Hi! I'm Gwyneth! I grew up on Oʻahu and still go back as often as I can.
Every time I'm back, I make it my personal mission to eat as much as possible, and over the years I have returned to so many little spots that I absolutely love.
I made this guide to share some of my favorite places with you, but more importantly, to encourage you to support as many of the small, locally owned businesses that make Oʻahu so special. This island is full of so many incredible restaurants, shops, makers, and people, and I hope you'll seek them out, eat lots, and support local while you're here!
Mahalo nui and please mālama i ka ʻāina
Favorite Coffee, Matcha & Breakfast Spots on Oʻahu
Ohana Hui Cafe | One of my favorite Matcha spots on island, their thick cream tops are SO good, and you can't go wrong with any of their flavors.
Arvo Cafe | Try their coffee or matcha chia seed pudding
Onigiri Onibe | They use the freshest fluffiest white rice, and amazing filling. Get anything with an egg yolk, sukiyaki beef, and their tonjiru (pork miso soup).
Musubi Iyasume | You literally can't go wrong with any of their Spam musubis.
For the late risers & post hike meals go to Higoto | Try their fish lovers bento and sushi cups
Okayama Kobo Bakery | Get their salt bread, mentaiko mochi bread, and coffee!
The Best Poke on Oʻahu
Morning Catch | This is my all-time favorite poke spot, they use the FRESHEST fish, and they have amazing toppings like ikura and uni.
Kehau's Kitchen | Pua’a to Da Poke nachos (kalua pork AND poke)
Off the Hook | Pick up a couple pounds of their poke, go to Safeway across the street, and pick up some Maui Sweet Onion chips to eat it with, and a carton of Waiola’s coconut water to pair.
Alicia's Market | Get the roast pork and poke combo.
Casual Local Favorites on Oʻahu
Da Seafood Cartel | Probably my favorite bite on island is the shrimp and white fish ceviche with blue crab dip on a tostada. There’s a couple locations on island in 'Aiea and Haleiwa, and they also sell at the Kaka’ako Farmers Market on Saturdays if you decide to stop there!
Asahi Grill | Oxtail soup, mochiko chicken, katsu, loco moco, literally anything on their menu will heal you. Going there with my mom was one of my favorite memories as a kid.
Helena's Hawaiian Food | Traditional Hawaiian food, a must try when visiting Hawai'i.
Liliha Bakery | A true institution for classic diner-style food.
Date Night & Special Occasion Restaurants on Oʻahu
RedFish | Located inside Wayfinder Waikiki. You must get their POG wings and Crab and Artichoke dip
Hau Tree | I love going here for a fun girls night or date night! Get all dressed up, take pictures at sunset, book a table I for outdoor seating, and order their ube pina coladas!
Kaimukī Shokudō | Try literally as much as you can on the menu!
The Crouching Lion | This spot is a bit further from town, but worth it for the views.
The Best Shave Ice & Desserts on Oʻahu
Asato's Waikīkī | A small scoop shop that specializes in local “kine” sherbert flavors. The owner, Neale, is one of the coolest, most creative and humble people I have ever met. Try out their shave ice omakase, but if you can't, just swing by and try li hing strawberry sherbert.
Waiola Shave Ice | Classic shave ice with really soft ice.
Ice Garden Aiea | A true hole-in-the-wall that's been around for as long as I can remember. They specialize in shave ice served with flan!
Kansai Yamato Café | Fresh mango mochi that tastes like heaven.
Waiahole Poi Factory | I dream about their Sweet Lady of Waiahole (haupia ice cream with warm kulolo crunch cake). The perfect post beach treat, and you can stop into their country store for local souvenirs too!
Leonard’s Bakery | A classic spot for malasadas.
Where I Shop Local on Oʻahu
Small Kine Gift | A cute and whimsy gift shop filled with nostalgic items.
Ted's Jewelry | This place holds a very special place in my heart. Ted has been running his jewelry shop in Kaimuki for decades, and he is the true definition of “Aloha Spirit.” I think his collection of jewelry has probably been around since the 90's, so you will definitely find some one of a kind pieces. If you go, tell him Gwyneth sent you!
Honolulu Pawn Shop | Not actually a pawn shop, rather a really cool locally designed clothing brand
Waiahole Country Store | After picking up the Sweet Lady of Waiahole, stop here for some souvenirs from tons of different local brands. Think hand made clothes, Hawaii themed claw clips, stickers, decor, etc.
Kakaʻako Farmers Market | Only open on Saturdays, but a fun way to try local fruits and foods. Definitely try the Oma’o Man green smoothie!
Ka Makana Aliʻi Market | Located inside the mall in ‘Ewa Beach and open on Wednesdays and Sundays, there's tons of local vendors, with many locally female-owned jewelry and clothing brands that I love. If you get there early, you can also try Haus of Matcha!
Aloha Stadium Swap Meet | This is one of the few “touristy” spots I think is worth it to visit. It's so much fun to see all the random stuff the aunties and uncles are selling, and a lot of it is really cheap!
A Note from Wayfinder Waikiki
A very special mahalo to Gwyneth for sharing the places, flavors, and memories that make Oʻahu feel like home. More than just a list of recommendations, this guide is a reflection of the local businesses, family traditions, and everyday moments that make life in Hawaiʻi so special.
We're grateful she invited us along on her journey through the cafés, restaurants, markets, and hidden gems she returns to time and time again. We hope her stories inspire you to explore a little deeper, support local whenever you can, and create a few favorite memories of your own along the way.
See you out there, and happy wandering.
With aloha,
The Wayfinder Waikiki Team