For authentic Japanese, don't miss the must-try dishes at the best Japanese eateries in Waikiki's Stix Asia Food Hall. From ramen to udon, it's a foodie haven.

Hawaii is home to a significant population of Japanese-Americans. Combined with the significant number of Japanese tourists that visit every year, it’s no surprise that there is a strong demand for authentic Japanese food here.

You’ll find many Japanese eateries throughout Oahu and beyond, including Waikiki. Stix Asia is one of the hottest spots for Asian fare as one of the most popular food halls in Waikiki. It hosts 17 restaurants at the Waikiki Shopping Plaza, including many that serve delicious Japanese dishes.

These six Japanese eateries at Stix are all worth sampling while exploring Honolulu’s world-famous neighborhood of Waikiki.

Baikohken Ramen

Baikohken Ramen is renowned for its noodle dishes, including authentic miso ramen.

The ramen house was birthed in 1969 in Ashahikwaa just outside of Sapporo. It became so popular that it’s now a chain across Japan and multiple other countries.

In fact, it was even recognized by Michelin in 2012 and 2017 in its Hokkaido guide.

The Waikiki location at Stix Asia Food Hall was the very first to open in the U.S., allowing Oahu residents and visitors to enjoy the restaurant’s signature broth, made with pork and chicken bones, dried fish, and seaweed essence.

Everything is handmade with fresh ingredients and unlike some, the flavorful broth doesn’t overwhelm with saltiness.

Must try: While the shoyu is very good, the shio ramen is something that once you’ve tried it, you may not be able to get enough, and you’re likely to crave it when you get back home! It’s the perfect blend of creamy and salty and has an added Hokkaido twist with corn, butter, and an egg.

Ramen Barrio Waikiki

Specializing in artisanal ramen, Ramen Barrio Waikiki is known for its authentic Tokyo ramen.

There are six outlets in the Japanese capital and now you can enjoy it right here in Waikiki.

There is a wide variety of options to choose from, and all can be paired with refreshing craft beer.

It’s the slow-simmered pork bone broth that imparts a distinct and delicious flavor with a creamy broth, perfectly textured noodles, and hearty ingredients that make for a satisfying meal.

If you like spicy, be aware that the Kilauea level option is no joke – you’ll even have to sign a waiver.

Must try: Lovers of hot and spicy shouldn’t miss the Spicy Barrio Egg Ramen, which as mentioned, is available in various levels like the Kilauea, named after the fiery volcano. It has the perfect blend of eggs, corn, and Chasu. If you’re not up for a lava-like inferno, go for the green onion tsukemen (dipping noodles). It has a slightly tangy broth that goes perfectly with the soy sauce umami while heaped with sprouts and green onions.

Udon Yama

Udon Yama is renowned for its homemade Udon with the basic stock made fresh daily using ingredients imported from Japan.

It’s a truly authentic experience with the broth recipe passed down from an illustrious family in Kagawa.

There are over a dozen locations in Japan, including Shikoku and Osaka, but with an outlet in Waikiki, you can enjoy some of the country’s most delicious flavors right here in the heart of the district.

Plus, the prices are very reasonable and the service is quick. The flavors are up to par with the more famous Marugame nearby yet they come minus the typical long wait.

Must try: The Nikutama udon with beef, eggs, sweet onions, and optional crunchy tempura, is Udon Yama’s most popular udon. It’s been called some of the best cheap eats in all of Waikiki.

Shingen

The main draw at Shingen is the traditional Japanese soba noodles although it also serves tasty udon and tempura.

There are over 20 ways to enjoy soba here, hot or cold it can often be enjoyed as part of a special that includes other items like shrimp and veggie tempura, and a tofu salad with sesame dressing.

The texture of the noodles is satisfyingly chewy while the tsuyu sauce has an extra depth with konbu and bonito dashi while fortified with umami.

Must try: The Cold Seiro Soba made with cold buckwheat noodles and served with a dipping sauce is particularly ideal for the warm Hawaiian climate, beloved by locals and Japanese visitors alike.

Sushi Matsuri

Sushi Matsuri is often referred to as the best sushi restaurant in Waikiki.

Expect a culinary adventure here with the menu featuring handcrafted sushi.

Enjoy everything from the Setouchi seaweed and California rolls to a meticulous selection of rice and natural soy sauce from Tokushima that can be complemented by Japanese beers.

Must try: There are many beloved rolls to try, from the Rainbow Roll and Dragon Roll to the Kotobuki Roll, but the Spicy Ahi Roll with an unagi (eel) sauce is the most raved about. Consider combining it with the shrimp tempura, another favorite here with a delicious homemade tempura sauce.

The Japanese food in Waikiki is often so good you might think you’ve enjoyed a two-in-one kind of getaway: a visit to the spectacular Hawaiian tropics and an amazing slice of some of the best Japan has to offer when it comes to mouthwatering cuisine!