Best Hawaii Regional Cuisine Restaurants in Kalihi-Palama

40 restaurants available nearby

1. Pai Honolulu

4.7

Exceptional(550)

Price: Very Expensive

• Hawaii regional cuisine • Honolulu

Booked 1 time today

PAI Honolulu, nestled in the heart of Honolulu, is a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, ingeniously blended with local Hawaiian flavors. Since its inception in 2017 by Chef Kevin J. Lee, the restaurant has earned accolades including Hawaii's Best Restaurant and Best Chef's Tasting Menu. Diners rave about the "exquisite dishes bursting with flavor," praising the creative fusion that Chef Kevin brings to each plate. Reviewers consistently highlight the "artistic, beautiful presentation" and the "complex flavors" that make PAI Honolulu a culinary standout. Whether it’s the smoked akule, cabbage, or the chef’s tasting menu with perfect wine pairings, each dish is a testament to the chef’s passion and mastery, ensuring a memorable dining experience that leaves guests planning their next visit.

2. Lucky Belly

4.6

Exceptional(444)

Price: Moderate

• Hawaii regional cuisine • Honolulu

Booked 19 times today

Lucky Belly in Honolulu's vibrant Chinatown art district is a culinary gem renowned for its exceptional Hawaii Regional Cuisine, blending local flavors with Asian fusion techniques. Diners rave about the "exceptional food," particularly the "crispy duck tacos" and "lobster moco," which are highlighted as must-try dishes. The restaurant's innovative approach to traditional ingredients is evident in its popular Belly Bowl, packed with three types of pork and rich, flavorful broth, creating a "superlative happiness" experience. With its "cool and minimal" decor and "attentive and knowledgeable" service, Lucky Belly continues to impress locals and visitors alike, making it a standout choice for an authentic taste of Hawaii combined with creative culinary twists.

A photo of The Pig and the Lady restaurant

3. The Pig and the Lady

new

4.8

Exceptional(1562)

Price: Expensive

• Hawaii regional cuisine • Downtown

Booked 67 times today

From it’s humble beginnings as a pop-up restaurant, to a farmer"s market stand and now a successful brick-and-mortar eatery, The Pig and the Lady, led by twice-nominated James Beard semifinalist Chef Andrew Le (with help from his family including his mother, Mama Le), cook up what is essentially the family meal in the truest sense -- Exposing Honolulu diners a cross-section of cuisine that has Vietnamese origins, but is eclectic and daring.Chef Le and his team have developed a modern, fresh take on traditional Southeast Asian food, utilizing local products -- serving their famous banh mi and pho, along with new favorites. Le is the one of the few chefs cooking contemporary food built on Southeast Asian flavors that has garnered rave reviews -- a foundation built on delicious memories first introduced by his mother. They are open Monday through Saturday, serving lunch and dinner. You can also still find them at the Farmer’s Markets at Blaisdell, Kailua and KCC.

A photo of Merriman's Honolulu restaurant

4. Merriman's Honolulu

4.8

Exceptional(4044)

Price: Expensive

• Hawaii regional cuisine • Honolulu

Booked 128 times today

At Merriman's Honolulu, the seafood is not just a dish; it's an experience. Tucked in the vibrant heart of Honolulu, this award-winning restaurant shines, especially with its seafood offerings like the Macadamia Nut Mahi Mahi, which has been hailed as "the best I’ve had anywhere!" The authenticity of its seafood cuisine is evident, as every dish celebrates local flavors and ingredients, right from the ocean to your plate. The restaurant's dedication to quality and freshness aligns with its farm-to-table philosophy, making it a standout in Honolulu's culinary scene. Guests consistently rave about the seafood, noting dishes like the "Fresh Fish Tacos" as "excellent!" and the Kauai lobster as "superb." With its commitment to exceptional service and a lively ambiance, Merriman's Honolulu offers a seafood dining experience that is both delightful and memorable.

A photo of Monkeypod Kitchen - Waikiki restaurant

5. Monkeypod Kitchen - Waikiki

4.6

Exceptional(2065)

Price: Moderate

• Hawaii regional cuisine • Waikiki

Booked 213 times today

Monkeypod Kitchen in Waikiki epitomizes the essence of Hawaii Regional Cuisine under the expert guidance of celebrated chef Peter Merriman, a pioneer of this flavorful culinary movement. Nestled within the scenic Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort, this restaurant offers a menu that brilliantly reflects the local ethos of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, coupled with inventive dishes that delight the senses. Patrons often rave about their experiences, with one noting, "Best Mai Tais we’ve had on the island and every food item we had was fresh, local sourced product, and tasted amazing!" The commitment to quality and the spectacular waterfront setting make Monkeypod Kitchen a must-visit for authentic, contemporary Hawaiian dining.

A photo of Hula Grill - Waikiki restaurant

6. Hula Grill - Waikiki

4.7

Exceptional(6537)

Price: Expensive

• Hawaii regional cuisine • Waikiki

Booked 120 times today

Indulge in the exceptional steak cuisine at Hula Grill - Waikiki, where quality meats and authentic flavors are a guarantee. Nestled in the picturesque neighborhood of Waikiki, Honolulu, this restaurant offers a culinary retreat with stunning views of Diamond Head. One recent review raves, "Our group of 4 had the filet, ribeye, and pork chop special and all of them were the best food we'd had in our week on the island." Hula Grill is celebrated for its commitment to using all-natural meats and locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring every dish is fresh and flavorful. With accolades like "best food we’d had in our week on the island" and "fantastic experience," it’s clear why this spot is a must-visit for steak lovers seeking a memorable dining experience in Waikiki.

A photo of Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar - Waikiki, HI restaurant

7. Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar - Waikiki, HI

4.8

Exceptional(6231)

Price: Moderate

• Hawaii regional cuisine • Waikiki

Booked 89 times today

Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar in Waikiki, HI, is a gem for those seeking authentic Hawaii Regional Cuisine. The restaurant has received glowing accolades for dishes like the "macadamia crusted mahi," described as "the best seafood I’ve ever had!" and the consistently praised crab cakes and coconut shrimp. Beyond the food, the ambiance of rooftop dining coupled with live music and exemplary service makes every meal a delightful experience. Visitors often comment on the quality of the cuisine and the hospitality, noting, "The food was amazing" and "service was impeccable." This hotspot in Waikiki stands out not just for its food but for the entire dining experience, promising satisfaction and a taste of local flavor that keeps guests returning.

8. Roy's Waikiki

4.7

Exceptional(6082)

Price: Very Expensive

• Hawaii regional cuisine • Waikiki

Booked 74 times today

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Waikiki Beach Walk, Roy's Waikiki stands out as a gem for steak enthusiasts. Since its opening in 2007, the restaurant has carved a niche for itself by serving up exceptionally well-crafted steaks using the freshest local ingredients. Diners rave about the "amazing" flavors and the "perfect" culinary execution of dishes like the duo of short rib and macadamia crusted mahi mahi. The steak dishes at Roy's Waikiki are not just meals; they are a rich, flavorful experience, enhanced by the restaurant's commitment to quality and service. As one reviewer puts it, the food is "out of this world," making Roy's Waikiki a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic steak experience in Honolulu.

A photo of Eating House 1849 by Roy Yamaguchi - Waikiki, Oahu restaurant

9. Eating House 1849 by Roy Yamaguchi - Waikiki, Oahu

4.7

Exceptional(3002)

Price: Very Expensive

• Hawaii regional cuisine • Waikiki

Booked 31 times today

At Eating House 1849 by Roy Yamaguchi in Waikiki, Honolulu, the Steakhouse cuisine is a testament to culinary excellence. This restaurant serves up a delightful blend of historical Hawaiian flavors and modern culinary innovations, making it a standout dining destination. The filet mignon, praised by diners as "melting in your mouth," highlights the quality and authenticity of its offerings. Guests consistently rave about the food, describing it as "the best meals we’ve had in Oahu" and "absolutely delicious." The ambiance complements the dining experience, creating the perfect backdrop for every occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. Eating House 1849 is truly a culinary gem for Steakhouse enthusiasts looking for top-tier dishes in a relaxed, yet elegant setting.

10. Chef Chai

4.7

Exceptional(1359)

Price: Expensive

• Hawaii regional cuisine • Honolulu

Booked 6 times today

Chef Chai, located in the heart of Honolulu, epitomizes the essence of Fusion / Eclectic cuisine with a unique blend of Asian and Hawaiian flavors. Chef Chai Chaowasaree, a pioneer in Hawaii Regional Cuisine, masterfully combines fresh local ingredients with exotic Asian spices, creating dishes that reflect Oahu's cultural diversity. Patrons consistently rave about the quality and creativity of the food, describing it as "always consistently great" and highlighting specialties like the "deliciously prepared curry lobster tails and steamed lobster with butter." The restaurant's commitment to local farmers and fishermen ensures that every meal is not only tantalizing but also supports the local community. Whether it's the praised early bird specials or the celebrated special occasion buffets, Chef Chai's culinary artistry makes it a standout destination for those seeking a truly exceptional dining experience in Honolulu.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

A
Ava
Detroit / Eastern Michigan •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
We were recommended to try Pig and Lady, and it did not disappoint. We shared the chicken wings and beets to start, I had the Pho 75 (which is huge) and my friend had the epaulette for entrees. Everything had complex and unexpected flavors. Plus excellent service, and the decor is quirky and fun. Would definitely visit regularly if I lived in Honolulu.
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The Pig and the LadyPrice: Expensive• Vietnamese• Downtown
•
4.8
T
Tess
Hawaii •1 review
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Excellent sunset views! Exceptional service, our waiter was friendly, attentive and quick. Loved the ambiance and the live music. We’ll definitely be back.
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Monkeypod Kitchen - WaikikiPrice: Moderate• Hawaii Regional Cuisine• Waikiki
•
4.6
A
AlanMichaelvip
Hawaii •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Wow, where have I been? This is a great, high quality, friendly, tasty, comfortable place to eat. The organic chicken in cast iron was one of the best chicken meals I’ve ever eaten in my life. It reminded me of the chicken at a chain restaurant in Japan called Ajitoya. The Beet salad was one of the first salads I’ve eaten that wasn’t overwhelming with one particular item. Even if you don’t like beets, there is enough of other flavors to fall in love with. It has the perfect mix of flavors that work well together. Chocolate Purse for dessert? Don’t bother sharing, get your own…lol. Only small complaint would be it’s a tad bit on the pricier side, but my family and I thoroughly enjoyed our dinner here. Our server was great, and you really get a sense that the entire staff that works here, works well together. Lots of smiling faces and cohesiveness from the team. I even saw the hostess walking around helping servers to fill up water. This is a top 5 restaurant in the entire Ward/ Waikiki area, don’t hesitate to go, you will enjoy it very much.
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Merriman's HonoluluPrice: Expensive• Hawaii Regional Cuisine• Honolulu
•
4.8
A
Albert
Hawaii •5 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 10, 2024
Our reservation was last minute - after the UH football game. We needed someplace to lick our wounds!! Very happy to get a table at Lucky Belly! Onolicious food! I wanna go back to taste more!
More info
Lucky BellyPrice: Moderate• Asian• Honolulu
•
4.6
G
Genevavip
Hawaii •3 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 3, 2024
Service and support were fantastic! Thank you to the team working last night we had a great experience
More info
Pai HonoluluPrice: Very Expensive• Hawaii Regional Cuisine• Honolulu
•
4.7

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Kalihi-Palama

Hawaii regional cuisine

Best Hawaii Regional Cuisine Restaurants in Kalihi-Palama

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40 restaurants available nearby

1. Pai Honolulu

2. Lucky Belly

3. The Pig and the Lady

4. Merriman's Honolulu

5. Monkeypod Kitchen - Waikiki

6. Hula Grill - Waikiki

7. Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar - Waikiki, HI

8. Roy's Waikiki

9. Eating House 1849 by Roy Yamaguchi - Waikiki, Oahu

10. Chef Chai

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