Looking for the best dining experience on the North Shore of Oahu? Whether you are a first-time visitor, part-time resident, or Island foodie, we’ve done the research for you.
But wait, there’s more. We’re here to help demystify some of the unusual words you might see on menus like furikake, laulau and lilikoi — and explain which meat is being served and why. And possibly most importantly of all, provide the fun facts on the origins of local dishes.
Below are our favorite places to get dinner on the North Shore. If you’re happy with your meal, tag us @LocalGetaways on Instagram to share the love.
Feature Image: Beach House by Roy Yamaguchi.
Dinner on the North Shore
66-030 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa
808.637.8005
Founded in 1998, Haleiwa Joes is an established North Shore restaurant that prides itself on fresh, locally sourced cuisine highlighting the best of the Pacific Rim. From the sea try their Black and Blue Ahi Pupu or one of their freshly caught fish entrees, from the land try the Teriyaki Top Sirloin, Mauka Makai (meaning Mountain Ocean in Hawaiian) or locally sourced salads. Situated at the beginning of the “seven-mile miracle” and overlooking the harbor, enjoy the classic Hawaiian-style seafood and cocktails with one of the best sunset views on the island. It’s best to make a reservation, but if a wait is necessary, their front lawn doubles as a rest area with drink service. Open Sunday through Thursday 11:30 am to 9:30 pm, Friday and Saturday 11:30 am to 10pm.
66-145 Kamehameha Hwy Suite 3-1, Haleiwa
808.637.5015
In the heart of Haleiwa town, enjoy dishes from Mauka and Makai (Hawaiian for Mountain to Sea) at Stonefish. Made with quality fresh and locally sourced ingredients try their Garlic Shrimp Pupu or Prime Rib and Tuscan Salmon Entrees while sipping a “Stoned Tai” and listening to live music in their outdoor dining area. With reasonable prices and plenty of GF and Veggie options, Stonefish is an everyone-friendly stop. It is first come first serve, so arrive early to put your name in and grab a drink at the bar or explore historic Haleiwa town as you wait. Open Monday through Sunday through Thursday 8:30 am to 3:30 pm, 4:30 pm to 8:30pm. Friday and Saturday 8:30 am to 3:30 pm, 4:30 pm to 9:30pm.
66-250 Kamehameha Hwy D-101, Haleiwa
808.200.2964
Enjoy Tapas, Mediterranean cuisines, and delicious wines from all over the world at Maya’s. Using locally sourced ingredients to craft non-hawaiian dishes, their euro-centered menu stands out from the other North Shore restaurants. Enjoy Patatas Bravas, Baked Burrata, Hamachi Collar, and a Lamb Shank on their outdoor deck in the warm Oahu breeze. For an unbeatable happy hour, stop by between 5-6 pm, and for dinner, we recommend making reservations as the venue does have limited seating. Open Tuesday through Friday, 11am to 3pm, 5pm to 10 pm, Saturday from 10am to 2pm, 5pm to 10pm, and Sunday 11am to 2pm.
57-091 Kamehameha Hwy, Kahuku
808.293.7697
Bringing the talent of world-famous Chef Roy Yamaguchi to the North Shore, Beach House, located at the Turtle Bay Resort, is one of the best dining experiences on the seven-mile miracle. Situated on the beach, enjoy locally inspired cocktails and fresh Hawaiian cuisine with an ocean breeze. Try the Grilled Lamb Lollipops, Chachi Hamachi Sushi Roll, Misoyaki Deepwater Black Cod, or Paniolo (Hawaiian for Cowboy) Plate. Most importantly make sure to save room for one of their signature desserts – heads up they take 30 min so order early. Arrive before your reservation to grab a sunset drink at the scenic and incredibly Instagrammable Turtle Bay Pool Bar. Beach House is open Monday through Sunday, 11:30 am to 2:30pm, 4:30 to 9 pm.
66 197 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa
For a low-key sit-down dining experience, Seven Brothers in Haleiwa serves up quality grindz (pidgin slang for good food). With multiple locations on the North Shore, the local company has taken over the area with restaurants from Kahuku to Haleiwa with its delicious burgers, shakes, and incredible service. This family business run by (you may have guessed) seven brothers opened their first location at the Kahuku Sugar Mill in 2009 and has seen well-earned success over the years. Stop by to grab a post-beach day meal and with quick service and plenty of seating, there is no need for reservations. Open Monday through Saturday 11am to 9 pm.
66-246 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa
808.451.2699
Focusing on health and the best, locally grown ingredients from the North Shore, Banzai Sushi takes real and raw to a whole new level. Chef Hide is obsessed with quality, and Banzai has been named ”best sushi” by the American Tasting Institute. Their menu is extensive and branches beyond sushi. For those who dare to explore, the specialty Wabi Sabi, Seared Furikake Ahi, Wagyu and Tempura dishes are excellent additions to the table. With limited hours, the restaurant is usually full and the waitlist can get long. Arrive early to put your name down and explore the Haleiwa Shopping Plaza. Open Wednesday through Sunday 4pm to 9 pm.
Did we miss your favorite restaurant?
Our always-hungry team of foodies have compiled this list.
Please let us know if we’ve missed your favorite eat@localgetaways.com.
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