Hawaii, a paradise island with long white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, is not only famous for its scenery but also a captivating culinary destination, especially for seafood. If you are a fan of fresh seafood, join us to explore the list of the Top 10 seafood restaurants in Hawaii that you cannot miss. We will take you to unique restaurants and eateries where you can enjoy the freshest seafood, prepared in a distinctive Hawaiian style.
Discover the Diverse Seafood World in Hawaii
Hawaii is not just a vacation paradise but also a “holy land” for seafood lovers. With abundant seafood resources from the Pacific Ocean, restaurants and eateries in Hawaii always know how to take advantage of them to create unique, appealing, and flavorful seafood dishes.
1. Mama’s Fish House (Maui)
Exterior view of Mama's Fish House in Maui, HawaiiMama’s Fish House is a culinary icon of Maui, renowned for its fresh seafood caught daily and prepared using traditional Hawaiian recipes.
Mama’s Fish House is more than just a restaurant; it’s a culinary experience. Located on the north shore of Maui, this restaurant is famous for using fresh seafood caught directly by local fishermen. The menu changes daily, depending on what the ocean provides, ensuring you always enjoy the freshest and most unique dishes.
Highlights:
- Super fresh seafood: The menu changes daily, ensuring fresh ingredients.
- Romantic ambiance: Stunning ocean views, perfect for special occasions.
- Signature dish: Grilled Opakapaka with passion fruit sauce.
2. Alan Wong’s (Oahu)
Interior of Alan Wong's restaurant in Oahu, HawaiiAlan Wong’s is a high-end restaurant in Oahu, famous for its contemporary Hawaiian cuisine, harmoniously combining local ingredients and international cooking techniques.
Alan Wong’s is a renowned fine dining restaurant in Honolulu, Oahu. Chef Alan Wong is known as one of the pioneers of the “Hawaii Regional Cuisine” movement, combining fresh local ingredients with modern cooking techniques.
Highlights:
- Innovative culinary style: Fusion of Hawaiian and international cuisine.
- Local ingredients: Using fresh produce from local farms.
- Signature dish: “Da Bag” short ribs.
3. Merriman’s (Big Island)
Outdoor seating area at Merriman's restaurant on the Big Island of HawaiiMerriman’s is an ideal destination on the Big Island to enjoy fresh seafood in a luxurious and cozy atmosphere.
Merriman’s is a famous restaurant on the Big Island, known for its commitment to using local and sustainable products. This restaurant not only serves fresh seafood but also meat and vegetables grown on nearby farms.
Highlights:
- Local produce: Prioritizes using ingredients from local farms and fishermen.
- Cozy atmosphere: Beautiful interior design, creating a comfortable feeling for diners.
- Signature dish: Pan-seared Monchong fish.
4. Nico’s Pier 38 (Oahu)
Counter and menu board at Nico's Pier 38 in Oahu, HawaiiNico’s Pier 38 is a casual eatery in Oahu, famous for its fresh and affordable seafood, especially the Ahi dish.
Nico’s Pier 38 is a popular casual eatery in Honolulu, Oahu. This eatery is known for its fresh seafood, especially Ahi (yellowfin tuna) prepared in various ways.
Highlights:
- Affordable prices: Suitable for a wide range of customers.
- Fresh seafood: Ahi is the most popular dish.
- Simple ambiance: Casual eatery, close to locals.
5. Paia Fish Market (Maui)
Exterior of Paia Fish Market in Maui, Hawaii, with people dining outsidePaia Fish Market is an ideal destination in Maui to enjoy fresh seafood dishes, simply prepared but still retaining their distinctive flavor.
Paia Fish Market is a famous eatery in Paia town, Maui. This eatery is known for its fresh seafood, simply prepared but still retaining its distinctive flavor.
Highlights:
- Fresh seafood: Simply prepared, preserving the natural flavor.
- Relaxed atmosphere: Outdoor dining, suitable for a casual lunch or dinner.
- Signature dish: Fish burger.
6. Helena’s Hawaiian Food (Oahu)
Dishes of traditional Hawaiian food at Helena's Hawaiian Food in OahuHelena’s Hawaiian Food is a family restaurant in Oahu, famous for its traditional Hawaiian dishes, including local-flavored seafood options.
Helena’s Hawaiian Food is a famous family restaurant in Honolulu, Oahu. This restaurant is known for its traditional Hawaiian dishes, including local-flavored seafood options.
Highlights:
- Traditional dishes: Experience authentic Hawaiian flavors.
- Cozy atmosphere: Family restaurant, welcoming and friendly.
- Signature dishes: Kalua Pig and Pipikaula Short Ribs (dried beef).
7. Fresh Catch (Oahu)
Variety of Poke bowls displayed at Fresh Catch in OahuFresh Catch is a popular eatery in Oahu, famous for its fresh and diverse Poke, along with many other attractive seafood dishes.
Fresh Catch is a famous eatery in Honolulu, Oahu. This eatery is known for its fresh and diverse Poke, along with many other attractive seafood dishes.
Highlights:
- Diverse Poke: Many types of Poke with different flavors.
- Fresh seafood: Ingredients are always fresh and high quality.
- Modern ambiance: Youthful and dynamic design.
8. Ono Seafood (Oahu)
Close-up of Poke being prepared at Ono Seafood in OahuOno Seafood is a family eatery in Oahu, specializing in traditional Poke with distinctive flavors and fresh ingredients.
Ono Seafood is a small family eatery in Honolulu, Oahu. This eatery specializes in traditional Poke with distinctive flavors and fresh ingredients.
Highlights:
- Traditional Poke: Authentic Hawaiian flavor.
- Simple ambiance: Small, cozy, and friendly eatery.
- Reasonable prices: Suitable for a wide range of customers.
9. The Fish Express (Kauai)
Fish plate lunch at The Fish Express in KauaiThe Fish Express is a fast-food eatery in Kauai, famous for its fresh seafood, prepared quickly and conveniently.
The Fish Express is a famous fast-food eatery in Kauai. This eatery is known for its fresh seafood, prepared quickly and conveniently.
Highlights:
- Convenient: Suitable for busy people.
- Fresh seafood: Quickly prepared, preserving the flavor.
- Signature dish: Fish plate lunch.
10. Puka Dog (Oahu)
Puka Dog Hawaiian hot dog in OahuPuka Dog is a famous snack eatery in Oahu, specializing in unique Hawaiian hot dogs with grilled buns and special sauces.
Puka Dog is a famous snack eatery in Oahu. This eatery specializes in unique Hawaiian hot dogs with grilled buns and special sauces. Although not entirely seafood, Puka Dog uses local spices to create a unique flavor, providing an interesting culinary experience.
Highlights:
- Unique dish: Hawaiian hot dog with a special flavor.
- Convenient: Suitable for a quick meal.
- Affordable prices: Suitable for a wide range of customers.
Tips for Enjoying Seafood in Hawaii
To have a wonderful seafood dining experience in Hawaii, keep the following in mind:
- Research beforehand: Read reviews and learn about the restaurant’s menu before visiting.
- Make reservations in advance: Especially during peak tourist season.
- Ask about specials: Restaurants often have daily specials, using the freshest ingredients.
- Try local dishes: Don’t hesitate to try traditional Hawaiian dishes to discover unique flavors.
Principles for choosing and enjoying seafood buffetPrinciples for choosing and enjoying seafood buffet
Conclusion
Hawaii is a culinary paradise with countless fresh seafood options. From high-end restaurants to casual eateries, you can find dishes to suit your taste. Hopefully, the list of the Top 10 seafood restaurants in Hawaii will help you have a memorable trip filled with wonderful culinary experiences. Bon appétit and have unforgettable memories on this beautiful island!