Honolulu County, Hawaii is known for its stunning beaches, rich culture, and delicious food. With a diverse population and a strong influence from Asian and Pacific Islander cuisines, it's no surprise that the county is home to some of the best restaurants in the world. But which ones have won awards or accolades? As an expert in the food industry, I have researched and compiled a list of the top award-winning restaurants in Honolulu County.
The Pig and the Lady
Restaurants in Honolulu County Hawaii don't get much better than The Pig and the Lady. This Vietnamese-inspired restaurant has been making waves in the food scene since it opened in 2013. Led by Chef Andrew Le, The Pig and the Lady has received numerous awards and accolades, including being named one of the "Best New Restaurants in America" by Bon Appetit magazine. The menu at The Pig and the Lady is a fusion of traditional Vietnamese dishes with a modern twist.The restaurant's signature dish, Pho French Dip Banh Mi, has been praised by food critics for its unique combination of flavors. The Pig and the Lady also offers an extensive wine list curated by their in-house sommelier, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
MW Restaurant
Located in Honolulu's trendy Kaka'ako neighborhood, MW Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking for an award-winning dining experience. Helmed by husband-and-wife team Wade Ueoka and Michelle Karr-Ueoka, MW Restaurant has been recognized as one of the best restaurants in Honolulu County by multiple publications. The menu at MW Restaurant features a blend of Hawaiian, Japanese, and French cuisines, showcasing the diverse flavors of the islands. The restaurant's signature dish, the Ahi Poke Bowl, has been praised for its fresh and flavorful ingredients.MW Restaurant also offers a unique dessert menu, with items like Lilikoi Cheesecake and Ube Taro Bread Pudding.
Alan Wong's Honolulu
When it comes to fine dining in Honolulu County, Alan Wong's Honolulu is a name that cannot be missed. Chef Alan Wong is a pioneer of Hawaiian regional cuisine and has been recognized as one of the best chefs in the world. His flagship restaurant in Honolulu has received numerous awards and accolades, including being named one of the "Top 10 Restaurants in America" by Gourmet magazine. The menu at Alan Wong's Honolulu features locally sourced ingredients and showcases the flavors of Hawaii. Dishes like the Ginger Crusted Onaga and the Soy Braised Short Ribs have become fan favorites.The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list and a tasting menu for those looking for a more immersive dining experience.
La Mer
If you're looking for a truly luxurious dining experience in Honolulu County, look no further than La Mer. Located in the iconic Halekulani Hotel, La Mer has been recognized as one of the best restaurants in Hawaii for over 30 years. The restaurant has received numerous awards and accolades, including being named one of the "Top 50 Restaurants in America" by OpenTable. The menu at La Mer features French-inspired dishes with a Hawaiian twist. The restaurant's signature dish, the Lobster Risotto, has been praised for its rich and decadent flavors.La Mer also offers an extensive wine list and a sommelier to help pair your meal with the perfect glass of wine.
Senia
Opened in 2016, Senia has quickly become one of the most talked-about restaurants in Honolulu County. Led by chefs Chris Kajioka and Anthony Rush, Senia has received numerous awards and accolades, including being named one of the "Best New Restaurants in America" by Esquire magazine. The menu at Senia is a blend of European and Asian cuisines, with a focus on using locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant's signature dish, the Beef Tartare, has been praised for its unique flavors and presentation. Senia also offers a tasting menu for those looking for a more immersive dining experience.In Summary
Honolulu County, Hawaii is home to some of the best restaurants in the world, and many of them have received awards and accolades for their exceptional cuisine.From Vietnamese-inspired dishes at The Pig and the Lady to French-Hawaiian fusion at Alan Wong's Honolulu, there is something for every palate in this foodie paradise. So next time you're in Honolulu County, be sure to check out these award-winning restaurants for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
