3 Best Restaurants in North Shore, Oahu

A cozy, romantic space with a slightly sophisticated (for the North Shore) vibe, Maya’s serves up classic Spanish and Mediterranean dishes with island twists, including a variety of tapas as well as some larger plates. Here, seafood paella is made with local line-caught fish and shrimp, a burger showcases Kunoa beef, and hand-tossed flatbreads come with roasted local veggies and macadamia nut pesto. Sit indoors at a table or the bar or on the patio overlooking the scene at the North Shore Marketplace.

After the long drive to the North Shore, watching the boats and surfers come and go from the harbor while you enjoy a mai tai on the open-air lanai here may be just what you need. This casual little joint, just past the Rainbow Bridge, rarely changes (to some, that might feel dated, but regulars appreciate the familiarity); a more upscale Kaneohe location overlooks the lush Haiku Gardens.

One of the North Shore’s liveliest eateries is set in a casual, contemporary space. It serves Hawaiian-style fare including pupus—from poke bowls and fresh wild-caught moonfish to nachos with ham and kalua pig on wonton chips—as well as pasta dishes, pizza, soups, and salads.