Top Saimin Spots on Oahu

Where to Find the Best Saimin on Oahu

03-13-2025

John C. Derrick

Founder & certified Hawaii travel expert with 20+ years of experience in Hawaii tourism.

Where to Find the Best Saimin on Oahu: Must-Try Local Spots

Saimin isn’t just a bowl of noodles in Hawaii—it’s a tradition, a late-night comfort food, and a beloved local staple with a history as rich as its broth. Whether you’re a visitor looking for an authentic taste of the islands or a kamaʻāina (local) in search of the best bowl, Oahu has plenty of spots serving up this Hawaiian-style ramen.

From legendary hole-in-the-wall diners to local chains that have been perfecting their recipes for generations, we’ve rounded up the top places to get saimin on Oahu—so grab your chopsticks and let’s dive in!

Shiro’s Saimin Haven – Aiea

98-020 Kamehameha Hwy #109, Aiea, HI 96701


Why You’ll Love It: 60+ variations of saimin, legendary status since 1969

Shiro’s isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an institution. With over 60 different saimin options, this spot takes noodle soup to the next level. Their homemade broth is packed with umami, and their noodles are always cooked to springy perfection.

Must-Try: Special Saimin – a loaded bowl with char siu, egg, green onions, and fish cake. Pair it with their crispy shrimp tempura for the ultimate comfort meal.

Shiro's Saimin

Palace Saimin – Kalihi

1256 N King St, Honolulu, HI 96817


Why You’ll Love It: Old-school vibes, unchanged recipes since the 1940s

Looking for a true taste of Hawaii’s past? Palace Saimin has been dishing out steaming bowls of this local favorite for decades. Their menu is simple, and that’s the charm—fresh, chewy noodles, a clear, savory broth, and the perfect balance of fish cake and green onions.

Must-Try: The Original Saimin – order it with a side of crispy shrimp tempura for the full experience.

Palace Saimin

Zippy’s – Multiple Locations

Various locations across Oahu

Why You’ll Love It: A Hawaii staple, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal

If there’s one place nearly every local has eaten at, it’s Zippy’s. Known for its reliable, no-fuss comfort food, this island chain serves a solid bowl of saimin that’s perfect for a quick bite. It may not be gourmet, but it’s nostalgic!

Must-Try: Saimin with a Zip Pac – because why not pair your noodles with a plate of fried chicken, Spam, and rice?

Shige’s Saimin Stand – Wahiawa

70 Kukui St, Wahiawa, HI 96786


Why You’ll Love It: Handmade noodles, rich house-made broth

Tucked away in Wahiawa, Shige’s is a true hidden gem. Their handmade noodles are perfectly bouncy, and their broth is packed with deep, savory flavors that keep customers returning. If you love a homemade, mom-and-pop-style meal, this is your spot.

Must-Try: Saimin with a Teri Burger – the classic local combo that never disappoints.

Shige's Saimin

Forty Niner Restaurant – Aiea

4304, 98-110 Honomanu St, Aiea, HI 96701


Why You’ll Love It: Small-town vibes, big flavors

This tiny but legendary Aiea diner is famous for its old-school local flavors. Alongside their killer loco moco and pancakes, their saimin is a must-try, featuring a balanced broth and perfectly cooked noodles.

Must-Try: Saimin with Fried Rice – because carbs on carbs make sense.

Forty Niner Restaurant

Liliha Bakery – Nimitz, Ala Moana & Kuakini

Multiple locations on Oahu


Why You’ll Love It: Iconic bakery + surprisingly great saimin

You probably know Liliha Bakery for its legendary coco puffs, but don’t sleep on their saimin! The broth is clean and flavorful, and the noodles are cooked just right. The best part? You can pair your noodles with their famous butter rolls for the ultimate sweet-savory combo.

Must-Try: Saimin with a Grilled Butter Roll – and yes, get a coco puff for dessert!

Where’s the Best Saimin on Oahu?

Oahu is home to some of the best saimin spots in Hawaii, whether you’re craving an old-school diner experience, a quick bowl from a local favorite, or a handmade, from-scratch version that’s worth the drive.

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