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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Hawaii Kai

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35 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Tropics Hawaii Kai restaurant
1. Tropics Hawaii Kai
4.4
Awesome(13)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • Hawaii Kai
Tropics Hawaii Kai is a lively waterfront restaurant and craft-house serving weekend brunch, lunch, and dinner featuring cover-free sports games, live music, tropical cocktails, and a diverse menu. Located right on the beautiful Hawaii Kai Marina waterway, Tropics offers gorgeous views of crystal blue waters and Koko Head with a welcoming island atmosphere. With over 20 flatscreen TVs, dart boards, pool tables, patio seating, and family-friendly dining spaces, there’s something for everyone whether you're joining us for brunch by the marina, game day, or sunset dinner.
A photo of Merriman's Honolulu restaurant
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2. Merriman's Honolulu
4.8
Exceptional(5280)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • Honolulu
Booked 120 times today
Merriman's Honolulu is a beacon for seafood enthusiasts seeking exquisite and authentic cuisine. Nestled in the heart of Honolulu, this celebrated restaurant is renowned for its commitment to quality and freshness, making it a standout in the seafood scene. Guests rave about the "fresh catch," describing it as "incredible" and "delicious," highlighting the restaurant's dedication to sourcing the finest local ingredients. The dishes are not only flavorful but also beautifully presented, ensuring a memorable dining experience. With accolades like the Hale Aina Award for Best Restaurant, Merriman's exemplifies top-tier seafood dining in an inviting, neighborhood bistro atmosphere.
A photo of Mud Hen Water restaurant
3. Mud Hen Water
4.8
Exceptional(1510)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • Honolulu
Booked 12 times today
Mud Hen Water in Honolulu is a shining star of Hawaii Regional Cuisine, delivering an authentic and innovative experience that captivates both locals and tourists alike. The restaurant excels in crafting dishes that showcase the vibrant flavors of the islands, such as the "delicious and unique family-style dinners" that are always a hit with guests. Diners rave about the "fresh and healthy" offerings, with standouts like the "Kahala crudo and venison ragu," reflecting the true essence of Hawaiian ingredients. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it a "must-visit" spot for those seeking a genuine taste of Hawaii's culinary heritage.
A photo of Deck. restaurant
4. Deck.
4.4
Awesome(4611)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • Waikiki
Booked 54 times today
Deck. is a standout American cuisine destination in Waikiki, Honolulu, offering an unforgettable dining experience with its breathtaking views of Diamond Head. Nestled on the third floor of the Queen Kapiʻolani Hotel, this open-air restaurant boasts an American Pacific-inspired menu that delights locals and tourists alike. Guests rave about the "phenomenal food" and "stunning sunset views" that make every meal special. Deck. is committed to freshness, featuring locally sourced ingredients that elevate traditional American dishes. With a vibrant ambiance and an exceptional service team, it's no wonder diners describe it as "a one-of-a-kind location" perfect for any occasion.
A photo of et al. restaurant
5. et al.
4.7
Exceptional(1766)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • Honolulu
Booked 45 times today
et al. is a new full-service restaurant, bar and neighborhood eatery offering an imaginative menu of multi-regional dishes drawing inspiration from local produce and ingredients at the peak of seasonal flavor.
A photo of Fête restaurant
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6. Fête
4.8
Exceptional(4689)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Chinatown
Booked 97 times today
Fête in Honolulu is a shining star in the world of American cuisine, skillfully blending local farm-to-table ethos with a touch of Hawaiian and Brooklyn flair. As a 2022 James Beard Award Winner for Best Chef Northwest & Pacific, Fête stands out with its “next level” dishes like the unforgettable fried chicken and dreamy lasagna. The vibrant, relaxed island vibe offers a unique dining experience, where “fantastic meals” and “attentive service” are a given. The open kitchen and lush interiors add to the allure, making it “a gem of a restaurant” that diners return to time and again.
A photo of Plumeria Beach House restaurant
7. Plumeria Beach House
4.5
Awesome(4434)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • Honolulu
Booked 70 times today
Plumeria Beach House at the Kahala Hotel & Resort offers a truly exceptional Hawaii Regional Cuisine experience, blending the freshest local ingredients with the culinary expertise of Michelin-starred Executive Chef Jonathan Mizukami. Located beachfront in Honolulu, the restaurant boasts a stunning setting perfect for savoring the "absolutely terrific and delicious" seafood, as one reviewer raves. Diners are consistently impressed by the quality and variety of dishes, from the "miso glazed butterfish" to the "outstanding ahi musubi." With its "beautiful setting" and "fantastic service," Plumeria Beach House stands out as a must-visit for those seeking authentic and high-quality Hawaiian flavors.
A photo of Hau Tree restaurant
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8. Hau Tree
4.5
Awesome(1296)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • Waikiki
Booked 171 times today
Hau Tree, nestled at the scenic Kaimana Beach Hotel in Honolulu, offers an unforgettable seafood dining experience that is both authentic and exquisite. Guests rave about the "perfectly done" fresh fish, which is consistently highlighted as the "winner of the evening." The beachfront setting, with unobstructed ocean views, adds to the allure, making it an ideal spot for romantic dinners and special celebrations. The culinary team excels in delivering high-quality seafood dishes, like the acclaimed local fish and crispy Spanish octopus, ensuring each bite is "so delicious" and "amazingly flavorful." Hau Tree is truly a seafood gem in Honolulu.
A photo of Solera restaurant
9. Solera
4.4
Awesome(78)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • Waikiki
Booked 11 times today
Discover Waikīkī's newest dining destination! Located on the 8th floor, our open-air dining room offers panoramic views of the Waikīkī skyline and Pacific Ocean, creating the perfect setting from sunrise through sunset.Inspired by Hawaiʻi's rich culinary heritage, Solera reimagines island comfort foods through refined technique and global influences. Executive Chef Reid Matsumura presents a menu that feels both nostalgic and contemporary, celebrating locally sourced ingredients with Japanese and island-inspired flavors.Join us for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and experience thoughtfully crafted cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, an award-winning wine list, live piano during dinner service, and warm hospitality in an inviting atmosphere. Whether you're starting your day, enjoying a leisurely lunch, celebrating a special occasion, or taking in the sunset over Waikīkī, Solera offers an elevated dining experience that is both approachable and memorable.Complimentary Valet Parking!
A photo of SERA restaurant
10. SERA
4.7
Exceptional(419)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • Ala Moana
Booked 15 times today
Mara is a gem of Greek cuisine located in the heart of Downtown Honolulu. Celebrating the rich heritage of Mediterranean flavors, it seamlessly blends Greek culinary traditions with the fresh bounty of Hawaii's local ingredients. Diners rave about the "incredible mild white fish" prepared Greek-style, paired with a "crazy good lemon sauce." The atmosphere is lively yet inviting, making it a perfect spot for any occasion. Guests are consistently impressed by the "wonderful staff" and "gracious service," which complements the vibrant, authentic dishes. Mara promises an unforgettable dining experience that "captures the essence of Greek cuisine with a modern twist."

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Rudy
    Portland / Oregon •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    What a fantastic culinary experience for lunch! Every item we had was delicious! Our server was very knowledgeable about the menu and everyone on staff was so friendly! Worth every penny spent on this delicious restaurant! Great last lunch in Oahu!
    More info
    Mud Hen Water$$$$• Contemporary American• Honolulu
    •
    4.8
  • Cathy
    San Francisco Bay Area •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    First time on Oahu in several years … arrived early and sat at the bar waiting for my friend to arrive - a gentleman bought me a drink and was very sweet. Everyone seemed to know him. Then another gentleman sat next to and again everyone knew him - he introduced to people as if we were long time friends (and I’m old and overweight) I have never felt so welcome in my life!! Our server Gabbi was fantastic! Explained all food and was right on top of all … what a fantastic experience!!
    More info
    Merriman's Honolulu$$$$• Hawaii Regional Cuisine• Honolulu
    •
    4.8
  • ThomasGold
    Hawaii •27 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Excellent food and service! I'll definitely be back.
    More info
    Plumeria Beach House$$$$• Contemporary American• Honolulu
    •
    4.5
  • Renee
    Hawaii •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Jul 4, 2026
    My husband and were there with a couple of friends when the 250th birthday of our country was being celebrated with a free concert featuring local performers, so needless to say it was super busy! You would never know it at Tropics. Although lots of guests were there, service was impeccable, food tasty and drinks excellent. Our server Casey was outstanding, always checking in on us and delivering food and drinks in a timely manner. Todd prepared excellent cocktails also in a timely fashion. Thank you for a great evening Tropics! 🌺
    More info
    Tropics Hawaii Kai$$$$• Contemporary American• Hawaii Kai
    •
    4.4
  • Mia
    Hawaii •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Jun 17, 2026
    It was our friends birthday and they were so so sweet! Highly recommend, the food portions were amazing and the service was outstanding. Our server was so so accommodating and sweet and the pianist was amazing as well!! Thank you so much for this experience!
    More info
    Solera$$$$• Contemporary American• Waikiki
    •
    4.4

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Hawaii Kai

Discover the allure of Contemporary American cuisine in the picturesque setting of Hawaii Kai, on the island of Oahu. This location is renowned for its vibrant dining scene that beautifully melds local flavors with modern American influences, offering a unique gastronomic experience. Restaurants in this area are celebrated for their commitment to quality, utilizing fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to craft dishes that satisfy the palate and the soul. Patrons can enjoy a variety of settings, from casual eateries to upscale dining establishments, each providing a view of the stunning local landscapes, including the iconic Koko Head Crater and the serene Hawaii Kai Marina. These dining spots are perfect for both special occasions and relaxed weekend brunches, ensuring every meal is memorable. Emphasizing exceptional service and an inviting atmosphere, the restaurants in Hawaii Kai are a must-visit for both locals and tourists seeking an authentic Contemporary American dining experience.

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