Hawaii

This award-winning French-with-an-island-touch restaurant expresses the character of owner George Mavrothassitis – precise, passionate and absolutely individual. — DK Eyewitness

A cuisine that couples French technique with fresh Hawaiian ingredients. — Forbes Travel Guide

Owned by the French-born chef, and James Beard Award-winner, George Mavrothalassitis, the critically-acclaimed Chef Mavro is regarded as one of the finest restaurants in Hawaii. — Travel + Leisure

Honolulu’s legendary French chef is a passionate proponent of local products and has devised many a celebrated dish. A winner of the prestigious James Beard Award, he’s dedicated to food... — Where

What's a Greek-born, French raised expat been doing in Hawaii for the last 30 years? Perfecting the mad science that goes into approaching island ingredients in a unique and (often) astonishing manner. — Condé Nast Traveler

One of the island’s best dining experiences, this restaurant puts on display everything that is upscale, refined, and relaxing. — BlackBook

Oahu locals have long known that special-occasion lunches (birthdays, graduations) are best celebrated at this beachside restaurant within the Halekulani hotel. — Travel + Leisure

Perched along the seawall at historic Gray's Beach, Orchids in the luxe Halekulani resort is open all day. — Fodor's

One of the most beautiful restaurants in all Hawaii, Orchids boasts an open-air look, dressed in crisp, white linen, with striking ocean views. — Gayot

Oʻahu’s most elegant Sunday brunch spread covers all the bases, with a made-to-order omelet station. — Lonely Planet

A list of 50 wines with a focus on Rhone-style varieties, half of them offered by the glass, accompanies the Spanish-style tapas dishes at Kauai's Bar Acuda in Hanalei. — Travel + Leisure

A trendy wine and tapas bar presents ornately plated food that’s noteworthy, but pricey. — Lonely Planet

Given Bar Acuda’s deliciously warm, crusty bread, ordering one hearty and one light dish per person, plus a starter of spiced olives or Marcona almonds per couple, should suffice. — Frommer's

Chef Jim Moffat opened this Hanalei spot for tapas and fine Mediterranean wines after establishing himself with two restaurants in San Francisco (the jazz club, 42 Degrees, and the... — goop

Expect "a bit of urban chic" at this "lively" Med mecca in "picturesque" Hanalei, a "people-watching" scene that "could stand on its own in San Francisco or New York." — Zagat

This restaurant is not only famous because it has been at its oceanfront location for more than 25 years. The fresh fish dishes it serves are excellent and extremely expensive. — DK Eyewitness

"The freshest fish", "gracious" service and "tropical breezes make for an unforgettable experience" exult enthusiasts who find "heavenly bliss" at this "intimate" Pacific Rim seafooder. — Zagat

For almost four decades, Mama's has been the Maui destination for special occasions. — Fodor's

On its own coconut-grove cove on the island’s northern shore, Mama’s has been one of Maui’s most celebrated restaurants since it opened in 1973. — Travel + Leisure

Unparalleled service and Hawaiian heyday vibe, all in one? You betcha. — Condé Nast Traveler

Spago is warm, lively and open, with a spectacular ocean view that is difficult to improve upon. — Gayot

The menu at celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck’s Spago offers Puck’s classics and locally inspired dishes that fuse Hawaiian and Californian cuisines. — DK Eyewitness

Chef Lewark is masterful at preparing vegetables in unexpected and wonderful ways—consider his foamy tomato “cappuccino,” or the sesame-miso cones with hearts of palm standing in for ahi. — Frommer's

Master chef Wolfgang Puck’s fusion of Hawaii and California cuisines results in a brilliant menu that highlights the best local produce, seafood and meats. The Mobil Four-Star, AAA Four... — Where

The California cuisine of celebrity-chef Wolfgang Puck is combined with Maui flavors and served lobby level and oceanfront at the luxurious Four Seasons Resort. — Fodor's

A "pioneer in Hawaii Regional cuisine", chef Alan Wong "continues to innovate", "plating up the best of local farms and island seas" at this McCully "nirvana". — Zagat

Hailed by many as Hawai’i’s best restaurant, Alan Wong’s marries local preferences with a formal setting. — DK Eyewitness

One would think that after more than 15 years, Alan Wong's might have waned in popularity, but this eponymous restaurant is as hot as ever. — Gayot

Worshipful foodies come from all over the state, drawn by the food -- which is brilliant -- and a menu that is irresistible. — Frommer's

Alan Wong is the undisputed king of Hawaiian Regional Cuisine, earning love and respect for his humble demeanor and practice as much as for his food. — Fodor's

The stunning location—overlooking Wailea Beach with an unobstructed view of the West Maui Mountains—sets the stage for a romantic (if pricey) repast. — Frommer's

The only truly beachside restaurant in Wailea, Ferraro's serves authentic Italian cuisine under a canopy of stars on the edge of Wailea Beach. — Gayot

Located in the Four Seasons Resort Maui, Ferraro's offers authentic Italian fare in a casual outdoor tropical setting, with a view of the ocean and the West Maui Mountains. — Zagat

Enjoy lunch beach-side and dinner under the stars at this casual spot with a lively bar and entertainment. Cucina rustica cuisine showcases a wood-burning oven that produces pizzas and... — Where

No other place in Wailea comes close to this breezy restaurant for romantic seaside dining. — Lonely Planet

Fresh local ingredients like moi and opakapaka often form the foundation of its dishes, but they are prepared with traditional French techniques. — Gayot

"By far the finest dining experience you will have on Oahu", this "elegant, intimate" French "keeper" in the "stunning" Halekulani Hotel "aspires to Parisian culinary decadence. — Zagat

Looking out on its namesake, La Mer is the prettiest dining room on Oahu, with carved wooden screens setting an elegant art deco-ish tone. — Fodor's

By far the island's most formal restaurant, specializing in fine French cuisine, armed with a grand wine list and a jacket or long-sleeve collared shirt requirement. — BlackBook

This is the splurge restaurant of Hawaii, an oceanfront bastion of haute cuisine, where two of the state's finest chefs... quietly redefined Hawaiian fine dining. — Frommer's

Unassuming and budget-friendly, Little Village is so popular with locals that it expanded to the space next door. — Fodor's

Work up an appetite wandering Chinatown’s shops and flower stalls, then fuel your tank at the Little Village Noodle House. — BlackBook

This "quaint", "ever-popular" Cantonese establishment is always jammed with a "mix of hipsters, old locals, theatergoers, Downtown white collars and a smattering of tourists. — Zagat

This Chinatown eatery has friendly service and cheery décor; it appeals to the area'€™s regulars who enjoy the varied menu and the modern additions of salads and such. — Gayot

One of Little Village’s signature dishes, honey walnut shrimp, gets high praise from patrons. — Travel + Leisure

An upgrade from the typical T-shirt-casual joint, this laid-back spot hosts live music nightly. — Lonely Planet

A casual, airy setting, much like sitting out on a friend's lanai, makes this restaurant at the Kauai Coast Resort at the Beachboy very pleasant and enjoyable. — Gayot

Spend happy hours dining on dynamite dishes that incorporate ingredients from the islands into every plate. The furikaki, panko crusted calamari and the Wally’s Steak Crown Royal are menu... — Where

Relying heavily on super-fresh island fish and locally grown vegetables, this restaurant offers quality food that is competently and creatively prepared. — Fodor's

Enjoy "gourmet" Hawaii Regional fare made with local ingredients "while watching the tiki-torch lighting in a beautiful garden setting" at this Kauai Coast Resort "jewel". — Zagat

From the moment it opened on Valentine’s Day back in 1990, this New American bistro with a European feel has been the most romantic restaurant in Lahaina. — Travel + Leisure

Experience a chic night of delectable dining at this award-winning seaside restaurant, which has an inventive menu featuring the best in local produce, meats and cheeses. Reservations are... — Where

With professional service, an inviting atmosphere and innovative cuisine, it's easy to see how Lahaina Grill continues to be a favorite. — Gayot

The windows at the Lahaina Grill frame a simple but captivating tableau: beautiful people enjoying beautiful food. — Lonely Planet

"Delectable food" and "exceptional art adorning the walls" "make for a lovely Maui evening with a touch of quiet sophistication." — Zagat

Bev and Joe Gannon’s story sounds more like something you’d daydream from a cubicle than reality—they were producers and managers in Los Angeles when Bev decided to go to cooking school... — goop

The culinary sorceress behind this destination dining spot is Chef Bev Gannon, who was one of the original forces behind the Hawaii Regional Cuisine movement. — Lonely Planet

This charming and authentically rustic store is where Joe and Beverly Gannon purvey their own delicious style of Hawaii Regional cuisine. — Gayot

Chef-restaurateur Beverly Gannon's first restaurant remains a culinary destination after more than a quarter century. — Fodor's

"Before farm-to-fork became the buzzword" there was chef Bev Gannon's "beacon" of Hawaii Regional cuisine "nestled at the base of Haleakala" in Hali'imaile. — Zagat

The “godfather” of Hawaii Regional cuisine “still shines” insist loyalists who patronize Roy Yamaguchi’s “epicurean delight." — Zagat

The Maui outpost of Chef Roy Yamaguchi’s upscale dining empire sits inside the golf course clubhouse at the Kaʻanapali Resort. — Lonely Planet

You'll find options like honey-mustard short ribs; blackened ahi with spicy soy mustard butter sauce; and grilled salmon with Japanese citrus ponzu. — Gayot

Roy’s first Hawaii location in Hawaii Kai launched him as a culinary force. Live music, views of the bay, and local ingredients in Euro-Asian preparations are the highlight of this busy... — Where

Roy Yamaguchi, the James Beard award–winning chef and one of the pioneers of Hawaii Regional Cuisine, now owns eponymous restaurants all over the world. — Frommer's

This is one of Hawaii’s longest-standing and finest restaurants, with a view that beats most. Classical French cuisine is served by tuxedo-clad wait staff. This is one of the most... — Where

Consistently voted "most romantic restaurant" in local publications' reader polls, Michel's is an old-school French favorite on Waikiki's tranquil Gold Coast. — Fodor's

"Romantic, expensive, posh", yes, this "big date" Classic French "throwback" is "worth every penny" sigh sybarites who snag oceanfront seats at this "bastion of fine traditional cooking". — Zagat

It’s all about the cultured Gold Coast atmosphere where the Euro-glamorous gather to be seen enjoying sunset dining, subdued lighting and soft music. — BlackBook

This dining room, on the sand at Sans Souci Beach, has windows that open to the ocean air. — Frommer's

Freshly squeezed juices, house-baked muffins and just-picked tropical fruit are perfect for lighter appetites. Of course, the coffee is outstanding. — Gayot

For me, ceviche is a mandatory menu item: if I see it on the menu, that's what I'm having. I was a little hesitant about "Polynesian-style ceviche" at the Hula Grill, but ordered anyway.... — Afar Magazine

Regional Hawaiian fare is served here along the water’s edge with views of the beach and Diamond Head. — DK Eyewitness

Go "barefoot in paradise" at this "bustling" seaside Pacific Rim "treat" in Outrigger Waikiki and Whalers Village, where you can "scrunch your toes in the sand". — Zagat

This is the best place for breakfast in Waikiki: Not only does it have a terrific view of all of Waikiki (clear to Diamond Head), but the food is fabulous and a great value. — Frommer's

At this romantic hideaway, fusion dishes such as pan-seared opah (moonfish) with king crab and a sake-spiked coconut broth or vanilla bean-seared mahimahi elevate the culinary game. — Lonely Planet

The best hotel restaurant on Kauai may also be one of the smallest and hardest to find, tucked inside the discreetly located Koa Kea Hotel & Resort. — Frommer's

The minimalist presentation sets the proper stage for food that is satisfying, yet light. — Gayot

"Delicious, inventive renditions" of Hawaiian cuisine in a "cool setting" that's a "nice respite from the traditional island decor." — Zagat

A smart, sophisticated decor and exceptional food paired with professional service make Red Salt a great choice for leisurely fine dining. — Fodor's

It's popular with locals for breakfast and lunch, but try it at dinner when the candles come out and it's time for martinis and fresh fish. — Fodor's

From morning to evening, this boisterous bistro is the Haʻiku hangout, for locals and visitors alike. — Lonely Planet

This all-day Haiku New American boasting black booths, a "laid-back" "Upcountry vibe" and "top-shelf" service delivers "gourmet meals at budget prices" to a "very local crowd. — Zagat

Two miles off Hāna Highway in the small center of Ha‘ikū, this casual bistro is popular with local residents and visitors staying in north-shore rentals. — DK Eyewitness

High-beamed ceilings, dark post-modern furniture, lush palm trees and large Art Deco mirrors create a glamorous yet unpretentious 1940s, old Hollywood vibe at this upcountry bistro. — Gayot

As its name implies, Star Noodle offers a variety of noodle dishes, featuring saimin, soba, udon or ramen. — Gayot

Noodle shops aren't rare in Hawaii; this relative newcomer to Maui, hidden on a mountainside, managed to earn a James Beard nod in its debut year. — Condé Nast Traveler

It’s sleek, chic and creative, the top of the heap whether you’re a noodle lover or not. Open since February 2010 at the top of Lahaina Business Park, the 60-seat restaurant (including 12... — Where

This hip noodle house at the top of Lahaina’s industrial park burst like a comet across Maui’s dining scene. — Frommer's

It's safe to say the secret is out: Star Noodle is one of Maui's absolute must-visit restaurants. — Travel + Leisure

Chef Gerard has been cooking since the age of ten, so he’s had a lot of time to perfect his craft. While his roots are embedded in the classic French style, he makes a point to... — Where

He cooks his way, utilizing island ingredients in such dishes as escargots forestière, chilled cucumber soup, and the ahi tartare with taro chips. — Fodor's

"France comes to Hawaii" via Gerard Reversade's "picturesque" Victorian in Lahaina where the "tropical hospitality" and "outstanding service"... treat you "like a royal, with very royal prices". — Zagat

Where has all the romance gone? To the front porch of Gerard’s, where white linens and flickering shadows are an invitation for murmurings of love. — Lonely Planet

Located in the romantic setting of The Plantation Inn, Gerard's is one of Maui's favorite French restaurants. — Gayot

“Garden” is the translation of the eatery's name, and it sits along a wharf in Lahaina town. — Travel + Leisure

Maui chef Mark Ellman may count rockstars and entertainers as business partners, but his down-home, approachable and elegant fare that launched an empire began with a tapas-style menu. — Condé Nast Traveler

The idea here is to order a selection of gorgeous food in small portions. It comes this way so that it can be shared. — DK Eyewitness

The bartenders know their business, and the complimentary edamame guacamole alerts your taste buds that something delicious is about to happen. — Frommer's

Chef-owner Mark Ellman started Maui's culinary revolution of the late '80s with his restaurant Avalon, but Mala is a more than satisfactory successor. — Fodor's