Yes—Waikiki can be pricey. But eating well on Oahu doesn’t have to mean dropping resort-level money at every meal. With a little strategy (and a willingness to grab-and-go), you can enjoy local favorites like musubi, loco moco, plate lunches, poke, and fresh fish without torching your vacation budget.
Below is an updated, budget-focused list of cheap places to eat in Waikiki (and just outside Waikiki)—perfect for families, couples, and anyone who’d rather spend on snorkel rentals than $28 burgers.
Quick tips for eating cheap in Waikiki (without feeling “cheap”)
- Go casual at least once a day. A sit-down meal for every breakfast/lunch/dinner adds up fast in Waikiki.
- Split big portions. Many local plates are easily shareable—especially if you add an extra rice.
- Use “snack meals.” A musubi + fruit + iced tea can absolutely count as lunch.
- Picnic like a pro. Waikiki is basically built for beach picnics—grab food, walk a few minutes, and eat with an ocean view for free.
- Expect prices to fluctuate. Hawaii costs change quickly (shipping, labor, rent), so think in “under $10 / under $15 / under $20” ranges instead of exact dollars.
Best cheap eats in Waikiki (and nearby)
1) Musubi Cafe Iyasume (and Musubi & Bento Iyasume)
If you want the ultimate Waikiki budget food hack, start here. Musubi is portable, filling, and ridiculously satisfying—especially after a morning swim.
What to order
- Spam musubi (the classic)
- Egg + bacon musubi if you want something breakfast-y
- Add a small bento if you’re extra hungry
Why it’s budget-friendly
You can build a full meal for much less than most Waikiki restaurants—and you don’t need a reservation, a dress code, or a 20% “vacation brain” service charge.
Pro tip: Buy a couple musubi, then eat them at the beach or in Kapiolani Park.
2) Marugame Udon (Waikiki)
Marugame is famous for a reason: fresh udon + tempura + quick service at a price that still feels fair in Waikiki.
What to order
- A hot udon bowl (simple is best)
- Add 1–2 pieces of tempura (shrimp, sweet potato, etc.)
Why it’s budget-friendly
You can get a warm, filling meal that feels “real” (not snacky) without paying luxury-resort pricing.
Pro tip: Lines can look intense, but they move fast—go a little before or after peak meal hours if you hate waiting.
3) Cuckoo Coconuts (Waikiki)
Cuckoo Coconuts is a fun, lively spot that still feels vacation-y, but it’s one of the better options when you want a sit-down place that won’t destroy your budget.
What to order
- Loco moco (a Hawaii classic)
- Poke-style dishes when you’re craving something fresh
- Anything “local plate” on the menu when you want comfort food
Why it’s budget-friendly
It’s one of those places where you can get a hearty meal, enjoy live music, and still keep the total reasonable compared to many Waikiki restaurants.
Pro tip: If you’re traveling with kids, it’s a great “early dinner, then walk the strip” kind of night.
4) Tucker & Bevvy (Waikiki)
This is your go-to for quick, lighter, picnic-friendly food—especially if you’re trying not to spend a fortune on breakfast or lunch.
What to order
- Sandwiches/wraps for a beach day
- Coffee + something portable when you’re on the move
Why it’s budget-friendly
You’re paying for food you can take with you—no inflated “view dining” markup required.
Pro tip: Plan a beach picnic and treat yourself to a fancy dinner later—this is how you balance the budget without feeling deprived.
5) Maguro Brothers (Waikiki)
If you want a fresh fish fix without a full sit-down seafood bill, Maguro Brothers is a solid option (note: they keep limited hours).
What to order
- Sashimi / poke-style items (depending on what’s available)
- A simple combo and keep it snack-style
Why it’s budget-friendly
It scratches the “we’re in Hawaii, give me fish!” itch—without paying upscale seafood-restaurant prices.
Pro tip: Check hours before you go (they’re known for a shorter service window).
6) Paia Fish Market (Waikiki)
This is a popular spot that isn’t always “cheap-cheap,” but it can be budget-smart because portions are generous and plates can be shared.
What to order
- A fish plate + sides (shareable)
- Keep it simple—fresh fish is the star
Why it’s budget-friendly
If you split a plate (or take leftovers), you can turn one order into two meals.
Pro tip: If you’re traveling with kids, this can be a “one plate + one extra side” kind of dinner.
7) Rainbow Drive-In (Kapahulu, very close to Waikiki)
A Hawaii classic—and a reliable way to get a true local plate lunch without paying Waikiki beachfront pricing.
What to order
- Mixed plate options (great for sharing)
- Anything that comes with that classic “local plate” feel
Why it’s budget-friendly
You’re paying local-spot prices for a lot of food.
Pro tip: Hit it on the way back from Diamond Head or a beach morning near the zoo.
8) Leonard’s Bakery (Kapahulu)
Malasadas are one of those “you have to do this at least once” Hawaii treats. They’re not a full meal… but they’re the happiest snack ever.
What to order
- Classic malasadas (try more than one flavor if you’re sharing)
Why it’s budget-friendly
A small splurge that feels special—without the full dessert-restaurant bill.
Pro tip: Go earlier to beat the crowds.
9) Ono Seafood (Kapahulu)
If poke is on your Waikiki must-eat list, Ono Seafood is a favorite (and a great option when you want something fresh that still feels like a deal compared to resort dining).
What to order
- Poke bowls (choose your favorite style)
Why it’s budget-friendly
Poke bowls are one of the best “value meals” in Hawaii when you want something filling and fresh.
Pro tip: Check their days/hours before heading over since they can vary.
10) Gina’s B-B-Q (Market City, short drive from Waikiki)
A legendary “more food than you expected” kind of place. It’s not Hawaiian food—but it’s a local favorite for big, filling plates.
What to order
- BBQ beef or BBQ chicken plate
- Mini options if you want a smaller meal
Why it’s budget-friendly
You get a lot of food for what you pay, which makes it a great value—especially if you’re feeding teens or hungry beach people.
Pro tip: This is a great “late lunch, skip dinner” strategy.
11) Blue Ocean Seafood & Steak (Waikiki)
This spot is often described as a more casual, “food-truck vibe” alternative to pricier Waikiki restaurants—and it’s convenient when you want seafood without a fancy setup.
What to order
- Mahi mahi, shrimp plates, or a combo if you’re sharing
Why it’s budget-friendly
Compared to many Waikiki sit-down seafood spots, it can land on the more reasonable end—especially for portion size.
Pro tip: Treat it like a casual plate meal, not a “date-night fine dining” stop.
12) Henry’s Place (Waikiki)
When the Waikiki heat hits and you need something cold and fruity, Henry’s Place is the move. It’s a dessert stop that feels very “vacation” without being over-the-top.
What to order
- Fruit-forward ice cream or sorbet
Why it’s budget-friendly
Instead of a full dessert course at a restaurant, you get a fun, memorable treat you can enjoy while walking Waikiki.
Pro tip: Expect a line—it’s popular for a reason.
Update: Waikiki Beachside Kitchen
This used to be a popular budget recommendation, but it’s currently listed as closed. If you were looking for a similar “quick breakfast window” vibe, try Tucker & Bevvy or Iyasume for a fast, affordable start to the day.
Easy “cheap eats” day plan (so you don’t overthink it)
- Breakfast: 1–2 musubi + coffee
- Lunch: Marugame udon + a tempura
- Snack: Leonard’s malasada (share a few!)
- Dinner: Split a plate lunch (Rainbow Drive-In) or do a value-friendly fish plate (Paia Fish Market)
This kind of rhythm keeps you full, happy, and still leaves room in the budget for a luau or catamaran cruise.
Related questions (FAQ)
What’s the best cheap seafood near Waikiki?
For a casual, convenient option in Waikiki, Blue Ocean Seafood & Steak is often a solid pick. For poke, Ono Seafood is a favorite (and usually feels like strong value compared to resort dining). If you want a sit-down seafood plate in Waikiki, Paia Fish Market can be budget-smart if you share or take leftovers.
Where do locals eat near Waikiki?
A few local favorites close to Waikiki include Rainbow Drive-In, Leonard’s Bakery, Ono Seafood, and Gina’s B-B-Q. For a budget bite right in Waikiki, locals also grab musubi and bentos (because it’s fast, tasty, and practical).
What happened to Karai Crab?
Karai Crab has closed (it announced an official closing timeline in 2025). If you were hoping for a seafood splurge instead, consider poke at Ono Seafood or a fish plate at Paia Fish Market.
What’s the best cheap dessert in Waikiki?
Henry’s Place is a great choice for fruit-forward ice cream and sorbet—perfect for a post-beach treat without turning dessert into a full restaurant bill.
