I have been living in Honolulu for over two-and-a-half years now and have been enjoying every minute of it. I have lived off-campus the entire time that I have lived out here, and I definitely have some favorite local spots and local chains. I have compiled a bunch of my favorite casual, affordable, and convenient spots into this article, so if you’re looking for somewhere new that is relatively close to campus or in Waikiki, I hope that you’ll check out a place from this list! All of the spots from this list will either be in close proximity to the UH Mānoa campus or in Waikiki. Additionally, I tried to pick spots that are not chains or franchises from the Continent (so no Raising Canes or Panda Express). I have also excluded dessert-only spots from this list.
Seoul Tofu House
Are you looking for some hot, delicious soup? Seoul Tofu House has the best soondubu jjigae (soft tofu soup) you can find! They have many different variations of soondubu jjigae, including pork and seafood (my favorite). Each soondubu jjigae is served with a few different banchan (side dishes), which can include kimchi and macaroni salad (an island staple). Seoul Tofu House also has a good selection of soju if you are in the mood for drinks!
Kono’s North Shore
There are a couple of locations in Honolulu. One is on Kuhiō and one is on Kapahulu. This local chain is a takeout place with some local style breakfast and lunch foods, as well as some smoothies, milkshakes, and Dole Whip! This is the perfect spot for an on-the-go type of day. I highly recommend the Avocado Veggie Wrap. The flavors are so good, and their kalua pork is absolutely to die for!
Teddy’s Bigger Burgers
Teddy’s is a local burger chain, with locations all over O’ahu. Teddy’s lives up to their name – their burgers are bigger! Teddy’s definitely can be a bit more expensive than some of the other burger joints on-island, but they have unique burgers and milkshakes that other places don’t have.
Betty Burgers
Betty Burgers is really close to campus and is the best little diner by campus! Their burgers and fries are super good, plus they have really good milkshakes (and a rotating flavor of the month!). This is probably the cheapest spot on the list, but that doesn’t reflect how good the food tastes. It is cheap, but super delicious!
The Ripple of Smiles
This is by far the best Vietnamese food on the island, and it is super close to campus! Their philosophy is to “eat your food as medicine otherwise you will need to eat your medicine as food”. They have a large menu of both vegan options and meat-containing options of your favorite Vietnamese dishes, plus some local favorites like manapua! The owner/head chef is really nice and you will often see him working there. Their pho is amazing, and their vermicelli dishes have so much flavor in them!
I hope the next time you are looking for casual eats in Honolulu that you will try somewhere on this list!