Best Upscale High Protein Restaurants in Honolulu | Upscale & High Protein

30 restaurants in Best Upscale High Protein Restaurants in Honolulu | Upscale & High Protein

• Via Gelato — Italian · rated 5/5: Via Gelato is a vibrant sanctuary of frozen artistry where traditional techniques meet a kaleidoscope of bold, Pacific-inspired flavors. The shop hums with sweet nostalgia as guests discover velvety scoops of ube pandan and mango sticky rice, or delight in the playful textures of chewy mochi and boba swirled into artisanal creams. From the comforting crunch of almond cookies to the deep richness of dark chocolate, every hand-crafted cup offers a whimsical journey through imaginative sweetness.
• Murphy's Bar and Grill — American · rated 5/5: Murphy's Bar and Grill hums with the spirited energy of a classic neighborhood haunt, where the clinking of glasses and the savory scent of sizzling appetizers create an instantly welcoming retreat. The kitchen reimagines comfort food with a playful touch, serving up everything from crispy, spice-dusted wings and golden Irish nachos to the surprising elegance of creamy burrata and tender calamari steaks. Whether sharing a basket of salty soybeans over a cold pint or tucking into juicy sliders at the bar, guests find a lively sanctuary where traditional pub warmth meets a modern, flavorful flair.
• 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.
• monkeypod kitchen — American · rated 4/5: Sun-drenched and spirited, this lively gathering spot captures the essence of island living with its breezy atmosphere and a commitment to handcrafted, locally-sourced fare. The air hums with conversation as guests toast with iconic, foam-topped Mai Tais and share plates of decadent lobster deviled eggs or earthy, velvet-smooth pumpkin patch ravioli. From the smoky char of wood-fired pizzas to the pristine flavors of the day’s fresh catch, every dish celebrates a vibrant bounty in a warm, communal setting.
• Crackin' Kitchen — Seafood · rated 4/5: This vibrant coastal escape invites diners to roll up their sleeves and dive into a sea of bold, island-inspired flavors where the clinking of glasses meets the irresistible aroma of savory spices. From the dramatic heights of chilled seafood towers brimming with fresh oysters to the comforting indulgence of lobster mac ‘n cheese and guava-glazed wings, every dish celebrates a playful fusion of land and sea. It is a high-energy sanctuary where the freshness of the tide is served alongside golden-fried classics, creating a spirited dining experience that feels like a perpetual summer celebration.
• 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.
• UBAE — Filipino · rated 4/5: UBAE is a vibrant sanctuary where the striking royal purple of the Filipino yam is transformed into a stunning array of artisanal confections that are as visually captivating as they are delicious. The air carries the sweet aroma of buttery tarts and soft crinkle cookies, while the signature ube cheesecake offers a velvety, earthy richness that melts effortlessly on the tongue. Each bite, from the silky layers of the FlanBAE to the pillowy softness of the ube mamon, serves as a modern and soulful celebration of island heritage.
• Kūhiō Avenue Food Hall — American · rated 4/5: This vibrant urban hub pulses with social energy, drawing guests into a sun-drenched space where the aroma of toasted corn and zesty lime fills the air. Communal tables overflow with colorful platters of loaded nachos, charred elote, and citrus-bright shrimp ceviche, creating a lively sanctuary where bold Mexican-inspired flavors meet a casual, breezy atmosphere.
• 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.
• 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.
• Da Spot — Middle Eastern: Da Spot is a vibrant culinary crossroads where global flavors meet in a relaxed, sun-drenched setting that invites lingering over shared plates. The kitchen celebrates seasonal freshness through bright, textural contrasts, from the salty char of griddled halloumi paired with crisp asparagus to the cooling elegance of chilled pea soup finished with a swirl of crème fraîche. Whether you’re tucking into a hearty beef and barley bun or savoring delicate whitebait dipped in dill-flecked mayo, every dish feels like a playful discovery of bold, thoughtfully balanced ingredients.
• Appetito Craft Pizza & Wine Bar — Italian: Sunlight dances across this airy, modern retreat where the aroma of artisanal dough and simmering sauces sets the stage for a day-to-night culinary journey. The kitchen masterfully bridges the gap between breezy brunch and sophisticated evening fare, offering vibrant plates like citrus-kissed octopus ceviche and decadent mortadella avocado toast alongside hearty, soul-warming meatballs. It is a place where every bite—from the crunch of golden portobello fries to the tropical sweetness of a paradise waffle—is designed to be savored slowly amidst the clinking of wine glasses and spirited conversation.
• 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.
• Morning Glass Coffee + Cafe — American: Sunlight streams into this airy neighborhood sanctuary, where the rich aroma of artisanal coffee mingles with the comforting scent of golden-brown biscuits and sizzling griddles. The kitchen reimagines morning staples with a playful touch, serving up decadent mac-and-cheese-stuffed pancakes and crackling oatmeal brulée alongside savory, soul-warming fried rice omelettes. Every dish captures a sense of handcrafted warmth, turning a casual neighborhood stop into a vibrant, flavor-filled ritual.
• Legend Seafood Restaurant — Seafood: Steaming bamboo baskets and the earthy fragrance of lotus leaves define the atmosphere of this bustling sanctuary, where the timeless art of dim sum is celebrated with every delicate fold. Diners delight in a vibrant contrast of textures, from the lacy, golden crunch of deep-fried taro puffs to the silky, translucent glide of rice noodle rolls filled with savory char siu. It is a lively space where communal tables buzz with energy over plates of pan-seared turnip cakes and steaming bowls of comforting rice soup, offering a true taste of Cantonese tradition.
• Utage Restaurant & Lounge — Japanese: Stepping into this lively gathering place feels like an invitation to a soulful Okinawan feast, where the air is thick with the savory aroma of simmering broths and vibrant, sizzling stir-fries. The kitchen honors deep-rooted island traditions through comforting bowls of tender soki soba and crisp furikake-crusted ahi, offering a warm sanctuary where every bite celebrates the rustic, nourishing spirit of the Ryukyu Islands.
• 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.
• Artizen by MW — Japanese: This vibrant eatery reimagines island comfort food through a lens of modern artistry, where the air is filled with the savory perfume of garlic-scented shrimp and slow-simmered oxtail soup. Every dish celebrates a symphony of textures, from the delicate, golden crunch of mochi-crusted fillets to the playful snap of bubu arare-coated chicken, creating a dining experience that feels both sophisticated and deeply rooted in local tradition.
• Up Roll Café Honolulu — Japanese: Sun-drenched and spirited, this Honolulu destination transforms the day's freshest catch into a vibrant mosaic of color and flavor. Silky cubes of ahi and buttery salmon are tossed in zesty yuzu or rich garlic shoyu, creating a customizable dining experience where the bright, clean tastes of the Pacific shine in every bowl.
• MW Restaurant — American: This sophisticated haven reimagines island-inspired comfort through a lens of modern culinary artistry, where the vibrant colors of local harvests meet the rich, savory depth of Wagyu and fresh-caught ahi. Guests are treated to a symphony of textures, from the delicate crunch of mochi-crusted kampachi to the silken luxury of miso-honey glazed butterfish, all served in an atmosphere that balances upscale elegance with a warm, welcoming energy.
• Miro Kaimuki — French: Nestled in the heart of a bustling neighborhood, this stylish sanctuary blends minimalist sophistication with a warm, welcoming energy that feels both intimate and celebratory. The culinary experience centers on a rotating prix-fixe menu where seasonal artistry takes center stage, punctuated by the irresistible crunch of their famed crispy potatoes and vibrant, citrus-forward finishes. Behind the bar, a collection of bold, imaginative cocktails—ranging from smoky elixirs to spicy, spirited infusions—adds a layer of modern flair to an evening of refined yet soulful dining.
• Lobster King — Seafood: Stepping into this vibrant culinary hub feels like entering a celebration of East Asian flavors, where the air is thick with the savory aroma of honey-glazed char siu and rich, simmering seafood broths. Guests gather around bustling tables to share golden, crispy gau gee and steaming baskets of mandoo, while the kitchen balances the refreshing crunch of Chinese chicken salads with the luxurious, velvety textures of crab meat and fish maw soup. It is a place where tradition meets a lively, communal energy, offering a rich tapestry of tastes that range from the delicate snap of marinated jellyfish to the smoky depth of a signature BBQ platter.
• 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.
• Restaurant XO — Chinese: Restaurant XO offers a sophisticated playground for the palate where bold global influences and whimsical artistry collide in every meticulously plated dish. The kitchen transforms familiar comforts into elevated experiences, pairing the savory intensity of adobo-spiced fried chicken with decadent highlights like foie gras over salt-roasted crispy rice and succulent duck brightened by blueberry jam. From the refreshing chill of gazpacho sorbet to the playful charm of chocolate chip bunnies, every bite captures a sense of culinary wonder that lingers long after the final course.
• 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.