A visitor to Honolulu can reserve a spot at a luau, enjoy an indulgent hotel brunch—such as the celebrated Orchids service at the Halekulani—or seek out an inventive tiki-themed bar. Yet the city’s food scene is defined not only by its multicultural population but also by restaurateurs and entrepreneurs who creatively work with local produce, proteins and traditional recipes. Neighborhoods like Nuuanu Street and Chinatown, alongside newer enclaves such as SALT, continue to reshape Honolulu’s culinary identity. At the same time, Royal Hawaiian Center—a Waikiki shopping and dining anchor—offers a range of restaurants that reflect the evolution of this cosmopolitan city.
Island Vintage Wine Bar © Elyse Glickman
Island Vintage Wine Bar
Island Vintage Wine Bar blends indoor and outdoor seating, casual furnishings and Japanese lanterns to create a relaxed, lanai-like atmosphere. Its popularity stems from the thoughtful plates and pairings produced by Chef Christine Lee and her team. Rather than relying on typical pupus (appetizers), the kitchen sources ingredients from nearby farms and purveyors to transform familiar flavors into memorable dishes—examples include a vegetarian-style poke, spicy eggplant bites, and inventive cheese and charcuterie boards that showcase local and artisanal items. Because of its focused menu and quality ingredients, last-minute reservations can be hard to secure.
Island Vintage Coffee
As the “mothership” to Island Vintage Wine Bar, Island Vintage Coffee serves exceptional coffee drinks, tropical fruit smoothies and health-conscious breakfasts. It also offers convenient to-go versions of select wine bar dishes and grab-and-go poke plates and salads—perfect for visitors who want high-quality, portable meals while exploring Waikiki.
Wolfgang Steakhouse
Bringing classic New York steakhouse flair to Kalakaua Avenue’s “Golden Mile,” Wolfgang Steakhouse delivers a traditional steakhouse experience with contemporary touches. Standout items include dramatic tomahawk steaks, which are sometimes presented with theatrical cuts, fresh oysters and classic cocktails—appealing to diners seeking a rich, familiar steakhouse menu.
Island Vintage Wine © Elyse Glickman
TsuruTonTan
Originating from Japan’s Kagawa prefecture, TsuruTonTan introduces Honolulu diners to carefully prepared udon soups, sushi and thoughtfully composed appetizers. The restaurant captures a Tokyo street-style energy and emphasizes authenticity, with attention to detail that aims to deliver the true taste of Japan to both local and international guests.
Waikiki Food Hall
The Waikiki Food Hall features an array of mostly Japanese and Japanese-inspired vendors in a relaxed, casual setting that recalls the spirit of the old International Marketplace. The atmosphere is unpretentious and welcoming, with stalls offering a variety of comfort foods. Notable vendors include Five Star Shrimp, known for plate lunches in true Honolulu style; Potama, which offers fresh onigiri with Spam and crisp fries; and Honolulu Burger Company, a local favorite recognized for its classic burgers.
Penny’s Malasadas © Elyse Glickman
Penny’s Malasadas
Located in the center’s Pa’ina Lanai Food Court, Penny’s Malasadas started as a food truck sensation and remains famous for its rich, Philippine-inspired, donut-like pastries. These malasadas are rolled in sugar or cinnamon and filled with a range of creams—coconut, ube, Nutella, classic custard—or a rotating specialty filling. They make an irresistible sweet treat for visitors exploring Waikiki.
The Royal Hawaiian Center continues to showcase how Honolulu’s food culture blends tradition and innovation, offering everything from refined wine-bar pairings to casual, authentic island comfort food. Whether seeking a leisurely brunch, a lively noodle spot, or a quick plate lunch, the center provides convenient access to some of the city’s most interesting flavors.