Hidden Gems: Some of My Favorite Spots to Eat on Oʻahu

Oʻahu’s food scene is wildly rich — from local grinds to island-style takes on global cuisine. Here are some favorite places that you should drop by, whether you’re on a food tour or just looking for something real and delicious off the beaten path.

1. Waiahole Poi Factory

Location: Windward Oʻahu (check their website for map)

Phone: (808) 239-2222

Why I Love It: This place is iconic for Hawaiian food and a rich cultural legacy. Their menu celebrates traditional Hawaiian dishes with a modern sensibility, using locally-sourced ingredients. It’s not just a tourist stop — the food is thoughtful, genuine, and deeply rooted in aloha and `āina. Perfect for a slower, more reflective meal.

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2. Honolulu Skewer House

Location: 567 Kapahulu Ave Unit 1A, Honolulu, HI 96815

Hours: ~5:00 PM – 11:00 PM most days

Vibe & Why I Love It: This is Chinese-style barbecue skewers, but done super interactively — each table gets a little rotating grill so you can cook your skewers right there. The menu is huge: lamb skewers, beef tendon, chicken hearts, Taiwanese sausage, mushrooms, corn, and more. The flavors are rich, and the two dipping sauces are solid. It’s fun, communal, and a little smoky — great for dinner with friends. Parking is a bit tight (small lot in back + metered street), so try to go early.

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3. Elena’s Filipino (Elena’s Home of Finest Filipino Foods)

Location: 94-866 Moloalo Street, Tropicana Square, Waipahu, HI 96797

Hours: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily

Why It’s Special: Elena’s is a longtime staple for Filipino comfort food — think adobo fried rice, lumpia, hearty soups, and breakfast silogs. Their Pork Adobo Fried Rice Omelette is a standout, wrapped in a thin egg crepe. It’s very homey, very local, and perfect for a takeout lunch or a filling, no-frills dinner. There’s also a small dining area, but many people grab to-go.

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4. Tori Ton (Yakitori / Izakaya)

Location: 2334 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96826

Hours: ~5:00 PM – 11:00 PM (most nights)

Why It’s a Gem: If you want a laid-back izakaya feel, Tori Ton hits the spot. Their yakitori skewers are really good — chicken belly, meatballs, grilled veggies, plus great sake and small plates. The service is warm, and it feels like you’re tucked into a neighborhood spot more than a tourist trap. Good for date night or a chill dinner with friends.

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5. Lam’s Kitchen (Chinatown)

Location: 1152 Maunakea St, Honolulu, HI 96817

Hours: Daily from ~8:00 AM to ~4:00 PM

Why It’s One of My Favorites: Fresh, handmade noodles — that’s what Lam’s Kitchen is all about. Their Chinese-style noodle shop in Chinatown is super authentic: beef flank & tendon noodles, won ton mein, cheong fun (rice noodle rolls), and more. It’s local, it’s loud in the best way, and the food feels real. Great spot for lunch, especially if you want something filling but not fussy.

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6. Café Maharani

Location: 2509 S. King St, Honolulu, HI 96826

Hours: ~5:00 PM – 8:30 PM daily

Why It Stands Out: This is your go-to for cozy Indian food. Café Maharani blends Northern and Southern Indian flavors, with generous portions and warm hospitality. Whether you’re craving tandoori wings, biryani, stuffed naan, or a creamy curry — this place does it right. Also, their vegetarian options are solid.

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7. Boarded Up by Chubbies (Chubbies Burgers Re-Imagined)

Location: 1108 12th Ave, Honolulu, HI

Hours: Monday–Thursday & Sunday: 10:30 AM–9:00 PM; Friday–Saturday: 10:30 AM–10:00 PM

Why It’s Worth the Mention: If you loved Chubbies Burgers before, you’ll be happy to know their spirit lives on here. The menu has familiar smash burgers (single or double), fries, and nostalgic flavors. Their buns are soft potato-style, and the burger crust still gives you that crispy, caramelized edge. Pro tip: go when they’re not slammed — it can get busy, especially around dinner.

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8. Bocconcino Hawaiʻi

Location: 978 Kawaiahaʻo St, Honolulu, HI 96814

Hours: Wed–Sat, 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM (check their site for updates)

Why It’s a Hidden Italian Gem: Bocconcino is more than just a sandwich shop — it’s a full Italian deli & mozzarella factory. Their paninis are next level: prosciutto, mortadella, stracciatella, pistachio crema, grilled eggplant — all on freshly baked bread. Their Roman-style “pinsas” (like pizza) are also incredible, and their cheese is made in-house daily. There’s also a little market where you can grab imported Italian products, olives, wine — perfect for a picnic or take-home treat.

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9. Shabuya Hot Pot — Ala Moana Center

Location: Ala Moana Shopping Center, 2nd Floor (Makai Market level)

Hours:

• Mon–Fri: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

• Sat–Sun: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM

(Last seating typically 1 hour before closing)

Why It’s Worth It:

Shabuya is a build-your-own hot pot experience with all-you-can-eat meats, veggies, noodles, and broths. You choose your broth, load up your trays, and cook everything right at your table. It’s clean, consistent, and surprisingly affordable for AYCE on Oʻahu.

• Great for groups

• Wide selection of meats (beef brisket, pork belly, chicken, lamb when available)

• Self-serve sauce bar

• Fresh veggies + noodles + seafood options

The lines can get long during dinner hours, so going early is the move.

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10. Asahi Grill (Waialae Location)

Location: 2919 Kapiolani Blvd (Waialae area), Honolulu, HI

Hours: Usually 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM (varies slightly by day)

What Makes It Great:

Asahi Grill is known across the island for local comfort food, and the Waialae location has some special menu highlights you can’t get everywhere.

Must-tries:

• Oxtail Soup — rich, deeply flavorful broth with peanuts, ginger, green onion, and tender oxtail. A true Hawai‘i classic.

• Pork Belly Lechon (Waialae location only) — crispy skin, juicy pork, and the perfect balance of savory + fatty. This version is unique to this location and absolutely worth the trip.

• Loco moco, teri beef, and fried rice are also solid choices.

It’s casual, local, and always hits the spot when you want something filling after a long day exploring.