As a food lover and a resident of Honolulu County, Hawaii, I have had the opportunity to explore the diverse culinary scene of this beautiful island. From traditional Hawaiian dishes to international cuisines, there is no shortage of delicious options in this county. However, dining out can quickly add up and become expensive, especially in a popular tourist destination like Honolulu. That's why I have compiled a list of the best budget-friendly restaurants in Honolulu County, Hawaii.
1.Ono Seafood
If you're craving for some fresh and delicious seafood, look no further than Ono Seafood.This small and unassuming restaurant is located in the heart of Honolulu and is known for its mouth-watering poke bowls. The portions are generous, and the prices are very reasonable, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Their menu offers a variety of poke options, including ahi tuna, salmon, and octopus. You can also customize your bowl with your choice of toppings and sauces. The staff is friendly and welcoming, adding to the overall dining experience at Ono Seafood.
2.Helena's Hawaiian Food
If you want to try authentic Hawaiian cuisine without breaking the bank, Helena's Hawaiian Food is the place to go.This family-owned restaurant has been serving traditional Hawaiian dishes since 1946 and has become a staple in the local food scene. Their menu features classic dishes like kalua pig, laulau, and lomi salmon, all made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The portions are generous, and the prices are very reasonable, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious diners.
3.Rainbow Drive-In
A trip to Honolulu is incomplete without trying the famous plate lunches at Rainbow Drive-In. This iconic restaurant has been serving locals and tourists since 1961 and has become a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a taste of authentic Hawaiian comfort food. Their menu offers a variety of plate lunches, including the famous loco moco, which consists of rice, hamburger patty, fried egg, and gravy. The portions are huge, and the prices are very affordable, making it an excellent option for budget-friendly dining.4.Marukame Udon
If you're in the mood for some delicious Japanese udon noodles, head over to Marukame Udon.This popular restaurant is known for its freshly made udon noodles and its bustling atmosphere. The prices are very reasonable, and the portions are generous, making it a favorite among locals and tourists. Their menu offers a variety of udon dishes, including hot and cold options, as well as tempura and rice bowls. The noodles are made right in front of you, adding to the overall dining experience at Marukame Udon.
5.Musubi Cafe Iyasume
If you're looking for a quick and budget-friendly meal, Musubi Cafe Iyasume is the perfect spot. This small cafe is known for its delicious musubi, a popular Hawaiian snack made with rice and various fillings wrapped in seaweed. Their menu offers a variety of musubi options, including spam, teriyaki chicken, and even vegetarian options.The prices are very affordable, and the portions are generous, making it an excellent option for a quick and budget-friendly meal.
6.Side Street Inn
For those looking for a more upscale dining experience without breaking the bank, Side Street Inn is the perfect choice. This popular restaurant is known for its delicious and creative dishes, as well as its lively atmosphere. Their menu offers a variety of options, including local favorites like garlic chicken and fried rice. The portions are generous, and the prices are very reasonable, making it an excellent option for a special night out without breaking the bank.7.Giovanni's Shrimp Truck
If you're willing to venture outside of Honolulu, head over to Giovanni's Shrimp Truck on the North Shore. This famous food truck is known for its delicious garlic shrimp and has become a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the island. The prices are very reasonable, and the portions are generous, making it an excellent option for a quick and budget-friendly meal.The shrimp is cooked to perfection and served with rice and a side of garlic butter sauce, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
8.Musubi & Bento Iyasume
Another great option for a quick and budget-friendly meal is Musubi & Bento Iyasume. This small restaurant is known for its delicious bentos, which are traditional Japanese lunch boxes filled with rice, meat, and vegetables. Their menu offers a variety of bento options, including teriyaki chicken, beef curry, and even vegetarian options. The prices are very affordable, and the portions are generous, making it an excellent option for a quick and budget-friendly meal.9.Tanioka's Seafoods & Catering
If you're in the mood for some fresh and delicious seafood, head over to Tanioka's Seafoods & Catering. This popular restaurant is known for its poke bowls, sushi, and other seafood dishes. The prices are very reasonable, and the portions are generous, making it an excellent option for budget-friendly dining.The staff is friendly and welcoming, adding to the overall dining experience at Tanioka's Seafoods & Catering.
10. The Pig & The Lady
For those looking for a unique and budget-friendly dining experience, The Pig & The Lady is the perfect choice. This popular restaurant is known for its fusion of Vietnamese and Hawaiian flavors, as well as its creative dishes. Their menu offers a variety of options, including pho, banh mi sandwiches, and even a vegetarian tasting menu. The prices are very reasonable, and the portions are generous, making it an excellent option for a special night out without breaking the bank. Overall, Honolulu County offers a variety of budget-friendly restaurants that cater to all tastes and preferences. From traditional Hawaiian dishes to international cuisines, there is something for everyone in this beautiful county.So next time you're in Honolulu, make sure to check out these restaurants for a delicious and budget-friendly dining experience.