From garlic shrimp to ube desserts, these markets deliver bold island flavor.
Tucked away on the east side of Oʻahu, bEASTside Kitchen is a locally run gem that brings bold, flavorful comfort food to the island’s scenic shoreline. Born from food truck roots, it blends the creativity of street-style cooking with the heart of classic Hawaiian plate lunches, focusing on bold seasoning, fresh ingredients, and portions that more than satisfy. It has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike who are looking for no-nonsense, crave-worthy meals before or after a day of island exploring.
Tucked behind a school parking lot and shaded by the soft light of a Kailua sunset, the Kailua Farmers’ Market is one of those places that feels more like a weekly tradition than an event. It begins to buzz before the sun dips low, as families, couples, and barefoot locals arrive with canvas bags and open appetites. The market isn't massive, but that’s part of its charm—it’s intimate, focused, and full of flavor.
Located on the leeward coast of Oʻahu in Waiʻanae, E&S Island Fusion is a casual food stop serving up local-style barbecue, island fusion dishes, and hearty plate lunches. It’s the kind of place travelers on the west side of the island seek out when they want authentic flavors in a laid-back, no-frills setting. The menu reflects a blend of Hawaiian, Filipino, and Pacific Island influences, featuring grilled meats, seafood, and comfort-style plate lunches that change from day to day. Regular favorites include teriyaki chicken, smoked brisket or pulled pork, BBQ short ribs, fried noodles or saimin, and shrimp or garlic chicken plates. Meals are always generous, served with white rice, mac salad, and optional sides like steamed vegetables or tossed greens—ideal for refueling after a beach day or a road trip along the rugged coastline.
In the heart of breezy, beachy Kailua, where barefoot locals ride cruiser bikes past boutiques and bakeries, there’s a market that feels less like an event and more like a gathering. Lokahi Kailua Market isn’t loud or showy. It doesn’t need to be. What it offers is simple and sincere—a space where community, creativity, and small business meet under the canopy of island skies.
Tucked into the laid-back town of Laʻie on Oʻahu’s North Shore, Seven Brothers is a locally owned gem that’s become a go-to for travelers and locals craving indulgent burgers with island soul. While this family-run spot has grown to include several locations—including Kahuku and even Provo, Utah—the original restaurant in Laʻie still draws the most buzz, especially from beachgoers and road trippers exploring the scenic stretch between Kahuku and Haleʻiwa. Founded by a local family of—you guessed it—seven brothers, the restaurant is all about hearty comfort food with local flair. Every burger is made to order, generously portioned, and built with fresh ingredients layered in bold, creative combinations. Think juicy patties topped with grilled pineapple, crispy onions, jalapeños, bacon, or their signature sauces, all served with a side of aloha. The portions are large, the flavors big, and the vibe unpretentious.
Shaka Shake Bowl – Hawaii, Korean BBQ delivers a quick and customizable dining experience that brings the flavors of Korean barbecue into a convenient bowl format. Tucked away on Oʻahu, this spot blends fast-casual service with generous portions and familiar ingredients, making it a popular choice for both locals and travelers looking to grab a satisfying meal without the fuss.
Tucked away in ʻAiea near the historic Pearl Harbor area, Poke On Da Run Shop is a modest, locally owned eatery with a big reputation for flavor. Perfectly positioned for those driving between Honolulu and the island’s west side, it offers a convenient and authentic taste of Hawaiʻi in a no-frills, takeout-friendly setting. The restaurant has become a go-to for both locals and travelers seeking generous portions, freshly made poke, and affordable plate lunches.
Tucked into a small shopping center along Kamehameha Highway in Kāneʻohe, Adela’s Country Eatery is a casual takeout restaurant that offers a menu centered around house-made noodles using locally grown ingredients. With its innovative use of Hawaiʻi’s agricultural products and emphasis on takeout-friendly service, it has drawn interest from both residents and visitors.
Tucked into the lush foothills of the Koʻolau Mountains in Kāneʻohe, Haleiwa Joe’s at Haiku Gardens is more than just a restaurant—it’s an immersive island experience that blends locally inspired cuisine with one of the most breathtaking dining settings on Oʻahu. With its open-air layout and sweeping botanical garden views, it’s a Windward-side favorite for both locals and visitors seeking a relaxed yet elevated meal in the heart of nature.
Tucked into the heart of Waipahu on Oʻahu’s central-west side, the Village Night Market offers a refreshing take on the evening market scene—focusing on community, culture, and food in a relaxed, open-air setting. Held monthly at the Waipahu Filipino Community Center, this grassroots event brings together local food vendors, artisans, and entertainers, creating a walkable gathering that celebrates the island’s entrepreneurial and multicultural spirit.