We’ve combed the reviews and traveled to the North Shore to eat all of the things to bring you this list of family-friendly dining on the North Shore of Oahu! We’ve got picks spanning the shores from Haleiwa to Laie and everything in between.
Banzai Sushi Bar
Banzai Sushi Bar in Haleiwa offers a delightful dining experience with its fresh sushi and welcoming atmosphere. Diners have praised dishes like the Hawaii roll and Ahi Poke for their exceptional taste. The restaurant features unique floor seating options, adding to its charm. While the menu includes vegan options, some reviewers note that these selections are limited. Overall, Banzai Sushi Bar is a solid choice for families seeking a memorable meal on the North Shore.
Our good friends who live on the North Shore recommended Banzai as one of their favorites and it did not disappoint!
Instagram: @BanzaiSushiBar
Cholo’s Homestyle Mexican Restaurant
Cholo’s Homestyle Mexican Restaurant in Haleiwa, located on Oahu’s North Shore, offers a vibrant dining experience with authentic Mexican cuisine and a lively atmosphere. The restaurant is celebrated for its flavorful dishes, including fish tacos and chili rellenos, and is particularly renowned for its margaritas. The ambiance is inspired by Mexican culture, featuring decor and music that reflect the owner’s passion for Mexican art and crafts. Outdoor seating provides an opportunity to enjoy the pleasant Hawaiian weather.
The fish tacos lived up to the hype. The best we’ve had! Our kids claim it’s the best salsa they’ve ever had.
Facebook: Cholos Haleiwa
Seven Brothers
Seven Brothers, a family-owned restaurant on Oahu’s North Shore, is renowned for its flavorful burgers and welcoming atmosphere. Diners frequently praise the Shem Burger and coconut shrimp for their exceptional taste. The establishment offers both indoor and outdoor seating, accommodating families comfortably.
There are several locations along the North Shore. The original Kahuku location is our favorite. We LOVE their fries, the outdoor seating, and the twinkle lights. Bonus for your big kids? There is a skate park just around the corner frequented by locals and students from BYU Hawaii.
Instagram: @SevenBrothers
Kahuku Farms
Kahuku Farms on Oahu’s North Shore offers a delightful farm-to-table experience ideal for families. Visitors frequently praise the fresh, locally sourced dishes, such as the grilled veggie panini and farm pizza, which showcase produce grown directly on the farm. The farm also offers informative tours where guests can learn about sustainable agriculture and sample fresh fruits like apple bananas, papaya, and star fruit. The relaxed, outdoor setting provides ample space for children to play, making it a perfect dining destination for families seeking both education and enjoyment.
Our absolute favorite thing? The grilled banana bread! (drizzled with vanilla caramel)
Instagram: @KahukuFarms
Kahuku Food Trucks
Kahuku, located on Oahu’s North Shore, is renowned for its vibrant food truck scene, offering a diverse array of culinary delights that cater to families seeking a memorable dining experience. A standout is the Famous Kahuku Shrimp Truck, celebrated for its coconut shrimp paired with flavorful rice.
Another notable option is Da Bald Guy Food Truck, where patrons rave about dishes like Fried Poke, Shrimp, and Kalbi, all praised for their taste and generous portions.
For those craving authentic Mexican flavors, Nelly’s Tacos Mexicano offers specialties such as Milanesa Pollo and Taco Pescado, earning high ratings for their authenticity.
The communal, open-air setting of these food trucks provides a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere, making Kahuku’s food truck hub a must-visit destination for diverse and satisfying meals.
Instagram: Kahuku Food Truck Market
L&L Hawaiian BBQ
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue, a well-known chain originating from Hawaii, has multiple locations across Oahu’s North Shore. The restaurant is celebrated for its generous portions and diverse menu, featuring local favorites like chicken katsu and barbecue mixed plates. Many patrons appreciate the friendly service and the convenience of quick, satisfying meals. However, experiences can vary between locations; some diners have reported inconsistencies in food quality, such as overcooked meats. Overall, L&L offers a family-friendly dining option with a broad selection of Hawaiian comfort foods, making it a convenient choice for those exploring the North Shore.
L&L has locations in Laie and Haleiwa (and just about everywhere else in Oahu and beyond)!
Instagram: @llhawaiianbbq
Lei Lei’s Bar and Grill at Turtle Bay
Lei Lei’s Bar & Grill, situated at Turtle Bay Resort on Oahu’s North Shore, is a local favorite known for its excellent food and service. Diners often praise dishes like the baby back ribs and ahi steak for their exceptional taste. The restaurant offers stunning views of the golf course, providing a relaxed atmosphere suitable for families. While some guests have noted occasional wait times during peak hours, many find the friendly service and quality of food well worth it.
Eat on the patio if you can! It’s right on the golf course and offers a quick escape for your little ones to run around and burn off some energy while you wait for your food!
Instagram: @LeiLeisEverywhere
Polynesian Cultural Center Luau
Looking to go big? The PCC’s luau is renowned! The Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) on Oahu’s North Shore offers an immersive experience that combines cultural education with entertainment, making it an excellent choice for families. Visitors can explore six recreated Polynesian villages, each showcasing unique traditions through interactive activities and performances.
The Ali’i Luau is particularly praised for its well-organized presentation and diverse buffet, featuring traditional dishes. The evening concludes with the “Hā: Breath of Life” show, renowned for its captivating storytelling and fire performances.
Instagram: @PolynesianCulturalCTR
Hukilau Marketplace at the Polynesian Cultural Center
The Hukilau Marketplace at the Polynesian Cultural Center offers a variety of delicious dining options that cater to diverse tastes, making it a great stop for families. Among the top food options, Guadalajara Grill Hawaii stands out for its authentic Mexican cuisine, featuring flavorful dishes like fish tacos and veggie burritos. Tita’s Grill, known for its garlic shrimp and BBQ plates, is another popular choice, offering generous portions of delicious, hearty meals. Additionally, visitors can explore other food trucks offering a range of local favorites, from poke bowls to fresh island-inspired dishes. The marketplace’s lively atmosphere, coupled with its variety of food options, ensures a memorable dining experience for everyone.
Don’t miss one of our favorites, North Shore Crepes!
Pro Tip: The PCC is closed on Sundays and Wednesdays, BUT the food trucks are still open on Wednesdays!
Tita’s Grill and Catering
Tita’s Grill and Catering, located in the Hukilau Marketplace of the Polynesian Cultural Center and in Kahuku on Oahu’s North Shore, is a beloved local eatery known for its hearty portions and flavorful dishes. Patrons frequently praise the garlic shrimp and kalbi ribs, noting their exceptional taste and generous servings. The restaurant also offers a variety of breakfast and lunch options, including the popular loco moco and fish sandwiches, catering to diverse family preferences. The casual, outdoor seating provides a relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for families to enjoy a satisfying meal.
Another easy stop at the Polynesian Cultural Center!
Instagram: @Titas_Grill_808
North Shore Crepes
North Shore Crepes Café, located within the Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie, offers a delightful selection of both sweet and savory crepes, making it a popular choice for families exploring the North Shore. Patrons frequently praise the authenticity and quality of the crepes, with options like the “Hawaiian Crepe” featuring shredded pork, melted cheese, tangy coleslaw, crisp onions, and smoky barbecue sauce, and the “Waikiki Crepe” combining Nutella, strawberries, bananas, vanilla ice cream, and chocolate drizzle.
The café also caters to dietary preferences by offering gluten-free and vegan crepe options.
We hit up North Shore Crepes SEVERAL times a week for breakfast. Our favorite is the Paris, keeping it simple with butter, powdered sugar, and lemon. Half of our family is gluten-free and almost anything can be made gluten-free depending on your toppings. This is one of our very favorite spots!
Instagram: @NorthShoreCrepesCafe
Ted’s Bakery
Ted’s Bakery, located on Oahu’s North Shore, is renowned for its delectable pies and cakes, with the Chocolate Haupia Cream Pie being a standout favorite among visitors. Beyond baked goods, the bakery offers a variety of plate lunches and breakfast items, such as BBQ chicken sandwiches and garlic shrimp plates, which patrons often praise for their generous portions and flavor.
The casual, picnic-style seating provides a relaxed atmosphere suitable for families. Overall, Ted’s Bakery remains a popular stop for those exploring the North Shore, offering a mix of sweet treats and hearty meals.
Friends have told us that Ted’s Bakery is a little overrated but worth the stop (especially if you are headed to Sunset Beach). It’s all about the PIE. Make sure you grab a piece of that Haupia Cream Pie and you’ll be happy you made the stop!
Instagram: @TedsBakeryHI
Pounders
Pounders Restaurant, located in Laie on Oahu’s North Shore, offers a farm-fresh, island-style dining experience that appeals to families. Diners frequently praise dishes like the mushroom Swiss burger and crispy shrimp tacos with mango slaw for their exceptional taste and generous portions. The restaurant features both indoor and outdoor seating, providing a comfortable atmosphere for family dining.
My husband loves their Huli Huli chicken, our kids love their big cookies for dessert!
Instagram: @PoundersRestaurant
Banzai Bowls
Banzai Bowls, located in Haleiwa Town and Sunset Beach on Oahu’s North Shore, is renowned for its generous and flavorful açaí bowls, making it a popular choice for families seeking a refreshing treat. The “Maui Sunrise” bowl, featuring a blend of açaí, bananas, strawberries, blueberries, and honey, is a particular favorite among patrons. The proximity to the beach makes it a convenient and enjoyable stop for families exploring the North Shore.
Our girls love Acai bowls and Banzai does not disappoint! If you’re not into Acai (like me) their smoothies are equally amazing!
Instagram: @BanzaiBowls
Rajanee Thai
Rajanee Thai Haleiwa, located in the historic Haleiwa Town on Oahu’s North Shore, is praised for its authentic Thai cuisine and welcoming atmosphere. Diners frequently commend dishes such as Pad Thai and Pad See Ew for their rich flavors and generous portions. The restaurant offers a variety of vegan and vegetarian options, accommodating diverse dietary preferences. While many appreciate the friendly service and cozy ambiance, some have noted occasional inconsistencies in service and spice levels. Overall, Rajanee Thai provides a satisfying dining experience for families seeking flavorful Thai dishes in a relaxed setting.
This was another incredible recommendation from friends who live on the North Shore and it delivered on the hype! Head to Haleiwa for some shopping, stand-up paddleboarding with sea turtles, and finish off the day at Rajanee’s!
Instagram: @RajaneeThai_Haleiwa
Eat Up!
No trip to the North Shore of Oahu is complete without indulging in its diverse and flavorful dining options. Whether you’re savoring fresh shrimp from a local food truck, enjoying a laid-back burger joint, or experiencing authentic island cuisine at a cultural center, there’s something to please every palate. The region’s vibrant food scene offers more than just delicious meals—it provides a taste of the local culture and community. So gather your family, bring your appetite, and make unforgettable dining memories along this beautiful stretch of paradise.
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