If you are searching for Italian food in Hawaii, you are in for a treat. The islands offer a variety of Italian restaurants that cater to different tastes and experiences.
This list will help you discover the 10 best Italian restaurants in Hawaii, highlighting their unique flavors and dining atmospheres.
From casual eateries to upscale dining, each restaurant brings its own twist to classic dishes.
You can expect to find fresh ingredients and authentic flavors that make your meal memorable.
Enjoying Italian cuisine in the beautiful setting of Hawaii is an experience that you shouldn’t miss.
1) Cipriano’s Kitchen Kawaihae
Cipriano’s Kitchen Kawaihae offers a unique blend of Italian and Peruvian cuisines. Gino and Claudia Cipriano, the owners, combine their rich culinary backgrounds to create delicious dishes.
This restaurant brings together flavors from their respective cultures in a warm and inviting setting.
The chefs at Cipriano’s Kitchen focus on using fresh, local ingredients. They believe that good tasting food is essential to a healthy lifestyle.
This focus on quality is evident in every dish they serve.
When you visit, you can expect a joyful atmosphere. The owners are passionate about sharing their love for food with their guests.
They aim to provide an experience that captures the essence of both Italian and Peruvian dining.
You will find a menu filled with authentic dishes that showcase their culinary skills. Each meal reflects their commitment to excellence and attention to detail.
It’s more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of their heritage.
Rating: 4.9 (727 reviews)
Location: 61-3642 Kawaihae Rd, Waimea, HI 96743
Contact: (808) 657-4700
Website: Visit Website
2) Mezzo Bistro & Bar
Mezzo Bistro & Bar offers a fresh take on Italian cuisine in Honolulu. The restaurant blends traditional Italian flavors with the local tastes of Hawaii.
You can enjoy a relaxing atmosphere while tasting unique dishes.
The menu features a variety of pizzas, appetizers, and entrees that honor Italian roots. Each dish surprises and delights your palate.
Mezzo also has a selection of whiskey, wine, and beer to complement your meal.
This place is perfect for those looking to unwind while enjoying quality food. The friendly staff is ready to make your dining experience memorable.
Rating: 4.8 (57 reviews)
Location: 2919 Kapiolani Blvd #106, Honolulu, HI 96826
Contact: (808) 888-3500
Website: Visit Website
3) Rigo Spanish Italian restaurant
Rigo Spanish Italian Restaurant offers a unique dining experience that blends Spanish and Italian cuisine. Located on Kapahulu Avenue, it sits in one of Oahu’s prime food areas.
The restaurant features high ceilings that create an open and relaxing atmosphere.
You can enjoy a variety of dishes here, including tapas, grilled items, and wood-fired pizzas. Each dish highlights local ingredients, bringing a taste of Hawaii to classic Mediterranean flavors.
The menu is designed to ensure you have a satisfying meal without ambiguity.
They offer fixed-price options that make it easy to enjoy multiple small plates and wines. With a focus on quality, the restaurant aims to redefine what Spanish-Italian food means.
Rating: 4.6 (719 reviews)
Location: 885 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816
Contact: (808) 735-9760
Website: Visit Website
4) Kula Bistro
Kula Bistro offers a blend of Italian cuisine in a charming setting on Maui. The menu features fresh, locally sourced ingredients with a variety of dishes sure to please Italian food lovers.
You can savor everything from pasta to unique pizza creations.
The atmosphere is welcoming, making it a great spot for families or casual dining. With no reservations needed, you can walk in and enjoy a meal whenever it fits your schedule.
The bistro serves lunch and dinner during the week, while on weekends, you can treat yourself to breakfast as well. It’s popular among locals and tourists alike for its delicious offerings and friendly service.
Rating: 4.7 (2200 reviews)
Location: 4566 Lower Kula Rd, Kula, HI 96790
Contact: (808) 871-2960
Website: Visit Website
5) Catania Ristorante Italiano
Catania Ristorante Italiano is a popular spot in Aiea for authentic Italian cuisine. Located in the Waimalu Shopping Center, it has become known for its inviting atmosphere and delicious dishes.
Whether you’re in for a casual meal or a special occasion, Catania offers both dine-in and take-out options.
The restaurant has a well-structured schedule for lunch and dinner. You can enjoy lunch from Wednesday to Sunday, while dinner service takes place from Sunday to Saturday.
The staff is friendly and ready to accommodate both reservations and walk-ins.
Their menu features a variety of traditional Italian options, each crafted with fresh ingredients. You can expect generous portions that are perfect for sharing or enjoying solo.
Many patrons appreciate the cozy environment and attentive service.
For those looking to enjoy a satisfying meal, Catania is an excellent choice. You can easily find it when you visit Aiea.
Rating: 4.6 (70 reviews)
Location: 98-020 Kamehameha Hwy, Aiea, HI 96701
Contact: (808) 528-4588
Website: Visit Website
6) Taormina Sicilian Cuisine
Taormina Sicilian Cuisine offers a taste of Southern Sicily right in Honolulu. The restaurant focuses on fresh ingredients, featuring homemade pastas and high-quality seafood and meats.
Each dish reflects the authentic flavors of the seaside village that inspired it.
You can enjoy lunch and dinner every day. The lunch hours run from 11 AM to 2 PM, while dinner is served from 5 PM until 8:30 PM. This makes it easy to fit a meal at Taormina into your day.
The ambiance combines modern style with a touch of tradition. It provides a welcoming space for both casual dining and special occasions.
You might find yourself returning for the delicious dishes and pleasant atmosphere.
If you’re looking for a true Sicilian dining experience, Taormina is a solid choice in Hawaii’s culinary scene.
Rating: 4.4 (898 reviews)
Location: 227 Lewers St, Honolulu, HI 96815
Contact: (808) 926-5050
Website: Visit Website
7) Arancino di Mare
Arancino di Mare offers a unique Italian dining experience in Hawaii. Located in Honolulu, this restaurant is known for its fresh ingredients and authentic dishes.
You can enjoy classic Italian flavors in a beautiful setting.
The menu features a rotating selection of pizzas, with new flavors introduced each month. Some highlights include the Mortadella e Pistachio di Mare and the Pizza Capricciosa.
These dishes combine traditional Italian recipes with local Hawaiian flair.
You can also expect a selection of pasta and other Italian favorites. Each dish is crafted with care, ensuring a memorable meal.
This restaurant is a great choice for those looking to enjoy a taste of Italy while visiting Hawaii.
Rating: 4.3 (1900 reviews)
Location: 2552 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
Contact: (808) 931-6273
Website: Visit Website
8) Bocconcino
Bocconcino is a unique spot in Hawaii, known for its fresh mozzarella. Chef Donato started making it locally to show the taste difference between freshly made mozzarella and that shipped from other places.
This dedication to freshness brings authentic Italian flavors to your plate.
The restaurant serves a variety of Italian dishes, including Pinsa Romana and authentic sandwiches. You can enjoy a casual meal or grab a delicious pastry and coffee.
It’s a welcoming place for the community to gather and savor high-quality Italian cuisine.
Chef Donato is recognized for his contribution to Italian cooking in Hawaii. His goal is to establish a factory that produces fresh mozzarella right on the islands.
This commitment to quality sets Bocconcino apart as a pioneer in the local food scene.
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a true Italian experience, Bocconcino delivers. The vibrant atmosphere and dedication to fresh ingredients make it a must-visit restaurant.
Rating: 4.5 (144 reviews)
Location: 978 Kawaiaha‘o St, Honolulu, HI 96814
Contact: (808) 200-2830
Website: Visit Website
9) Assaggio Hawaii Kai – Ristorante Italiano
Assaggio Hawaii Kai offers a genuine taste of Italian cuisine. You can enjoy various popular dishes, including Chicken Piccata and Shrimp Scampi. Most items come with Linguine, though you can choose different options like vegetables or potatoes.
The restaurant prides itself on using fresh ingredients. Each dish pairs rich flavors with quality cooking techniques.
The Carbonara is a favorite, featuring bacon, ham, and a creamy sauce.
Dining here gives you a cozy atmosphere to enjoy your meal. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a special dinner, Assaggio makes it memorable.
They focus on customer service, ensuring you feel welcome.
This spot is ideal for Italian food lovers looking for variety and taste. You will appreciate the care taken in each dish as you savor your dining experience.
Rating: 4.4 (247 reviews)
Location: 7192 Kalanianaʻole Hwy STE D107, Honolulu, HI 96825
Contact: (808) 396-0756
Website: Visit Website##
10) Arancino on Beachwalk
Arancino on Beachwalk offers a cozy Italian dining experience right in the heart of Waikiki.
Since its opening in 1996, it has attracted both locals and tourists looking for authentic Italian cuisine.
The restaurant serves dinner daily, from 4:30 PM to 9:30 PM.
Casual attire is welcomed, making it a comfortable spot for all diners.
You can enjoy a variety of Italian dishes prepared with fresh ingredients.
For those who wish to pair their meal with wine, Arancino has an excellent selection of Italian wines.
They allow corkage for a fee but don’t permit hard liquor or beer.
Guests can park in the nearby Bank of Hawaii building, with validation provided for the duration of your stay. This convenient option makes it easy to visit.
Rating: 4.3 (627 reviews)
Location: 255 Beach Walk, Honolulu, HI 96815
Contact: (808) 923-5557
Website: Visit Website
Exploring Italian Cuisine in Hawaii
Italian cuisine has a unique presence in Hawaii, blending traditional flavors with local ingredients and culture. This fusion creates a delicious dining experience that showcases the best of both culinary worlds.
Cultural Influence on Culinary Practices
The arrival of Italian immigrants to Hawaii in the late 19th and early 20th centuries greatly influenced local cuisine. These immigrants brought with them beloved recipes and cooking methods.
Over time, they adapted their dishes to include Hawaiian ingredients.
You will find unique combinations, such as incorporating fresh seafood and tropical fruits into traditional Italian meals. This innovation leads to new dishes that reflect the local culture while honoring Italian roots.
Popular Italian Dishes in Hawaii
Some favorite Italian dishes on the islands include:
- Pizza: Many restaurants use local toppings, like fresh Hawaiian pineapple and local meats.
- Pasta Dishes: Seafood pasta options often highlight fresh fish and shellfish caught nearby.
- Sicilian Rice Balls: Known locally as Arancini, these are filled with ingredients like kalua pork or local cheeses.
Restaurants may also offer lasagna made with local vegetables.
Tiramisu and gelato often use local flavors, allowing you to enjoy a taste of Italy with a Hawaiian twist. Each dish is a reflection of a rich culinary tradition combined with local tastes, making dining on Italian cuisine in Hawaii a special experience.
Dining Experience in Hawaiian Italian Restaurants
When you dine at Italian restaurants in Hawaii, you will notice a blend of warm ambiance and unique culinary techniques. The local ingredients create a special taste that reflects the island’s charm.
Ambiance and Atmosphere
Hawaiian Italian restaurants often feature a relaxed, welcoming environment. You may find decor that combines traditional Italian elements with local Hawaiian touches.
Think of rustic tables paired with tropical flowers or ocean views.
Many places offer outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful Hawaiian weather.
Soft lighting and laid-back music help create a cozy vibe. This combination makes dining feel special, whether you are celebrating an occasion or just enjoying a meal with friends and family.
Local Ingredients and Italian Techniques
Many Hawaiian Italian restaurants pride themselves on using fresh, local ingredients. You can expect to find seafood caught nearby, like fresh fish and shrimp that add a unique twist to traditional Italian dishes.
Local farms contribute fresh vegetables, fruits, and herbs. Dishes may highlight tropical flavors, enhanced by authentic Italian cooking methods.
This blend creates meals like pasta with local pesto or seafood risottos infused with island ingredients.
You will enjoy flavors that tell a story of both Italian heritage and Hawaiian bounty. Each dish represents the care and creativity that comes from this culinary fusion.