17 Best Burgers in Honolulu You Won’t Forget (2022)
Burgers made their first appearance in the 19th century and since have taken the world by storm. What started as two slices of bread and a piece of ground steak has evolved into a burger bun with various ground meat and a selection of fillings. In hindsight, anyone can make a burger, but the true secret lies in the fillings.
Imagine biting into a delicious burger with loads of fillings in a tropical paradise—a place where there are breathtaking sceneries and golden beaches. Although Honolulu may be best known for its pristine beaches, gorgeous scenery, and laid-back atmosphere, it is also home to some of the best burger joints in the country.
If you want to indulge in a delicious burger, look no further. Here are the best places to find a top-tier burger in Honolulu.
1. Aloha Melt Waikiki
Hours Of Operation: Daily: Mon- Sat: 9:00am – 1:00pm, 6:00pm – 1:00am; Sun: 9:00am – 1:00pm, 6:00pm – 11:00pm
⭐ RATING: 4.8 out of 5
Location: 355 Royal Hawaiian Ave, Honolulu
Price: $-$$
Website: https://www.alohamelt.com/
Aloha Melt Waikiki is a small eatery with straightforward décor. Although this eatery is not fancy, its food speaks volumes about its success. A hidden gem that many overlook due to its appearance.
Why we love this place: If you like all things cheesy, then the Aloha Burger is one for you. Eating this burger evokes an emotion of total bliss. Four different kinds of cheese are melted over a beef patty, topped with caramelized onion and bacon, and then drizzled with aioli. I am convinced that these are the best burgers Honolulu has on offer.
2. W&M Bar-B-Q Burgers
Hours of operation: Mon & Tues: Closed, Wed – Fri: 10:00am – 4:30pm, Sat & Sun: 9:00am – 4:30pm
⭐ RATING: 4.5 out of 5
Price: $
Location: 3104 Waialae Ave, Honolulu, Oahu
Website: https://wmburger.com/
This well-established burger place has made a footprint in the Honolulu community by faithfully serving them for the past 50 years. The restaurant is located 8 minutes from Diamond Head and 1.3 miles from Waikiki Beach, making it a perfect base for a burger and sightseeing afterward.
Why we love this place: For a restaurant to last this long, something unique must keep the clients coming back for more. Hot iron grates give their burgers a distinctly smokey taste, a rare find at any other burger joints. The secret lies in their special teriyaki sauce, which has been their signature trademark since its inception.
3. Fat Cheeks
Hours of Operation: Mon: Closed, Tues-Sat: 11:00am – 7:00pm, Sun: 11:00am – 2:30pm
⭐ RATING: 4.7 out of 5
Price: $$
Location: 1200 Ala Moana Blvd Suite B2115, Honolulu
Website: https://www.fatcheekshawaii.com/
Fat Cheeks was the brainchild of Jared Brown and Levina Moy. The couple flew from New York to Hawaii to start this new venture. A combination of their culinary skills saw the birth of this masterpiece. The restaurant is situated in Ward Village.
Why we love this place: If you’re a fan of seafood, their lobster burger is one of the best burgers Honolulu has to offer. A double cheeseburger, topped with a generous portion of lobster, red onions, and their signature Fat Cheeks sauce, is a memorable experience.
4. The Daley
Hours of operation: Daily, 11:00am – 8:00pm
⭐ RATING: 4.6 out of 5
Price: $$
Location: 1110 Nuuanu Ave, Honolulu
Website: https://www.thedaleyburger.com/
Opening its doors in September 2019 in the Hawaii Office Centers, the Daley has become famous for its smash burger concept. The Daley was selected by the magazine Food & Wine as the best burger place Honolulu has to offer.
Why we love this place: Perhaps their accolades are due to their legendary burgers with crinkle fries. These smash burgers are genuinely genius, as they create a crispy exterior while maintaining moisture on the inside and are generous with their toppings. The burgers are cooked on a flattop and smashed with a spatula. It is precisely the way comfort food should be: greasy and sloppy.
Tips for travelers: The shop is tiny and always busy, so you might consider using the back entrance, where you can find some seating.
5. South Shore Grill
Hours Of Operation: Mon-Sat: 10:30am – 8:30pm, Weds 4:00 – 8:30pm, Sun: 12:00pm – 8:30pm
⭐ RATING: 4.6 out of 5
Price: $- $$
Location: 3114 Monsarrat Ave, Honolulu
Website: https://www.southshoregrill.com/
This family-owned restaurant near Diamond Head State Monument and Waikiki Aquarium was established in 2004. The restaurant consists of a combination of Mexican and Hawaiian fusion-style cooking. You are guaranteed to experience some hints of peppery spices in their dishes.
Why we love this place: Their Incinerator Burger packs a mean punch with cajun, pepper jack, jalapeños, and red-hot sauces; not for the faint-hearted. Another firm favorite is the Mansion Burger, a marriage of pastrami and cheese infused with aioli. You’ll love the relaxed, casual atmosphere that the restaurant offers. You may enter the restaurant as a guest, but you will leave feeling like part of the South Shore Grill family.
6. Osoyami Bar and Grill
Hours of operation: Daily: 6:00pm – 2:00am
⭐ RATING: 4.6 out of 5
Price: $$-$$$
Location: 1820 Algaroba St, Honolulu
Website: https://osoyami-bar-and-grill.square.site/
This “vibey” bar is complete with gaming arcades and darts, making it a great place to chill and meet the locals. There are also televisions on-site for those wanting to take in some sporting events.
Why we love this place: If you are brave enough, and looking for some added spice, sample their Furious Burger with jalapenos and a sauce so furious that you will be guzzling down loads of water. Their loaded fries with heaps of cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, bacon, and spring onion are a must-have. There are even some decent vegan options available on their menu.
Tips for travelers: There is free karaoke on Monday and Tuesday for those willing to exercise their vocal cords. This place tends to get crowded.
7. Butcher & Bird
Hours Of Operation: Mon: Closed, Tues-Sun: 11:00am – 6:00pm
⭐ RATING: 4.6 out of 5
Price: $$
Location: 324 Coral St Ste 207, Honolulu
Website: https://www.butcherandbirdhi.com/
Butcher & Bird combines a butcher and a deli; their meats and produce are locally sourced, giving you the guarantee of freshness. Besides the burgers, the cafe also serves sandwiches and rolls.
Why we love this place: This deli serves an astronomical burger with crisps and pickles. It is refreshing to know that all their burgers come fully loaded with toppings. Even after devouring the burger, there are still hints of the flavor that lingers on your palate. These are surely up there with the best burgers that Honolulu offers.
8. Honolulu Burger Co. Makiki
Hours of operation: Mon: Closed, Tues: 11:00am – 6:00pm, Wed-Sat: 11:00am – 8:00pm, Sun: 11:00am – 4:00pm
⭐ RATING: 4.5 out of 5
Price: $$-$$$
Location: 1295 S Beretania St, Honolulu
Website: honoluluburgerco.com
Honolulu Burger Co. is a specialist that has mastered the art of making burgers. All their produce is locally sourced. The meat is sourced from private ranches in the islands of Hawaii and Kauai, where the cows are 100% grass-fed.
Why we love this place: The smokiness of the barbeque sauce and the perfectly balanced heat make their Paniolo Burgers so delectable. Another firm favorite was the Loco Moco Burger, with bacon, Spam, and a fried egg; the gravy on the side was an excellent bonus. For those that are on a diet, they will even make you a burger salad. Who said that there isn’t a healthy way of serving a burger?
Tips for travelers: There’s a free cheeseburger waiting for you on your birthday; make sure you carry your ID to redeem this offer.
9. Betty’s Burgers Honolulu
Hours of operation: Daily: 11:00am – 09:00pm
⭐ RATING: 4.5 out of 5
Price: $
Location: 1025 University Ave, Honolulu
Website: https://www.bettysburgershi.com/
Betty’s Burgers is a burger place that caters to the needs of various palates. This diner specializes in serving smash burgers, milkshakes, onion rings, and fries and is located near The University of Hawaii. This retro diner transports you to mid-century times with its style décor, jukebox, and painted murals.
Why we love this place: You are spoiled for choice at Betty’s Burgers. There are a variety of 15 smash burger options on their menu. Suppose you love blue cheese – there’s even a blue cheese and bacon burger. From a plain burger to a fish burger to a teriyaki burger, Betty’s Burgers has it all.
10. Livestock Tavern
Hours of operation: Daily: Mon-Fri: 5:00pm – 10:00pm, Sat-Sun: 10:00am – 2:00pm, 5:00pm – 10:00pm
⭐ RATING: 4.4 out of 5
Price: $$
Location: 49 N Hotel St, Honolulu
Website: https://livestocktavern.com/
Situated on the corner of the infamous N Hotel and Smith Street lies the Livestock Tavern. This brick-lined tavern serves gourmet American-inspired dishes, most of which are seasonal. The Livestock Tavern is also home to the Tchin Tchin Bar, well known for its many variations of whiskey and cocktails.
Why we love this place: If there were burger heaven, the Tavern Burger with bacon, onion marmalade, gruyere, and frisee would be found there. These gourmet burgers are some of the best burgers Honolulu has to offer. This masterpiece will be right up your alley if you are a carnivore. I love the combination of a bar and restaurant, giving you the flexibility to sip a cocktail while waiting.
Tips for travelers: The restaurant can get busy, especially for dinner. It is advisable to make a reservation.
11. Tango Contemporary Cafe
Hours of operation: Daily; Mon-Fri 7:00 am – 10:00am, 11:00 am – 3:00pm, 5:00pm – 9:00pm, Sat 8:00 am – 2:00pm and 5:00pm – 9:00pm, Sun 8:00am – 2:00pm
⭐ RATING: 4.5 out of 5
Price: $$-$$$
Location: 1288 Ala Moana Blvd Hokua Bldg Ste 120, Honolulu
Website: tangocafehawaii.com
Tango Contemporary Cafe is a gourmet restaurant serving Scandin-Asian cuisine. The cafe is also known for its intimate wine dinner that sees the pairing of food and wine with wine experts from Napa Valley. This award-winning cafe is located in the heart of Honolulu, a mere one mile away from King Kamehameha’s statue.
Why we love this place: This cafe specializes in a grilled Kulana natural grass-fed beef classic burger. The burger is a whopping 7 oz, keeping you well fed. You can tuck into their signature Wahi Wahi Burger for those with a smaller appetite. The fusion of Scandinavian, Asian, Hawaiian, and American spices will create a medley of flavors you’re sure to enjoy.
Tips for travelers: Their burgers are enjoyed on the patio at lunchtime, and the cafe serves some of the best coffee in Honolulu. Make sure you sample a slice of their ice cream cake before leaving too!
12. Restaurant 604
Hours Of Operation: Daily: Mon-Thurs 10:30am – 10:00pm, Fri 10:30am – 11:00pm, Sat 9:30am – 11:00pm, Sun 9:30am – 10:00pm
⭐ RATING: 4.3 out of 5
Price: $$-$$$
Location: 57 Arizona Memorial Dr, Honolulu
Website: https://www.restaurant604.com/
Restaurant 604 is an eatery showcasing waterfront dining at its best. Owned by the Coconut Restaurant Group and spearheaded by a dynamic duo, restaurant veteran Donovan Maples and head chef Harold Beltran, the restaurant provides world-class food. It’s situated next to the Arizona Memorial Visitor Center, making it the perfect base for tourists to start with some information and experience some of the best burgers Honolulu offers.
Why we love this place: At Restaurant 604, you are not only tucking into a delicious 6-sauce burger but also immersing yourself in the bacon and cheddar cheeseburger with the chance to watch a sunset as well. Life does not get better than this – delicious food while enjoying the breathtaking views and ambiance of waterfront dining.
Tip to travelers: The experience is only complete once you have tried one of their signature cocktails—the goodness of this tropical paradise captured in a glass.
13. Spitfire Rotisserie And Flatbread
Hours of operation: Daily: 10:00am – 9:00pm (malasadas available from 7:00am)
⭐ RATING: 4.3 out of 5
Price: $$
Location: 2255 Kuhio Ave, Dukes Lane Market & Eatery, Honolulu
Website: https://www.dukeslanehawaii.com/duke-dines/spitfire/
If you want a quick bite, head to Spitfire Rotisserie & Flatbread, situated in a food hall of a buzzing eatery and bar called Dukes Lane Market. This multi-use space is between the international marketplace and Starbucks on Kuhio Avenue. The restaurant is a testament to its name by producing rotisseries and flatbreads fresh from the fire to your plate.
Why we love this place: The famous Spitfire Burger is worth mentioning for the love of fast food. This 1/3lb Angus beef patty, with bacon and Maui pineapple, is a favorite among locals.
Good news for vegans, you too can tuck into one of their impressive Beyond Burgers, a plant-based burger patty topped with avocado, Swiss cheese, and red onion, drizzled with honey sriracha aioli.
You must try their mango mochisadas. If you want an authentic island taste, no explanation is needed; you have to taste them to capture the true essence of paradise.
Tips for travelers: It might be worth noting that burgers are only available from 10:00 am. After all, a good burger is well worth the wait.
14. The Surfing Pig Hawaii
Hours of Operation: Daily – Mon-Thurs: 10:00am – 2:00pm, 4:00pm – 9:00pm, Fri & Sat: 9:00am – 2:00pm, 4:00pm – 11:00pm, Sun: 9:00am – 2:00pm, 4:00pm – 10:00pm
⭐ RATING: 4.4 out of 5
Price: $$
Location: 3605 Waialae Ave, Honolulu
Website: https://thesurfingpighawaii.com/
The Surfing Pig Hawaii is the sister company of Kono’s Northshore, located near Kahala Mall. This vibrant, surf-themed restaurant has a diverse menu with authentic Hawaiian dishes.
Why we love this place: They’re best known for their signature bacon burger mix with smoked gouda cheese and bourbon onion; the citrus herb aioli is what blends all the ingredients. Looking for warmth to match the weather, why not try their bourbon with your burger? A peculiar choice, yet the right one; you will certainly feel the heat.
15. Highway Inn Kaka’ako
Hours Of Operation: Daily: Mon-Thurs: 10:30am – 8:00pm, Fri: 10:30am – 8:30pm, Sat: 9:30am – 8:30pm, Sun: 9:30am – 3:00pm
⭐ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Price: $-$$
Location: There are 3 locations – Kaka’ako, Waipahu, and Bishop Museum Café.
Website: https://www.myhighwayinn.com/
The first Highway Inn was opened in 1947 in Oahu. Highway Inn Kaka’ako opened its doors in 2013 in the vibrant Salt entertainment block. Located in Honolulu’s heart, this casual diner focuses on creating classic Hawaiian comfort meals.
Why we love this place: You will experience nothing but sheer bliss as you bite into a perfectly cooked beef island burger embedded in a sweet purple taro bun. Their mixed Hawaiian combo plate is quite a nice touch, enabling you to experience the best of Honolulu on one plate. Talk about going the extra mile, you are even able to customize the plate to suit your palate. According to the wise words of John Catucci, the host of food network Canada, “A poke bowl from Highway Inn should be on everyone’s bucket list.”
Tips for travelers: A burger is incomplete without soda; the great news is that you can also enjoy a bottomless soda option.
16. Kani Kar Pilla Grille
Hours of operation: Daily: 6:30am – 9:00pm
⭐ RATING: 4.3 out of 5 stars
Price: $$-$$$
Location: 2169 Kālia Rd, Honolulu
Website: https://www.outrigger.com/landing-pages/services/orf-kkpg/
Situated at the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort, this poolside restaurant focuses on Hawaiian cuisine. At Kani Kar Pilla Grille, you are not just getting food packed with the deliciousness of island cuisine. Their daily live music combined with a poolside oasis captures the true essence of this island paradise.
Why we love this place: The local burger is a real treat: a homegrown beef patty, Portuguese sausage, smoked bacon, grilled pineapple, guacamole, caramelized onions, and teriyaki sauce. Enjoy the local tradition of “kanikapila,” translating to “let’s play music” every night at Kani Kar Pilla Grille. Life doesn’t get better than this: chilling at the poolside, listening to music, and enjoying one of their delicious burgers.
17. Hard Rock Cafe Honolulu
Hours of operation: Daily: Mon-Thurs & Sun: 12:00am – 10:00pm, Fri & Sat: 12:00pm – 11:00pm
⭐ RATING: 4.3 out of 5
Price: $$-$$$
Location: 280 Beach Walk, Honolulu
Website: https://www.hardrockcafe.com/location/honolulu/
Hard Rock Cafe is a restaurant chain that operates worldwide. With over 185 cafes frequented by millions of patrons, you can be assured that their reputation precedes them. No stranger to the limelight is Hard Rock Cafe Honolulu which received the diner’s choice award in 2022. The restaurant is situated within walking distance from Waikiki Beach and the Hawaii Convention Center, not to mention the array of other shops.
Why we love this place: The open deck, with a colorful bar and lighting, is a great way to eat your burger while listening to the 80s and 90s rock classics. Now that you know the ambiance, let’s get down to the more important stuff. What about their food? All I can say is that the local signature burger is tasty and juicy, and the onion rings give the burger a nicely added boost.
The Wrap-Up
We hope that you enjoyed our list of the best burgers in Honolulu! If you’re ever in the area, make sure to check out one (or all) of these delicious places.
Mahalo for reading our post!
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