Helena Hawaiian Foods Honolulu

Awards

OAD

North American Cheap Eats Restaurants 2026, 170

All OAD North American Cheap Eats in Honolulu All OAD North American Cheap Eats in United States

Chef

Craig Katsuyoshi

Cuisine

Hawaiian

• 2026

Dinner at Helena’s Hawaiian Food

on 08 Feb 2026

by Ben Hon

If you want a taste of what true Hawaiian food feels like, then check out @HelenasHawaiianFood in Honolulu.

This spot has been serving traditional Hawaiian dishes since 1946, and it’s easy to see why it’s become a local favorite. Helena’s is recognized by the James Beard Foundation as an “American Classic,” and it’s the kind of place where you taste history in every bite.

From kalua pig slow-cooked in the imu to lomi lomi salmon and the pipikaula short ribs, everything... More

If you want a taste of what true Hawaiian food feels like, then check out @HelenasHawaiianFood in Honolulu.

This spot has been serving traditional Hawaiian dishes since 1946, and it’s easy to see why it’s become a local favorite. Helena’s is recognized by the James Beard Foundation as an “American Classic,” and it’s the kind of place where you taste history in every bite.

From kalua pig slow-cooked in the imu to lomi lomi salmon and the pipikaula short ribs, everything on the menu reflects the authentic, rich flavors of Hawaii.

Swipe through to see some highlights from my past two visits, and if you’re in Honolulu, it’s worth considering!

1. Highlight reel
2. Spread
3. Owner Craig Katsuyoshi
4. Short Ribs Pipikaula Style
5. Kalua Pig & Cabbage
6. Macaroni salad
7. Long rice chicken
8. Lomi Salmon
9. Poi
10. White rice
11. Haupia
12. Tripe stew
13. Fried Butterfish Collar
14. Short Rib Pipikaula Style
15. Watercress
16. Lomi salmon & poi
17. Exterior

#helenashawaiianfood #hawaiianfood #beneatshonolulu Less