Kapahulu Avenue, Honolulu - a street with cars and trucks
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Kapahulu Avenue Honolulu

4.4
·7 reviews·Honolulu, United States

Kapahulu Avenue: Honolulu's vibrant culinary street, packed with iconic eateries, diverse international flavors, and local charm.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Dine with fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Kapahulu Avenue, Honolulu - a street with cars and trucks

Kapahulu Avenue Honolulu

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Dine with fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Kapahulu Avenue: Honolulu's vibrant culinary street, packed with iconic eateries, diverse international flavors, and local charm.

4.4
(7 reviews)

"Kapahulu wasn’t the cleanest area, but the restaurants were nice and worth a try."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Don't Miss the Malasadas!

Lines at Leonard's Bakery can be long, but they move fast! Try unique flavors like mango or custard.

🍜 Ramen & Dumpling Delights

Explore Gyoza Studio Kubota for amazing dumplings and Aburiya Ibushi for Japanese cuisine.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Leonard's Bakery Malasadas

Leonard's Bakery Malasadas

933 Kapahulu Ave

Iconic Portuguese donuts, warm, fluffy, and filled with delicious flavors. A true taste of Hawaii!

Tonkatsu Tamafuji

Tonkatsu Tamafuji

1103 Kapahulu Ave

Renowned for its perfectly crispy and tender pork cutlets (katsu). A local favorite for a reason.

Sunrise Shack

Sunrise Shack

Next to Leonard's Bakery

Vibrant acai bowls, smoothies, and bullet coffees to fuel your island adventures.

Deck at Queen Kapiolani Hotel

Deck at Queen Kapiolani Hotel

150 Kapahulu Ave

Rooftop dining with breathtaking views of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head.

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Planning Your Visit

Culinary Adventure Awaits

Kapahulu Avenue is a foodie paradise! From iconic malasadas to authentic ramen and Peruvian delights, this street offers a diverse culinary journey. Be prepared for potential lines at popular spots like Leonard's Bakery, but the delicious rewards are worth the wait. TikTokReddit

Beyond the Plate: Shopping & Views

While known for its food, Kapahulu also offers unique souvenir shops and dining with a view. Consider a rooftop dinner at Deck for stunning Waikiki vistas. Instagram+1 Exploring this vibrant street is a must for any Honolulu visitor.

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Dine with fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Brunch and local vibes
Crowd
Medium
When
Anytime for foodies
Why
Always delicious options
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The shrimp looked so GOOD though… 😭😭 ✅ SAVE This for your next trip to Hawaii Food Details: 👇🏾 📍Leonards Bakery: 933 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816 The BEST place on the island to get fresh malasadas! They are donuts rolled in sugar with filling of your choice. My favorite was the mango and custard flavor. They have locations all throughout the island. Lines can get long! 📍Giovanni's Shrimp Tru...
@hasanguy
38.5K likes • 390.6K views

🎯 Don't Miss the Malasadas!

Lines at Leonard's Bakery can be long, but they move fast! Try unique flavors like mango or custard. TikTok

🍜 Ramen & Dumpling Delights

Explore Gyoza Studio Kubota for amazing dumplings and Aburiya Ibushi for Japanese cuisine. Reddit

We are open Today!! 【address】 755 Kapahulu Avenue #5,Honolulu,Hawaii,96816 US 【Business hours】 10:00~21:00(all days of the week) #大晦日#toshikoshisoba #うどん #udon #noodle #釜だし #gamadashi #天ぷら #tempura #どんぶり#donburi #ハワイ #hawaii #oahu #waikiki #honolulu #レナーズ #近くのうどん屋 #カパフル #kapahulu #広島 #japan #hiroshima
udongamadashi
37 likes • 2K views
Delicious new restaurant on Kapahulu avenue! Check out @ochoslatinvibes We got to meet the chef and owner @sam_fonseca_88 of this delicious Peruvian eatery! Everything was delicious and the service was excellent. We will definitely be back to listen to the live music on Friday and Saturday nights. So happy to have the flavors of Peru 🇵🇪 in our neighborhood. #peruvianfood #paradise #aloha #blessed...
evelyn_holm_barry__
40 likes • 604 views

🍣 Authentic Japanese Eats

Hiromiya offers delicious yakiniku and motsunabe (hot pot). BYOB is welcome! Instagram+1

🌶️ Peruvian Flavors

Ocho's Latin Vibes brings authentic Peruvian cuisine and live music on weekends. Instagram

I love it when I KATSU staring at me 👁👁 Jyukusei (Aged) Pork Loin Katsu Teishoku with a side of Oyster Katsu from Tonkatsu Tamafuji located in Kapahulu Avenue in Honolulu, Hawaii 🐽 Finally tried their Oyster, just a piece though - just to try it for now. Hehe. It did not disappoint. It's fresh and literally melts in your mouth! I'm not the biggest fan of fried oyster so I always stick to my usua...
lusciousgrubs
1.4K likes • 16.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Don't Miss the Malasadas!

Lines at Leonard's Bakery can be long, but they move fast! Try unique flavors like mango or custard. TikTok

🍜 Ramen & Dumpling Delights

Explore Gyoza Studio Kubota for amazing dumplings and Aburiya Ibushi for Japanese cuisine. Reddit

🍣 Authentic Japanese Eats

Hiromiya offers delicious yakiniku and motsunabe (hot pot). BYOB is welcome! Instagram+1

🌶️ Peruvian Flavors

Ocho's Latin Vibes brings authentic Peruvian cuisine and live music on weekends. Instagram

🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky

Street parking is available but can be limited. Consider ride-sharing for convenience. Reddit

🍧 Shave Ice Trio

Discover three great shave ice spots: Ulu's, Shimazu, and Waiola. Perfect for cooling down! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(7 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Kapahulu Avenue is a vibrant culinary hub praised for its diverse and delicious food offerings, from iconic malasadas to authentic international cuisine. While some find the area less clean, the quality and variety of restaurants are consistently highlighted as a major draw. Parking can be a challenge, but the overall experience is highly rewarding for food enthusiasts.

"‏Kapahulu wasn’t the cleanest area, but the restaurants were nice and worth a try."

S shayan

"Great farmers market Sundays on Kapahulu"

Sharon Louise

"Easy to get to. Not too much traffic."

A O

What People Like

Incredible food variety
Iconic Leonard's malasadas
Authentic local eateries

What People Dislike

Parking can be difficult
Area cleanliness concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kapahulu Avenue is easily accessible from Waikiki. You can take a short Uber or Lyft ride, which typically takes about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. For those who enjoy walking, it's a pleasant stroll of about 20-30 minutes from the eastern end of Waikiki. Reddit

Yes, TheBus operates several routes that stop along Kapahulu Avenue, making it a convenient option for getting there without a car. Check TheBus schedules for routes like the 2, 13, or 23. Reddit

Kapahulu Avenue is very walkable, especially for exploring the main strip of restaurants and shops. For longer distances or to explore beyond the immediate area, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available and recommended. Reddit

Street parking is available along Kapahulu Avenue and its side streets, but it can be competitive, especially during peak dining hours. Some restaurants may have limited dedicated parking. Arriving early or using ride-sharing is often less stressful. Reddit

Yes, you can walk to Kapahulu Avenue from Waikiki Beach. It's approximately a 1.5 to 2-mile walk from the heart of Waikiki, taking about 30-45 minutes. It's a good option if you want to enjoy the scenery and get some exercise. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Kapahulu Avenue is a public street, so no tickets are required to walk around and explore. However, individual restaurants and shops will have their own pricing for food, drinks, and merchandise. Reddit

There are no entrance fees for Kapahulu Avenue itself. You are free to stroll along the street and browse the various establishments. Reddit

Operating hours vary significantly by establishment. Many restaurants are open for lunch and dinner, with some bakeries and cafes opening earlier. It's best to check the specific hours for any place you plan to visit. Instagram+1

For popular spots like Tonkatsu Tamafuji or Hiromiya, reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends. Some smaller eateries may not take reservations, so be prepared for a potential wait. InstagramReddit

While not a regular occurrence on the avenue itself, the nearby Market City Shopping Center and occasional events can bring extra activity. The reviews mention a great farmers market on Sundays on Kapahulu. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You absolutely must try the malasadas from Leonard's Bakery!TikTok Other highly recommended items include katsu from Tonkatsu Tamafuji,Reddit ramen from Ono Ya Ramen,Reddit dumplings from Gyoza Studio Kubota,Reddit and Peruvian dishes from Ocho's Latin Vibes.Instagram Don't forget to explore the diverse international food scene. Reddit

Leonard's Bakery is the iconic spot for malasadas on Kapahulu Avenue. They offer a variety of fillings and are a quintessential Hawaiian treat. Be prepared for a line, but it's worth the wait! TikTokReddit

Yes, Kapahulu Avenue has excellent options for ramen lovers. Ono Ya Ramen is a popular choice,Reddit and Hiromiya offers delicious motsunabe (a type of hot pot) and other Japanese dishes. Instagram+1

For a unique experience, consider Ocho's Latin Vibes for Peruvian cuisine and live music on weekends,Instagram or Hiromiya for a cozy yakiniku and hot pot dinner. Instagram+1 Deck offers a rooftop dining experience with stunning views. Instagram+1

While Kapahulu is known for its meat-centric dishes like katsu and yakiniku, you can find vegetarian and vegan options. Acai bowls from Sunrise Shack are a great healthy choice,Instagram and many restaurants can accommodate dietary restrictions if you inquire. Pho Old Saigon also offers Vietnamese options that can be adapted. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The vibrant storefronts and bustling atmosphere of Kapahulu Avenue offer plenty of photo opportunities. Iconic spots include the colorful signage of Leonard's Bakery,TikTok the unique dishes at various restaurants, and the stunning sunset views from the rooftop of Deck at Queen Kapiolani Hotel. Instagram+1

For panoramic views, head to the rooftop of the Queen Kapiolani Hotel, where Deck restaurant is located. This offers a fantastic vantage point for capturing Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head, especially during sunset. Instagram+1

Kapahulu Avenue is ideal for street photography, food photography, and capturing the local Honolulu vibe. The diverse culinary scene provides endless subjects for food shots, while the lively street offers opportunities for candid portraits and architectural details. TikTokInstagram

Generally, yes, you can take photos inside restaurants, especially of your food. However, it's always polite to be discreet and avoid disrupting other diners or staff. Some establishments might have specific policies, so it's good to be mindful. Instagram

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. Weekday evenings can be less crowded, allowing for clearer shots of storefronts and street scenes. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kapahulu Avenue is a fantastic spot for families looking for delicious and diverse food options. Leonard's Bakery is a guaranteed hit with kids for their sweet malasadas.TikTok Sunrise Shack offers healthy and colorful acai bowls and smoothies that are appealing to all ages.Instagram For a more substantial meal, consider casual eateries that offer kid-friendly options. While parking can be a challenge, using ride-sharing services can make getting to and from Kapahulu easier with children. Reddit

Many of the restaurants are casual, making them suitable for families. It's a great place to introduce children to a variety of flavors and local Hawaiian treats. Remember to bring cash, as some smaller establishments might prefer it, and be prepared for potential waits at popular spots, which can be managed with snacks or by visiting during off-peak hours.

💰 Budget Travelers

Kapahulu Avenue offers several budget-friendly dining options that allow you to experience local flavors without breaking the bank. Rainbow Drive-In is a classic spot known for its affordable plate lunches and loco moco.Reddit Many of the ramen shops and local eateries offer hearty meals at reasonable prices. Reddit+1 Exploring the various food stalls and smaller restaurants can lead to delicious and inexpensive discoveries.

Consider sharing larger plates or opting for take-out to save money. Utilizing public transportation like TheBus can also cut down on travel costs compared to frequent ride-sharing. Reddit Kapahulu is a great place to eat like a local and enjoy authentic Hawaiian cuisine on a budget.

couples

For a romantic culinary adventure, Kapahulu Avenue offers a vibrant atmosphere and diverse dining. Enjoy a casual yet delicious meal at Tonkatsu Tamafuji or Hiromiya for an authentic Japanese experience.Instagram+1 For a more upscale evening with stunning views, consider a dinner at Deck on the rooftop of the Queen Kapiolani Hotel, perfect for watching the sunset over Waikiki.Instagram+1

Consider exploring the street hand-in-hand, sampling treats from different vendors, and enjoying the lively local scene. The variety of cuisines ensures you can find something to suit both your tastes. A shared malasada from Leonard's Bakery or a refreshing shave ice can be a sweet end to your Kapahulu exploration.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Culinary Journey Down Kapahulu

Kapahulu Avenue is a legendary culinary destination in Honolulu, often referred to as a 'foodie's paradise.' It boasts an incredible concentration of diverse eateries, from local Hawaiian comfort food to authentic international flavors. The street is particularly famous for its malasadas from Leonard's Bakery, a Portuguese-style donut that has become a must-try for visitors and locals alike. TikTok Be prepared for queues, especially during peak hours, but the warm, sugar-dusted treats are well worth the wait. Reddit

Beyond the iconic malasadas, Kapahulu offers a rich tapestry of dining experiences. You'll find highly-rated Japanese restaurants like Tonkatsu Tamafuji for its exceptional pork cutlets Reddit and Hiromiya for yakiniku and motsunabe (hot pot).Instagram+1 For those craving noodles, Ono Ya Ramen is a local favorite,Reddit and Gyoza Studio Kubota is renowned for its delicious dumplings.Reddit The street also features Peruvian cuisine at Ocho's Latin Vibes Instagram and healthy options like acai bowls from Sunrise Shack.Instagram Exploring Kapahulu is an adventure for the taste buds, with something to satisfy every craving.

When planning your culinary exploration of Kapahulu, consider the timing to avoid the longest waits. Weekday evenings often offer a more relaxed dining experience. While parking can be challenging, the street is very walkable, and ride-sharing services are readily available. Reddit Many of the establishments are casual, making it easy to hop from one delicious spot to another. The vibrant atmosphere and the sheer variety of food make Kapahulu Avenue an unforgettable part of any Honolulu visit.

Beyond the Plate: Views and Souvenirs

While Kapahulu Avenue is primarily celebrated for its culinary offerings, it also provides opportunities for unique shopping and dining with a view. The street is lined with various souvenir shops and local boutiques, offering a chance to pick up mementos of your Hawaiian vacation. These shops often feature local crafts, apparel, and unique gifts that reflect the island's culture.

For a memorable dining experience with a scenic backdrop, Deck at the Queen Kapiolani Hotel is a standout. Located on the third floor, this open-air rooftop restaurant offers stunning panoramic views of Waikiki Beach and the iconic Diamond Head crater.Instagram+1 It's an ideal spot to enjoy a meal or a cocktail while soaking in the breathtaking Hawaiian scenery, especially during sunset. This offers a different perspective on the Kapahulu area, blending culinary enjoyment with visual splendor.

Exploring Kapahulu Avenue isn't just about eating; it's about experiencing the local Honolulu lifestyle. The combination of diverse food options, local shops, and scenic viewpoints makes it a well-rounded destination for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the island's charm.

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