Imagine enjoying a delicious meal under the warm Hawaiian sun, surrounded by stunning ocean views and the vibrant energy of Waikiki. In this article, we will explore the best outdoor dining options in Waikiki, providing you with a comprehensive guide to indulge in mouthwatering dishes while soaking up the unparalleled beauty of this tropical paradise. From beachfront cafes to rooftop restaurants, this list will help you discover the perfect spot to savor mouthwatering cuisine while immersing yourself in the unique charm of Waikiki. Say aloha to an unforgettable dining experience like no other.
Best Outdoor Dining in Waikiki
If you’re looking for a memorable outdoor dining experience in Waikiki, you’re in luck! The vibrant neighborhood is home to several fantastic restaurants that offer delicious cuisine, breathtaking views, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, mouthwatering Hawaiian dishes, or international flavors, there’s a perfect spot for you. Here are some of the top outdoor dining options in Waikiki that will satisfy your taste buds and provide an unforgettable dining experience.
Duke’s Waikiki
Overview
Duke’s Waikiki is a legendary beachfront restaurant that embodies the true spirit of aloha. Named after the iconic Hawaiian surfer, Duke Kahanamoku, this establishment is known for its laid-back atmosphere, live music, and stunning views of the ocean. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal while taking in the beauty of Waikiki Beach.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere at Duke’s Waikiki is warm and inviting, with a casual beachy vibe. You can dine on the outdoor patio and feel the gentle ocean breeze as you indulge in delicious food and drinks. The restaurant is popular among both locals and tourists, creating a lively and friendly atmosphere that adds to the overall dining experience.
Cuisine
When it comes to cuisine, Duke’s Waikiki offers a diverse menu that highlights the flavors of Hawaii. From fresh seafood to traditional Hawaiian dishes, there’s something for everyone. The restaurant prides itself on sourcing local ingredients and providing guests with a taste of the islands.
Signature Dishes
Some of Duke’s Waikiki’s signature dishes include their famous Hula Pie, a decadent ice cream dessert topped with hot fudge, macadamia nuts, and whipped cream. For a savory option, their Huli Huli Chicken is a must-try. This flavorful dish features marinated chicken grilled to perfection, served with pineapple salsa and steamed white rice.
Reservations
Given its popularity, it’s recommended to make reservations at Duke’s Waikiki, especially for dinner. Reserving a table in advance will ensure that you don’t miss out on the chance to dine at this iconic Waikiki establishment.
Rainbow Lanai
Overview
For a delightful outdoor dining experience with panoramic views of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head, Rainbow Lanai is a top choice. Located at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, this restaurant offers an extensive breakfast buffet in a picturesque setting.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere at Rainbow Lanai is relaxed and family-friendly, making it a great spot to start your day on a positive note. The open-air seating allows you to soak up the beauty of the surroundings while enjoying your meal, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
Cuisine
Rainbow Lanai specializes in serving a delectable breakfast buffet. From fluffy pancakes and made-to-order omelets to fresh fruit and pastries, there’s an array of options to satisfy every breakfast craving. With a focus on quality ingredients and flavorful dishes, Rainbow Lanai provides a memorable start to your day in Waikiki.
Signature Dishes
While Rainbow Lanai is known for its breakfast buffet, their Crab Eggs Benedict stands out as a signature dish. This indulgent creation features poached eggs, crab, avocado, and hollandaise sauce atop an English muffin. The combination of flavors is simply divine and is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Reservations
Reservations are recommended at Rainbow Lanai, especially during peak breakfast hours. Guarantee your spot at this popular spot by making a reservation ahead of time and ensuring a seamless start to your day.
Merriman’s Honolulu
Overview
Nestled in the heart of Waikiki, Merriman’s Honolulu is a premier dining destination that showcases Hawaii’s vibrant culinary scene. With its spacious outdoor patio and stunning ocean views, this restaurant offers an exceptional dining experience that combines elegance with a relaxed ambiance.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere at Merriman’s Honolulu is sophisticated yet inviting, making it a perfect choice for a special occasion or a memorable night out. The outdoor seating area allows you to enjoy the tropical breeze and breathtaking sunset views while savoring the culinary delights prepared by the talented chefs.
Cuisine
Merriman’s Honolulu focuses on using local, sustainable ingredients to create dishes that highlight the flavors of Hawaii. Their farm-to-table approach ensures that each dish is fresh, flavorful, and a true reflection of the islands’ culinary heritage. From seafood to grilled meats, the menu offers a range of options to please every palate.
Signature Dishes
One of the standout signature dishes at Merriman’s Honolulu is the Macadamia Nut Crusted Mahi Mahi. This local favorite features a tender and flaky mahi mahi fillet coated with a crunchy macadamia nut crust, accompanied by a tropical fruit salsa and a side of coconut rice. The combination of textures and flavors is a delightful culinary experience.
Reservations
Merriman’s Honolulu is a popular restaurant, so it’s highly recommended to make reservations in advance. By securing your reservation, you’ll have the opportunity to indulge in an extraordinary dining experience at this Waikiki gem.
House Without a Key
Overview
Situated within the iconic Halekulani Hotel, House Without a Key offers an enchanting outdoor dining experience that transports you to a bygone era of Hawaii. With its prime oceanfront location, live music, and breathtaking sunset views, this restaurant captures the essence of Waikiki’s charm.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere at House Without a Key is best described as timeless elegance blended with a relaxed island vibe. The open-air seating allows you to revel in the beauty of the surroundings while enjoying your meal and listening to the soothing sounds of Hawaiian music played by local musicians.
Cuisine
House Without a Key features a menu inspired by the flavors of Hawaii, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and classic island dishes. The chefs pay homage to local ingredients and traditional cooking techniques, resulting in dishes that are rich in flavor and showcase the best of Hawaiian cuisine.
Signature Dishes
One of the must-try signature dishes at House Without a Key is the Kalua Pork Sliders. These delectable sliders feature tender slow-roasted pork, housemade guava barbecue sauce, and pickled Maui onions, all served on a toasted Hawaiian sweet roll. They perfectly capture the essence of Hawaiian flavors in a bite-sized treat.
Reservations
As House Without a Key is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, reservations are highly recommended. Secure your table in advance to ensure that you can enjoy a magical evening of outdoor dining in this iconic Waikiki spot.
Hula Grill Waikiki
Overview
Located in the heart of Waikiki, Hula Grill offers a vibrant and lively setting for outdoor dining. With its beachfront location, laid-back atmosphere, and tropical cocktails, this restaurant is a perfect choice for a casual and enjoyable dining experience.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere at Hula Grill is fun and energetic, with a lively ambiance that reflects the spirit of Hawaii. The open-air seating allows you to soak up the sun and enjoy the beachfront views, while the friendly staff and live music create a festive and welcoming atmosphere.
Cuisine
Hula Grill specializes in serving fresh seafood and island-inspired cuisine. The menu features an array of dishes that showcase the unique flavors of Hawaii, with options for seafood lovers, meat enthusiasts, and vegetarians. The chefs at Hula Grill take pride in using locally-sourced ingredients to create dishes that highlight the essence of Hawaiian cuisine.
Signature Dishes
One of the standout signature dishes at Hula Grill is the Cilantro-Macadamia Nut Crusted Mahi Mahi. This delightful creation features a perfectly cooked mahi mahi fillet coated in a flavorful cilantro and macadamia nut crust, served with jasmine rice and a tropical fruit salsa. The combination of textures and flavors is a true tropical delight.
Reservations
While walk-ins are welcome at Hula Grill, reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak dining hours. By securing a reservation, you can ensure that you have a prime spot to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and delicious food at this Waikiki favorite.
SHOR American Seafood Grill
Overview
Located in the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa, SHOR American Seafood Grill offers a refined and elegant outdoor dining experience. With its oceanfront location, sleek design, and a menu highlighting the freshest catches from local waters, this restaurant is a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere at SHOR American Seafood Grill is sophisticated and upscale, creating a refined dining setting for an unforgettable meal. The outdoor seating area provides breathtaking ocean views and a sense of tranquility, allowing you to relax and savor each bite while being caressed by the ocean breeze.
Cuisine
As the name suggests, SHOR American Seafood Grill specializes in serving top-quality seafood dishes. The menu features an extensive selection of fresh catches, including oysters, lobster, shrimp, and a variety of fish. Each dish is expertly prepared, allowing the natural flavors of the seafood to shine.
Signature Dishes
One of the standout signature dishes at SHOR American Seafood Grill is the Grilled Onaga. This local red snapper is grilled to perfection and served with coconut black rice, baby bok choy, and a citrus butter sauce. The combination of the delicate fish and the flavorful accompaniments creates a harmonious and memorable dining experience.
Reservations
To guarantee a table at SHOR American Seafood Grill, it’s recommended to make reservations in advance. By doing so, you can ensure that you secure a spot at this upscale Waikiki restaurant and indulge in a seafood feast like no other.
Roy’s Waikiki
Overview
Roy’s Waikiki is a renowned restaurant that seamlessly blends Asian and European culinary influences with the vibrant flavors of Hawaii. With its charming outdoor patio, ocean views, and innovative dishes, this establishment offers a unique and memorable dining experience.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere at Roy’s Waikiki is elegant and sophisticated, with a warm and inviting ambiance. The outdoor seating area provides a serene and intimate setting, allowing you to enjoy your meal while being surrounded by the beauty of Waikiki. The attentive staff and impeccable service contribute to the overall dining experience at this esteemed restaurant.
Cuisine
Roy’s Waikiki specializes in a fusion of Asian and European flavors, with a focus on using locally-sourced ingredients. The menu features a range of dishes that showcase Chef Roy Yamaguchi’s innovative approach to cuisine. From fresh seafood to succulent steaks, the menu offers something for every palate.
Signature Dishes
One of the must-try signature dishes at Roy’s Waikiki is the Misoyaki Butterfish. This delicate and buttery fish is marinated in a flavorful miso glaze, then grilled to perfection. Served with a side of jasmine rice and sesame stir-fried vegetables, this dish is a harmonious combination of flavors and textures.
Reservations
Due to its popularity, making reservations at Roy’s Waikiki is highly recommended. By securing a reservation, you’ll have the opportunity to indulge in an extraordinary dining experience and discover why Roy’s has become a beloved name in the culinary scene.
Moku Kitchen
Overview
Bringing a taste of the farm-to-table concept to Waikiki, Moku Kitchen offers an inviting outdoor dining experience with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients and innovative flavors. With its casual atmosphere, craft beers, and crave-worthy dishes, this restaurant is a hit among locals and tourists alike.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere at Moku Kitchen is laid-back and welcoming, with a stylish and modern outdoor seating area. The open-air setting allows you to relax and enjoy your meal while basking in the tropical vibes of Waikiki. The friendly staff and vibrant ambiance create a convivial dining experience.
Cuisine
Moku Kitchen showcases the best of Hawaii’s local produce, incorporating fresh ingredients into their diverse menu. From wood-fired pizzas to succulent roasted meats, the dishes at Moku Kitchen are packed with flavor and creativity. The chefs take pride in supporting local farmers and artisans, ensuring that each dish tells a story.
Signature Dishes
One of the standout signature dishes at Moku Kitchen is the Caramelized Brussels Sprouts. These perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts are tossed in a tangy balsamic glaze and sprinkled with bacon and goat cheese. The combination of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors creates an addictive dish that will have you coming back for more.
Reservations
While Moku Kitchen welcomes walk-ins, reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours. By making a reservation, you can secure a spot at this vibrant Waikiki hotspot and experience the farm-to-table revolution in the heart of Waikiki.
Tiki’s Grill & Bar
Overview
Embodying the true spirit of the islands, Tiki’s Grill & Bar offers a lively and tropical outdoor dining experience in the heart of Waikiki. With its festive atmosphere, live music, and a menu that celebrates Hawaiian flavors, this restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere at Tiki’s Grill & Bar is vibrant and energetic, with a festive ambiance that transports you to a beachside luau. The outdoor seating area allows you to enjoy the warmth of the Hawaiian sun while relishing in the lively atmosphere and tropical cocktails. The friendly staff and live music create a party-like vibe that adds to the overall dining experience.
Cuisine
Tiki’s Grill & Bar specializes in serving classic Hawaiian dishes with a modern twist, using locally-sourced ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. From poke bowls to kalua pork, the menu offers a range of options that capture the essence of Hawaiian cuisine. The chefs at Tiki’s Grill & Bar strive to provide guests with an authentic taste of the islands.
Signature Dishes
A must-try signature dish at Tiki’s Grill & Bar is the Guava BBQ Ribs. These tender and juicy ribs are marinated in a tangy guava barbecue sauce, then slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that is both sweet and savory. Served with a side of macaroni salad and steamed rice, these ribs are a true island favorite.
Reservations
While walk-ins are welcome at Tiki’s Grill & Bar, reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours. By making a reservation, you can ensure that you have a front-row seat to the lively atmosphere and mouthwatering food at this iconic Waikiki establishment.
In conclusion, Waikiki is a haven for outdoor dining enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of restaurants that provide unique and unforgettable dining experiences. From beachfront locations with stunning views to elegant settings showcasing the flavors of Hawaii, these outdoor dining options cater to every taste and preference. Whether you’re indulging in fresh seafood at Duke’s Waikiki or savoring farm-to-table cuisine at Merriman’s Honolulu, you’re guaranteed to have a delightful time dining al fresco in Waikiki. Make reservations, secure your table, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that combines Hawaii’s natural beauty with its vibrant flavors.