For those of you who are (or aren’t) familiar with the beautiful scenery and culture of the Hawaiian Islands, you’re in for a treat. There is truly nothing like Hawaii, and one of my favorite islands and cities is Honolulu, Oahu. They have the best beaches, the best drinks, the best views, and the best food! I mean they are the capital of Hawaii and there’s gotta be a reason why….  You haven’t traveled to Honolulu if you haven’t tried these fantastic local spots.  Follow along below for Honolulu’s Best Local Eats For An Island Stay. 

Barefoot Beach Cafe

Want to have an amazing meal with an even more spectacular view? Barefoot Beach Cafe is an oceanside restaurant in Waikiki that will exceed your expectations. It’s a beloved, casual spot to enjoy some great food with the ambiance of the ocean right at your feet. 2699 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815

Become a part of the local culture with their picnics they have at sunset…

Photo courtesy of Barefoot Beach Cafe

Duke’s Waikiki

A classic many of us have heard about, Duke’s Waikiki in Honolulu is definitely a must try when visiting the island. Known for it’s popular beachfront location, delicious surf and turf food, and spectacular tiki drinks, Duke’s never disappoints. I recently visited during my Thanksgiving 2021 trip and had the most amazing Thanksgiving Brunch at Dukes. 2335 Kalakaua Ave #116, Honolulu, HI 96815

They have amazing Mai Tai’s Duke’s… stay tuned for a Best Mai Tai’s post coming soon!

I was able to have an amazing Thanksgiving meal thanks to Duke’s.

And of course you can’t possibly leave Honolulu without eating a Hula Pie! This is THE Dessert to get when you visit Duke’s.

Fête Restaurant

Fête Restaurant is a seasonal New American neighborhood restaurant with local eats that will blow your mind. The classic restaurant meets island flavors in this unique fusion spot. It really is one of Honolulu’s Best Local Eats and was suggested to me by Bill Price (A Honlulu Local) who also owns Three Sticks Wines (one of my FAV Sonoma Wineries), Kistler Wines and Gary Farrell Wines. Not only does he have great taste in wine but also great food! Thanks for the hot tip Bill. 2 N Hotel St, Honolulu, HI 96817

Photo Courtesy of Fete Restaurant

Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck

Now have you ever really visited Honolulu if you haven’t stopped by Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck? For all my shrimp lovers, there is no better spot to get the famous shrimp than Giovanni’s. Best to plan to visit this place since it is a beloved hot spot on the island that always has a line. 56-505 Kamehameha Hwy, Kahuku, HI 96731

Photo Courtesy of Giovanni’s

HeyDey

Hawaiian fruit, sandwiches, drinks, baked goods, and more, Heydey is a great local restaurant for everyone. This spot is located in the White Sands Hotel and never disappoints. The handcrafted cocktails here are fabulous! 431 Nohonani St, Honolulu, HI 96815

Photo Courtesy of Heydey.

Maguro Spot

If you’re looking for the best and freshest poke in Honolulu, The Maguro Spot is where to go. With fresh fish and delicious flavors, you can’t go wrong with this hot spot. They have great staff and is a must visit when traveling to the island. 2441 Kūhiō Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815

Photo Courtesy of Maguro Spot

Pig and the Lady

Take a seat at Pig and the Lady for modern and fresh Vietnamese food like no other. This local spot has lively settings with communal tables for friends and family to enjoy. 83 N King St, Honolulu, HI 96817

Photo Courtesy of Pig and the Lady

Sansei Sushi

Hawaii has some of the best sushi I’ever had, and is as close to real authentic Japanese sushi as you can get without leaving the States. Sansei Sushi has a wide variety of options on their menu that will not disappoint and is a must try on the island.

JSF Tip: On Sunday evenings they have a happy hour from 5:00-6:30pm (which all the locals seemed to know about and enjoy). Book a table to take advantage of the happy hour prices on this great sushi.  2552 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815

Photo Courtesy of Sansei Sushi

Tommy Bahama Restaurant’s Roof Top Sand Bar

You can’t go wrong with the classic Tommy Bahama Restaurant in Waikiki. It is home to some of the best drinks, especially their Mai Thai which is GREAT and you’re in for a treat at this hot spot with their rooftop Sandbar. That’s right they have a sandbar on their rooftop so guests can enjoy a bite or drinks (which is what we did when we visited) and feel as if you’re on the beach sipping a Mai Thai. 298 Beach Walk, Honolulu, HI 96815

Photo Courtesy of Tommy Bahama Restaurant