A Guide to the Best Places to Eat in Oahu

1. Giovanni's Shrimp Truck

A North Shore icon, Giovanni's Shrimp Truck is a must-visit for its legendary shrimp marinated in a secret garlic sauce. The food truck dining experience encapsulates the North Shore vibe, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Ps. Check out their new location now in Honolulu: 458 Keawe Street on the 2nd floor on the second floor of Hmart.

2. Ted's Bakery

Ted's Bakery is renowned for its pies and hearty plate lunches. Located near Sunset Beach, this bakery offers a variety of local favorites, including loco moco, garlic shrimp, and of course, their famous chocolate haupia cream pie. Ted's casual setting and affordable prices make it a great place to enjoy a meal after a day at the beach. Be sure to slow down as you drive on Kamehameha Hwy - you might miss it!

3. The Beet Box Cafe

I went to the Beet Box Cafe location in Haleiwa back in 2016 (which unfortunately has now closed) and I still think about the pink dragonfruit smoothie and delicious grain bowl. Their location in Kailua is now open, and everyone will enjoy this spot for a healthy lunch including acai bowls, smoothies, and wraps. Grab your food to go before heading to a local waterfall hike!

4. Merriman's Honolulu

Merriman’s is known for its upscale farm-to-table approach showcasing local ingredients. The menu features dishes like macadamia nut-crusted mahi-mahi and kiawe wood-grilled lamb. It's a classic for a reason and it's the restaurant many visitors and locals book for special occasions.

5. Monkeypod (Ko Olina and Waikiki)

The best thing about having two Monkeypod locations on Oahu? They both take reservations! Be sure to snag a reservation at either location for the "best mai tai" in all of Hawaii. From personal experience, I do have to agree it deserves that title. Plus, you're likely to enjoy ocean front views with live music happening on most evenings.

6. Bar Leather Apron

Located in the heart of downtown Honolulu, Bar Leather Apron is renowned for its craftsmanship and extensive whiskey collection - it was the recipient of the 2023 James Bear award for "Most Outstanding Bar." This intimate, speakeasy-style bar offers an impressive menu of innovative cocktails. Highlights include the Smoked Old Fashioned and the Kō Hana Daiquiri, made with local Kō Hana agricole rum.

7. Matsumoto Shave Ice

There are a lot of shave ice options in Hawaii and Matsumoto Shave Ice is THE spot. Known for its extensive flavor options and almost snow-like shave ice, this Haleiwa spot has been cooling off locals and visitors since 1951. I love the liliko'i, guava and mango flavors combined with a mochi topping!

8. Sunrise Shack

Another spot you'll need to slow down on Kamehameha Hwy for or you'll miss the yellow shack. You'll understand why this is the spot surfers meet when they finish their round on the Pipeline. The Sunrise Shack’s Bullet Coffee is a must-try. Made with organic coffee, grass-fed butter and MCT oil, this creamy, rich drink is designed to provide sustained energy and mental clarity. With your bullet coffee and an acai bowl with banana and papaya, topped with granola, fresh fruit and coconut flakes, you'll be ready to take on the day.

9. Haleiwa Joe's

Haleiwa Joe's is open for lunch and dinner with classic Hawaii favorites like pupus including poke, coconut shrimp, sushi and main dishes like the catch of the day and their famous prime rib. Don't miss their Luau Crab Dip with luau leaf, coconut milk, cream cheese and toasted flat bread.

10. Open Air Kitchen at Waimea Valley

This all day cafe focuses on farm-to-table cuisine, using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Grab a coffee, lunch or end the day at the Kikoni bar. There is a lot to do in Waimea Valley including botanical garden tours so plan to make a whole day of this experience.

11. Helena’s Hawaiian Food

Since 1946, Helena's has been serving authentic Hawaiian dishes like Kalua Pig, Lomi Salmon and Short Ribs Pipikaula Style. This is a "come as you are" kind of spot where locals know each other. You'll understand why it's beloved in Honolulu!

12. Roy's Waikiki

As one of the original Roy's locations in the world, Roy's Waikiki has all the usual favorites like miso-glazed fish and an endless sushi menu. It's another great upscale spot for visitors wanting to celebrate a special occasion.