Best Southwest American Restaurants in Kailua

62 restaurants available nearby

1. Gaslamp

4.7

Exceptional(90)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • Honolulu

Booked 8 times today

At Gaslamp in Honolulu, Kailua, the essence of American cuisine is elevated to an art form, blending traditional flavors with a touch of global sophistication. This swanky jazz lounge and steakhouse offers a unique dining experience that integrates craft cocktails, Japanese wagyu beef, and global seafood offerings, all set to the backdrop of fire dancing and live local jazz. Diners consistently praise the "outstanding" food and atmosphere, highlighting dishes like the "best meat I have ever had" and fresh, "amazing" crab legs. The lively entertainment and luxurious ambiance make Gaslamp the perfect destination for those seeking an exceptional American dining experience, where every bite and moment are worth the indulgence.

2. The Boardroom

4.1

Excellent(270)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Kailua

Booked 10 times today

The Boardroom in Kailua is a celebrated haven for Cocktail Bar enthusiasts, renowned for its masterful blend of locally inspired libations. Each cocktail is a testament to creativity and local sourcing, with house-made infusions and Hawaiian-grown ingredients that spotlight the region's rich agricultural heritage. Patrons rave about the "craft cocktails that are like art in a glass," and the ambiance that makes every visit memorable. Award-winning mixologist Grant has been highlighted for his "magician-like" skills, ensuring every drink from the Spicy Sandia to the classic Old Fashioned is both unique and delicious. The Boardroom is not just a place to eat and drink; it's an experience, enriched by the vibrant local flavors and exceptional service that make it a must-visit destination in Kailua.

A photo of Formaggio Grill Kailua restaurant

3. Formaggio Grill Kailua

3.9

Excellent(629)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Kailua

Booked 5 times today

Formaggio Grill in Kailua stands out as a beacon of contemporary Italian cuisine with a delightful focus on seafood preparations. Patrons rave about the quality, with one describing the seafood prep as "stunning" and emphasizing the overall food quality as "amazing." This restaurant not only promises a cozy atmosphere enhanced by live music but also prides itself on using fresh, local ingredients that elevate each dish. Whether it's the crispy calamari or the beautifully presented fish tacos, each seafood dish is crafted with care and authenticity, making Formaggio Grill a must-visit for seafood lovers seeking a memorable dining experience in Kailua.

A photo of Monkeypod Kitchen - Waikiki restaurant

4. Monkeypod Kitchen - Waikiki

4.6

Exceptional(2200)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Waikiki

Booked 244 times today

Monkeypod Kitchen in Waikiki epitomizes the essence of Hawaii Regional Cuisine under the expert guidance of celebrated chef Peter Merriman, a pioneer of this flavorful culinary movement. Nestled within the scenic Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort, this restaurant offers a menu that brilliantly reflects the local ethos of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, coupled with inventive dishes that delight the senses. Patrons often rave about their experiences, with one noting, "Best Mai Tais we’ve had on the island and every food item we had was fresh, local sourced product, and tasted amazing!" The commitment to quality and the spectacular waterfront setting make Monkeypod Kitchen a must-visit for authentic, contemporary Hawaiian dining.

A photo of Mariposa at Neiman Marcus - Ala Moana restaurant

5. Mariposa at Neiman Marcus - Ala Moana

4.7

Exceptional(5668)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Honolulu

Booked 95 times today

Mariposa at Neiman Marcus - Ala Moana in Honolulu is a gem for Fusion/Eclectic cuisine enthusiasts, offering a blend of exceptional flavors and culinary innovation. Nestled with a stunning view of Ala Moana Beach Park, diners rave about the “delicious and fun” atmosphere and the “spectacular ocean view” that enhances the dining experience. The restaurant is acclaimed for dishes like the Pan Roasted Scallops and Mango BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich, which are celebrated for their exquisite taste. Reviewers consistently highlight the “outstanding” service and the ambiance that makes every occasion special, from casual lunches to celebratory dinners. Whether it's for the delectable Laksa or the vibrant live music during the Sunset Menu, Mariposa delivers an eclectic culinary adventure that is both memorable and delightful.

A photo of Merriman's Honolulu restaurant

6. Merriman's Honolulu

4.8

Exceptional(4120)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Honolulu

Booked 139 times today

At Merriman's Honolulu, the seafood is not just a dish; it's an experience. Tucked in the vibrant heart of Honolulu, this award-winning restaurant shines, especially with its seafood offerings like the Macadamia Nut Mahi Mahi, which has been hailed as "the best I’ve had anywhere!" The authenticity of its seafood cuisine is evident, as every dish celebrates local flavors and ingredients, right from the ocean to your plate. The restaurant's dedication to quality and freshness aligns with its farm-to-table philosophy, making it a standout in Honolulu's culinary scene. Guests consistently rave about the seafood, noting dishes like the "Fresh Fish Tacos" as "excellent!" and the Kauai lobster as "superb." With its commitment to exceptional service and a lively ambiance, Merriman's Honolulu offers a seafood dining experience that is both delightful and memorable.

A photo of Plumeria Beach House restaurant

7. Plumeria Beach House

4.7

Exceptional(3973)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Honolulu

Booked 54 times today

Plumeria Beach House, nestled in the iconic Kahala Hotel & Resort in Honolulu, offers a delightful blend of Contemporary American cuisine with a unique Hawaiian twist. Executive Chef Jonathan Mizukami, with his Michelin-starred experience, masterfully highlights local Hawaiian ingredients and fresh-caught seafood, creating dishes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in local flavors. Patrons rave about the "outstanding" food and "excellent" service, emphasizing menu highlights like the miso butterfish and the diverse, delicious buffet options. The open-air setting provides breathtaking beachfront views, enhancing each dining experience. Reviews frequently mention the exceptional ambiance and the quality of both the food and service, making Plumeria Beach House a must-visit for those seeking top-notch Contemporary American cuisine in Honolulu.

8. Deck.

4.3

Awesome(3827)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Waikiki

Booked 99 times today

Deck., nestled on the 3rd floor of Queen Kapiʻolani Hotel in Waikiki, Honolulu, is a gem for Contemporary American cuisine with a Pacific twist. The restaurant boasts a stunning open-air setting with panoramic views of the iconic Diamond Head, enhancing the dining experience. Patrons rave about the “excellent food and service” and the freshness of the locally sourced ingredients, creating a menu that's both innovative and comforting. Reviews consistently highlight the “amazing view” and the quality of dishes like the Brunch Burger and the Hi I’m Tom cocktail, making Deck. a must-visit for those seeking an authentic and exquisite Contemporary American dining experience in Hawaiʻi.

9. Fête

4.8

Exceptional(3795)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Honolulu

Booked 65 times today

Fête in Honolulu, a 2022 James Beard Award winner for Best Chef Northwest & Pacific, is a gem for those seeking top-notch American cuisine with a unique twist. Celebrated for its commitment to the farm-to-table movement, Fête blends local Hawaiian flavors with American culinary traditions, creating a vibrant, inventive menu that dazzles diners. Guests rave about the "delicious, fresh, and inventive" dishes and the "outstanding" service. The urban Hawaiian farmhouse ambiance, combined with a well-curated wine list and artisanal cocktails, ensures a dining experience that's both authentic and exceptional. As one review puts it, Fête is "a world-class dining experience" that makes every visit memorable with its "flavour sensations" and "superb service."

A photo of Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar - Waikiki, HI restaurant

10. Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar - Waikiki, HI

4.8

Exceptional(6297)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Waikiki

Booked 117 times today

Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar in Waikiki, HI, is a gem for those seeking authentic Hawaii Regional Cuisine. The restaurant has received glowing accolades for dishes like the "macadamia crusted mahi," described as "the best seafood I’ve ever had!" and the consistently praised crab cakes and coconut shrimp. Beyond the food, the ambiance of rooftop dining coupled with live music and exemplary service makes every meal a delightful experience. Visitors often comment on the quality of the cuisine and the hospitality, noting, "The food was amazing" and "service was impeccable." This hotspot in Waikiki stands out not just for its food but for the entire dining experience, promising satisfaction and a taste of local flavor that keeps guests returning.

‘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.

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Kailua

Mexican

Best Southwest American Restaurants in Kailua

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62 restaurants available nearby

1. Gaslamp

2. The Boardroom

3. Formaggio Grill Kailua

4. Monkeypod Kitchen - Waikiki

5. Mariposa at Neiman Marcus - Ala Moana

6. Merriman's Honolulu

7. Plumeria Beach House

8. Deck.

9. Fête

10. Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar - Waikiki, HI

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