Top Rated Restaurants & Cafes in Honolulu

Nam Fong is more like a landmark as a restaurant that sells wonderful roasted items. Ask any one of the Chinatown regulars and they will tell you that Nam Fong is located at the heart of Chinatown mid-block along Maunakea Street between Hotel and North King Street. Surrounded by the likes of Chinese groceries, herbalists, restaurants and lei stands, it is easily identifiable by the ever present morning line. Locals will come from all parts of the island for a pound or two of crispy duck, roasted pork and shoyu chicken. There is paid parking lot across the street that is almost always filled, especially on Saturday mornings.

With two sushi bars, four master sushi chefs, countless types of nigiri sushi and at least 15 kinds of sashimi, it is no wonder that this place is regularly voted best sushi in Honolulu. In addition to sushi, there is a six-page menu of cooked and raw Japanese specialties ranging from broiled fish to Tororo. The drink menu is equally impressive, including several varieties of sake. Also, the combination lunch menus are a real bargain. The entry walls are decorated with photos of visiting celebrities including Michael Jackson and Gene Hackman. The restaurant can be unpleasantly crowded at dinner, while lunch is more comfortable.

Located near the corner of Queen street, this small and unassuming eatery is one of the islands cheap eats secrets. Value is the mantra here with unbelievable portions and standard plate lunch fare done well. Located on the first floor of a small business complex, it's not the easiest place to find, but it's worth the hunt. The interior is plain and typical of most plate lunch spots. This place has quickly become a spot that has managed to grab the hearts of island plate lunch aficionados who are snobs about plate lunch cuisine.

Located just inside the ground level parking entrance at the Makai Marketplace in Ala Moana Shopping Center, this burger counter offers high-end burgers at affordable prices. The Cheeseburger Factor has a constant crush of shoppers, island visitors and beach goers. You can gather with them at lunchtime for the tastiest grilled patties on fresh baked buns, topped with fresh ingredients, like island tomatoes and lettuce. The shrimp and mahi mahi burger is one of the more popular items on the menu. The crowds at lunchtime can be overwhelming if you're looking for something fast and tasty, so bring patience along with an appetite.

Even though it's not fancy and it's self-service, this modest award-winning eatery has won over the stomachs and wallets of island locals. The setting is more functional than fabulous with faux koa wood paneling and a few vintage wall hangings in keeping with the tropical theme. Seating is an abundant mix of tables and booths. The menu is endless and everything sounds yummy. Everything comes with three pancakes—don't forget the special coconut syrup—and everything ranges from scrambled eggs with bacon or sausage to Portuguese Vinha D'Alhos egg omelets. The prices are super cheap, and the place is super packed, especially on Sunday mornings. - Lottie Tagupa