Best Upscale Hawaiian Restaurants in Honolulu | Upscale Hawaiian Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Hawaiian Restaurants in Honolulu | Upscale Hawaiian Food

• Honolulu Coffee Company — American · rated 5/5: Sunlight streams through the windows of this island-inspired sanctuary, where the rich, nutty aroma of freshly roasted Kona beans fills the air with the warmth of a Hawaiian morning. Guests linger over velvety lattes and vibrant açai bowls topped with tropical fruits, finding a peaceful escape that captures the laid-back elegance and welcoming spirit of the Pacific.
• Momosan Waikiki — Japanese · rated 5/5: Breezy and vibrant, this open-air sanctuary captures the spirited energy of Waikiki with its colorful murals and communal tables that invite lively conversation under the Hawaiian sun. The air hums with the sizzle of charcoal-grilled yakitori and the savory steam rising from deep bowls of rich, complex ramen broth topped with perfectly tender chashu. It is a place where the artistry of an Iron Chef meets the laid-back island lifestyle, offering a soulful retreat for those seeking bold Japanese flavors and a chilled glass of sake just steps from the sand.
• Mānoa Chocolate — American · rated 5/5: This artisanal chocolate atelier invites visitors into a world where the intoxicating scent of roasting cacao meets the lush, tropical bounty of the islands. Each meticulously crafted bar serves as a canvas for Hawaiian flavors, blending smooth, bean-to-bar chocolate with vibrant infusions of sun-drenched mango, tangy passion fruit, and the crystalline crunch of local sea salt. From the tropical brightness of guava to the comforting depth of island-grown coffee, every bite offers an elegant, edible journey through the heart of the Pacific.
• Hideout — American · rated 5/5: Tucked away from the urban bustle, this sun-drenched retreat invites guests to linger over a vibrant brunch that bridges the gap between city comfort and island ease. The air carries the sweet aroma of caramelized French toast and the savory sizzle of pork belly skillets, while plates of rich Loco Moco and velvety eggs Benedict offer a decadent escape for the senses. Whether you are tucking into a hearty breakfast burrito or light, nutty buckwheat pancakes, every bite captures the relaxed, breezy essence of a tropical morning.
• Tamashiro Market — Seafood · rated 5/5: Stepping into this iconic pink landmark feels like entering the vibrant heart of Hawaii’s seafood culture, where the air is thick with the briny scent of the Pacific and the rhythmic sounds of a bustling marketplace. Shimmering displays of fresh-caught fish and jewel-toned poke bowls showcase the ocean’s bounty, inviting guests to experience a storied local tradition where every bite captures the raw, authentic spirit of the islands.
• Musubi Cafe Iyasume — Japanese · rated 4/5: This vibrant, unpretentious gem captures the heart of Hawaiian comfort, drawing guests in with the savory aroma of sizzling Spam and sweet teriyaki glaze. Hand-pressed bundles of warm, seasoned rice are artfully layered with everything from creamy avocado and crisp bacon to tangy plum, all wrapped in a delicate ribbon of nori for the ultimate handheld feast. It is a place where simple ingredients are transformed into nostalgic, umami-rich treasures that offer a true taste of island life in every bite.
• Helena's Hawaiian Food — American · rated 4/5: This legendary Honolulu institution radiates a humble, welcoming warmth, where the savory scent of kiawe-smoked meats fills a space steeped in decades of family tradition. Diners gather over communal plates of tender kalua pig and signature sun-dried pipikaula, balancing rich, smoky flavors with the cool, earthy sweetness of fresh poi and silky coconut haupia. It is a soulful celebration of authentic island heritage, offering a timeless taste of Hawaii that feels less like a restaurant and more like a seat at a cherished family table.
• Young's Fish Market — Seafood · rated 4/5: Steaming bundles of hand-wrapped laulau release fragrant clouds of earthy aroma as you step into this bustling hub of Hawaiian soul food. The counter brims with the vibrant colors of fresh-caught poke and traditional staples, creating a communal atmosphere where the rich heritage of island flavors is served with genuine warmth and local heart.
• Tapas Restaurant & Lanai Bar — Spanish · rated 4/5: Sun-drenched breezes sweep through this vibrant open-air sanctuary, where the rhythmic shake of ice and the hum of social energy define the spirited lanai atmosphere. Guests gather over shared plates and salt-rimmed Li Hing Mui Margaritas, savoring a kaleidoscope of island-inspired flavors that range from the bold Butch Queen to creamy, fruit-laden Lava Flows. This lively retreat captures the essence of a Pacific escape, where hand-crafted Mai Tais and bright Blue Hawaiians turn every afternoon into a celebration of the tropics.
• Honolulu Cookie Company — American · rated 4/5: Stepping into this sun-drenched boutique feels like a warm island embrace, where the sweet, buttery aroma of toasted macadamia nuts and tropical fruits fills the air. Each iconic pineapple-shaped shortbread is a delicate masterclass in texture, offering a crisp, melt-in-your-mouth crunch that comes hand-dipped in velvety chocolate or infused with the essence of vibrant lilikoi and guava. These golden treats capture the spirit of Hawaiian hospitality in every bite, transforming a simple confection into a luxurious, sun-soaked escape for the senses.
• The Hawaiian Pie Company — American · rated 4/5: This charming bakery envelops guests in the comforting aroma of flaky, golden crusts and the bright, tropical perfume of sun-ripened island fruits. Masterfully crafted pies bridge the gap between classic tradition and Pacific flair, layering buttery dough with vibrant fillings like tangy passion pear, silky coconut, and the lush sweetness of pineapple and peach. Every bite captures the essence of a Hawaiian getaway, offering a soulful, hand-crafted experience that turns a simple slice of pie into a celebration of island heritage.
• Fujiya Hawai'i — Japanese · rated 4/5: This beloved local gem invites guests into a world of pillowy textures and vibrant colors, where the art of traditional Japanese-Hawaiian confectionery is celebrated in every hand-shaped morsel. Delicate layers of silken habutae and chewy chi chi dango give way to surprising centers of crunchy peanut butter, tropical haupia, or bright bursts of fresh strawberry and lychee. It is a nostalgic destination where the simple joy of a perfectly crafted mochi box brings together time-honored techniques and the sweet, sun-drenched flavors of the islands.
• Yama's Fish Market — Seafood · rated 4/5: This bustling island staple invites diners into a world of authentic Hawaiian comfort, where the savory aroma of ti-leaf-wrapped lau lau and smoky kalua pig fills the air. Each plate serves as a vibrant mosaic of local tradition, balancing the rich, tender depths of slow-cooked beef stew with the bright, chilled crunch of lomi salmon and glistening scoops of fresh poke. The experience offers a soulful taste of the islands, finished with the cool, velvety sweetness of haupia for a meal that feels like a warm embrace from a local kitchen.
• The Lanai at Mamala Bay — American · rated 4/5: Bathed in the golden light of the Pacific, this open-air haven invites guests to breathe in the salt air while savoring the rich, savory depth of pork adobo fried rice and classic island comfort plates. It is a destination where the clink of ice in a frosted glass provides the rhythmic soundtrack to a leisurely afternoon spent overlooking the shimmering bay. The relaxed, sun-drenched atmosphere captures the true essence of island living, blending bold local flavors with the tranquil beauty of the Hawaiian coastline.
• Tanaka Saimin — Japanese: Steaming bowls of saimin and the savory sizzle of kimchee fried rice define this bustling local gem, where the air is thick with the nostalgic aromas of island comfort food. Guests tuck into hearty mixed plates and towering Korean mocos, while vibrant bites of Okinawan sweet potato tempura add a crispy, colorful crunch to a meal that feels like a warm embrace of Hawaiian tradition.
• 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.
• Kai Coffee — American: This sun-drenched haven celebrates the spirit of the islands, where the intoxicating aroma of freshly roasted 100% Kona and Ka'u beans invites a moment of pure artisanal indulgence. From the velvety richness of a signature Kai Latte to the vibrant, chilled crunch of a fruit-laden açaí bowl, every sip and bite offers a refreshing escape into a world of refined Hawaiian coffee culture.
• 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.
• Uncle Sharkii Poke Bar — Japanese: Brimming with the sun-drenched energy of the islands, this vibrant poke destination invites guests to craft their own tropical escapes through bowls piled high with jewel-toned ahi tuna and crisp, garden-fresh produce. Silky cubes of premium seafood mingle with zesty sauces and crunchy textures, creating a refreshing symphony of flavors that pair perfectly with a chilled, creamy boba milk tea. It is a breezy, modern retreat where the spirit of Aloha is served in every bite, offering a quick yet soul-satisfying journey to the shores of Hawaii.
• Bob's Bar-b-que — American: This bustling local landmark hums with the comforting clatter of a busy kitchen, where the aroma of sizzling breakfast meats and griddled French toast invites diners to pull up a chair and stay a while. From the rich, gravy-drenched layers of a classic Loco Moco to the golden folds of a savory fried rice omelette, every plate serves up a soulful taste of island comfort that feels like a warm, hearty embrace to start the day.
• 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.
• Dean & Deluca — American: This sun-drenched gourmet sanctuary blends the refined elegance of a Parisian bistro with the vibrant, soulful flavors of the islands, creating an atmosphere that feels both sophisticated and welcoming. Diners are treated to an inventive menu where silky truffle vichyssoise and savory Kalua pork polenta eggs benedict share the table with decadent Hawaiian honey waffles and perfectly crisped Hasselback potatoes. It is a place where every plate is a curated work of art, inviting guests to linger over a sensory journey that spans from the deep richness of a French onion gratin to the bright, botanical notes of chilled asparagus soup.
• Aloha Table Waikiki — American: Tucked away in the heart of Waikiki, this breezy open-air retreat captures the spirit of the islands with its sun-drenched terrace and relaxed, tropical charm. The kitchen transforms Hawaiian soul food into an art form, where the rich, savory depth of a signature gravy-drenched Loco Moco meets the bright, zesty crunch of garlic shrimp. Whether sipping a chilled cocktail under the shade of the veranda or sharing plates of kalua pork, guests find a welcoming sanctuary that celebrates the vibrant, melting-pot flavors of modern Honolulu.
• Izakaya Harumi — Japanese: Soft golden light spills from paper lanterns across this lively sanctuary, where the air is thick with the enticing aroma of binchotan charcoal and the convivial hum of a neighborhood gathering. The kitchen turns out a vibrant tapestry of small plates, ranging from charred, umami-rich skewers to delicate crudo, creating a spirited atmosphere where the sake flows as freely as the conversation.
• Musubi Cafe Iyasume — Japanese: This humble, bustling nook captures the heart of Hawaiian comfort, where the sweet-savory aroma of seared Spam and caramelized teriyaki glaze wafts through the air. Skilled hands quickly press warm, seasoned rice into perfect blocks, layering them with everything from fluffy tamago to creamy avocado before wrapping each creation in a crisp, salty ribbon of nori. It is a vibrant sanctuary of island flavors, offering hand-held treasures that provide a nostalgic and satisfying bite perfect for a sun-drenched day by the shore.
• Roy's Hawaii Kai — Seafood: Perched along the serene shores of Maunalua Bay, this iconic flagship invites guests into a bustling, sun-drenched sanctuary where the spirit of aloha meets the sophisticated artistry of Hawaiian Fusion. The open kitchen hums with energy, sending out plates of buttery misoyaki fish and spice-rubbed ahi that harmonize local ingredients with bold, global techniques, all set against the golden backdrop of a breathtaking Pacific sunset.
• 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.
• Nico's Pier 38 — Seafood: Perched on the edge of Honolulu’s bustling harbor, this vibrant waterfront destination immerses guests in the rhythmic pulse of a working pier where the morning’s freshest catch arrives just steps from the kitchen. Sun-drenched tables offer front-row seats to the salt-tinged breeze and swaying masts, providing an atmospheric backdrop for savoring glistening poke bowls and expertly seared ahi that capture the pure, clean flavors of the Pacific.
• Aloha Cones — Japanese: Sun-drenched flavors and the spirit of the islands collide at this vibrant eatery, where glistening cubes of fresh-caught fish are artfully tossed with crisp aromatics and savory glazes to create the ultimate poke bowl. The experience culminates in a celebration of sweetness with towering, snow-like shave ice drizzled in handcrafted tropical syrups, offering a refreshing sanctuary that tastes like a permanent Hawaiian summer.