The Best Asian Food in Oahu – A Local's Guide to Hawaii's Top Asian Eats
Oahu isn’t just about beaches and sunsets — it’s also a food lover’s paradise, especially for fans of Asian cuisine. From authentic Japanese ramen to mouthwatering Korean BBQ and dim sum that rivals Hong Kong, the island is a melting pot of flavors. Whether you’re a tourist trying to taste your way through Hawaii or a local looking for new spots, here’s your ultimate guide to the best Asian food in Oahu, with exact locations, what to order, and why it’s worth the stop.
🌞 The Best Asian Food in Oahu 🍜🌺
A Chill Island Guide to Hawaii’s Top Asian Grinds 🌈🌊
So you just landed, surfboard’s waxed, camera’s ready, and your appetite? STARVING. 😅 You’re in luck — Oahu is stacked with insane Asian food that’ll hit the spot after a beach sesh or hike up Diamond Head. From steamy ramen to sizzling Korean BBQ and crispy dim sum, we’ve got the ultimate island-style breakdown for you 🍽️🔥
Whether you’re a tourist looking for hidden gems 🌺 or a local trying something new 🤙 — this is your guide to the best Asian eats on the island 🌴🍜
🐷 1. The Pig and the Lady – Chinatown
📍 83 N King St, Honolulu
Vietnamese food, but make it funky 🤘 This spot mixes traditional flavors with chef vibes. A Chinatown must.
Don’t skip:
Pho French Dip Banh Mi 🥖🔥
Beef Pho 75 🍜
Laotian Fried Chicken Wings 🍗
🔥 2. Sikdorak – Korean BBQ Vibes
📍 655 Keeaumoku St (near Ala Moana)
Midnight hunger? This is the late-night KBBQ hangout 🌙 Grill your own meats, stack the sides, and leave full.
Must-haves:
Marinated Kalbi (short ribs) 🥩
Spicy Pork Belly 🌶️
Kimchi Pancake 🥬🥞
🍲 3. Marugame Udon – Waikiki’s Noodle King
📍 2310 Kuhio Ave, Waikiki
Fresh hand-pulled udon made right in front of you 👀✨ It’s fast, affordable, and crazy satisfying.
Build your bowl:
Niku Udon (sweet beef) 🥩🍜
Curry Udon 🍛
Shrimp Tempura 🍤 & Soft-Boiled Egg 🥚
🐮 4. Lam’s Kitchen – Chinatown OG
📍 1152 Maunakea St, Honolulu
Classic Cantonese noodles, super local, no frills but all the flavor 😤
Grab these:
Brisket Wonton Noodle Soup 🍜🥢
Roast Duck over Rice 🦆🍚
Dry Char Siu Egg Noodles 🐖
❄️ 5. Ireh Korean Restaurant – Chill, Clean, and Cozy
📍 2299 S King St, Honolulu
For when you want something lighter and clean after all that loco moco. Korean comfort food done right 😌
Order up:
Cold Buckwheat Noodles (Naengmyeon) 🧊🍜
Bibimbap in a stone bowl 🥗🔥
Handmade Soft Tofu Soup 🫕
🍣 6. Rinka – Upscale Japanese, Downtown
📍 1001 Queen St, Honolulu
Special dinner or date night? ✨🍶 This modern spot does high-end Japanese cuisine with style.
Top picks:
Omakase (Chef’s choice) 🎌
Chawanmushi (Steamed egg custard) 🍮
Uni Pasta 🍝🧡
🥟 7. Golden Palace – Dim Sum Legend
📍 111 N King St, Chinatown
Dim sum on push carts? Don’t mind if we do 😍 This spot is casual, quick, and delicious.
Try these:
Pork Siu Mai 🐷
Har Gow (Shrimp Dumpling) 🍤
Baked Manapua 🥯🔥
🌶️ 8. Noods Ramen Bar – Cool Vibes Only
📍 3611 Waialae Ave, Honolulu
This place is all about spicy, flavorful bowls and street-style bites. Ramen after a beach cruise? Yes please 🤙
What to get:
Spicy Miso Ramen 🌶️🍜
Black Garlic Tonkotsu 🧄
Fried Chicken Bao 🍗🫓
🧄 9. Junpuu Ramen – Ramen Done Right
📍 1010 S King St, Honolulu
A quiet gem in the city. Rich broth, chewy noodles, and local love ❤️ Perfect after sunset at Ala Moana 🌅
Slurp-worthy:
Tonkotsu Ramen 🍜
Karaage Fried Chicken 🍗
Garlic Edamame 🧄🌱
🎣 10. Ethel’s Grill – Real Local Vibes
📍 232 Kalihi St, Honolulu
No fancy signs. No tourist buzz. Just Hawaii-style comfort food with Japanese roots — unreal flavors.
Secret menu wins:
Tataki Sashimi 🐟🔥
Garlic Ahi Steak 🧄🐠
Spicy Poke Bowl 🥵🐟
🌈 Final Thoughts: You’re Not Eating, You’re Exploring
Food in Oahu is part of the island experience, and Asian food here isn’t just "good" — it’s next level. From Japanese ramen to Chinese roast duck and Korean BBQ, this island brings together cultures, flavors, and soul. 🌺🌍
So eat like a local, try something new, and don’t forget to leave room for dessert (shave ice, anyone? 🍧😋)
