, this island sanctuary envelops guests in the rich, nutty aroma of premium Kona beans and the gentle hum of a bustling morning retreat. Sip on a velvety Volcano Espresso or a vibrant matcha latte paired with bowls of golden organic granola, all while soaking in an atmosphere that celebrates the soulful, laid-back elegance of Hawaiian coffee culture.
• Scratch Kitchen & Bake Shop — American: Sunlight streams through the windows of this artisanal haven, where the comforting hum of a busy kitchen sets the stage for a menu that feels like a daring quest for flavor. Guests are treated to a spectacle of edible artistry, from the intricate, jewel-toned layers of Fortune Gems to the explosive, tropical zest of Jungle Bang Bang, all crafted with a meticulous hand that turns every meal into a winning celebration of taste. This whimsical space invites diners to indulge in a world of culinary magic, where the chewy delight of Mochi Mania 1000 and the legendary richness of Fortune of Olympus transform a simple meal into an unforgettable adventure.
• Berini — Italian: Berini invites diners into a world of refined elegance, where the air is scented with the earthy richness of truffle omelettes and the delicate char of grilled octopus. The kitchen transforms premium ingredients into edible art, from the silky textures of washugyu tartare to the golden, crisp layers of brick-wrapped red sea bream. Whether savoring a chilled onion soup or a vibrant lobster salad, guests experience a masterclass in balance and sophistication that lingers long after the final bite.
• The Sunrise Shack — American: Bathed in the golden glow of early morning, this vibrant coastal retreat invites guests to savor the rich, earthy aroma of freshly ground organic beans. Mindful living takes center stage as eco-friendly bamboo straws and rustic wooden spoons accompany every artisanal brew, creating a breezy, conscious space where the spirit of the islands meets a deep commitment to the earth.
• Pho Viet — Vietnamese: Pho Viet invites diners into a vibrant space where the air is thick with the savory aroma of sizzling Banh Xeo and the fresh, herbal notes of traditional Vietnamese fare. The kitchen excels in the art of the roll, from the delicate crunch of golden-fried spring rolls to the translucent, garden-fresh snap of summer rolls packed with fragrant herbs and tender proteins. Each plate brings together a harmonious balance of textures and temperatures, offering a soulful journey through the bright and bold flavors of Southeast Asia.
• Thai Issan Cuisine II — Thai: The air hums with the sizzle of golden appetizers and the fragrant perfume of lemongrass, drawing guests into a vibrant space where the bold, rustic spirit of Northeastern Thailand takes center stage. Crispy, hand-rolled spring rolls and succulent chicken sateh offer a symphony of textures, while signature stuffed wings and aromatic fish patties deliver a masterclass in the complex balance of sweet, savory, and spicy notes. This lively retreat invites diners to linger over shared platters and sun-drenched flavors, creating a soulful experience that celebrates the art of traditional Thai comfort food.
• Lunar Tea — Chinese: Lunar Tea invites guests into a vibrant, modern space where the comforting aroma of bubbling cheese and toasted garlic mingles with a fresh, contemporary energy. Crispy, spice-dusted fries and zesty buffalo cauliflower provide a playful start to a meal that transitions seamlessly from garden-fresh zoodle salads to artisanal red and white pies baked to golden perfection. Whether you are craving the crunch of a Mediterranean bowl or the savory pull of a classic mozzarella-topped pizza, this neighborhood gem offers a balanced fusion of bold, indulgent flavors and light, nourishing bites.
• Kozo Sushi — Japanese: This vibrant sushi destination brings the spirit of the islands to life through beautifully arranged platters that celebrate the bounty of the sea with a distinct Hawaiian heart. Guests gather over colorful arrays of hand-pressed nigiri and delicate maki, where signature sets like the Aloha and Kama‘aina plates transform a simple meal into a shared communal feast. The experience is one of effortless warmth and coastal freshness, capturing a sense of island hospitality in every meticulously crafted bite.
• Big City Diner — American: This bustling local haunt hums with the vibrant energy of a classic gathering place, where the savory scent of sizzling N.Y. steak and spicy chili fries fills the air. From the crunch of golden calamari tempura to the comforting warmth of an all-day breakfast, every plate captures a playful spirit of fusion that invites friends to linger over shared pupu platters and ice-cold drinks.
• Island Vintage Coffee — American: This sun-drenched sanctuary captures the essence of the islands, drawing guests in with the intoxicating aroma of premium Kona beans and the gentle bustle of a tropical morning. Masterfully roasted Peaberry and Private Reserve blends offer a smooth, sophisticated wake-up call, while vibrant matcha lattes and bowls of golden organic granola provide a fresh, nourishing taste of paradise.
• Highway Inn — American: Stepping into this beloved local landmark feels like a homecoming, where the air is thick with the savory perfume of slow-roasted kalua pig and the smoky char of pulehu ribs. Guests linger over steaming parcels of tender lau lau and rich, velvety squid luau, savoring a soulful menu that honors time-tested Hawaiian traditions alongside contemporary bites like house-cured pipikaula and savory smoked meat flatbreads.
• Ginza Bairin — Japanese: Golden, panko-crusted cutlets take center stage at this refined eatery, where the satisfying crunch of perfectly fried katsu meets the rich, aromatic depth of slow-simmered Japanese curry. The atmosphere hums with a welcoming energy as guests enjoy hearty bowls of katsu-don and innovative island-inspired plates, all anchored by the buttery tenderness of premium Kurobuta pork and artfully prepared starters.
• Koa Pancake House — American: The air at this lively morning destination hums with the savory aroma of sizzling meats and the comforting warmth of a busy kitchen turning out golden, cloud-like omelettes. Whether tucking into the bold, garlic-infused notes of the Vinha D'alhos or the hearty abundance of the High Steaks, diners find themselves immersed in a quintessential breakfast experience where every oversized plate feels like a generous homecoming.
• Sharetea — Chinese: This lively destination serves as a modern sanctuary for tea lovers, where the rhythmic sound of cocktail shakers signals the creation of vibrant, customizable brews. Sun-ripened fruit jams and creamy coconut foams swirl into fragrant infusions of black and green tea, punctuated by the satisfying chew of honey-soaked pearls. From the icy indulgence of a lychee-studded strawberry blend to the comforting richness of a classic milk tea, each cup captures a playful balance of tradition and contemporary flair.
• O'Kims — Korean: Steaming stone pots hiss with the promise of crispy-bottomed bibimbap while the earthy, luxurious aroma of truffle-infused mandoo drifts through this vibrant culinary destination. Here, traditional Korean staples like tender kalbi and pan-seared mackerel are reimagined alongside playful innovations like spicy chicken wing pot pie, offering a soulful dining experience that bridges the gap between heritage and modern creativity.
• Rainbow's Drive Inn — American: This sun-drenched island landmark hums with the nostalgic energy of a classic drive-in, where the savory aroma of charred BBQ meats and rich, velvet-smooth gravy beckons hungry crowds. Heaping plate lunches arrive piled high with island staples like the iconic Loco Moco and golden-fried Mahi Mahi, offering a soul-satisfying taste of Hawaii’s comfort food culture in every hearty, gravy-smothered bite.
• The Dotted Line — American: The Dotted Line serves as a sun-drenched sanctuary where the breezy spirit of the islands meets the refined elegance of a European morning. Diners can lose themselves in the tropical sweetness of coconut-drenched Haupia pancakes or the savory depth of Huli-Huli glazed tips, all while the kitchen balances delicate, fresh crudos with hearty, comforting classics. It is an inviting space that blurs the lines between a relaxed coastal getaway and a sophisticated bistro, making every meal feel like a celebrated escape.
• Broken Rice — Vietnamese: The air at Broken Rice is thick with the sweet, smoky aroma of lemongrass-marinated beef and charred pork chops sizzling over an open flame. Guests gather in a vibrant, welcoming space to enjoy the satisfying crunch of golden spring rolls and the delicate texture of the signature broken rice, beautifully complemented by rich chicken liver pâté and zesty, herb-brightened salads. Each plate serves as a soulful celebration of Vietnamese comfort, balancing the rustic charm of traditional grains with the bold, bright flavors of a bustling street-side kitchen.