Top 5 Fine Dining Restaurants in Hawaii

1. Maru Sushi (Honolulu, Oahu)

Opened in 2017, Maru Sushi is one of the trendiest restaurants in Hawaii. This remarkable Oahu dining establishment was borne from the success of the original Michelin-starred establishment in Sapporo, Hokkaido, back in Chef Takeshi Kawasaki's native Japan. The result? Dining here might mean having a date with Hawaii's best sushi. Not only is it the first Michelin sushi bar in Honolulu, but the delicious offerings have also been rumored to bring diners to tears. Try one of the omakase sets and find out for yourself. 

2. La Mer (Honolulu, Oahu)

The Forbes Travel Guide has awarded this upscale French restaurant in Waikiki Five Stars. It is the only place in Hawaii to receive such a high rating and has been ranked an AAA Five-Diamond Restaurant for several consecutive years. The food resembles neo-classical French cooking, inspired by local and tropical delicacies. Each dish is superbly prepared, and you'll find everything from foie gras and caviar to decadent fish and meat dishes to satisfy your palate. Oahu's finest restaurant? Break out your best elegant evening attire, and let us know.  

3. Mama's Fish House (Paia, Maui)

Mama’s Fish House, located on Maui’s scenic North Shore, is a culinary gem offering one of the island's best dining experiences. Since opening its doors in 1973, this family-owned restaurant has earned a stellar reputation for its fresh, locally sourced seafood, caught daily by local fishermen. With an ambiance that blends traditional Polynesian decor and beachfront views, it’s no wonder Mama’s Fish House is considered a must-visit spot for food lovers.

Guests are treated to a daily menu highlighting the specific fisherman and location where each fish was caught. Signature dishes include the Ono stuffed with crab and the Polynesian Black Pearl, a chocolate dessert as exquisite as indulgent. Due to its popularity, reservations are essential, and you’ll feel fortunate to snag a table to enjoy both the atmosphere and the exceptional cuisine

4. Kō (Kihei, Maui)

At Kō, diners will be wowed by the creative cross-cultural cuisine. Nowhere else in the islands can you find a more exciting pan-Asian and European cuisine menu incorporating influences from Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Filipino, and Portuguese dishes. Chef Tylun Pang is inspired by the sugarcane plantation era when immigrants came to work in the archipelago. Here, you can enjoy everything from lumpia to chap chae noodles – family favorites with a modern twist. Kō is a must-do indulgence when in Kihei. ​

5. JO2 Natural Cuisine (Kapaa, Kauai)

This superb Kapaa restaurant is a great place to dine while visiting the Garden Isle. Some must-try dishes include the seared Hunan-style Rack of Lamb, the seared ono, Shrimp Risotto, or the Jidoro Chicken. For those with a sweet tooth, try the local banana cream pie or the vegan mango cheesecake.