Honolulu Local Traditional Cuisine Restaurants

If you're famished after a day out on the water, consider getting some local Hawaiian cuisine. The food in Hawaii is very unique, as it is influenced by Hawaiian, American, Chinese, Filipino and many other types of food. You can find local Hawaiian restaurants all over Honolulu; in fact, many restaurants are are just a short walk or drive from local beach parks.

Sam Choy's Breakfast, Lunch & Crab

Sam Choy's Breakfast, Lunch & Crab is a casual dining version of the bigger Sam Choy's restaurant in Diamondhead. As the name suggests, the restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Breakfast items are large and consist of some form of loco moco (usually rice, hamburger patty, egg and gravy) while lunch and dinner specialties include poke, crab and sashimi. The restaurant is also a microbrewery where they brew Big Aloha beer. If you happen to be taking a boat ride leaving from Aloha Tower Pier, consider going a little out of your way to this local gem.

Sam Choy's Breakfast, Lunch & Crab
580 N Nimitz Hwy
Honolulu, HI
96817-5916
Tel: (808) 545-7979

Helena's Hawaiian Food

Helena's is a family owned business in Kalihi serving traditional local fare. It's a small restaurant with just 12 tables, but it has a huge following. It's frequently listed as one of the best Hawaiian restaurants by the Honolulu Advertiser. According to the Advertiser, the restaurant also received the James Beard Award as a "regional treasure." Imu-cooked kalua pig and short ribs are the types of food found at this casual eatery.

Helena's Hawaiian Food
1240 N School St.
Honolulu, HI 96817
Tel:(808) 845-8044

Ono Hawaiian Foods

For those that don't know, the word "ono" is the Hawaiian word for delicious. Ono Hawaiian Foods is a small, casual eatery located in the heart of Waikiki. So popular is Ono Hawaiian Foods that it's not uncommon to see a queue building up outside. Whether you're surfing down in Waikiki or just enjoying the beach, definitely consider stopping by Ono Hawaiian Foods for a local meal. Don't forget to bring cash since it doesn't accept credit cards or checks.

Ono Hawaiian Foods
726 Kapahulu Ave
Honolulu, HI 96816
Tel: (808) 737-2275

Article Written By Shiromi Nassreen

Shiromi Nassreen has been writing professionally since 2005. She specializes in travel and outdoor topics, and her articles have appeared in various print and online publications, including "DISfunkshion Magazine" and Matador Travel. Nassreen holds a Bachelor of Arts in theatre studies from Rose Bruford College of Speech & Drama.

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