10 Best Restaurants in Kailua

Kailua, a charming town nestled between turquoise waters and emerald mountains, has evolved into a culinary oasis that appeals to the foodie soul in all of us. With the rise in gourmet offerings, Kailua has become a food lover's paradise worth the trek from any corner of Oahu. If you're new to the area or planning a visit soon, this handy guide to the crème de la crème of Kailua restaurants will leave you drooling.

The Hibachi is not your run-of-the-mill teppanyaki restaurant; it's an experience. As you walk in, the subdued lighting and refined décor set the stage for an elegant evening. But don't let the sophisticated ambiance fool you—the chefs are engaging and add a dash of humor to their culinary performances. Whether you're enjoying filet mignon cooked to perfection or marveling at the chef's deft knife skills, this spot delivers flavor and flair. Each dish is prepared right in front of you, turning dinner into a must-see spectacle.

Think fusion cuisine meets island comfort, and you'll get Uahi Island Grill. With its welcoming atmosphere and the scent of luscious island spices wafting through the air, this restaurant is an experience you won't want to miss. Sink your teeth into local favorites that showcase complex flavors with a high-end twist. Imagine tender mahi-mahi dressed up with a macadamia nut crust or ahi poke that melts in your mouth. You'll leave satisfied but longing for your next visit.

Though Kono's may have a laid-back surfer vibe, don't underestimate its culinary prowess. Specializing in pork dishes that are slow-cooked for 12 hours, Kono's turns simple ingredients into an unforgettable feast. The Porky's breakfast burrito is a morning game-changer packed with flavors. Meanwhile, their milkshakes, crafted with locally sourced ingredients, are the stuff of legends. Kono's gives you the perfect excuse to break your diet without a second thought.

Easy 'Que is the place where Southern BBQ meets island hospitality. The ambiance is casual yet tastefully done, evoking a sense of comfort that complements the mouthwatering dishes. The chefs are committed to sourcing high-quality, local ingredients, so you're not just enjoying a meal; you're embracing a farm-to-table lifestyle with every bite.

From the moment you step into Eastside Kitchen, you feel like you've been whisked away to a cozy yet modern loft. The brick walls and minimalist decor add just the right touch of sophistication, making it an ideal setting for a romantic evening or a celebratory dinner with friends. This gem offers a seasonal menu that keeps regulars coming back to see what new, innovative dishes the chefs have crafted. Picture an elegant rack of lamb paired with locally sourced vegetables—each bite is like a warm embrace you wish could last forever.

If seafood is the way to your heart, then Paia Fish Market Kailua will leave you smitten. This upscale eatery brings the freshest catches from ocean to plate, making every meal an oceanic odyssey of flavor. The setting is upscale yet relaxed, providing a canvas where the food truly shines. Imagine the joy of digging into a plate of seared ahi tuna, its succulent flesh cooked to perfection, or relishing a buttery lobster that encapsulates the essence of the sea. Your taste buds will be sailing through a dream with each mouthful.

The Garden at Boardroom is not just a restaurant; it's a sanctuary of gastronomic bliss tucked away amidst lush greenery. This oasis delivers on both aesthetics and culinary excellence. Tables are set amongst flourishing plants, making you feel like you're dining in an enchanted garden. Now, imagine that a culinary wizard conjures up dishes that are both visually stunning and heavenly to the taste. From gourmet pasta to high-end steaks, each dish is an artistic masterpiece that satisfies the soul as much as the stomach.

There's something almost poetic about gathering around a bubbling pot of broth, choosing your ingredients, and watching them transform into a meal that's uniquely yours. Hot Pot Heaven brings this intimate, communal dining experience to a whole new level. The luxe, modern decor, complete with chic wooden accents, creates a backdrop that enhances every bite. Imagine the broth simmering in front of you, a cauldron of aroma and flavor, waiting to embrace an array of high-quality meats and vegetables.

22 Kailua is the epitome of culinary elegance, a place where each dish is an ode to the art of fine dining. The atmosphere captures the essence of refined simplicity, allowing the flavors to take center stage. The experience of dining here is akin to hearing a symphony for the first time; each note of flavor is both surprising and deeply comforting. Whether it's a risotto that feels like a warm embrace or a dessert that dances on your palate, 22 Kailua crafts meals you'll remember long after the plates are cleared.

The allure of Willow Tree lies in its ability to transport you straight to the heart of Seoul while nestling you in the familiar embrace of Kailua's charm. The restaurant exudes an aura of sophisticated comfort; it's where traditional Korean architecture meets modern elegance. A journey here takes your taste buds through an anthology of Korean cuisine at its finest. Imagine sinking your teeth into premium bulgogi, so tender it nearly falls apart in your mouth, or relishing the complex layers of a beautifully presented bibimbap. Every meal here is a tapestry of tastes and textures that speaks to the soul.

Each establishment on this list is a culinary gem, unique in its flavors, atmosphere, and emotional impact. These restaurants aren't just places to eat; they're destinations for your senses, sanctuaries for your soul, and celebrations of the town's incredible gastronomic landscape. Whether you're a long-time Kailua resident or a visitor looking to explore the best the town has to offer, you owe it to yourself to experience these divine eateries.

Scott Steiner brings an unparalleled depth of insight into Oahu's real estate scene, bolstered by his family's 130-plus years in the industry. If you're looking to buy or sell a home or have any questions about the Kailua, Hawaii, real estate market, contact Scott Steiner today.