Honolulu Travel Forum

Hey everyone! I've been in Honolulu for only 2 nights already and I love it! Gorgeous!

Anyways, my hotel is in Waikiki, which is obviously very populated with tourists. I'd like to eat some authentic Hawaiian food but get out of Waikiki. You know, just somewhere where regular folks would go. I have a car, so I can go wherever. Any suggestions? Thank you!

Alan Wong's on King Street is a little pricey but popular.
It may sound strange but a trip to the Ala Moana mall food court is a good stop for a plate lunch and Zippy's on Kapahulu Ave and L&L BBQ on Kuhio.

I was going to say the food court at Ala Moana, too.

Hi Karlie,

I'm not sure if its authentic but when I was there in Sep., locals told me they loved Zippy's (any location) which I never tried.

Are you going to a Luau? That should be authentic. Look for and try some poi where its made and served rather than buying at the grocery store.

Remember to try Teddy's Bigger Burgers! Awesome hamburgers in my opinion.

Have fun out there!

Another in Kailua is Kimo's you may find it called Boots and Kimos so long as you find it for their pancakes with mac nut sauce.
In Haleiwa there are a couple of places besides the shrimp trucks in the area the Kona Cafe is worth a visit and you can do the Blu Water shrimp truck in Waikiki on Kuhio.

There is only one that I find to be the best when I want authentic Hawaiian Food. Ono Hawaiian Foods at 726 Kapahulu Ave in Honolulu, about 10 blocks from Waikiki. Kapahulu is the main street crossing at the Diamond Head direction on Kalakaua Ave in Waikiki and up past the Ala Wai Canal. This restaurant has all the local foods and is open Monday-Saturday, 11 am to 8 pm, closed Sundays. Ono is Hawaiian for delicious,the best, broke your mouth. Aloha.

I would suggest you drive out to the "Like Like Drive Inn" as they serve great Hawaiian foods. Its a favorite of many locals. Visit http://www.sharinghawaii.com/oahu/restaurants?rest=10 for more info on this and other O`ahu restaurants. You will find directions, tel# maps etc. You will also be able to sort by type of cuisine, cost, etc... very useful.