10 Amazing Restaurants in Kailua and Kaneohe
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If you’re on the hunt for amazing restaurants in Kailua and Kaneohe, let me just say—you’re in for a treat! Nestled on the lush windward side of Oahu, this area feels like a refreshing escape from the busier spots on the island. With its stunning mountain backdrops, tranquil vibes, and vibrant local culture, Kailua and Kaneohe are seriously underrated gems that deserve a spot on your foodie radar.
Not only does this side of the island have some of the best dining experiences I’ve ever had (one of my all-time favorites is tucked away in Kaneohe!), but it’s also packed with fun things to do!
Related read: Check out foods you must eat on Oahu!
Best Restaurants in Kaneohe
1. Haleiwa Joe’s
Not only is Haleiwa Joe’s one of the best places to eat in Kaneohe, but it is also hands down the best restaurant experience you will have on Oahu! I mean seriously. The views are breathtaking, the food is immaculate, and the drinks set a gold standard. I visit 1-2 times every time I come to Oahu. I’m obsessed.
Get there early to ensure you have a chance to try their prime rib. It’s first-come, first-serve and they almost always run out by the evening. One order can feed 2-3 people— seriously it’s HUGE! The seafood chowder is also a must. And did I mention they give you homemade guava butter with your rolls?! Hawaii is known for its Mai Tais, and Haleiwa Joe’s had some of the best— get the giant one to share!
They are located in the Haiku Gardens in Kaneohe (which is one of the best FREE things to do on Oahu!), so you can explore and take pictures there before or after dinner. There is also another location in Haleiwa if you’re staying on the North Shore!
2. Fresh Catch
Fresh Catch is where seafood dreams come true, and the Kaneohe location is a local gem you won’t want to miss. Think of it as the Hawaiian Chipotle but with poke, furikake, and all the fresh island flavors you can imagine.
Their menu is packed with local favorites, and if you’re feeling adventurous, I highly recommend the Ahi Katsu Spicy. It’s breaded, flavorful, and unlike anything I’ve had before—absolutely next-level! Pro tip: portions are huge, so unless you’ve got a big appetite, sharing might be the way to go.
Best Restaurants in Kailua
3. Buzz’s Steakhouse
Buzz’s Steakhouse is a laid-back spot with a cool tiki vibe that makes you feel like you’re on vacation even if you’re just stopping by for dinner. Their surf-and-turf options are delicious, and if there’s a special on the menu, trust me, it’s worth trying.
We went with the tuna steak special, which was perfectly cooked and paired with a sauce that tied all the flavors together beautifully. And mushroom lovers, you need to order the sautéed mushrooms—they’re drool-worthy. Don’t forget to check out their fun cocktail menu and locally crafted brews to complete the experience!
4. Taqueria El Gallo Rosa
Taqueria El Gallo Rosa had some of the best tacos I found on the island! Their pork carnitas and Baja fish tacos are out-of-this-world delicious, with fresh, bold ingredients that hit all the right notes.
They even cater to vegans with tasty options and make their gluten-free corn tortillas in-house. Plus, their salsa is made fresh daily, giving every bite a little extra zing. If you’re thirsty, grab one of their handcrafted cocktails to round out the meal.
5. Kailua Town Pub and Grill
If you’re looking for a casual hangout with great food, Kailua Pub is the perfect pick. We swung by for some late-night bites, and the pizza and French onion soup totally hit the spot while we played a few rounds of darts. The relaxed vibes and reasonable prices make this a go-to for an easy night out. Their menu spans seafood, sandwiches, pizza, and other pub favorites, so there’s something for everyone.
For those craving something a bit fancier, check out Gaslamp, the attached speakeasy, which I’m told offers an elevated experience. It’s still on my list, but if you’re feeling upscale, it sounds like the perfect spot to end your night in style!
6. Boardroom
The Boardroom in Kailua is a bar and tapas spot you have to check out! With a focus on locally sourced and handcrafted ingredients, they deliver an impressive blend of fresh bites and creative cocktails.
While the food is amazing, let’s talk about those drinks! The melon margarita (we swapped tequila for mezcal), butterfly bramble, and strawberry lychee pop-tail were absolute highlights—fresh, fun, and full of flavor. The vibe here is ideal for date nights or a fun girls’ night out, thanks to the chic, welcoming atmosphere.
If you’re in Kailua and craving a spot that mixes great bites with standout sips, The Boardroom has your name written all over it!
7. Easy ‘Que
Craving BBQ? Easy ‘Que has got you covered with tender meats, bold flavors, and the kind of sides you just can’t skip (we tried them ALL because, let’s be real, decision-making is overrated when everything looks delicious). They also bring the fun with bourbon flights, boozy slushies, and cocktails that perfectly complement their smoky, flavorful dishes.
Another great BBQ spot that has a Kailua location is Kono’s Northshore, which I included in the best restaurants on North Shore.
8. Cinnamon’s
Two words: guava pancakes. These pink, fluffy masterpieces are topped with whipped cream and a dreamy guava sauce that might just change your life. Hawaii made me fall in love with guava— it’s something you don’t come across too often on the mainland. But in Hawaii, they are constantly finding unique ways to use it, and they do it so well.
The pancakes were definitely the star of the show, but Cinnamon’s also has omelets, numerous variations of eggs benedict, skillets, and plenty other classics with their own twists. Plus, breakfast is served all day, so if you sleep in (hello, vacation mode), you’re still covered.
9. Over Easy
Easy ‘Que’s sibling, Over Easy, delivers big on breakfast vibes too. Think: custard French toast that’s basically dessert for breakfast and savory options like the brunch bowl—a blend of textures and flavors beautifully plated. I was really struggling to make a decision, but my server was beyond helpful in explaining each dish thoroughly and enthusiastically.
They serve breakfast all day, and lunch from 11 AM to close. Plan accordingly because they are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
10. Kalapawai Market
This Kailua staple feels like a little slice of heaven. With locations near Kailua Beach and in the town center, Kalapawai Market is your go-to for everything from quick, pre-beach bites to leisurely dinners. Their mix of convenience and great flavor makes this spot a winner for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Which of these amazing restaurants in Kailua and Kaneohe are you checking out first?!
Whether you’re hunting for fresh seafood, unique breakfast creations, or a solid spot for BBQ, there are some amazing restaurants in Kailua and Kaneohe just waiting to be explored. This corner of Oahu combines unforgettable eats with laid-back vibes and plenty of fun things to do in between meals. Trust me, your taste buds are in for a treat—this area proves you don’t have to venture far from paradise to find incredible flavors.
Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other Hawaii blog posts:
2 weeks of island hopping in Hawaii
These look like great places to eat! I’m really loving the look of that dessert though – looks really refreshing!
Wow… good food and that view at Haleiwa Joe’s?! Count me in! Amazing pictures and I’m sure even tastier food!
The food looks yummy. Hopefully, I will get to taste it some day.
It’s not even 10 am when I read your post. You make me soo hungry now! Everything looks delicious. The Ahi Katsu Spicy looks delicious and the guava butter at Haleiwa Joe’s sounds intriguing. The papaya boat looks so pretty. Yum!!
This is right up my alley! That Ahi looks perfect!