10 Delicious Spots in Oahu, Hawaii

Aloha, food lovers! 🌺 Oahu is not just a feast for the eyes with its stunning beaches and lush landscapes—it’s also a paradise for your taste buds. From roadside food trucks to world-class fine dining, the island offers a mouthwatering mix of local Hawaiian flavors, fresh seafood, and global culinary influences.

This blog will delve into Oahu's lively food scene, showcasing all of our favorite spots from our trip, arranged from the least to the most expensive.

1. Matsumoto Shave Ice - an iconic spot on Oahu's North Shore, known for serving refreshing, rainbow-colored shave ice since 1951. Located in the charming town of Haleʻiwa, this family-owned shop offers a variety of tropical flavors like lilikoi (passion fruit), guava, and coconut, with optional toppings like sweet azuki beans, condensed milk, or even ice cream. Perfect for cooling down after a day at the beach or while you're completing an island tour, Matsumoto’s is a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike! 🍧

   
   

   

   
   

2. Foodland - a must-try staple in Hawaii, offering some of the freshest and most flavorful poke on the islands at grocery store prices. With numerous Foodland locations around the island, their poke bar features a variety of options, from classic shoyu ahi to spicy mayo and limu (seaweed) blends. Known for its high-quality, locally sourced fish and customizable selections, Foodland poke is a favorite for both locals and visitors looking for an authentic, yet affordable Hawaiian food experience. They offer "fresh" poke options that are a bit more expensive at around $25.99/pound and the regular is $13.99/pound. We preferred the "fresh" option and did not need a whole pound each. Perfect for a quick, delicious meal or beachside snack! Throughout our trip we enjoyed grabbing a couple containers of poke, furikake wonton chips, and a sweet trip for the road.

   
   

   

   
   

3. Nalu Health Bar & Cafe - a vibrant, locally loved spot in Hawaii known for its fresh, wholesome eats. Our surf instructor suggested Nalu for us to recharge after our surf lessons on Waikiki Beach. Specializing in healthy bowls, wraps, and smoothies, Nalu is famous for its flavorful açaí bowls topped with fresh island fruits, granola, and honey. With a laid-back vibe and commitment to using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, it’s the perfect place to refuel after a surf session or a hike.

   
   

4. Island Brew Coffeehouse - a cozy café in Oahu known for serving locally roasted Hawaiian coffee, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a cup of Kona or Waialua coffee while savoring their fresh pastries, all-day breakfast dishes, or delicious açaí bowls. We hit Island Brew Coffeehouse on our way back to Waikiki from snorkeling in Hanauma Bay. Whether you’re catching up on work or just soaking in the island vibe, Island Brew offers a true taste of Hawaii’s laid-back charm.

   

   
   

5. Jenny's Shrimp Truck - tucked away on Oahu's North Shore, is a hidden gem for seafood lovers. Famous for its generous portions of garlic butter shrimp, this food truck serves up fresh, flavorful dishes that capture the essence of island dining. We chose the Spicy Garlic Shrimp to share. Grab a table or take it to go to enjoy it along the beach. With its casual, beachside vibe and irresistible local flavors, Jenny's is a must-visit spot for anyone craving authentic Hawaiian shrimp plates. 🍤

   

   
   

6. Tonkatsu Tamafuji - located in Honolulu, is a beloved spot for authentic Japanese tonkatsu. Specializing in crispy, golden-fried pork cutlets, the restaurant offers a variety of tonkatsu options, from classic pork to tender chicken, all served with flavorful sides like miso soup, rice, and cabbage. We'd highly recommend making reservation ahead of time to avoid having to wait to walk-in. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and dedication to quality, Tonkatsu Tamafuji is a must-visit for anyone craving a hearty, satisfying meal in Oahu.

   
   

7. ʻŌlili - a chic, farm-to-table restaurant in Honolulu, known for its focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and vibrant flavors. It's located in the back of a grocery store, but don't let the set-up fool you. Offering a menu that blends traditional Hawaiian ingredients with modern culinary techniques, ʻŌlili is celebrated for its creative dishes, beautiful presentation, and commitment to sustainability. Whether you’re enjoying a seasonal cocktail or a carefully crafted entrée, dining at ʻŌlili is a celebration of Hawaii’s diverse food culture.

   
   
   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   
   
   

8. Rigo - a stylish and vibrant restaurant offering a unique fusion of Spanish and Italian cuisine with a modern twist. Known for its wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and flavorful tapas, Rigo combines high-quality ingredients with artistic presentation. This was our first destination after landing in Honolulu and it really set the bar high for our taste buds for the rest of the trip. With its warm ambiance and creative dishes, it’s a must-visit for those seeking a memorable dining experience in Oahu.

   
   
   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   
   
   

9. XO Restaurant - a unique dining experience blending Asian, Hawaiian, and modern American influences, XO offers a creative menu featuring dishes like char siu pork belly and garlic noodles with a gourmet twist. Their menu often varies, but they presently have a $65/person 7-course set menu featuring a wide array of delicious and unique flavors including some of those picture below. With its casual yet refined atmosphere, this eatery delivers a dining experience that’s as unique as it is delicious.

   
   
   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   
   
   

10. Senia - a renowned restaurant known for its inventive and delicious dishes crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Senia offers both an elevated dining experience and a cozy à la carte menu. The tasting menu costs a whopping $225/person. We opted for the a la carte and found it very enjoyable and significantly more affordable. I'd highly recommend making reservations ahead of time to secure your spot. Whether indulging in their tasting menu or savoring à la carte favorites like pork belly or smoked ahi, every dish at Senia is a celebration of Hawaii’s vibrant flavors and world-class culinary artistry.

    
    
    

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

Final Thoughts

Oahu’s food scene offers a truly unforgettable experience, from fresh poke bowls to mouthwatering shave ice and everything in between. Whether you're indulging in local specialties or exploring global flavors, the island’s vibrant culinary landscape has something for every taste. Be sure to savor each bite and immerse yourself in the rich flavors that make Oahu a true food lover's paradise! 🌺🍴