Hey there! When it comes to breakfast, Waikiki is a total foodie paradise! Ready to kick off your day with some aloha vibes? Whether you’ve got a few days or more in fabulous Waikiki, one thing’s for sure – you gotta start your day with something delicious!
Lucky for you, Waikiki Beach is packed with awesome breakfast spots. But let’s get real – you won’t have time for all of them.
Don’t worry, that’s where I’ve got your back!
Breakfast is my absolute favorite, and when we landed on the island, I dove right into all the top-rated breakfast places in Waikiki. Some were awesome, some not so much.
But honestly, finding a bad breakfast in Waikiki is like trying to find a needle in a haystack. From vibrant acai bowls and fluffy souffle pancakes with fresh local fruits to omelets that are as light as clouds and creative Benedicts – Waikiki’s breakfast spots have something for everyone.
So, here are my top 7 favorite breakfast places in Waikiki to kickstart your day in paradise. Yep, you got it – one for every day of the week!
1. Aloha Kitchen
When I began my quest for top-notch Waikiki breakfast spots, the first gem that caught my eye was none other than Aloha Kitchen. Maybe it’s because it’s conveniently close to our building, or maybe it’s just fate playing its part.
And let me tell you, stumbling upon this spot turned out to be a stroke of luck!
I’m living the dream with one of Waikiki’s finest breakfast places practically in my backyard. The only downside? Even I, with this lucky proximity, have to join the line like everyone else at this popular local haunt.
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Charm in Every Bite: Aloha Kitchen Breakfast Experience
Aloha Kitchen boasts a cozy diner vibe and is renowned for its ethereally light souffle pancakes. Nestled away on a side street near the Hilton Hawaiian Village, it’s a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered.
How’s the wait?
Reservations? Nope, they don’t do that. Once you arrive, jot down your name on the sign-in sheet at the door. Be prepared for a wait, especially during peak hours (9 am-11 am). Our trick? Time your visit around noon on weekends, and you’ll likely breeze in with little to no wait.
Early birds and night owls, rejoice! If you can’t avoid the peak times, just be ready to chill for a bit. While there’s a touch of shade under the front awning, a busy day might mean soaking up the sun as you wait. No seating while you wait, but fear not – there’s an ABC Store nearby to explore in the AC until your name is called.
What to order at Aloha Kitchen
As for the menu, my absolute must-tries are the Lobster Benedict and the Fruit Souffle Pancake. If you’re an acai bowl aficionado, my husband swears by theirs.
Can I get a breakfast cocktail with that?
And guess what? Breakfast cocktails are a thing here! Mimosas, anyone? The guava mimosa, in particular, pairs like a dream with those heavenly souffle pancakes.
Finding Aloha Kitchen: Your Treasure Map
Location: 432 Ena Road, Honolulu, HI 96815
When to Go: Breakfast is served Tuesday – Sunday (closed Mondays) from 7:30 am to 1:00 pm.
Pro Tip: If the wait feels never-ending, venture a bit further up the road to Sunny’s Local Grind, a charming coffee shop that also dishes out a fantastic breakfast. They’re new in the neighborhood and definitely worth a try.
Ready to embark on your breakfast adventure? Aloha Kitchen awaits!
2. Monkeypod Kitchen Waikiki
For a Waikiki breakfast with a jaw-dropping ocean view, look no further than the new Monkeypod Kitchen Waikiki. This fresh addition to the Waikiki breakfast scene has been turning heads since its opening in July 2023, offering a spectacular setting that’s hard to beat.
Unlike its counterparts in Maui and Ko Olina, the Waikiki location is the sole Monkeypod Kitchen serving breakfast. And let me tell you, it’s a pretty impressive one.
Monkeypod Kitchen’s breakfast menu is a testament to creativity and local inspiration, featuring Chef Peter Merriman’s renowned “Hawaii Regional Cuisine.” Whether you’re there for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Monkeypod Kitchen is a must-visit when you’re in Waikiki.
How’s the wait?
Since it’s still new, pinpointing the average wait time is a bit tricky. The upside? This spacious, open-air restaurant sprawls across a whopping 13,000 square feet, offering ample seating compared to some of the cozier spots on this list.
During my visit on a recent Friday at 10:30 am, I strolled right in. However, the hostess mentioned they typically see a bit of a wait starting around 8:30 am. While they do take limited reservations, our evening visits haven’t required more than a 5 or 10-minute wait without one.
What to order at Monkeypod Kitchen Waikiki
For me, the go-to drink is the Monkeypod Mai Tai, making the Monkeypod Mai Tai Flapjacks my top choice on the breakfast menu. Griddled to perfection, they’re drizzled with kula rum butter syrup and topped with their signature honey lilikoi foam – added tableside, just before serving. Trust me, these are hands down the best pancakes I’ve ever had, anywhere.
Another favorite? The avocado toast. And if you overindulged in Monkeypod Mai Tais the night before, give “The Cure” a shot – a hearty ramen dish with kalua pork, veggies, and a poached egg in a red chili chicken broth.
Can I get a breakfast cocktail with that?
Not only can you pair your meal with a cocktail, but you can also savor the best mai tai in all of Hawaii (according to yours truly). Alternatively, try the 24k coffee, a delightful blend of cold brew with selva rey cacao rum.
Discovering Monkeypod Kitchen: Your Navigation Guide
Location: Inside the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort, 2169 Kalia Road, Honolulu, HI 96815
When to Go: Breakfast is served daily from 7:00 am – 11:00 am.
Ready for a breakfast experience with a view? Monkeypod Kitchen Waikiki awaits!
3. Eggs n Things
Founded by Jerry and Jan Fukunaga, Eggs n Things has always been about one thing – fresh ingredients, reasonable prices, and treating everyone like family (**Ohana**). Since 1974, their flagship location on Saratoga Road in Waikiki has been the go-to spot for both locals and visitors craving sweet and savory breakfast delights.
Eggs n Things Legacy: Breakfast at Its Best
Today, they’ve expanded with three additional locations around Oahu (Ko Olina, Ala Moana, and a second Waikiki spot on the beach at 2464 Kalakaua Ave).
Eggs n Things is undeniably the breakfast hotspot in Waikiki, and if you decide to give it a go, be ready for a bit of a wait. Which brings us to…
How’s the wait?
Reservations? Nope, not here. It’s walk-up or waitlist only. Plan for a 45-minute to an hour wait during peak times. Luckily, at the Saratoga location, they’ve got plenty of benches outside and a charming shop downstairs to explore while you bide your time.
Pro Tip: Save time by checking the current wait time on Yelp via the Eggs n Things website and add yourself to the waitlist before making your way over.
What to order at Eggs n Things
I’m all about the omelets here, with the Spinach, Bacon, and Cheese being my top pick. However, the Signature Rainbow Pancakes are another stellar choice. They arrive adorned with a vibrant array of tropical fruit and crowned with a towering heap of whipped cream – a trademark for all their pancakes and waffles.
Can I get a breakfast cocktail with that?
Looking for a breakfast cocktail? Unfortunately, Eggs n Things keeps it simple with hot Kona coffee or fresh tropical fruit juice.
Finding Your Way: Location Details
Location: 343 Saratoga Road, Honolulu, HI 96815
When to Go: Breakfast is served daily from 6:00 am – 2:00 pm.
Ready to experience breakfast that feels like home? Eggs n Things is calling!
4. Cinnamon’s
Cinnamon’s at the Ilikai: A Breakfast Haven in Waikiki
The original Cinnamon’s in Kailua has been delighting taste buds since the mid-80s with its scrumptious breakfasts. Lucky for those staying in Waikiki, their second location is a little closer to home.
Nestled within the Ilikai Hotel, this open-air casual dining spot offers delightful breakfast treats alongside a scenic waterfront marina view.
How’s the wait?
How’s the wait? Typically, not too shabby. Reservations aren’t taken unless you’ve got a party of 10 or more during the week. Personally, we’ve never had to wait when heading to Cinnamon’s for breakfast. Granted, we lean towards being late breakfast people, munching closer to noon because, hey, breakfast cocktails are a thing.
If you stroll in at 9 am on a weekend, you might need to wait a few minutes. But fear not, you’re within the hotel where plenty of shady spots let you soak in the marina views while passing the time.
What to order at Cinnamon’s
Cinnamon’s is famed for its signature Guava Chiffon Pancakes, but my personal favorites include the Kalua Pork Eggs Benedict. Other must-tries are the Red Velvet Pancakes and the Tropical Stuffed French Toast, made with Portuguese sweet bread and a mango cream cheese stuffing.
Can I get a breakfast cocktail with that?
Craving a breakfast cocktail? You’re in luck. Cinnamon’s boasts a full bar featuring one of the best tropical cocktail menus in town.
Pro Tip: Give the Smoked Cinnamon Mai Tai or the Guava Mai Tai a shot (or both, you’re on vacation!).
Finding Your Way: Location Details
Location: Inside the Ilikai Hotel, 1777 Ala Moana Blvd #150, Honolulu, HI 96815. (The original Cinnamon’s is located in Kailua.)
When to Go: Breakfast is served daily from 8:00 am – 2:00 pm.
Ready to indulge in a breakfast with a view? Cinnamon’s at the Ilikai awaits!
5. Cream Pot Waikiki
A Taste of French Elegance
Opened in 2008, Cream Pot proudly boasts to be the birthplace of the original souffle pancake. While the authenticity of this claim is up for debate, what’s undeniable is that this French farmhouse-style cafe takes the prize for the most enchanting ambiance on our list.
A French Oasis in Waikiki
Dressed in white-washed stone walls, elegant chandeliers, charming antiques, and a massive wooden farmhouse table at its heart, the interior exudes the charm of a French countryside farmhouse.
In addition to the printed menu offering a delightful mix of sweet and savory breakfast options, a daily list of imaginative specials on a blackboard adds to the culinary adventure. Beyond the renowned souffle pancakes and French toast, Cream Pot serves up a delectable array of crepes, omelets, and benedicts.
Keep in mind, if you opt for an egg dish, they prepare them in the “soft” French style, which might not suit everyone. However, they’re happy to make them more well-done upon request.
The Price of Charm: A Note on Cost
The only drawback, personally, is the price. $25 for pancakes without an ocean view feels a tad steep for my liking.
How’s the wait?
How’s the wait? No reservations are taken. The line forms by queuing up at the stairs, and during peak times, it can stretch quite a bit, but it moves swiftly. Unfortunately, there’s no shade while you wait, and seating is limited.
The first time around, on a Sunday at 11:00 am, the line was 12 people deep, and we waited about 15 minutes. On the second visit, a Thursday at 1:00 pm, we strolled right in with no wait.
What to order at Cream Pot Waikiki
The star of the show at Cream Pot is undoubtedly the souffle pancakes – a personal favorite being the version with mixed berries. Another standout dish is the Pineapple and Bacon French Toast with brandy caramel sauce.
Can I get a breakfast cocktail with that?
Sadly, no breakfast cocktails are served at Cream Pot. However, they do permit you to bring a bottle of wine or champagne (for a $15 corkage fee) if you wish to enjoy a mimosa with your brunch.
Finding Your Way: Location Details
Location: 444 Niu Street, Honolulu, HI 96815
When to Go: Breakfast is served Thursday – Monday from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm (last order at 1:30 pm). Closed Tuesday and Wednesday.
Ready for a taste of French elegance in the heart of Waikiki? Cream Pot awaits!
6. Goofy Cafe & Dine
Where Surf Culture Meets Healthy Delights
Named for the right-foot-forward surfing stance (not the Disney character), this laid-back surfer’s cafe in front of the Hilton Hawaiian Village is a fantastic choice for breakfast in Waikiki.
The focus at Goofy Cafe is squarely on healthy, natural food made fresh with local ingredients. Service is friendly, fast, and the prices are quite reasonable by Waikiki standards.
How’s the wait?
How’s the wait? Like many of the best breakfast spots in Waikiki, it gets busy during the prime breakfast hours of 8 am-11:00 am. But here’s the twist – unlike many others, they do take reservations! So, if Goofy’s is on your must-eat list, make a reservation.
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Indulging in Culinary Delights
If you haven’t tried loco moco yet, this is the place! The Big Island Beef Loco Moco is one of their most delicious dishes. Another favorite is the Big Island Honey French Toast, available loaded with a berry mix or Hawaiian style with papaya, pineapple, and banana.
What to order at Goofy Cafe
The best part about Goofy Cafe is that both of the above breakfast dishes are also available on the dinner menu. Because sometimes you just need breakfast for dinner, am I right?
Can I get a breakfast cocktail with that?
Indeed you can! Goofy’s has a full bar, including a wide array of mimosa options and a fantastic Bloody Mary.
Finding Your Way: Location Details
Location: This one is easy to miss! It’s upstairs above Kpop Donuts. 1831 Ala Moana Blvd #201, Honolulu, HI 96815.
When to Go: The full breakfast menu is served from 7:00 am to 2:00 pm. Luckily, some of their most popular breakfast items are also available during the dinner hours from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
Ready to experience where surf culture meets healthy delights? Goofy Cafe beckons!
7. Island Vintage Coffee
Where Locals and Visitors Unite
In Waikiki, finding a place equally beloved by locals and visitors is a rare gem, but Island Vintage fits the bill.
For years, it’s been my go-to pre-Honolulu Marathon spot, offering a delicious race-morning bagel that stays delightful even in the pre-dawn hours as I fuel up for the race.
A Culinary Oasis Beyond the Ordinary Cafe
Island Vintage is more than a simple cafe and bakery; it’s a full-service restaurant with offerings for breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day of the week. There’s even a wine bar next door!
How’s the wait?
How’s the wait? At the cafe, there’s always a line, and finding a seat after ordering can be a challenge. Yet, here’s a little-known tip – you can head next door to the wine bar, sit down, and order from the same menu without waiting in line. You can even make a reservation at the wine bar for a guaranteed table.
What to order at Island Vintage
My go-to at Island Vintage is their stunning and delicious acai bowls. The Lilikoi Moana Acai Bowl is an absolute favorite, but they also serve a fabulous Wagyu Beef Loco Moco. Other island favorites like eggs benedict, avocado toast, and fresh fruit smoothies grace the menu as well.
Can I get a breakfast cocktail with that?
Absolutely! The restaurant side is a full-service wine bar. Tip: Give the lilikoi mimosa a try.
Finding Your Way: Location Details
Location: On the 2nd floor of the Royal Hawaiian Center, 2301 Kalakaua Avenue, #C215, Honolulu, HI 96815.
When to Go: The coffee shop is open daily from 6:00 am – 10:00 pm. At the wine bar, breakfast is served all day from 7:00 am – 9:00 pm.
Ready to experience the culinary unity of locals and visitors alike? Island Vintage awaits!
Still hungry? Bonus Waikiki breakfast spots!
Still hungry? Even though they didn’t make my Top 7 list, there are 2 more delightful breakfast places I recommend to family and friends when they visit:
Basalt Waikiki (for charcoal pancakes)
This upscale restaurant in the Duke’s Lane Market & Eatery (2255 Kuhio Ave) might seem like a bit of a “one-trick pony,” but it’s a Waikiki breakfast spot well worth mentioning.
Why?
Because Basalt Waikiki has one thing you won’t find on any other Waikiki breakfast menu.
Instagrammers flock to Basalt Waikiki for their unique charcoal pancakes. A play on the restaurant’s name (Basalt is a dark volcanic rock), the dramatic black color comes from an ultra-fine, high-grade Japanese charcoal that’s pulverized into a powder.
The result? Black color without the charcoal taste (I promise, they don’t taste anything like charcoal!). The volcanic pancakes are topped with a lava-like blend of guava and strawberry puree and whipped cream with mascarpone cheese. The combination is a uniquely delicious breakfast treat.
And yes, you can get a breakfast cocktail with that.
Brunch at Basalt is served from 8:00 am – 1:00 pm Monday – Friday (except Wednesday) and Saturday and Sunday from 7:00 am – 1:30 pm.And if you really love the pancakes, you can even purchase a package of the mix to take home.
Barefoot Beach Cafe
After a morning stroll down Waikiki Beach, there’s no better place to stop for an affordable oceanfront breakfast than the Barefoot Beach Cafe.
Located at Queen’s Surf Beach, 2699 Kalakaua Ave, this casual outdoor cafe sits in a prime location with a terrific view of Waikiki. My favorite breakfast here is the Egg Lust Sandwich (be sure to add the bacon and avocado!), and my husband loves their omelets.
Breakfast is served daily from 8:00 am – 2:00 pm,No mimosas here, unfortunately.
Due to the outdoor beachfront location, it falls under the “no alcohol” rules of Parks & Recreation. No cocktails are served, and there’s no BYOB.
But you will find a great meal any time of day, which is why Barefoot Beach Cafe also makes my list of the best Cheap Eats in Waikiki.
Tip: Barefoot Beach Cafe is another fun place to watch the Friday night fireworks across the bay; they have plenty of seating and live music from 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm every Friday night.
And there you have it!
All the best Waikiki breakfast spots you just have to try.
How many have you already been to on this list? Did you find a new one to try?
Are you craving an acai bowl and a lilikoi mimosa right now? I know I am.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned since moving to Oahu, you’ll never go hungry in Waikiki! Especially not at breakfast time.
Ready to Explore More of Oahu?
Now that you’re sufficiently fortified to start your day, pick up a rental car to hit the road and explore all of the beautiful places around Oahu.
Conclusion
Waikiki, a paradise for food enthusiasts, offers a diverse and delectable breakfast scene that caters to every palate. From the cozy charm of Aloha Kitchen to the breathtaking ocean views at Monkeypod Kitchen, each spot has its unique flavor and ambiance. Whether you’re indulging in the ethereal souffle pancakes at Cream Pot or savoring the healthy delights at Goofy Cafe, Waikiki’s breakfast choices are as vibrant and diverse as the Hawaiian culture itself.
As you embark on a culinary journey through these breakfast havens, you’ll discover the fusion of local ingredients, creativity, and aloha spirit in each dish. While some places may have a wait, the anticipation is part of the experience, allowing you to soak in the tropical surroundings and plan your day in paradise.
So, whether you’re drawn to the laid-back surf culture at Goofy Cafe or the elegant French ambiance of Cream Pot, Waikiki ensures that your breakfast is not just a meal but a memorable experience. The island’s culinary treasures, combined with its scenic beauty, make every breakfast a celebration of the aloha spirit that defines Hawaii.
Ready for More Adventures
Now that you’ve fueled up on these divine breakfasts, the enchanting island of Oahu beckons. Grab a rental car, hit the road, and explore the wonders that await you around every corner. From stunning beaches to lush landscapes, Oahu has a plethora of beautiful places to discover. Let the flavors of Waikiki be just the beginning of your unforgettable journey across this tropical paradise.
It’s James Wilson, the enthusiastic mind behind “Go Hawaii US.” I’ve immersed myself in the beauty of Hawaii, bringing my expertise and hands-on experience to the forefront. With a deep passion for exploring Hawaii’s wonders, I’m all about sharing insights, uncovering hidden gems, and fostering a collective love for the magic of the islands.
Come along with me on this journey, where we dive into the intricacies of Hawaii and celebrate the allure it brings to the world of travel!
