Waikiki’s best sushi restaurants are numerous. Ahi (yellowfin tuna), aku (skipjack tuna), and tako (octopus) are just a few kinds of fresh seafood caught daily in the beautiful blue waters around Hawaii. So while you’re visiting, why not enjoy locally caught fish rolled up with some nori and sushi rice? Here is our list of the top sushi spots in Waikiki.
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.
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Feature Image: Doraku Waikiki
Doraku Sushi
The first concept of restaurateur Kevin Aoki, this is a very popular spot — as in lines out the door. Doraku is also one of our favorite happy hour destinations with an extensive menu featuring hot food, sushi dishes, as well as alcoholic beverages. Doraku’s complex menu consists of both traditional and fusion creations that satisfy both sushi beginners and connoisseurs. Open Sunday through Thursday 11:30am to 10pm. Friday and Saturday 11:30am to 11pm.
Eating House 1849
2330 Kalakaua Ave #322, Honolulu
808.924.1849
We LOVE the story behind this restaurant’s name – it’s an homage to one of the first restaurants on Oahu. Award-winning chef Roy Yamaguchi honors Hawaii’s history by using the simple flavors of the past in bold modern dishes. Eating House is open daily for dinner 4pm to 9pm. Weekend brunch from 10am to 2pm. Happy hour is 4pm to 5pm.
Furusato Sushi
2424 Kalakaua Ave., Waikiki
808.922.4991
This stylish sushi restaurant is front and center in Waikiki. There’s a wide selection of sushi but This stylish sushi restaurant is front and center in Waikiki. Furusato has a wide selection of sushi but if you’re dining with a partner, opt for the Waikiki Bridge or the Hawaiian Bridge. Both offer a delicious assortment of fresh sashimi and sushi for two to share. Open daily 11:30 am to 10pm.
Sushi Ginza Onodera
808 Kapahulu Ave., Honolulu
808.735.2375
Let’s start with the fact Sushi Ginza Onodera call their chefs, sushi craftsmen… they aim to dazzle the most sophisticated taste buds delivering authentic Edomae style sushi to the world. Open daily for dinner 5pm to 7:30pm. Saturday and Sunday lunch from 11am to 1pm.
Sansei Seafood and Sushi Bar
2552 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu
808.931.6286
Sansei is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Start with one of their award winning appetizers like the panko crusted ahi sashimi or DK’s crab ramen with truffle butter broth and make sure to save room for their extensive sushi with unique dishes like hot sushi. Open daily from 5:30pm to 9:30pm.
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.
