Honolulu is a city where culinary adventures meet picturesque backdrops, creating a setting ideal for a celebratory night out. From Italian-inspired oceanfront stunners to swanky old-school steakhouses, these best date night Honolulu restaurants are here for everything from first dates to milestone occasions.
From oceanfront gems to sophisticated dining rooms nestled in the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, Honolulu has no shortage of spots for a romantic date. Whether you’re planning a special anniversary, a first date, or just a much-needed night out, the best restaurants for date night in Honolulu promise experiences that linger long after the final bite.
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Read on for a guide to the best date night restaurants in Honolulu.
For Mediterranean flair at the shoreline — slide into Hau Tree (Diamond Head)
Nestled along the scenic shores of Diamond Head and housed in the Kaimana Beach Hotel, Hau Tree will enchant your date (and you) with its ocean views and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Together, savor vibrant plates like seafood and pasta paired with seasonal vegetables or tender lamb chops complemented by squash and chimichurri. Linger over a glass of wine from the outstanding list while enjoying the soft crash of waves under a canopy of swaying palms
For inventive dishes from an acclaimed chef — pay a visit to Fête (Honolulu)
This imaginative seasonal American spot is what landed chef Robynne Maii her James Beard Award in 2022. And even though the dining room draws a serious crowd for an inventive mix of French, Italian, Korean, and Hawai‘ian flavors, the bar is unofficially dedicated to regulars. Fête’s all-day service means you and your SO can make a tradition out of popping in for a glass of wine and carbonara with Portuguese sausage, plus a scoop of the housemade rocky road ice cream for dessert.
For omakase-style tasting menus from a MICHELIN-pedigreed chef — come to Tempura Ichika (Ala Moana)
Step into Tempura Ichika, and you’ll be greeted by an intimate setting where culinary artistry takes center stage—literally. The center of the dining room has a large chef’s counter for watching the action, or snuggled up to your date in a more private booth. Either way, expect omakase-style tasting menus starring golden-fried seasonal vegetables and seafood delicacies prepared by MICHELIN-pedigreed chef Kiyoshi Chikano.
For sophisticated takes on classic comfort food — check out Podmore (Honolulu)
For an intimate yet refined ambiance, head to Podmore which serves up contemporary takes on comfort food classics. The menu has hearty dishes such as crispy chicken paired with housemade sauces and decadent vegetable-forward dishes. Pair them with playful, tropical-inspired cocktails like a spicy twist on the margarita with guava and jalapeño. With plush, curved booths and marble tables tucked into intimate corners, Podmore is a top choice for a private romantic dinner in Honolulu.
For an iconic Waikiki dining experience that is sure to impress — check out Hy’s Steak House (Waikiki)
A classic Waikiki fine-dining icon, Hy’s Steak House is a destination for its swanky, old-school chophouse vibes. Known for its impeccable tableside service and expertly prepared steakhouse fare—think dry-aged beef cooked over kiawe wood and indulgent sides like truffle-infused mashed potatoes. Its classic interior, dark wooden bookshelves, and crystal chandeliers provide a timeless backdrop for romantic celebrations.
For French fine dining with ocean views at one of the best date night Honolulu restaurants — stop by Michel’s at the Colony Surf (Diamond Head)
Perched near the base of Diamond Head, Michel’s at the Colony Surf boasts breathtaking ocean views and a refined take on French cuisine. Indulge in elegant dishes like lobster bisque and chateaubriand served tableside. Voted “Most Romantic Restaurant on Oahu’s Gold Coast” by The Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous, the restaurant provides an elegant setting and attentive service for the most special of meals.
For creative dining in a charming setting — come on over to et al. (Waialae)
Et al.’s unlikely location—inside a supermarket—makes it an especially quirky date destination. But there’s something super smooth about stepping past shoppers and into a calm and cool oasis. Grab a spot at the bar and floating island or a corner booth, depending on how things are going. If you can swing it, go for the daily afternoon special and get to know each other over specialty cocktails and chic small bites like oysters, ahi tartare, and more.
For Italian food with a local twist at one of the best date night Honolulu restaurants — stop in for a meal at Quiora (Waikiki)
Pasta and wine are always a good idea, especially if you’ve got something major to toast. Book a table on Quiora’s quiet, sunset-washed lanai—translation: uninterrupted ocean views—for a postcard-perfect moment with your special someone. The restaurant’s extra-attentive staff (you’re at the Ritz-Carlton, after all) will start you off with pitch-perfect drink recs to go with Hawaiʻi-inspired Italian food like fresh garlic prawns from Kauaʻi and housemade pappardelle with Big Island oxtail.
For refined luxury by the sea — book a table at La Mer at Halekulani (Waikiki)
La Mer is one of Honolulu’s most luxurious restaurants and has defined fine dining in the Islands for decades. There are sleek, white-tableclothed corners, majestic Diamond Head views, and elaborate French-inspired food like kampachi tartare and poached lobster. Add a sexy seaside soundtrack and decadent perks—Cheese carts! Caviar! Champagne!—and you’ve got everything you need for a romantic night out.
For global wines, fancy snacks, and French fare at one of the best date night Honolulu restaurants — step into Stage Restaurant & Amuse Wine Bar (Ala Moana)
Amuse Bar is a dream date-night spot for wine enthusiasts, equipped with high tables and a state-of-the-art wine system that serves a selection from 50 bottles plus fancy snacks like pizza and truffle fries. It’s also set in the ultra-chic Honolulu Design Center, so you can both live out your HGTV fantasies as you sip and browse. For a more typical sit-down dinner experience, head next door to Amuse’s sibling French restaurant, Stage.
Honolulu’s dining scene caters to every kind of romance, from breathtaking ocean views to hidden city gems. You might be here to pop the question, you might be on your honeymoon, or simply celebrating a night on the town. Regardless, you will find something that works for you in this vibrant island city.
