Mouthwatering Izakaya in Honolulu

Yakitori Glad

★★★★☆ 3.9 (814) • $$

"We just came from Safeway to grab roast beef & my yogurt and on the way home we stumbled upon this Japanese eatery which is really cool and pretty authentic inside. As for their happy hour and next thing you know we were seated. Lol.We were greeted and the wonderful ladies were so nice, chill and friendly. She took our order with ease and she was also familiar on the menu, great!All our queries so far were answered and was satisfied 'bout it.We ordered a total of 10 items and everything was so Ono.Tori Ponzu (grilled chicken thigh with onion, green onion & ponzu sauce) - this is my least favorite as the chicken meat is so dry.Heart Shio (grilled chicken heart topped with salt) - perfectly cooked but kind'a smell something odd, still enjoyed it.Kimo Tare (grilled chicken liver, dipped in tare sauce) - my favorite! Perfectly cooked and the sauce made everything nice.Buta-Bara Karamiso (grilled pork belly in Karamiso sauce) - grilled perfectly and seasoned just right, enjoyed this one too.Tebasaki Shio (grilled chicken wing seasoned with salt) - cooked right and the simple salt seasoning elevate the flavor.Renkon Kushi (sliced renkon dipped in batter & panko then fried) - a first to me and the flavor is pretty interesting. Reminds me of fried taro.Vegetable Salad (salad topped with onions, baby tomatoes, asparagus in sesame dressing) - tasty and flavorful. The perfect side with all the grilled food that I ordered.Hiyashi Yakoo (tofu, onions, green onions, bonito flakes topped with ponzu sauce) - I've tried this from the past and I preferred the cold version of this. T'was still good though.Pati-Pari KawaSuage (crispy chicken skin, topped with onions, green onions served with side ponzu) - was so good but not that crispy enough for me. I still enjoyed this one though.Overall it was great. The experience was awesome. Love the indoor seating and the ambiance was not too tight and the airflow was pretty good (maybe because it was not crowded at the time). Shoutout to our wonderful server Isabella M., she was extra superb. We were taken care of throughout our dining. Thank you so much!Mahalo for reading & happy juandering fellow Yeeps! Hi"

Fujiyama Texas Hawaii Kushi-Katsu Izakaya

★★★★☆ 4.3 (411) • $$

"Nothing much Texas here...First of all I felt the vibe and asked mom let's go out to eat what you craving...Yuzu Ramen. Knowing also that she don't eat much I didn't want to go to our usual favorite place to k my have her eat half and remembered that they have it here as well.I've tried their udon at the Mo'ili'ili Summer Fest so know that what they make is yummy and after going through their menu we ordered a few items Braised Burdock Root (Gobo) which she also have been craving apparently which was so delicious that came with carrots and lotus root as well and was given a genius portion that really made her happy. Jalapeño Poppers for me which was fresh jalapeños so the heat was definitely there but the cream cheese did balance well but another generous portion of two peppers cut in half. Two orders of Kushi Katsu Oysters as she loves oysters which she says was good but felt it was too small for the price in her opinion but was fried up fresh and and remained hot for quite awhile while we grazed on some of the other items, and our entrees was Yuzu Garlic Ramen for her and Yakisoba for me and as I don't do over easy egg I asked if it could be scrambled which they kindly did and put it on the side but the sauce was so salty I had a difficult time finishing and couldn't while her ramen was nice and refreshing the yuzu broth was so light and spot on I was really impressed and at $12 for this decent sized slightly smaller than the standard bowl was a great deal.These are for dinner and I noticed how each different time of day (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Midnight Dinner) some of the menu options and prices do vary which is quite disappointing which though my experience here was good the vibe here isn't quite like the Japanese izakaya as the staff was literally silent and not the usually enthusiastic greet and while ordered just a few items asking for any type of change felt like it was insulting but I do love the decor but wished they had something else on the single tv besides the surf channel as it didn't feel like it matched the restaurant vibe but know that the food was delicious and will be back to try some other items.Thank you!"

Waikiki Shokudo

★★★★★ 4.6 (58)

"It has to mean something when we visited twice within three days! The first time we came, we sat at the bar. Really great bartender, I didn't catch her name but she was awesome at suggestions on paring sake with food. We ordered just about everything she suggested and we were so pleased that the second time we came we brought more of out family with us to try this place out... along with their 3 liter tower of beer. The location is super inconspicuous but it was worth taking the chance because it had everything we wanted. Great ambiance, super amazing service, and fabulous food!"

Oyster Hale by Crush

★★★★★ 4.7 (102)

"Our first night in Waikiki was great. I picked out Oyster Hale by Crush as our first dinner as I wanted a non-touristy local spot that had a feeling of home and that's what you get here.As you enter you immediately see the seating bar and 3 tables. That's it. Highly recommend making reservations. The one thing this place is known for is their oyster shooters. We ordered both Uni and Caviar Oyster shooters. 3 each hit the spot as our first course.Next we ordered the fresh made ahi poke which was so tender the ahi melted in your mouth. Served with lettuce and sweet onions you could make this your main dish or share like we did. We then ordered the Diamond Head Roll which was fantastic and the uni and caviar on top is a great match and perfect complement to this roll.I asked which sake they would recommend that was sweet as most sake is not sweet like we think of but they pointed me to the Hana Peach Sake and wow it was fantastic. Tasted like a peach cooler of sorts with non of that high alcohol flavor. At 8% ABV you won't be getting a buzz so no worries there.I believe this is a husband wife duo and he is the only chef and she is the only server, dish washer, front of the house person. We loved it here and would recommend this to any of our true Japanese fusion and sushi loving friends. Where is your favorite in Waikiki, drop me a message!5 stars all the way!"

Sushi Izakaya Gaku

★★★★★ 4.5 • $$$$

"Best meal and experience I've had in a while. Very Izakaya type restaurant (hence the name!) that reminded me of Japan.Don't come here for a quiet intimate dinner, come here for a fun evening with great food, great smiling service, and a few drinks. The menu is huge, but of course includes all the standard sashimi, nigiri, and sushi options you would expect. There are lots of creative dishes, but not at the expense of delicious fresh fish and seafood. Everything we ate, and our group of 7 ate a lot!, was delicious. Prices aren't cheap, but they aren't as expensive as other sushi focused restaurants. Come for a good time and leave with a big smile like we all did!"

Tsukuneya Robata Grill

★★★★☆ 3.9 (301) • $$

"A friend introduced me to Tsukuneya when I first moved to Oahu two years ago. After that, it has become our go-to spot when we face the most difficult problem in humen life..."where are we going to eat?"...I could only count a "finger full" of time that it fell through, and it was time when it had A/C failure. Skewers are always tasty and not over seasoned, or too salty by their sauce. Paitan Bijin-ni Nabe is already our favorite and must order. Staffs are always attentive. Curbe appeal might look old, but inside is clean and cozy. HOWEVER, I do wish it could upgrade its A/C system soon. Ice beer helps, but it could only cool down that much."

Zigu

★★★★☆ 4.4 (783) • $$$

"To make this experience memorable ASK TO SIT with DAVID ! He was amazing and made my dinning experience and birthday nothing short of phenomenal. His attention to detail and meticulousness in ensuring we had a great time WAS UNMATCHED!! Sake was exceptional I loved the tuxedo sake super smooth! Otoro special for sashimi was worth every penny ! Sadly they ran out of ahi steak but I heard it's bomb! This place is a definite must try!! Vibes or also on point! **** David brought out a freakin carousel of candles and a sparkler !? Who does that!? THE ULTIMATE BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION! ***How to make a great experience: 1. Sit with David. Your birthday will be the bomb; like mine was 2. Order the special sashimi of the day 3. Order chilled kale noodles so sexy and yummy 4. Get a spicy salmon or tuna roll Thank me later !"

Izakaya Naru

★★★★☆ 4.2 (484) • $$

"This hole-in-the-wall Okinawan Izakaya is small but mighty. And guess what?! They have a free parking lot!It can get a bit busy, especially on the weekends. Everytime I go in, they ask if I have a reservation... so reservations are recommended! For drinks, I'm a fan of the highballs. They are a bit low in alcohol % but at around $8 a drink -- you can have a few throughout the night. Japanese beer more your vibe? How about Sake? They got them all!Izakaya small plates means you can order a lot of different plates. My fav top dishes are the chicken karaage and gyoza. The chicken karaage comes with this delicious tartar sauce that compliments the perfectly crispy yet succulent chicken. The gyoza has that thin and crispy bottom, like a little dumpling skirt. The filling, the wrapper, and sauces -- absolute perfection. This might be a little embarrassing to admit -- but last time we were here we did order two orders of potato salad for the two of us -- it was that good. The gyoza pizza is something you gotta try once, but I'm a bigger fan of their regular gyoza."

Genius Lounge

★★★★☆ 4.1 (610) • $$

"Quick, friendly service in a nice little restaurant on the third floor with outdoor seating. The food came out quickly and I was satisfied with the taste & quality. They also offer happy hour which is always a plus. If you're a flight crew looking for a chill spot to eat & drink, genius is it."

Osaka Teppanyaki & Izakaya Kawano

★★★★☆ 4.1 (213) • $$

"We really enjoyed Izakaya Kawano. They have a lot of variety of izakaya (tapas) to enjoy and share with other people. The inside of the establishment is small, but very homey. We were quite a large party so we decided to make reservations ahead of time because we knew it would get packed in there. They open at 5:00 PM every day and it's good to go early so that there is 1) parking and 2) table availability. This parking lot can get quite packed since it's next to other food establishments and a 7-11 so it can be difficult to find parking during peak hours."

Yakitori Ando

★★★★★ 4.6 (144) • $$$$

"What a unique and special experience. After visiting I get why it's popular with the local chefs and I had to make reservations months ahead.We had the privilege of sitting at the counter and watching chef Ando work. I'm having trouble describing the experience because on one hand it simple, but also elegant. The best I can explain it is the balance in the flavors and each skewer cooked to perfection is the experience.The restaurant is on the smaller side and it's byob. The parking lot is across the road and you pay nominal fee with a QR code at the restaurant. 2 hours was sufficient for our party of 2."

Heart Moon

★★★★☆ 4.2 (20)

"Sun (owner/operator) was super cool. The vibe waschill and everyone seems to speak Mandarin! I'll be back for sure. Be sure to check out darts and the comfy couches."

Camado Ramen Tavern

★★★★☆ 4.2 (328) • $$

"So good! My kids said they want me to remember it next time we visit Waikiki! Enjoyed the Katsu curry, tonkotsu ramen and creamy tan tan ramen and all were so good."

Izakaya 855-Aloha

★★★★★ 4.5 (98)

"The food here was amazing. It's definitely a cooler / more trendy spot. Not on the main strip, it was only a short walk for us from Waikiki besch. We made a last minute reservation but despite the online service saying they had seating available immediately when we arrived they said we had to wait. This was fine though, we went to the bar and got drinks while we waited and we were called for our table only about 15 min later. Bartenders were very friendly and helpful too. It may be a trendy spot but the service was warm. The dining area is sectioned into two areas, one half of it was not open. Based on other photos this often seems to be the case. Anyways. The food. We got one of their specials that night (a wagyu dish) their take on a veggie pancake, and their pickled veg trio. Everything was super delicious. The wagyu was great, cooked perfectly, with a tasty sauce. The vegetable fritter (I don't recall what they called it on the menu) was not what I expected but was really tasty. Perfectly crispy with a nice sauce. The pickled vegetable trio was nice too, really refreshing. Would come again!"

Doraku Sushi Waikiki

★★★★☆ 3.8 • $$

"DORAKU SUSHI was probably the biggest disappointment of the trip. I had high hopes for one of my previously favorite restaurants in Atlanta (randomly they opened a location there) that had shut down during COVID and never reopened. We missed the timing for happy hour that night but we were still willing to try their dinner menu. The smell was a little off-putting inside the restaurant. Not food but not quite sure if it was the smell of seafood or what. Even so, our server was super nice - he was attentive and available until the end when it became nearly impossible to flag him down when it got super busy. I was excited to see some fun items on the menu like the chirashi don, uni & ikura don and the grilled jumbo calamari. The steak fried rice also had a fun table-side presentation. The uni ended up to be a bit much for me. I love uni, but for some reason, this uni was a bit fishier than I'm used to and it was hard to eat just uni and ikura with rice. The chirashi don, however looked excellent. Definitely jealous I didn't order that one. Overall, we were pretty happy with the meal. It was a-ok. Food wasn't mind blowing but still satisfying. Solid 3.5 out of 5 experience. I may come back one day just to check out the happy hour."

XO Restaurant

★★★★★ 4.6 • $$

"Darcie and I went here for Honolulu Restaurant Week 2024 with high hopes. This restaurant seemed to be elevated by its review, so we were excited to give it a try.Located on Waialae between 8th and 9th Avenue, Mauka, it is pretty easy to find. Parking spaces are small and limited.Once inside, it was pretty spacious and the waiter was courteous. From there it all went downhill. When I rate something two stars, all it means is I had a bad experience and won't go back there again EVER, but not so bad that the establishment pissed me off. Granted, other may have great times here, but it wasn't for me (us).1. The beer was warm and this was the final straw for Darcie. Although they comped the beer, the mood was already set.2. My water glass was continuously empty. I drink a lot of water, so take a clue when I need it constantly refilled. 3. Hamachi Crudo was tasty, but a little too salty for my taste. 4. All the other dishes were ok. Didn't stay for the dessert. Had to get out."

Tori Ton

★★★★☆ 4.1 (404) • $$

"The husband made reservations at Tori-Ton for dinner and everything was delicious! After looking over the menu, we ordered several items including the Seared Mackerel Sashimi, Kamameshi with Cod Roe, Mochi Cheese, Quail Eggs, Gizzards and Chicken Skin, and few other items. Food came out in a timely manner and everything tasted well; my favorites included the mochi and quail eggs.Staff was friendly and service was good. Atmosphere is lively and loud, so if you're looking for more a quiet dining experience, this won't be it. Overall, I had a great time and look forward to returning!"

Tokkuri-Tei

★★★★☆ 4.1 • $$

"Did a review two years ago and everything was pretty consistent. Food was good and sushi was fresh. We were placed in the corner near closing time so I was staring at old shelves the entire time. The service was friendly but we had to keep calling them over for refills on water and other stuff. I still like coming here and will dine here when in the area."

Bozu Japanese Restaurant

★★★★★ 4.5 (426) • $$

"Starting off 2025 with a new fave. I've had Bozu bookmarked for ages and were happy to finally have the opportunity to eat here. We did not have reservations but came when they opened at 5pm, and were able to be seated right away, as long as we left by 630pm. Ok! I saw others being turned away while we were there because they quickly got packed! Service was very nice, attentive and friendly. Our sever made great suggestions! Chawanmushi- cold Chawanmushi which is a savory steamed egg topped with ikura, uni, and a dashi ponzu sauce. 8/10 Bozu roll- special roll with ahi sashimi, real crab, cucumber, topped with ikura. 9/10Hamachi Kama- cooked just right with crispy skin and tender meat, we asked for a "smaller" one and it was still quite big. 10/10 Squid tempura with mentaiko mayo- crispy and delicious, the batter had furikake flavoring too and the mentaiko mayo went perfectly with it! 10/10Lobster dynamite- real lobster, slathered with mayo and tobiko. Not my favorite item but I'm not a huge dynamite person to begin with 7/10 Garlic butter ahi- very tender and saucy, the ahi was bathed in a rich and buttery sauce 8/10 Prices are reasonable for the quality and portion. Definitely recommend. I want to come back to try more. Their menu is huge!"

Carp Dori

★★★★☆ 4 (222) • $$

"Carp Dori is in McCully Shopping Center on the top floor. It's located at the end that is opposite of Fook Yuen Seafood Restaurant. They have tables in the main dining room that can accommodate small to medium sized parties. Larger parties could be possible if you have reservations as they probably have to rearrange the tables. We came for lunch and the restaurant filled up quickly shortly after we were seated. Glad we got there early so we could get our drinks and food without waiting too long. It was a quick lunch so we ordered a bottle of sake, a pitcher or beer, 2 Yakitori 5 Skewers + Edamame, Hamachi Sashimi, Kanpachi Sashimi and Tako Wasabi. Price is reasonable and the food was good. Customer service was friendly and we were able to try out a new restaurant for a quick meal. Worth checking out in McCully Shopping Center if you're craving Izakaya."

Izakaya Danji Honolulu

★★★★☆ 3.9 (161) • $$

"This place is one of my favorite izakayas on the island! It's pretty small inside with a couple tables, booths, and bar seating so make sure to call ahead for a reservation. They have a small lot with 5-6 spots and street parking as well. The many times I've been here, their food quality and taste has always been consistent. My all time favorites are the cream croquettes, ankimo (monkfish liver), eihire (dried stingray fin), chicken nanban, egg omelette, and gyoza! Everything is simple, yet flavorful. Drinks are also pretty good. Service is excellent and staff are friendly."

Izakaya Nonbei

★★★★☆ 4.1 (445) • $$

"Just tucked away in Kapahulu, right across safeway is where you can find this place. To be honest, I didn't realize that this place existed until my friend introduced to me. Upon entering, you are greeted by the most friendliest staff. We were seated fairly quickly for 2 people - although we settled for the counter. Side note, if you want a table it's important that you make a reservation!! Food was amazing! We got the most recommended, the wafu steak, deep fried flounder, spicy hamachi roll, and the chawamushi! Honestly everything that we order was amazing and we came out of this place very pleased! Definitely recommend this place who are within the area and is craving some Japanese dishes!"

Izakaya Uosan

★★★★☆ 4.3 (284) • $$$

"Excellent sushi at Uosan! You know it's good, because even on a Monday, this place was packed! We made a reservation for 5pm and enjoyed a seat at the bar. My mom chose to do omakase style, while I ordered specific items off the menu. They don't have a set menu omakase. They just bring out items til you say stop. I enjoyed starting with the daikon salad, which was very refreshing. The hamachi Kama was juicy and paired well with the creamy crab croquette. All the sushi was very fresh! I actually really loved the uni chawanmushi.We finished with the apple brûlée! Service here is excellent. They are very friendly and make great, fresh sushi! They do cover the cost of parking in the lot as well."