Hawaii’s James Beard-Nominated Restaurants that Every Foodie Should Try
Hawaii's culinary scene is a vibrant blend of flavors, reflecting the islands' rich cultural heritage. Oahu, in particular, offers a feast for the senses, with chefs crafting dishes that highlight the freshest seafood, tropical fruits, and locally sourced produce. This dynamic food culture not only celebrates the abundance of local ingredients but also tells the story of Hawaii's diverse history and traditions.
The Pig and the Lady
Cuisine: Modern Vietnamese Fusion
Hours: Monday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Friday to Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Sunday: Closed
Location: 83 N King St, Honolulu, HI 96817
Menu Highlights: Pho French Dip, Banh Mi, Pho
Website: thepigandthelady.com
Known For: Modern Vietnamese with a focus on local ingredients.
James Beard Recognition: James Beard Award Nominee for Best New Restaurant, Chef Andrew Le nominated for Best Chef: West.
Fête
Cuisine: Modern American with a focus on locally sourced ingredients
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM; Sunday & Monday: Closed
Location: 1611 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96826
Menu Highlights: Braised Short Ribs, Butter-Poached Lobster, Roasted Duck Breast
Website: fetehawaii.com
Known For: High-end dishes with locally sourced ingredients and refined techniques.
James Beard Recognition: James Beard Award Semi-finalist for Best New Restaurant, Chef Chris Crary nominated for Best Chef: West.
La Mer at Halekulani
Cuisine: French with Hawaiian influences
Hours: Monday to Sunday: 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: 2199 Kalia Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815
Menu Highlights: Seared Foie Gras, Lobster Risotto, Tahitian Vanilla Soufflé
Website: halekulani.com/dining/la-mer
Known For: Exquisite fine dining with an emphasis on French cuisine with local ingredients.
James Beard Recognition: Long-standing recognition in the fine dining community, with the restaurant receiving attention at the James Beard Awards.
Mud Hen Water
Cuisine: Hawaiian-inspired Modern American
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM; Sunday & Monday: Closed
Location: 3304 Waialae Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816
Menu Highlights: Roast Pork Belly, Long Rice Salad, Coconut Curry Clams
Website: mudhenwater.com
Known For: Farm-to-table dishes with traditional Hawaiian flavors.
James Beard Recognition: Nominated for Best New Restaurant, Chef Ed Kenney nominated for Best Chef: West.
Senia
Cuisine: Contemporary American with Asian influences
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM; Sunday & Monday: Closed
Location: 75 N King St, Honolulu, HI 96817
Menu Highlights: Miso-Glazed Short Ribs, Ahi Tuna Crudo, Duck Breast with Blackberries
Website: seniarestaurant.com
Known For: Blending Asian flavors with modern American cuisine in a refined setting.
James Beard Recognition: James Beard Award Semi-finalist for Best New Restaurant, Chef Chris Crary nominated for Best Chef: West.
