Best Japanese Restaurants in Kalihi-Palama

46 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Yakitori Hachibei - Chinatown Hawaii restaurant

1. Yakitori Hachibei - Chinatown Hawaii

4.8

Exceptional(727)

Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Honolulu

Booked 16 times today

Yakitori Hachibei in Chinatown, Honolulu, is a jewel for authentic Yakitori enthusiasts. Using traditional Hakata techniques, their skilled chefs grill locally-sourced ingredients to perfection, creating a symphony of flavors that truly stand out. Patrons rave about the "best skewers ever," highlighting the smokiness and high-quality meats like tender chicken heart and flavorful beef tongue. The atmosphere is consistently compared to authentic yakitoriya in Japan, enhancing the dining experience. With glowing reviews like "food is so juicy 😋" and accolades for their omakase offerings, Hachibei promises not only a meal but a culinary journey through the heart of Japanese cuisine right in Hawaii.

2. Nami Kaze

4.8

Exceptional(1480)

Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Kalihi-Palama

Booked 57 times today

Nami Kaze in Kalihi-Palama, Honolulu, offers an unparalleled seafood experience that leaves diners raving about its freshness and creativity. Chef Jason Peel skillfully blends local Hawaiian influences with his extensive culinary expertise to create seafood dishes that are both innovative and deeply satisfying. Guests have highlighted the "outstanding cod and lobster pasta" and the "delicious soft shell crab roll," praising the restaurant's ability to deliver "simple elegant cuisine" in a casual yet sophisticated setting. With seafood selections like kanpachi and octopus that are "creative and delicious," and a sushi omakase-style bar on the horizon, Nami Kaze is a must-visit for anyone seeking exceptional seafood. The restaurant has consistently impressed with its "excellent fresh seafood" and "creative, delicious food," making it a standout destination in Honolulu's vibrant dining scene.

A photo of Morimoto Asia - Waikiki restaurant

3. Morimoto Asia - Waikiki

4.5

Awesome(3870)

Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • Waikiki

Booked 70 times today

Morimoto Asia in Waikiki, Honolulu, is a culinary gem renowned for its authentic and high-quality Asian cuisine. Led by the visionary Chef Masaharu Morimoto, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience where guests can indulge in traditional Asian dishes with innovative twists. The restaurant’s special exhibition kitchens provide a captivating view of the culinary artistry, including Peking duck carving and fresh lobster preparations. Patrons rave about the exceptional service and the ambiance that complements the stunning beach views. With dishes like the "grilled miso black cod" and "chocolate sphere," diners consistently praise the delicious flavors and artful presentation. One guest sums it up perfectly: "This place is awesome! The best Asian fare on the island." Morimoto Asia is a must-visit for anyone seeking an unforgettable dining experience in Waikiki.

4. Han no Daidokoro

4.9

Exceptional(665)

Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • Honolulu

Booked 39 times today

Han no Daidokoro in Honolulu is a treasure trove for aficionados of authentic Japanese cuisine, specifically known for its luxurious A5-grade yakiniku. Patrons rave about the "creamy butter-like" taste of the high-quality Wagyu beef sourced directly from Miyazaki, Japan, and the expertly seasoned Washu beef from Oregon. The restaurant offers a sublime dining experience, with glowing recommendations like, "the best table side grilled beef" and service that regularly exceeds expectations. Whether it's an anniversary or a casual outing, Han no Daidokoro delivers an "indulging experience" with its "mouth-watering flavours" in each cut of meat, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking the pinnacle of Japanese culinary excellence in Honolulu.

A photo of Katsumidori Sushi Tokyo restaurant

5. Katsumidori Sushi Tokyo

4.7

Exceptional(1693)

Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Waikiki

Booked 50 times today

At Katsumidori Sushi Tokyo in Waikiki, Honolulu, the essence of top-notch Japanese cuisine is vividly brought to life through its fresh and authentically prepared dishes. Known for offering "the closest experience to sushi in Tokyo," the restaurant is praised for its "high quality sushi with rotating unique fishes" and "the best value for sushi in Waikiki." Diners rave about the vibrant atmosphere and the innovative ordering system, which enhances the dining experience. The remarkable freshness of the seafood, paired with skilled preparation by chefs, consistently impresses patrons. As one reviewer puts it, it’s "totally legit Edomai Tokyo style sushi at an unbelievable price," making Katsumidori a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuine slice of Japanese culinary excellence in Hawaii.

6. ZIGU

4.7

Exceptional(1340)

Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Waikiki

Booked 37 times today

ZIGU in Waikiki, Honolulu, is a beacon of farm-to-table authenticity, seamlessly blending the essence of Japanese cuisine with the freshest local Hawaiian ingredients. Patrons consistently rave about the freshness and innovation in their dishes, with one diner exclaiming, "Everything we ordered was amazingly fresh and flavorful!" The restaurant's commitment to local sourcing not only enhances the culinary experience but also supports the local community. Guests can enjoy their meals in a chic setting that captures the hybrid culture of Japan and Honolulu, making each visit a memorable one. Whether it's the Hawaiian Tuna Cutlet or the unique twist on traditional sake, ZIGU delivers an exceptional farm-to-table experience that is both delicious and sustainably conscious.

7. Nori Bar

4.7

Exceptional(31)

Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Kaka'ako

Booked 17 times today

Nori Bar in Kaka'ako, Honolulu, offers an exceptional Asian cuisine experience, specializing in sushi handrolls that blend the freshness of Hawaiian and Tokyo-sourced seafood with fluffy Koshihikari rice and crisp nori. Praised for its innovative yet authentic approach, Nori Bar has been described as a "hidden sleeper gem" with a "super fresh" and "tasty" menu. Guests rave about the truffle ponzu and the variety of hand rolls, particularly highlighting the blue crab and spicy tuna. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly service complement the high-quality sushi, making Nori Bar a must-visit spot for both traditional and adventurous sushi lovers. According to one glowing review, "The food and drinks were delicious, the service was amazing, and the place was exactly what we expected for a handroll bar."

A photo of STRIPSTEAK Waikiki restaurant

8. STRIPSTEAK Waikiki

4.7

Exceptional(1849)

Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • Waikiki

Booked 21 times today

STRIPSTEAK Waikiki is the epitome of upscale American dining, brilliantly located in the heart of Waikiki, Honolulu. A modern twist on the classic American steakhouse, Chef Michael Mina's creations dazzle, making it a standout destination for both locals and tourists. Reviewers rave about the "exceptional staff" and the "exquisite French fries," which are presented at the start of the meal instead of bread, offering a unique touch. The menu features premium cuts like natural Prime Certified Angus and Japanese A5 Wagyu beef, ensuring an unforgettable culinary experience. With glowing testimonials about the "melting" flavors of the seared wagyu and seafood platters filled with luxury, it's no surprise that guests proclaim, "This is the best steakhouse I’ve been to in many years." Every visit promises a mix of excellent service, phenomenal food, and an elegant yet casual ambiance, making STRIPSTEAK Waikiki a must-visit for anyone craving authentic and high-quality American cuisine.

A photo of Tanaka of Tokyo Central restaurant

9. Tanaka of Tokyo Central

4.6

Exceptional(1083)

Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Waikiki

Booked 47 times today

Tanaka of Tokyo Central, located in the vibrant neighborhood of Waikiki, Honolulu, is a gem for steakhouse enthusiasts seeking an authentic and high-quality dining experience. Known for its exceptional Teppanyaki-style cuisine, this restaurant offers a unique combination of entertainment and culinary delight. Patrons rave about the "excellent" quality of the Wagyu steak and the perfectly seared scallops, with one guest rating the Wagyu an "8/10" and the scallops a "10/10." The atmosphere is consistently described as "inviting" and "fun," making every dining experience memorable. Whether it's a family celebration or a casual dinner, Tanaka of Tokyo Central ensures a "great show" alongside its mouthwatering steaks, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists in Honolulu.

10. Omakase By Aung

4.9

Exceptional(283)

Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • Kaimuki

Booked 4 times today

Omakase by Aung, nestled next to the iconic Waikiki Beach in Honolulu's vibrant Kaimuki neighborhood, offers an unparalleled Creative Japanese dining experience. Renowned for its lively, interactive atmosphere, this restaurant features a 15-course omakase meal that showcases a modern twist on traditional Edomae style sushi. Diners rave about the "over the top delicious" sushi and the unique, fun-filled environment where Chef Aung's passion and creativity shine. "The perfect mix of traditional with a twist," as one diner described. With its BYOB policy, guests can pair their favorite drinks with exquisite dishes, making every meal at Omakase by Aung an unforgettable culinary journey. This exceptional spot not only offers great food but also a joyous experience, as echoed by many who promise to return.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

M
Miltvip
Phoenix / Arizona •7 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
A creative mix of traditional and local ingredients creating a great combination of flavors. Very attentive and pleasant staff made this an enjoyable experience.
More info
ZIGUPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Waikiki
•
4.7
S
Scott
Central Texas •1 review
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Every coarse was filled with flavor and was prepared with skill and excellence. The whole crispy fish was a main coarse second to none! No place in Waikiki can present an experience as perfect as the staff provided.
More info
Morimoto Asia - WaikikiPrice: Very Expensive• Asian• Waikiki
•
4.5
F
Faith
Hawaii •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
I’ve been there several times and servers have always been very good. I’ve always enjoyed everything I’ve ordered. Just wish they’d offer the natto, poke, ginger chicken bento they had years ago during natto week.
More info
Nami KazePrice: Expensive• Seafood• Kalihi-Palama
•
4.8
D
Davidvip
San Francisco Bay Area •20 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Great waiter who was able to direct us to the best cuts of the best beef. Food was outstanding as usual. We never miss this experience when coming to Honolulu.
More info
Han no DaidokoroPrice: Very Expensive• Japanese• Honolulu
•
4.9
J
Jazminevip
Hawaii •2 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 12, 2024
Visited during restaurant week Nov 2024 and got the $50 pre-fixe omakase menu with some additional skewers. The omakase menu is normally $80 so it was such a great value (the restaurant week menu had slightly less items). We sat at the counter and it was great to be able to see the chefs at work! Loved the smoky smell in the air and the overall ambiance of the restaurant. Favorites of the night were the sukiyaki skewers, beef tongue skewers and the salmon, ikura, uni don. This was our third or fourth time back to this restaurant, but it had been about 3-4 years since our last visit. We had a great date night and will definitely be back!
More info
Yakitori Hachibei - Chinatown HawaiiPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Honolulu
•
4.8

Explore OpenTable

Kalihi-Palama

Japanese

Best Japanese Restaurants in Kalihi-Palama

Price

Regions

Neighborhoods

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating Options

Award-winning

Accessibility

46 restaurants available nearby

1. Yakitori Hachibei - Chinatown Hawaii

2. Nami Kaze

3. Morimoto Asia - Waikiki

4. Han no Daidokoro

5. Katsumidori Sushi Tokyo

6. ZIGU

7. Nori Bar

8. STRIPSTEAK Waikiki

9. Tanaka of Tokyo Central

10. Omakase By Aung

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable