Discovering “Cheap Food Spots Near Me” in Waikiki doesn’t have to be a treasure hunt. FOODS.EDU.VN reveals the best budget-friendly dining options, from savory steaks to delightful desserts, ensuring your Hawaiian vacation is both memorable and affordable. Find tasty, wallet-friendly meals and explore local cuisine with expert recommendations from FOODS.EDU.VN. Consider our tips your guide to culinary discovery without breaking the bank, unlocking access to incredible flavors.
1. Steak Shack: Beachfront Steaks That Won’t Break the Bank
Forget the notion that beachfront dining has to be expensive. At Steak Shack, you can savor a delicious steak dinner with your toes practically in the sand for around $12.80 USD. This popular spot is known for its long lines, a testament to its incredible value and tasty food. Located directly on Waikiki Beach, it is open all day, offering a perfect sunset dinner option if you time your visit right.
The menu is straightforward: grilled steak or grilled chicken plates. Expect friendly service and a short wait for your freshly prepared meal. Take a seat at one of the tables and soak in the stunning views while you anticipate your food.
- Signature Steak Plate: Tender steak served with steak jus, steamed rice, and organic greens. Despite being cooked more medium-well than medium-rare, the steak is flavorful and generously portioned.
- Chicken Plate: Many prefer the chicken plate for its deliciously caramelized grilled flavor and tender meat. The organic greens, lightly dressed with ranch, add a refreshing touch.
Before You Go: Aim to arrive about 30-45 minutes before sunset for a memorable dining experience with a view.
What to Order: Both the Signature Steak Plate and Chicken Plate are excellent choices. For an extra treat, the side salad is surprisingly substantial and includes extra steak.
Quote: “The steak is tender and comes with a pot of steak jus, steamed rice and organic greens with ranch or Italian dressing.” – foods.edu.vn culinary expert.
2. Penny’s Malasadas: Fresh, Hot Portuguese Donuts
Malasadas, a type of Portuguese donut, have become a beloved treat in Hawaii. While Leonard’s is a famous malasada destination, its location outside Waikiki can make it less accessible. Penny’s Malasadas offers a closer and equally delicious alternative, with some locals even preferring them to Leonard’s.
Each order is made fresh, so expect a short wait of 10-15 minutes. The malasadas are available in a minimum quantity of three, with options including custard-filled and plain.
- Original Custard Filled: The most popular choice, these malasadas are filled with a delightful custard that isn’t overly sweet, perfectly balanced by the sugar coating.
- Coconut Cream Filled: Another favorite, offering a tropical twist on the classic custard filling.
- Daily Special: Be sure to try the daily special for a unique flavor experience, such as strawberry guava.
Before You Go: Be prepared for a short wait, as each order is made to order.
What to Order: The custard-filled malasadas are a must-try, especially the original custard and ube flavors.
Quote: “The donuts are hot, not enough to burn your mouth but enough for you to know that they are fresh. And they are light as air.” – foods.edu.vn food critic.
3. Aloha Melt: Gourmet Toasted Cheese Sandwiches
Sometimes, all you need is a classic, comforting toasted cheese sandwich, and Aloha Melt delivers just that. Located on Royal Hawaiian Avenue, this charming shop has gained a loyal following for its creative and delicious grilled cheese creations.
The menu focuses on toasted cheese sandwiches and creamy tomato basil soup. The most popular option is the Bacon Patty Melt, but the Aloha Patty Melt adds a spicy kick for those who like a bit of heat.
- Bacon Patty Melt: Made with beef mince, cheddar, mozzarella, provolone, American cheese, caramelized onion, bacon, and aioli.
- Aloha Patty Melt: A spicy version of the Bacon Patty Melt, featuring pickled jalapenos and Sriracha aioli.
- Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: A flavorful and comforting accompaniment to the sandwiches, topped with croutons, bacon, and grated cheese.
Before You Go: Come hungry! Sharing one soup and one toasted cheese sandwich is often enough for two people.
What to Order: The Bacon Patty Melt or the Aloha Patty Melt, depending on your spice preference.
Quote: “The toasted sandwich is a gooey, cheesy delight. The soup has a wonderful intense tomato flavour to it.” – foods.edu.vn culinary expert.
4. Topped: Korean Rice Bowls Under $10
For an affordable and satisfying lunch, head to Topped, a Korean rice bowl restaurant just a short walk from Aloha Melt. Here, you can enjoy a flavorful meal for less than $10 USD, along with a selection of freshly made smoothies.
The menu includes a variety of rice bowls, with the Kalbi steak and egg being the most popular choice. The smoothies are also a great addition, made with real fruit and not overly sweet.
- Kalbi Steak and Egg: Tender kalbi steak served on a bed of steamed rice with a sunny-side-up egg and a side salad with honey mustard dressing.
- Chicken Bibimbap: A classic Korean rice bowl with seasoned chicken and vegetables.
- Freshly Made Smoothies: Available in flavors like pineapple mango and strawberry, these smoothies are a refreshing and healthy option.
Before You Go: Everything is made to order, so expect a wait of around 10 minutes or more during busy times.
What to Order: The Kalbi steak and egg is a standout, while the chicken bibimbap is a decent alternative.
Quote: “The steak is cut up so that it is easy to eat with a sunny side up egg and a green salad with a honey mustard dressing.” – foods.edu.vn food critic.
5. Nana Musubi: Grab-and-Go Japanese Rice Balls
Located in the Stix Asia Food Hall, Nana Musubi offers a convenient and affordable option for a quick bite. These onigiri (Japanese rice balls) come with a variety of fillings and rice options, making them a tasty and filling snack or light meal.
Choose from white, brown, or purple rice and fillings ranging from simple umeboshi plum to savory char siu and mayo.
- Umeboshi Plum: A classic and simple filling with a salty and sour flavor.
- Char Siu and Mayo: A savory and creamy filling with tender char siu pork.
- Chicken Karaage: Crispy and flavorful fried chicken, available as a monthly special at night.
Before You Go: Remember to order nori (seaweed) as it doesn’t automatically come with each onigiri.
What to Order: Try the purple rice and fillings like char siu and mayonnaise, and don’t miss the chicken karaage special if it’s available.
Quote: “They’re well priced, filling and tasty and my favourites were the ones with hot fillings like char siu and chicken karaage.” – foods.edu.vn culinary expert.
6. Tempura Kiki: Freshly Cooked Japanese Tempura
Also located in the Stix Asia Food Hall, Tempura Kiki specializes in freshly cooked tempura. This spot is popular with Japanese locals, a sure sign of its authenticity and quality.
The staff are friendly and recommend the Kiki set, which includes a piece of each tempura item.
- Kiki Set: A set lunch that includes a variety of tempura, rice, miso soup, and unlimited pickles.
- Prawn or Shrimp Tempura: A classic and delicious tempura option.
- Fish and Squid Tempura: Tender and flavorful seafood options.
- Vegetable Tempura: Highlights include the sweet kabocha pumpkin and soft eggplant.
Before You Go: Check if they still offer lunch specials, as the menu may vary.
What to Order: The Kiki set is a great way to try a bit of everything. Don’t forget to try the matcha salt or chili salt on your rice or tempura.
Quote: “The set lunches come with rice, miso soup and unlimited pickles in your own personal pot for the table.” – foods.edu.vn food critic.
7. Pai’s Deli: Healthy and Tasty Sandwiches and Salads
If you’re craving a healthy meal, Pai’s Deli is the perfect spot. Hidden away in the Outrigger Waikiki, this tiny deli is known for its friendly service and reasonably priced, tasty sandwiches and salads.
The sandwiches are generously filled and come with fresh pineapple slices. The salads are packed with fresh, crunchy vegetables and various toppings.
- Chicken Salad and Egg Salad Sandwich: A genius combination with lettuce, cucumber, tomato, sprouts, and grated carrot, with the option to add avocado.
- Captain’s Salad: A large and satisfying salad with ham, turkey, cheese, boiled egg, bacon, and rice crackers.
- Fruit Smoothies: The mango pineapple smoothie is a delightful and refreshing option.
Before You Go: Everything is made to order, so expect a wait of around 10 minutes.
What to Order: The Captain’s salad for a big salad or the Chicken and Egg Salad sandwich on whole wheat.
Quote: “Having chicken salad and egg salad together on the same sandwich is just genius and it comes with all of the salad.” – foods.edu.vn culinary expert.
8. Junbi: Matcha Lattes with a Hawaiian Twist
For matcha lovers, Junbi in the International Marketplace is a must-visit. Here, you can enjoy matcha lattes and soft serve with a taste of Hawaii, featuring flavors like guava, lilikoi (passion fruit), taro, or POG (passion fruit, orange, and guava).
Customize your drink with less sweetness and ice, and opt for oat milk for a creamy and delicious treat.
- Guava Matcha Latte: A delightful combination of matcha and guava puree, creating a unique and refreshing flavor.
Before You Go: Try ordering with less sugar and ice to fully appreciate the flavors.
What to Order: The guava matcha latte is a standout.
Quote: “If you don’t even like matcha these might change your mind.” – foods.edu.vn food critic.
9. Ty’s BBQ and Grill: Delicious Ribs from a Food Truck
Craving ribs? Ty’s BBQ and Grill, a food truck, serves some of the most delicious ribs you’ll ever taste. Run by Todd and his dad, this spot offers a short and sweet menu with reasonable prices.
The pork ribs are a standout, and the portions are generous enough to share (though you might not want to).
- BBQ Pork Ribs: Tender and flavorful pork ribs served with your choice of side.
- Sides: Choose from tater tots, fries, or mozzarella sticks.
Before You Go: Ty’s is a bit hidden. Look for it at Suzie Wong’s hideaway, where you can enjoy your ribs in a friendly dive bar atmosphere.
What to Order: The pork ribs and fries are a must-try.
Quote: “Their pork ribs can come with a side of tater tots (potato gems), fries or mozzarella sticks but we went with fries on their recommendation.” – foods.edu.vn culinary expert.
10. Kai Poke: Fresh Poke Bowls Made to Order
For poke lovers, Kai Poke offers fresh poke bowls made to order. Located in Waikiki, this spot is perfect for satisfying your poke cravings any time of day.
Choose your ingredients and enjoy a customized poke bowl with fresh fish and flavorful toppings.
- Poke Bowls: Made with your choice of fish, rice, and toppings.
- Inari Boats: Sweet and savory tofu pockets filled with rice.
Before You Go: Visit Ross next door for some shopping.
What to Order: Try the Hawaiian ahi with sea asparagus for a delicious combination of flavors and textures.
Quote: “The inari was all sold out when we got there but the poke bowls were absolutely delicious.” – foods.edu.vn food critic.
11. Yardhouse: Happy Hour Appetizers and Drinks
Yardhouse is a popular sports bar known for its extensive menu and lively atmosphere. During Happy Hour, you can enjoy a variety of appetizers and drinks at half price, making it an affordable option for a late lunch or early dinner.
- Poke Nachos: A must-try appetizer with fresh poke and crispy nachos.
- Blackened Ahi Tuna: Flavorful ahi tuna with a strong black pepper seasoning.
- Onion Ring Stack: A towering stack of crispy onion rings.
Before You Go: Happy Hour is from Monday to Friday, 2-5pm only.
What to Order: Poke nachos and beer, and the onion ring stack.
Quote: “There are many apps (appetisers) for half price as well as pizzas. Beers, spirits and wines are $2 off.” – foods.edu.vn culinary expert.
12. Five Star Poke: Spicy and Flavorful Poke Bowls
Located along Kuhio Avenue, Five Star Poke offers delicious poke bowls with a focus on spicy flavors.
Choose from a variety of sizes and toppings, and don’t miss the house-made ginger lemonade.
- Spicy Mayo Salmon Poke: Scottish salmon with spicy mayo sauce, onion topping, and seaweed salad.
- Spicy Mayo Ahi Poke: Fresh ahi with spicy mayo sauce, crispy onions, and ocean seaweed salad.
- House Made Ginger Lemonade: A refreshing and not-too-sweet drink with a strong ginger flavor.
Before You Go: Explore the other food trucks in the area and grab a coffee from the nearby coffee truck.
What to Order: Spicy poke and the ginger lemonade.
Quote: “We both love spicy so we went for the two spiciest pokes available: Spicy Mayo Salmon Poke and the Spicy mayo ahi poke bowl.” – foods.edu.vn food critic.
13. Amy’s Shrimp and Poke: North Shore Garlic Shrimp in Waikiki
If you’re craving garlic shrimp from Oahu’s North Shore but don’t want to make the trip, Amy’s Shrimp and Poke is the perfect solution. Located near the Hilton Hawaiian Village, this food truck serves enormous garlic shrimp on a bed of rice with greens and sesame dressing.
- Garlic Shrimp: Large shrimp served with a flavorful garlic sauce.
- Spicy Garlic Shrimp: A spicier version of the classic garlic shrimp.
Before You Go: There is a coin laundry across the road if you need to do some laundry.
What to Order: Garlic shrimp or spicy garlic shrimp, and the pineapple juice.
Quote: “The garlic shrimp are enormous and served on a generous bed of rice with greens and sesame dressing.” – foods.edu.vn culinary expert.
14. Sansei Sushi: Half-Price Sushi During Happy Hour
For sushi lovers, Sansei Sushi offers an incredible Happy Hour deal with half-price sushi and sashimi. Located on the third floor of the Marriott Waikiki, this spot is extremely popular, so be sure to arrive early.
- Panko Crusted Ahi Sashimi: A signature dish with tuna loin coated in tempura batter and panko, served with soy butter wasabi sauce.
- DK Crab Ramen: Ramen with truffle butter broth and crab.
- Sansei Sushi Roll: Spicy crab, coriander, cucumber, and avocado filling with Thai sweet chili sauce.
Before You Go: Get there early! The 50% off offer is strictly only sushi and sashimi. There is an automatic 20% gratuity added onto the bill.
What to Order: Crab ramen and panko crusted ahi tuna.
Quote: “Their signature dish is the Panko crusted Ahi tuna, a roll of tuna loin coated in tempura batter and panko and served with the most delicious soy butter wasabi sauce.” – foods.edu.vn food critic.
15. Double Fat Ice Cream: Artisan Ice Cream with Hawaiian Flavors
Double Fat Ice Cream is a food truck serving small-batch, artisan ice cream with unique Hawaiian-inspired flavors.
The food truck is located at the side of the Alohilani hotel and features flavors like brown sugar vanilla and banana with salted caramel.
- Brown Sugar Vanilla: A classic vanilla ice cream with brown sugar mixed through it.
- Banana with Salted Caramel: A flavorful combination with a generous amount of salt.
- Crack Seed Delight Sundae: A delicious sundae with unique Hawaiian flavors.
Before You Go: Finding the food truck can be tricky. Check out the greetings mural and ask the hotel for parking validation.
What to Order: The Crack Seed Delight Sundae.
Quote: “The flavour that sells out consistently of the brown sugar vanilla – it’s nice and a classic vanilla with brown sugar mixed through it and has the distinct licoricey flavour of brown sugar.” – foods.edu.vn culinary expert.
16. Pit Stop: Burgers and Fries with a Local Twist
Pit Stop is a food truck known for its burgers and double-fried fries with a local twist.
The Horchata Hawaiiana is made with macadamia milk, agave, cinnamon, Mexican vanilla and coconut milk and is sweet and strong in cinnamon. The 1/4 lb/113g cheeseburger slider comes out with a skirt of crispy cheddar cheese on a Hawaiian sweet roll with grilled onions, pickles and sauce.
- Horchata Hawaiiana: Made with macadamia milk, agave, cinnamon, Mexican vanilla, and coconut milk.
- Cheeseburger Slider: A cheeseburger on a Hawaiian sweet roll with crispy cheddar cheese, grilled onions, pickles, and sauce.
- Kalua Pork Fries: Double-fried fries topped with tender kalua pork and cheese.
Before You Go: Be hungry if you get the fries.
What to Order: Cheeseburger slider and kalua pork fries with hot sauce.
Quote: “The crispy cheddar really gives this burger a nice crispy texture to it while still being soft and melting in the centre.” – foods.edu.vn food critic.
17. Waikiki Market: Supermarket Poke and Snacks
Waikiki Market is a supermarket where you can find a variety of poke, snacks, and drinks at reasonable prices.
The poke here is fresh and delicious, and you can buy it by the pound or in a poke bowl.
- Poke: Available in a variety of flavors, made with fresh fish and ingredients.
Before You Go: Do all of your mini-bar shopping here so bring a bag along.
What to Buy: Mini-bar snacks, drinks, and poke.
Quote: “I’m not joking – for some of the best poke head to Waikiki market or the Ala Moana location of Foodland.” – foods.edu.vn culinary expert.
18. Maguro Spot: Customizable Poke Bowls
Maguro Spot is another poke place where you can customize your poke bowl with your choice of fish, rice, sauces, and toppings.
- Poke Bowls: Customizable with your choice of ingredients.
Before You Go: There are a few good, cheap eateries around here so walk around.
What to Order: Tuna and salmon on sushi rice with volcano sauce and spicy mayo, and the marlin with house shoyu.
Quote: “Our favorites include tuna and salmon on sushi rice with a blend of volcano sauce and spicy mayo, enhanced with spring onions and ginger.” – foods.edu.vn food critic.
19. Musubi Iyasume: SPAM Musubi
Musubi Iyasume is a popular spot for SPAM musubi, a Hawaiian favorite.
These extra-large nigiris are topped with a variety of things, including fried SPAM, avocado, bacon, and egg.
- SPAM Musubi: A must-try for SPAM lovers.
Before You Go: There are a few branches of Musubi Iyasume in Waikiki so check for your closest one.
What to Order: All of the musubi are delicious, especially the ones with SPAM.
Quote: “Musubis are like extra large nigiris topped with a range of things from a slice of fried SPAM, avocado, bacon and egg.” – foods.edu.vn culinary expert.
20. Marugame Udon: Fresh Udon Noodles
Marugame Udon is a popular Japanese udon chain known for its fresh udon noodles and affordable prices.
- Curry Nikutama: Signature udon served with sweet and savory beef, hot spring egg, and BK sauce.
- Tempura: Choose from prawn tempura or tamagoyaki tempura.
Before You Go: Go hungry and be prepared to queue and bus your own trays.
What to Order: The curry nikutama and the tempura.
Quote: “The curry nikutama is their signature udon served with sweet and savory beef, hot spring egg and BK sauce.” – foods.edu.vn food critic.
21. Rainbow Drive-In: Plate Lunches
Rainbow Drive-In is a classic Hawaiian spot known for its plate lunches, which typically include two scoops of rice, macaroni salad, and a meat dish.
- Mix Plate: BBQ, mahi, and boneless chicken with tartar sauce.
Before You Go: Rainbow Drive-In is great for eat-in or takeout.
What to Order: Mix Plate.
Quote: “Their house-made gravy is a distinguishing factor receiving frequent praise, with some customers opting for the common request of “gravy all over.” – foods.edu.vn culinary expert.
22. Liliha Bakery: Coco Puffs
Liliha Bakery is renowned for its cream puffs, particularly the iconic Coco Puffs.
These choux pastry balls are filled with chocolate pudding and topped with chantilly.
- Coco Puffs: A must-try for dessert lovers.
Before You Go: The Coco Puffs are made fresh all throughout the day.
What to Order: Coco Puffs.
Quote: “This consists of choux pastry balls filled with chocolate “pudding” and topped with what they call chantilly.” – foods.edu.vn food critic.
23. Cheesecake Factory: Happy Hour Deals
The Cheesecake Factory offers a Happy Hour with half-price dishes and cocktails.
- Avocado Egg Rolls: A popular appetizer with avocado and a crispy exterior.
- Hot Spinach and Cheese Dip: A creamy and flavorful dip served with tortilla chips.
Before You Go: Happy Hour is in the bar area from Monday – Friday from 3:00pm – 5:00pm.
What to Order: The avocado egg rolls and hot spinach and cheese dip.
Quote: “Between 3-5pm Monday to Friday they have a wide range of their dishes half price including the Avocado Egg Rolls, Hot Spinach and Cheese Dip, Factory Nachos, Roadside Sliders and a Happy Hour double patty and double cheese burger and cocktails.” – foods.edu.vn culinary expert.
24. Paia Fish Market: Fish Tacos
Paia Fish Market is known for its fish tacos, burgers, and fresh catch plates.
- Grilled Fish Tacos: A healthier alternative to battered fish.
Before You Go: Paia Fish Market is located on the upper level.
What to Order: Grilled Fish tacos, potatoes, and rice.
Quote: “Their grilled fish tacos are a healthier alternative to battered fish.” – foods.edu.vn food critic.
Budget-Friendly Tips for Eating in Waikiki
- Venture off the Beachfront: Explore eateries one block away from the beach, where prices tend to be lower.
- Factor in Tax and Tip: Remember to add tax and tip to your budget.
- Adjust Ice Levels: Ask for a tiny bit of ice to get more drink and prevent it from watering down quickly.
- Shop at Longs Drugs: For edible gifts and plane snacks, head to Longs Drugs for better prices.
- Compare Prices at ABC Stores: ABC stores are convenient but not always the cheapest.
FAQ: Finding Cheap Eats Near Me in Waikiki
1. What are some of the cheapest places to eat in Waikiki?
Steak Shack, Topped, and Nana Musubi offer affordable and delicious options.
2. Where can I find cheap breakfast in Waikiki?
Waikiki Market and ABC Stores offer affordable breakfast items.
3. Are there any happy hour deals in Waikiki?
Yardhouse and Cheesecake Factory offer great happy hour deals.
4. Where can I find authentic Hawaiian food on a budget in Waikiki?
Rainbow Drive-In and Helena’s Hawaiian Food offer plate lunches at reasonable prices.
5. What are some good options for vegetarians in Waikiki?
Pai’s Deli and many poke places offer vegetarian options like tofu poke.
6. Where can I find late-night cheap eats in Waikiki?
Some food trucks and 24-hour convenience stores offer late-night options.
7. How much should I budget for food per day in Waikiki?
A budget of $30-$50 per day can cover affordable meals.
8. Are there any food trucks in Waikiki that offer cheap eats?
Yes, Ty’s BBQ and Grill, Amy’s Shrimp and Poke, and Pit Stop are popular food truck options.
9. Where can I find the best poke in Waikiki on a budget?
Waikiki Market, Five Star Poke, and Maguro Spot offer delicious and affordable poke bowls.
10. What are some must-try local dishes in Waikiki that won’t break the bank?
*SPAM musubi, plate lunches, and poke bowls are must-try local dishes that are also budget-friendly.*Navigating Waikiki’s culinary scene on a budget is entirely possible with these insider tips and recommendations. From the beachfront delights of Steak Shack to the customizable poke bowls at Maguro Spot, there’s a wealth of affordable and delicious options waiting to be discovered.
Ready to explore more culinary gems and unlock the secrets of delicious, budget-friendly eating? Visit FOODS.EDU.VN today for expert guides, recipes, and insider tips that will transform your dining experiences. Whether you’re a student, a busy parent, or a passionate foodie, FOODS.EDU.VN is your ultimate resource for all things food.
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