Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. Hawaii

Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Hawaii Kai

Price
Regions
Neighborhoods
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Award-winning
Accessibility

35 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Mud Hen Water restaurant
1. Mud Hen Water
4.8
Exceptional(1487)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • Honolulu
Booked 22 times today
Mud Hen Water in Honolulu is a shining star of Hawaii Regional Cuisine, delivering an authentic and innovative experience that captivates both locals and tourists alike. The restaurant excels in crafting dishes that showcase the vibrant flavors of the islands, such as the "delicious and unique family-style dinners" that are always a hit with guests. Diners rave about the "fresh and healthy" offerings, with standouts like the "Kahala crudo and venison ragu," reflecting the true essence of Hawaiian ingredients. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it a "must-visit" spot for those seeking a genuine taste of Hawaii's culinary heritage.
A photo of Tropics Hawaii Kai restaurant
2. Tropics Hawaii Kai
4.2
Awesome(9)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • Hawaii Kai
Booked 13 times today
Tropics Hawaii Kai is a lively restaurant and craft-house serving lunch and dinner that features cover-free sports games, live music, and a diverse menu. Located right on the beautiful Hawaii Kai Marina waterway providing a gorgeous view of crystal blue waters and Koko Head with a welcomed sea breeze. With over 20 flatscreen TV's to air our customers favorite teams games, dart boards, pool table, a family friendly dining room, and patio seating, we have something for everyone!
A photo of Merriman's Honolulu restaurant
Icon
3. Merriman's Honolulu
4.8
Exceptional(5133)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • Honolulu
Booked 107 times today
Merriman's Honolulu is a beacon for seafood enthusiasts seeking exquisite and authentic cuisine. Nestled in the heart of Honolulu, this celebrated restaurant is renowned for its commitment to quality and freshness, making it a standout in the seafood scene. Guests rave about the "fresh catch," describing it as "incredible" and "delicious," highlighting the restaurant's dedication to sourcing the finest local ingredients. The dishes are not only flavorful but also beautifully presented, ensuring a memorable dining experience. With accolades like the Hale Aina Award for Best Restaurant, Merriman's exemplifies top-tier seafood dining in an inviting, neighborhood bistro atmosphere.
A photo of Mariposa at Neiman Marcus - Ala Moana restaurant
4. Mariposa at Neiman Marcus - Ala Moana
4.7
Exceptional(6270)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • Honolulu
Mariposa at Neiman Marcus - Ala Moana in Honolulu beckons diners with its exquisite Fusion/Eclectic cuisine, masterfully curated by Executive Chef Lance Kosaka. The restaurant's stunning ocean views perfectly complement the "extraordinary cuisine," creating an unforgettable dining experience. Guests rave about the delectable dishes, such as the "delicious truffle fries" and "spectacular mango colada," which showcase the innovative blend of flavors and cultures. The warm, airy popovers with strawberry butter are a crowd favorite, often described as "yum!" Mariposa's commitment to "impeccable service" and "beautiful views" makes every meal a celebration of culinary artistry and scenic beauty.
A photo of et al. restaurant
5. et al.
4.7
Exceptional(1724)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • Honolulu
Booked 60 times today
et al. is a new full-service restaurant, bar and neighborhood eatery offering an imaginative menu of multi-regional dishes drawing inspiration from local produce and ingredients at the peak of seasonal flavor.
A photo of Plumeria Beach House restaurant
6. Plumeria Beach House
4.6
Exceptional(4366)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • Honolulu
Booked 52 times today
Plumeria Beach House at the Kahala Hotel & Resort offers a truly exceptional Hawaii Regional Cuisine experience, blending the freshest local ingredients with the culinary expertise of Michelin-starred Executive Chef Jonathan Mizukami. Located beachfront in Honolulu, the restaurant boasts a stunning setting perfect for savoring the "absolutely terrific and delicious" seafood, as one reviewer raves. Diners are consistently impressed by the quality and variety of dishes, from the "miso glazed butterfish" to the "outstanding ahi musubi." With its "beautiful setting" and "fantastic service," Plumeria Beach House stands out as a must-visit for those seeking authentic and high-quality Hawaiian flavors.
A photo of Fête restaurant
Icon
7. Fête
4.8
Exceptional(4602)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Chinatown
Booked 58 times today
Fête in Honolulu is a shining star in the world of American cuisine, skillfully blending local farm-to-table ethos with a touch of Hawaiian and Brooklyn flair. As a 2022 James Beard Award Winner for Best Chef Northwest & Pacific, Fête stands out with its “next level” dishes like the unforgettable fried chicken and dreamy lasagna. The vibrant, relaxed island vibe offers a unique dining experience, where “fantastic meals” and “attentive service” are a given. The open kitchen and lush interiors add to the allure, making it “a gem of a restaurant” that diners return to time and again.
A photo of Hau Tree restaurant
8. Hau Tree
4.5
Awesome(1130)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • Waikiki
Booked 153 times today
Hau Tree, nestled at the scenic Kaimana Beach Hotel in Honolulu, offers an unforgettable seafood dining experience that is both authentic and exquisite. Guests rave about the "perfectly done" fresh fish, which is consistently highlighted as the "winner of the evening." The beachfront setting, with unobstructed ocean views, adds to the allure, making it an ideal spot for romantic dinners and special celebrations. The culinary team excels in delivering high-quality seafood dishes, like the acclaimed local fish and crispy Spanish octopus, ensuring each bite is "so delicious" and "amazingly flavorful." Hau Tree is truly a seafood gem in Honolulu.
A photo of Tiki's Grill & Bar - Waikiki restaurant
9. Tiki's Grill & Bar - Waikiki
4.5
Awesome(5099)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • Waikiki
Booked 96 times today
Tiki's Grill & Bar in Waikiki offers an invigorating taste of Hawaii Regional Cuisine, masterfully blending local ingredients with island-inspired flavors. Chef Ronnie's commitment to sourcing fresh, locally grown produce shines through in every dish, making it "a must for a foodie when visiting." Guests rave about the macadamia nut crusted Hebi fish and teppanyaki Pacific pink snapper, describing them as "to die for." The atmosphere enhances the dining experience, with spectacular ocean views and live music adding to the vibrant South Pacific vibe. Tiki's Grill & Bar is a culinary gem, embodying the essence of authentic Hawaiian dining.
A photo of Solera restaurant
10. Solera
4.1
Excellent(69)
$$$$
• Contemporary american • Waikiki
Booked 21 times today
Solera is a modern Hawai‘i restaurant rooted in nostalgic comfort food, reimagined through a Japanese lens and refined with global influence.Our menu celebrates familiar island flavors—from fresh seafood and locally inspired favorites to thoughtfully crafted breakfast, lunch, and dinner dishes—all designed to feel both comforting and elevated. Blending Hawai‘i’s diverse culinary traditions with contemporary technique, each plate offers something recognizable, yet entirely new.Approachable in spirit and refined in execution, Solera is a place to gather, indulge, and create lasting memories.

How is content generated

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you

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.

Explore OpenTable

Discover
OpenTable
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Careers
  • Press
More
Our sites
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Accessibility Statement
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2026 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo