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La Mer

4.4 (552 reviews)
Ultra High-EndFrench
Closed Closed

La Mer Photos

LA MER ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Romantic
Intimate
Upscale
Classy

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Reviews With Photos

Madeline
Eric B.

An exquisite, ethereal dining experience from start to finish. You'll pay for the pleasure, but if you are staying at the Halekulani, you owe it to yourself to indulge. The decor exudes elegant tiki vibes and the dining room has a row of tables overlooking the Pacific. We had a such a table. While in the fall the sun will have set by 6:30, looking out into the darkness over a leisurely meal has its own pleasures and seductions in which I recommend you indulge. The main event here is the 8 course tasting menu, which we attacked. However, be warned that it is a LOT of food - these are not small plates - and by the end of the meal I was stuffed and could not finish off all the desserts (3+!), even though I ate very little earlier in the day. We kicked the evening off with some Krug, and ordered a bottle of Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf-du-Pape. The CdP goes with everything and you'll save on the wine pairings. Amuse Bouche - A carrot vichyssoise with carrot/ginger panna cotta and lobster remoulade. Delicious and LARGE. Fois Gras - The most playful dish of the evening. A ballotine of foie gras slathered with apple calvados marmalade, all covered with a giant cotton candy cloud. The plate was decorated with chartruese jellies and ginger and kahlua gels. Everything was delicious and the cotton candy fun to eat. Large, easily sharable for two. Scallop - One scallop topped with a couple cuttlefish slices in a cauliflower mousse. Delicious, the scallop was perfectly cooked. Abalone - Only miss of the night. The abalone was chewy and the parsely and onion seasoning an odd approach that did not enhance the abalone's fundamental earthiness. If I did this dinner over I would go a la carte or just skip this course. Poached Lobster - Exquisite - tail meat, claw meat, coconut sauce, and tomato chutney. A masterpiece. Filet and foie gras - Perfection. Sizeable filet for a meal like this (6 ounces?), cooked perfectly rare, with a good size lobe of seared foie gras. Potatoes were a bit heavy on the truffle but the sauce was perfect. We could have easily split this dish given the size of the filet and other dishes. At this point it was all I could do to eat the whole lobe and most of the steak, I was bursting at the seams. Cheese course - I didn't catch all the varieties. The orange cheese was great. Easily skippable if you are not into cheese as a dessert. I ordered some Japanese whiskey to wash down the desserts. The server, recognizing my joie de vivre, also poured me a glass of white port. Merci mon ami! Almond Madeline - Another masterpiece. It looks like a madeline cookie, but its stuffed with a three fruit cream sauce. To Die For. Vanilla Mousse & Vanilla Souffle Two amazing desserts. The souffle comes with three pour over sauces - Spiced Caramel, Dark Chocolate, Banana Creme. I only wish I had more room to eat all of them. Special Anniversary Dessert Because it was our anniversary, we also got a THIRD DESSERT, which I cannot describe except to say it was delicious. And THEN we got multiple chocolate goodies to go, as is custom. All of the staff we encountered was friendly, knowledgeable, and very happy we were there. We had a great time and would return.

Jacqueline C.

We were told this was the place to go for an elevated dining experience -- and it absolutely delivered. The restaurant has a classy, upscale vibe, and they do enforce a dress code (especially for men), which actually adds to the whole experience. The views while dining were beautiful, and the service was truly spot-on from start to finish. We opted for the set menu, and every course felt very intentional. Portions were just right -- enough to leave satisfied but not overly full -- and you could really appreciate the quality of each dish. The flavors, textures, and presentation were all thoughtfully done and memorable. If you're looking for a refined dining experience in Hawaii, I would highly recommend giving this place a try. Honestly felt Michelin-worthy.

Angela C.

We came here for a special engagement celebration, and the whole evening felt beautifully thoughtful. Gen, our server, guided us through each dish with such care and explained the chef's vision like she was letting us in on a secret. The duck breast was rich (mine was a bit on the firm side), and the fish with its crackling, hot-oil-kissed skin was melt-in-your-mouth unforgettable. Even the simple things , like the seaweed-infused tableside bread as it felt unique and magical. It was such a memorable meal, start to finish.

Mousse
Neal I.

The quality of the food, it's flavor, uniqueness, restaurant service and ambiance were all excellent! It's not just a meal but a dining experience. We came to celebrate a birthday and wedding anniversary of family members. We wanted to do something special and La Mer did not disappoint. We had the 7 course Menu Degustation. The $295 per person cost is an eye opener however, when you consider the variety, quality, and manner in which the dishes are prepared, you can appreciate it. The meal consisted of soup, seafood, meat, starches, vegetables, flowers, sauces, and sweets. Each plate consisted of a variation of dishes, uniquely prepared. We enjoyed every course, eating each dish individually and sometimes collectively. It would take too much space to describe each item so suffice it to say they were all delicious! The service is like no other restaurant. You have a number of servers providing everything you would need. You never have to wait for anything since you are so well taken care of. The atmosphere is very peaceful and the views spectacular. We could see the ocean and sunset out one opening and Diamond Head and the beach out the other. All the dishes were also presented beautifully, as you can see by the photos. Overall, a very, very nice way to celebrate a special occasion with special people!

La Mer earns its reputation. Between the impeccable service, the soul of Chef Trancher's kitchen, and the soft sound of the Pacific just beyond the windows, this was one of the most memorable meals we've had in Waikiki -- or anywhere. Bravo.

Jasmine J.

I came here for my birthday this year over the summer. This review is long overdue but I feel the after shocks of the meal still lingering. La Mer was always on my checklist and I finally did! If you have the means to splurge, do it. It does not fall short of expectations at all! I mean, it's a heinous amount of money to be spent on one single meal, but the entire experience from service, to plated course after course, to the beautiful views of Diamond Head/Waikiki and the oceanside, was divine. Opted for the menu dégustation with additional ala carte items from the menu soiree. I feel inadequate as a fine dining connoisseur to describe every dish but the pictures should do it all justice! There wasn't a dish I didn't enjoy (except for the duck liver - foie gras is just not my taste which is very subjective). They added complimentary amuse bouches, dessert tea cookies, birthday cake and chocolates (with pop rocks hidden in them!) in boxes to take home. The Michelin guide has not made its way to Hawaii but I definitely feel La Mer is up to those standards in fine French dining! I wish I could go back!!

Albert M.

This was touted as the top restaurant on the island. We made a reservation, and was warned about the $125 no show fee. Interesting. It is located in a very quiet, exclusive resort. The restaurant is on the second floor, with picturesque windows with breathtaking view of the ocean. The ambience was incredible, with staff dressed in impeccable white uniforms. The staff is constantly circling you, making sure all your needs are done before you even look for help. The go to here is the 8 course tasting menu. The wait staff poured me a nicely aged Burgundy white that melted my brain. The chef gave us a complementary cold soup with lobster pure, wonderfully refreshing. Course 1, a foie gras with banana chips, surprisingly sweet but tasty, paying homage to the island. Course 2, scallop with 3 kind of peas and caviar, the peas were sweet and fresh, this dish impressed the heck out of me. Course 3, abalone, cooked perfectly, delicious. Course 4, lobster and red wine sauce, with locally grown cold water lobster, sweet, succulent. Course 5, the main course, filet with truffles, foie gras, and truffle potato puree, the flavor is so intense, but balanced and complimentary at the same time, absolutely amazing! Course 6, cheese plate, very enjoyable, the cheese selection was outstanding. Course 7, the pre dessert, a lychee sorbet in a very tart raspberry sauce, a perfect palate cleanser. Course 8, soufflé with 3 sauce, and lemony bread pudding, my wife was a dessert expert and she was blown away. Finally the bill, expect about 300+ per person, plus drinks, and 125-150 tip. So you will pay for this meal.

Eric B.

Came to La Mer with my wife for our 5th anniversary dinner and couldn't have been more blown away by the incredible experience! From the start, you are greeted by all of the staff that will be serving you. All genuinely seemed like they love working there! The views of Diamond Head and Waikiki that meet you when you are seated at your table are second to none! I've lived in Honolulu for two and a half years now and have yet to find a more stunning view at a beachside fine dining establishment. The complimentary bread to begin the meal came in a luxurious variety of brioche, baguette and other French styles. Dining options include course meals or a la carte. If you're feeling extra hungry, go for the course meal. We opted for the a la carte because we weren't sure whether we'd be able to finish. Some of the items we ordered include the Foie Gras de Canard, Saint-Jacques Roti, Filet de Bœuf, Filet de Canard Roti, La Cabosse de Chocolat, and Soufflé Vanille. The French red wine we ordered paired very well with the entree dishes! Finally, the staff was so thoughtful to provide us with an anniversary dessert and small in-house confectionary candies to take home! During our entire dinner, the staff was literally at our beck and call, making sure we had everything we needed and were having the best time possible. While it goes without saying that dining at La Mer will definitely break the bank, it is very much worth it for special occasion dinners! One of the top places I recommend on island!

Saint-Jacques Rôti, Grains de Caviar, Mousseline de Carotte au Pamplemousse - VN
Vince N.

The spouse always wanted to dine at La Mer, Halekulani's French restaurant. While they don't have any Michelin Guide recognition, they are constantly crowned with AAA's Five Diamond Award. 2024 was the perfect time to celebrate our birthdays and anniversaries with 20 of our close family and friends. ATMOSPHERE: Located oceanfront above Orchids restaurant, we had use of their 22-seat private dining room "Salon du Vin" at the front of the establishment. It's air conditioned but open air at the same time, so it was a little toasty. MENU DÉGUSTATION: It's amuse bouche (chef-selected small portions). FOOD: We started off with a chef's complement basil pesto gazpacho with crab which was refreshing & divine. I passed on the duck foie gras with strawberry jam & pickled onions due to health reasons. A perfectly roasted scallop topped with caviar in a newburg sauce was amazing. Poached lobster tail & claw with chorizo squares, squid ink gnocchi & cream sauce was outstanding. Filet of beef with truffle sauce, mashed potatoes and potato "puffs" were excellent. Trio of cheeses were good but one cheese in particular was unpalatable to me and others due to its intense bitterness and earthiness. DESSERT: Canelé over a caramel mousse was fine. The last course was a beautifully plated and magnificent semifreddo, or frozen mousse, in a honey cream flavor. We each received sensational bags of homemade chocolate & Pop Rocks-covered macadamia nuts, compliments of La Mer. SERVICE: Unparalleled, first class professionalism. OVERALL: Exceptional cuisine, presentation and service.

Collection of Seven Course Menu
Naoto U.

The best French on the island. You will enjoy the flavors and season with traditional French style cooking. You need to be ready to take time for your entire meal. Seven courses can go easily above three hours. The service is elegant and they know what they are doing. It has one of the best view with a timeless feel of Hawaii.

Grilled scallop
Kanoe Q.

Best dining experience in Hawaii to date. Superb, attentive service with peaceful/romantic atmosphere complimented by a 7-course meal that was masterfully curated with well-balanced flavors and portioning. Wine pairing elevated the meal and richly brought out the flavors. 10/10 for each course. If you are not accustomed to expensive fancy meals--think of this as a treat yo self opportunity to splurge on a well-worth it EXPERIENCE rather than just a meal. Will definitely be coming back again (hopefully soon if my budget allows haha).

Foie Gras de Canard Chips et Chutney d'Oranges Sanguines
Violet B.

We came to celebrate a friend's birthday and it was my first visit to La Mer, and it certainly was a treat to dine here! There were a variety of traditional French dishes to choose from and you also have the option to Ala carte. However the best is to order the menu so that you can enjoy a variety of dishes designed by the chef. The service was absolutely superb. Our waiter Nick was attentive and also Stephen who helped making our evening wonderful! We got seated the ocean view and enjoyed the sunset till we finished dining last 9. The parking is fully validated by Halekulani Hotel. Easily pull upfront for valet. Validation is good for four hours.

Custom Dessert with Condolence Message
Stefanie W.

La Mer was more than just a fine dining experience--it was a moment of grace during one of the most difficult times in our lives. We noted in our reservation that we were grieving the loss of a family member, and from the moment we arrived, we were met with sincere warmth, care, and an unforgettable kindness that touched our hearts. The team went above and beyond--our table overlooked Diamond Head with live music and hula dancers below, creating a dreamy, peaceful setting. Each course of the tasting menu was exquisite, beautifully paired with wine, and presented with thoughtful precision. Every bite was a delight, and every server who approached us brought not only professionalism but genuine compassion. The most moving gesture of all? An additional dessert presented at the end of our meal, delicately inscribed with "our heartfelt condolences." It brought tears to our eyes. That small act of kindness meant more than we can express. To the manager and entire team--thank you. Your grace and care gave us a moment of beauty and comfort we will always remember.

Poached lobster

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La Mer Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - La Mer

Is there a corkage fee? If so , what is the price per bottle?

I really don't know but if you call the hotel, I'm sure they'll tell you. I'll bet it's a bunch though.

Is La Mer open? I am planning a trip to honolulu and I would LOVE to visit again if they are open! I had the amazing experience before

Yes, Wednesday thru Saturday but best to check ahead.

If you do the 4 course price fixe with wine pairings an you get out of the restaurant for $500 for 2 people?

Thank you for your interest in La Mer. The four course Prix Fixe menu is $180 per person and the wine pairings would be $97 per person. That puts the final per person nearer $277 with the pairings. This of course would be before any taxes or… Read more

Will the restaurant be open in the last week of May?

Dear Kathy: Thank you very much for your interest in La Mer. Unfortunately, La Mer will not be… Read more

Do they do anything special for birthdays? (Special dessert/meal presentation or seating arrangements)

Absolutely beautiful little cake. Their gift!

Do they have a private dining room and how many does it seat?

AnnaLyn, Thank you for your interest in La Mer. Yes, we do have a Private Dining room, it can… Read more

Do they have any vegan options?

I believe they do- and if you call in advance they will create something in advance for you. That's what they did with my dinner, gluten, dairy, potato, egg and orange free appetizer, salad, main and dessert.

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Carte Blanche

Carte Blanche

4.5(80 reviews)
2.1 miKaimuki
$$
Locally owned & operated
Luxury

Took our friend here for her birthday and what a hidden gem this place was. Tucked away in the…read moreheart of Kaimuki, Carte Blanche was definitely a delightful surprise! When our party first walked in, we were a tiny bit skeptical because of the empty room (which was beautifully decorated). However as each course came out, we were blown away and didn't know how the restaurant was not way busier for a Saturday night! Each dish/course was well thought out and prepared to perfection. We were all taken by surprise in a great way. The head chef Anthony was very passionate and excited about his work and that was very refreshing! Overall a wonderful experience and we will be back!

If you're looking for Kaimuki's most romantic date night spot, look no further than Carte Blanche…read more We recently experienced their summer prix fixe menu (which changes twice a year), and it was one of those meals you remember long after the plates are cleared. The progression of dishes felt thoughtful and creative-- * Crispy Salt & Vinegar Chicken Skin (the perfect starter crunch) * Soupe de Poisson (deep, comforting flavors) * Pina Colada Granita (a refreshing palate cleanser) * Pan Seared Scallops (my personal favorite--perfectly caramelized and tender) * Double Cut Rack of Lamb (succulent and cooked to perfection) * Lemon Crème Brûlée Tart (a sweet, bright finish) Every plate was elegant, well-executed, and beautifully presented. The atmosphere strikes a balance between sophisticated and welcoming. Dim lighting, intimate tables, and quiet elegance make you feel like you've stepped into a hidden gem in the middle of Kaimuki. Honestly, I felt like a celebrity dining here. Service was polished but never pretentious--our server was attentive, knowledgeable about the courses, and kept the pacing of the meal just right. For the level of creativity and execution, Carte Blanche feels like an affordable luxury in Honolulu's dining scene. Perfect for anniversaries, date nights, or anytime you want an elevated experience without flying to the mainland. Highly recommend booking a reservation--you'll want to savor every moment here.

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Carte Blanche
Carte Blanche
Carte Blanche

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Duc's Bistro - Mini creme brûlée

Duc's Bistro

4.4(430 reviews)
3.1 miChinatown
$$$

Blast from the past! Have not been to Duc's Bistro in maybe... 10 years? maybe more!!!! I…read moreremember well the food being outstanding and the service was more than what I had then expected.... Here is my story: Located in the same place for 35 years plus. Duc opened his restaurant in the 1980's. Duc's Bistro is one of the original ethnic Vietnamese restaurants who opened in the 1980's and still continues to serve our community. Do not leave without bidding aloha to Duc who today is in the kitchen with his wife who both prepares all the food. His son now runs the front of the house along with staffers who have been there for years on end. The food is French Vietnamese. Of their slim clear concise menu, my favorite is their Roast Pork and Duck Pate. While all the dishes are good, those two stand out for me. And be sure you save room for their desserts. Their dishes are prepared and served such that if you choose to dine "family style" you have definitely sat at the right Establishment. The location remains the same. First Establishment on the westside of MaunaKea and Beretania Streets. Validated parking if you can get a staff in the lot across the street from Duc's. Bright Pink and Green Neon Sign for Duc's Bistro. You cannot miss it! Full bar or $25 corkage if you bring your own wine. Soft drinks and Vietnamese Hot or Cold coffee available also. Price point is approximately $50 per head from start to finish. Plan to have a meal there! You will not be disappointed.

I walked in at 7 and they said they were closing early because they took all of their reservations…read more Pretty bad because I was looking forward to trying this place

Photos
Duc's Bistro
Duc's Bistro - Vanilla creme brulee and affogatto

Vanilla creme brulee and affogatto

Duc's Bistro - Peppercorn prawns (Tom Rang Muoi).....32 Large Tiger Prawns sautéed with red sea salt and roasted black pepper

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Peppercorn prawns (Tom Rang Muoi).....32 Large Tiger Prawns sautéed with red sea salt and roasted black pepper

Mugen - Afternoon Tea Spring 2025 - Sasanian imperial osetra caviar on creme fraiche cheesecake, quail egg, crisp shallot crumble

Mugen

4.5(140 reviews)
0.5 miWaikiki
$$$$

My mom flew in from Florida, and I drove an hour and a half from the North Shore just for breakfast…read moreat Mugen, and somehow it still exceeded every expectation. This place is a hidden gem. Hard to find, absolutely worth it, and honestly the crown jewel of Waikīkī. The second you walk in, you will understand. The atmosphere at Mugen is iconic. If I ever owned a restaurant, I'd want it to look exactly like this. A divine bar lined with velvet chairs, moody dark walls, glitter-flecked tables, and private event spaces separated by elegant glass partitions. Every detail feels luxurious without trying too hard. Now the breakfast... Shockingly affordable for the level of quality. Cappuccinos, lattes, and espresso drinks around $10, and every bite looked like art. We shared the smoked salmon avocado toast topped with edible flowers, sea asparagus, tomatoes cut into flower shapes, all on perfectly toasted sourdough. Then came the bananas foster french toast with syrup, whipped cream, vanilla-infused honey, and a dusting of powdered sugar. Is your mouth watering? Mine still is. Only AFTER breakfast did we ask to see the dinner menu, and immediately realized we were idiots for not planning our entire lives around coming back for dinner too. But what truly made this experience unforgettable was Koji. Kind, knowledgeable, warm, and genuinely fabulous service. After hearing us rave about the space and me saying I couldn't imagine what was hidden behind these walls, he actually connected us with Vernon from ESPACIO, who personally gave us a full tour of the property. And WOW. The hotel was renovated from 77 rooms into just 9 full-floor luxury suites, each over 2,500 square feet. Multiple bedrooms. Sweeping views of the pink Royal Hawaiian, the Duke Kahanamoku Statue, the giant banyan tree, and Diamond Head. The orchid carpet in the Diamond Suite on the 9th floor? I MUST have that in my future dream home someday. And that dragon tiled mural on the bottom of the pool? Bring your snorkel! Was I inspired to become a millionaire after this experience? Yes. Yes I was. Enjoy this place like I did. Bring your family. Tell your friends. Ask for Koji and Vernon. And tell them Crazy Katie from the North Shore sent you. All my love and aloha.

I highly recommend you try here at least once!…read more From the moment we walked we were greeted and seated promptly. The hostess and wait staff are all so friendly, knowledgeable and accommodating! The restaurant is very intimate and surprisingly not very noisy. The food is excellent. Every dish was flavorful and delicious! The lobster was cooked to perfection! The complimentary valet service is directly in front of the restaurant. The valet attendant was really nice and personable. I enjoyed talking with him while we waited for our car.

Photos
Mugen - Interior

Interior

Mugen - Afternoon Tea Spring 2025 - "De Pattie" - Oxtail and curried channa aloo

Afternoon Tea Spring 2025 - "De Pattie" - Oxtail and curried channa aloo

Mugen - Afternoon Tea Spring 2025 - Ashwaganda beet root cured king salmon w/ avocado, blood orange in filo nest)

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Afternoon Tea Spring 2025 - Ashwaganda beet root cured king salmon w/ avocado, blood orange in filo nest)

natuRe waikiki - Heart of palm

natuRe waikiki

4.4(234 reviews)
0.4 miWaikiki
$$$$

Centrally located on the second floor at 413 Seaside Ave, Honolulu (above Zigu), natuRe waikiki is…read morenot just a restaurant, it is a dining experience. My daughter and I visited for the first time last night and I can say it is well deserving of its award winning status. Parking is located at the Hyatt Centric garage (validated) or on the street which can be a bit trickier. We ubered in. When we arrived at the time of our reservation, we were promptly greeted and seated at the chef's counter by Travis, the maître d'. natuRe waikiki offers a 6-course tasting menu with a Plant-Based Vegan option in the dining room and on the Chef's Counter and an a la carte menu at the bar. My daughter had the regular tasting menu with a few pescatarian substitutions and I had the vegan option. Being at the Chef's Counter, we were able to view Chef Yosuke Masaki (and interact with him) and observe his counter parts diligently work with precision and passion to create each plate. They used fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create dishes with French, Japanese, and Hawaiian influences. Each plate was uniquely delicious and uniquely artistically created. We were in awe as they meticulously plated each dish using tweezers. Presentation was nothing short of impressive. When each piece of edible artwork was placed in front of us, Travis or his counterpart, explained the dish, often times with a mini action which added to the beauty of the presentation esp the opening of the smoked dishes (Celery Root & Kaffir Lime). Everything had the"wow" factor but my standouts (Aina Tasting Menu, Vegan) were the Panipuri & Corn Fritto (cool in temperature, amazingly smooth in texture with pops of corn bits, lite and refreshing), Charcoal-Battered Heart of Palm (designed to look like lava rocks plated on real lava rocks), and the French Onion Soup Gratin (Super creative and fun! Soup placed back into the original onion which was used as the bowl. The entire onion with the exception of the skin was edible and absolutely delicious.). The highlight for my daughter (Hale Tasting Menu) was the Abalone Risotto. Much to our surprise, we were stuffed by the time the last plate was presented. The portions looked small but the satiety factor was deceiving. We felt the value of the experience far outweighed the cost. Kudos to Executive Chef Nae Ogawa (who was not present), Chef Masaki (who was a part of curating the menu), Travis and everyone else at natuRe waikiki for a creating a memorable dining experience. We loved our visit and look forward to visiting again. We also hope to one day experience natuRe tokyo.

A thoughtful tasting menu from a Hale ʻAina award-winning chef, with highs and a few misses…read more The standout of the night was the abalone steamed in sake over green curry risotto. Absolutely dreamy!! The abalone steamed with Sake was beautifully tender, and the green curry risotto absolutely knocked it outta da park!!! The squid with cauliflower dashi foam was another strong dish. The squid was incredibly tender, and the dashi sea foam was light, airy, and full of subtle umami. A great example of the chef's precision. Overall, the cooking shows a clear command of refined, "chefy" techniques The turnip mousse with caviar and olive oil , served in a coupe-style glass, was elegant in presentation but didn't quite deliver in balance. The turnip mousse was a bit too dominant and overpowered the caviar. The mushroom duxelles ravioli stuffed with mascarpone and ricotta also fell short. The pasta was undercooked to the point of chewiness . Firmer than expected for my taste even for al dente. It definitely distracted from delicate stuffing The chicken and mushroom reduction sauce definitely carried the dish, bringing depth of flavor. From a service standpoint, one moment stood out. When asked how the ravioli was, I gave honest feedback and was told that's how the chef intended it to be. That showed lack of grace for fine dining and didn't land well. If you're going to ask for feedback, don't be dismissive and defensive of the feedback. Also worth noting: after a $600 dinner for two, we asked for espresso at the end of the meal and were told the machine had already been turned off because they were closed. It's hard to take a "fine dining" restaurant seriously, when that happens. Overall, there's a lot of skill and thoughtful technique here, with some genuinely standout dishes . But also a few inconsistencies that keep it from being a top-tier experience. Happy Eating!! 38

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natuRe waikiki
natuRe waikiki - Charcoal battered heart of palm beignet

Charcoal battered heart of palm beignet

natuRe waikiki - Fish en croute (fish of the day was amberjack)

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Fish en croute (fish of the day was amberjack)

Michel's At The Colony Surf - Seafood Cippino

Michel's At The Colony Surf

4.1(884 reviews)
1.3 mi
$$$$

Incredible. That doesn't even cover our dinner but it's a word to start. We arrived at Michel's and…read morewere taken to a window side table where we could see the last dregs of the sunset. Then given lavash bread with butter - the butter had herbs and was delicious. Our server Stewart came and introduced himself. Guys if you go ask for Stewart he is so knowledgeable not only about the menu but he's the head sommelier. He suggested a perfect red Zinfandel that was light and dry. Then the food ... he suggested the escargot and the lobster bisque to start. Snails ... never did I think snails! But holy moly clearly I've been missing out - and ask him how the locals eat escargot ... divine! The lobster bisque was my least favorite part of the meal and anywhere else it would've been the high light! Our meals - I had the blackened ahi - literally melted in my mouth with the perfect wine- full bodied but not overly heavy. My husband has their special which was a veal and scallops with gnocchi entree and he said it's the best veal he's had - and was also suggested a great cocktail to pair with it. Now if that wasn't enough the dessert - we were there on our honeymoon so chef made us a special dessert off the fly a berry tapioca pudding and then the chocolate soufflé - it's a must don't even think about anything else ... and of course Stewart hit it out the park with dessert wine he recommended. We also had an asparagus compache as a starting dish the chef made off the cuff as he does every night - something different just for the guests. And we were given a lemon sorbet palette cleanser. Now Stewart was by far the best part of the service but all the servers and staff were attentive and friendly. I cannot say this enough there are no words to describe how incredibly perfect our meal was and we will be sure to return.

This was one of the best dining experiences we've had in Hawaii and will be back for more. The…read moreservice was exceptional from start to finish. The staff remembered our names and struck the perfect balance between being attentive and giving us space to enjoy the evening. The waterfront views are nice and make for a perfect date night setting. Everything we ordered was fantastic, but the seafood platter truly stood out. It was easily the best seafood platter we've had to date and worth every penny. I rarely order dessert, but I'm glad we did here. The soufflé was incredible and the perfect way to end the meal. Between the food, service, and atmosphere, this is a place we'll definitely be returning to. Absolutely recommend! Note: if you want seaside seatings, you have to book months in advance.

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Michel's At The Colony Surf - Tableside bananas foster!

Tableside bananas foster!

Michel's At The Colony Surf - Gelato: Dark Giandui Hazelnut Chocolate + Tahitian Vanilla

Gelato: Dark Giandui Hazelnut Chocolate + Tahitian Vanilla

Michel's At The Colony Surf - French Inspired Aesthetic

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French Inspired Aesthetic

Margotto Hawaii - Top 100 best restaurant in the world, Romantic dinner, anniversary dinner, truffle and caviar in Honolulu

Margotto Hawaii

4.2(157 reviews)
1.5 miAla Moana
$$$$
Fine dining
Luxury

At Margotto, they made it rain--rain shaved truffles. While they have other menu items, they are…read moreknown for their seasonal truffle menus and having well priced truffles which they source themselves from Italy. Under Chef Shiori Okuya, their tasting menu, was a nice way to experience the French-Japanese flavors of the restaurant. First we chose the amount of truffle we wanted for our meal. Then those truffles were shaved over multiple elegant appetizers; a Pot-au-Feu soup; a lobster fish course; oyster pasta; duck for our main; in Asian-style, a comforting rice bowl to end the savory courses; and finally even the dessert. Henry was an amazing server with flair and passion for the menu and we even took a little bit of truffle home to enjoy on soft scrambled eggs the next day. If you want to experience another side of Margotto, there is also Margotto E Baciare in Japan.

Though prone to hyperbole, please let me assure you that I am dead serious when I say I would give…read moreMargotto 10 stars if that were an option. I'm quite fortunate to have had many amazing dining experiences, more than a few of them of the fine-dining-persuasion and Margotto shook me to my core. Unforgettable and completely unlike anything I've had before. It's incredibly unassuming from the outside--like a secret or a speak-easy--elegant and understated on the inside. The staff are all so warm and welcoming and you'll want for nothing the entire time you're dining. It's a coordinated dance of service. Arrive hungry and ready to spoil yourself! Opt for The Grand Degustation and get the 15 grams of truffles. This is not the time to be stingy! In fact, you really need to get the Caviar Monaka and a glass of champagne to start--the crispy wafer is a nutty delight and a perfect compliment to little fishy pearls. THEN you can move onto the ten course meal. And since I'm telling you what to do, you'd be entirely remiss to skip the wine pairing. Chuck Furuya is a demigod with a palate that is twenty-seven steps ahead of us mere mortals. The wines on their own practically sing in their glasses but when paired with each dish? The transformation of flavors? Absolutely unreal. Let us not forget about the truffles. They're fruity and earthy and succulent, without being heavy or overbearing in any way. You WILL feel spoiled and you deserve it! If I lived here, this would be my go-to special occasion restaurant, no question. You must try it for yourself.

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Margotto Hawaii - Top 100 best restaurant in the world! romantic dinner, anniversary dinner, truffle and caviar in Honolulu

Top 100 best restaurant in the world! romantic dinner, anniversary dinner, truffle and caviar in Honolulu

Margotto Hawaii - Truffle and old world wines. from the same soil, area, they pair fantastic!

Truffle and old world wines. from the same soil, area, they pair fantastic!

Margotto Hawaii - Our signature, beluga caviar with monaka(rice wafer)

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Our signature, beluga caviar with monaka(rice wafer)

El Cielo - Main Entrance

El Cielo

4.7(258 reviews)
0.3 miWaikiki
$$$
Speaks Spanish
Casual dining

Review 33 (2026) We…read morelove El Cielo. This was the third time to come and eat. The first time we came, we didn't know what to order for Spain Foods. I have no idea of any menu. We ordered Seafood Paella, Mushrooms appetizer. The second time we added different menu. Seafood Paella, added Shrimp Ajillo with fresh homemade bread, Arugula beets salad. The third time ( this time ) we added another different menu. The more we come, the more we can try new menu and enjoy new tastes. Honestly El Cielo, all menu we tried even wine and draft beers, were top class, I love to nominate as the best restaurant in Hawaii. I am so glad I found the great restaurant, I was seeking for. Prices were not bad, as inflation everything costs are so expensive nowadays. Everywhere!! Their services are great too. If I live close by I would go El Cielo once or twice a week. Thank you so much. I will love to come back soon again.

First time going to el Cielo, and it did not disappoint!…read more The food was great - most of the menu appears to be tapas style appetizers, so we got a bunch as well as a paella dish. Our favorites were the paella - it was lemony, bright, and had a generous amount of meat. The empanadas were also delicious and came with a homemade chimichurri sauce. We got these butterfish fritters (can't remember their name, oops) that came with a saffron aioli. The chicken liver mousse was tasty as well. While the pan con tomate was good, we got the plain one, and should have gotten it with ham! A lot of the food is served with airy, light, crusty homemade baguettes. The wine list is nice, mostly wines from Spain! I tried the Albarino and it was delicious. It is located on Lewers street, and has some nice iron wrought gates. We opted to sit on their outdoor patio, which had a lovely fountain and vibe going. Parking is kinda tricky - there's a lot in the back of the restaurant but it was full for us, so we street parked.

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El Cielo
El Cielo
El Cielo - How can you go wrong w a garlic shrimp paella!

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How can you go wrong w a garlic shrimp paella!

La Mer - french - Updated June 2026

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