As can be seen wherever you go, you’ve got no shortage of restaurant options in Waikiki. But every once in a while, you walk into a spot that instantly feels like the one. You know, the kind of place that makes you text “you have to try this,” and maybe even put on something cuter than your beach outfit. That’s exactly what happens when you step inside Earl’s Kitchen+Bar Waikiki, one of the hottest new restaurants on Kalākaua Avenue. But first of all, you must take the stairs, the escalator or the elevator to reach this dazzling second level restaurant.
However, since opening just last month, this spot has been buzzing with energy. Indeed, whether you’re a local hunting for your next go-to hangout or a visitor looking to eat like you live here, you’ll want this one on your list. After all, it’s in the literal heart of Waikiki and just across from the Royal Hawaiian Center.
The New Earl’s Kitchen+Bar Waikiki, Honolulu Hawaii
First Impressions: It’s Giving Island-Chic
You’ll feel the vibe the second you walk in. Earl’s Kitchen+Bar Waikiki is massive—almost 13,000 square feet—which means you can actually get a table without waiting too long. The design blends tropical charm and modern cool: open-air skylights, lush greenery, and artwork by local Hawaiian artists set the scene. That’s not to mention the breezy patio that’s perfect for people-watching, and the bar? It’s basically calling your name for that first post-beach cocktail. You’ll see a mix of locals, tourists, families, and couples—all relaxed and happy. Dress it up or keep it casual; either way, you’ll fit right in.
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The Bar: Where You’ll Want to Stay a While
Here’s your warning: once you sit at the bar, you might not want to leave. Earl’s Kitchen+Bar Waikiki nails that laid-back, tropical-luxe vibe. The bartenders are friendly, chatty, and seriously talented. Start with their Mai Tai made with local Kuleana Nanea rum, or go for the Colada Crush, which tastes like vacation in a glass. Of course, there are also non-alcoholic drinks like bottled water, sodas, Red Bull and zero proof crafted cocktails like Picante Margarita.
Pro tip: happy hour happens twice a day (2–5 p.m. and 10 p.m. to close). In other words, you’ve got plenty of chances to sip your way through the cocktail list without breaking the bank.
A Little Backstory: From Canada to the Islands
Fun fact—Earl’s Kitchen+Bar actually started in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada back in the ’80s. Now there are over 70 locations across North America, but the Waikiki one is the very first in Hawaii. Each Earl’s restaurant is designed to fit its community, and this one blends effortlessly with the island vibe. Today, Earl’s Kitchen+Bar is headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
As for the Waikiki location, you’ll definitely feel that aloha energy in the space, the staff, and the menu. It’s a chain that doesn’t feel like a chain, which is rare—and refreshing.
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What to Eat: Your Must-Try Dishes at Earl’s Kitchen+Bar Waikiki
Okay, let’s talk food—because this menu is stacked. Earl’s Kitchen+Bar Waikiki serves global flavors with island flair, and honestly, everything looks (and tastes) like it was made for your Instagram feed. Here are the standouts:
- 🌶 Sticky Korean Ribs – Sweet, spicy, and totally addictive. Don’t even try to stay clean.
- 🍝 Spicy Calabrian Pasta – Burrata, chorizo, chili rosé, and garlic breadcrumbs. You’ll want to lick the bowl.
- 🥩 Tomahawk Maple-Glazed Pork Chop – A total showstopper. Bacon jam. Garlic mash. Heaven.
- 🦀 Jumbo Lump Crab Cake – Fresh crab, no filler, plus a lemon vinaigrette that makes it pop.
- 🍣 Wagyu Beef Oshi Press – Flame-torched Wagyu with truffle soy glaze and jalapeño. Enough said.
- 🐟 Ahi Tuna Poke Bowl – Bright, colorful, and so fresh you’ll wonder if they caught it that morning.
- 🦞 Seafood Platter – Oysters, lobster, shrimp—the full-on “I’m on vacation” moment.
- 🍷 Steak + Truffle Tortellini – Comfort food with a fancy twist. Don’t skip it.
Vegetarian Options
Plant-based friends, you’re not left out. Try the Vegan Charred Corn + Avocado Dip or Vegan Hunan Kung Pao—even meat eaters will steal a bite.
Brunch Goals and Double Happy Hours
Brunch at Earl’s Kitchen+Bar Waikiki deserves its own moment. Think Guava Pineapple Pancakes, Chilaquiles Brunch Bowls, and Nashville Crispy Chicken + Waffles. Come for brunch, stay for happy hour—literally.
With two happy hours daily, solid drink specials, and tropical cocktails that go down way too easily, this is the kind of place where “just one drink” turns into “let’s stay a little longer.”
The People Make It Shine
A huge part of what makes Earl’s Kitchen+Bar Waikiki special is the people. Executive Chef Scott Rolfson leads the kitchen with creativity and heart, and you can taste it in every dish. With over 360 local team members, the restaurant is already making a positive impact in the community. That’s not to mention Randy Pena the Regional Chef and Regional Manager Braden Matthews. Everyone—from the host to the bartender—radiates that genuine aloha spirit. You’ll feel like a regular even on your first visit.
Real Talk: Everyone’s Talking About It
The early reviews are glowing. Locals love the atmosphere; visitors love the “something-for-everyone” menu. The open-air design makes it perfect for date nights, group dinners, or a solo glass of wine at sunset. In fact, all you have to do is scroll through Google or Yelp and you’ll see the same theme: friendly staff, fun energy, amazing food, and that Waikiki vibe you can’t fake.
Final Take: Don’t Miss Earl’s Kitchen+Bar Waikiki
If you’re looking for where to eat in the Waikiki Beach area, this is it. Earl’s Kitchen+Bar Waikiki isn’t just another restaurant—it’s a whole experience. From brunch to happy hour to dinner under the skylights, every visit feels like the best kind of island escape.
Next time you’re walking down Kalākaua Avenue, stop by. Grab a drink, order the Sticky Korean Ribs, and soak in the vibe. You’ll leave full, happy, and already planning your next visit.
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About The Author
Randy Yagi is an award-winning writer who served as the National Travel Writer for CBS from 2012 to 2019. More than 900 of his stories still appear in syndication across 23 CBS websites, including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and San Francisco. During his peak years with CBS, Randy had a reported digital audience reach of 489 million and 5.5 million monthly visitors. Additionally, his stories have appeared in the Daily Meal, CBS News, CBS Radio, Engadget, NBC.com, NJ.com, and Radio.com. He earned a Media Fellowship from Stanford University and is a Bay Area Travel Writers (BATW) member.