Gluten Free Oahu

Oahu Travel Tips

G-Free Travel Rating

8/10

Major Airport

Daniel K Inouye International Airport (HNL)

Official Language

English

Currency:

US Dollar (USD)

Power Outlets:

Types A & B

Eating Gluten Free in Oahu

Eating gluten free in Oahu is becoming easier each day. We did a tremendous amount of research prior to this vacation trying to find good gluten free options but struggled to find good options. Then we found a fantastic gluten-free waffle at the hotel next to us just randomly. There were a lot of food trucks that did not have a lot of info regarding gluten-free options as well. We did have some really good meals especially some of the seafood options. We were expecting some more progressive options but we did eventually figure it out all out.

Restaurants

Since we were staying in the heart of Waikiki we were surrounded by restaurants, cafes and shops. This made it easy to use online sites and apps to search for restaurants that could accommodate gluten free diets. When we travel, we like to try different cuisines and while our hotels had restaurants at them, we still went out each night to see what Oahu had to offer. Terry and I stayed at The Surfjack Hotel and Swim Club while my parents stayed at the Hilton Grand Islander. The Hilton Grand Islander had a kitchenette, which was a nice back-up comfort in case we missed our reservations or were not feeling like going out. Listed below is a list of restaurants and experiences we tried while we were there.

Breakfast Recommendations:

Cafes

Island Vintage Coffee: This restaurant probably had the most extensive menu with gluten free options on it. The food ended up being fantastic and way more than either of us could eat. Just prepare for long lines and quite a wait time to receive your food if going during peak hours.
Big Wave Dave at Surf & Coffee: This is an unique place that combines the laid-back surf vibe with delicious breakfast options. Known for its fresh and flavorful offerings, the menu includes a variety of items that cater to gluten free diets. You can enjoy hearty acai bowls, tasty salads and gluten free crepes while sipping on an expertly crafted coffee made with locally roasted beans. Side note: this is also a great place to rent paddleboards or sign up for a surf lesson.
Ali’i Coffee Co.: Located just a hop skip and a jump away from Surfjack, my husband was a frequent flyer here. We initially stopped in just to try a new local coffee place and he discovered Moshi waffles that could be made gluten-free. I think he ate here 3 times! This cozy cafe is committed to using local ingredients and flavors infused in their lattes. I quickly discovered the macadamia nut latte and never turned back.
Tropical Tribe: An eatery located right off Waikiki Beach, renowned for its authentic Brazilian acai bowls. This little cafe emphasizes fresh, high-quality ingredients. In addition to acai bowls, they also serve smoothies, poke bowls and other healthy snacks clearly marked on their menu with which diet can be accommodated.
Arvo: Trendy cafe in Surfjack Hotel that is known for its stylish atmosphere and creative menu. While we only enjoyed a couple cups of their expertly crafted lattes, they did have a couple of gluten free pastry options. With its commitment to quality and innovation, it has quickly become a favorite destination for both coffee lovers and food enthusiasts seeking delicious and Instagram-worthy dishes.

Sit Down Restaurant

Eggs ‘n Things: Beloved breakfast and brunch spot famous for its generous portions and welcoming family-friendly atmosphere. Featuring many of the classic American breakfast dishes with a Hawaiian twist. Expect long wait times to get a table but once seated the food comes fast. This was probably our least favorite breakfast joint we went to. The menu was not labeled with what could be made gluten free; however, our waitress was very knowledgeable of the options.

Marketplace Surprise

Island Country Market: Located in Waikiki, it is a convenient and upscale market offering a wide selection of groceries, snacks, and ready-to-eat meals. They offer freshly prepared foods like omelets, poke bowls, sushi and salads, as well as a variety of beverages. Communication was a little challenging with the chef as to whether or not the potatoes were gluten free, so Terry stuck with white rice. The omelet was more than enough food and with the in-house coffee shop and extra aisles to peruse for groceries, this market provides a one-stop-shop experience for travelers looking to start their day running.

Moshi Waffles

Big Wave Dave at Surf & Coffee Acai Bowl

Tropical Tribe Acai Bowls and Gluten Free Cheese Bread

MonkeyPod Fish Tacos

Lulus’ Burger that made Terry’s top 5 list

Mojito Cafe’s 1/2 appetizer platter

Dinner or Lunch Recommendations:

Western

MonkeyPod: Located right off the ocean, we literally had waves come crashing over the walls and splash us. Known for its fresh seafood and farm-to-table dishes, this was a favorite dining experience. While the gluten free options weren’t many and not labeled on the menu, Terry was able to branch out and try something new. We were all overly satisfied with our meals so we strolled back down Waikiki Beach to catch the Friday night fireworks. Oh…they also have the best Mai Tais in town.
Tommy Bahama: Offers a variety of gluten free options, which are clearly marked on the menu. However, if something else looks tasty then don’t hesitate to ask the waitstaff. Terry was really wanting a hamburger so they made it without a bun.
Lulus: This place surpassed our expectations. When we walked up the stairs and saw more of a sports bar atmosphere, we lost hope that there were going to be gluten free options. That all changed when they handed us an extensive menu with a couple of pages dedicated to the gluten free diet. Terry enjoyed a burger, which made it to the top of his best burger list. Overall, the experience turned out quite lovely with the delicious food and ocean views.
Yard House: Another restaurant that had more options than we expected. The staff are attentive to all dietary needs, ensuring a safe and enjoyable dining experience in a lively and modern setting. It’s a great place to watch sporting events. Plus, if you’re traveling with someone who can drink beer, this is a great place since they have one of the world’s largest selections of draft beer.

Thai

Noi Thai Cuisine: With many positive rankings on Find me Gluten Free, we decided this was a must try. Being gluten free, you are able to enjoy authentic Thai dishes, prepared with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes similar to those without the dietary restrictions. This was a little more elegant setting, but the menu was clearly marked and the waitstaff was very knowledgeable of the menu items that could be gluten free.

Latin

Mojito Cafe: Located on the Windward side of the island, its a perfect place to sip on a refreshing mojitos while munching on Latin-inspired dishes. Plus, it is always nice when Terry can’t make up his mind because he has too many options to choose from AND is able to enjoy appetizers with everyone. That is rare…unless it is chips and salsa!

Italian

Pieology: Casual dining experience where Pizza is customizable to everyone’s liking. You can build your own Pizza starting from the crust, which they have a gluten free option, all the way to the toppings. It is a great place for pizza lovers who enjoy creativity and choice in their dining experience.

Desserts:

Shave Ice

It is hard to go to Oahu and not experience shave ice. I mean it is always best to try something where it was originally created…Hawaii. Many places around the island offer their own versions of it, but most famously known is Matsumoto Shave Ice. Whether you want one flavor or a conglomeration of flavors this is a refreshing dessert everyone can enjoy.

Matsumoto Shave Ice: Because it is an iconic location now on the North Shore, be prepared for long lines. It is well worth the wait. This was our second place we tried shave ice and their melt-in-the-mouth ice topped with colorful, sweet syrups was far superior. The best part is it located near the ocean so you can stroll along the beach while savoring the sweet flavors.

Another Frozen Goodness

Banan: A new way to try soft serve. Made from locally sourced bananas and other fresh fruits then topped with a variety of delicious and healthy toppings, all while taking in the vibrant atmosphere of Waikiki.

Banan Creation

Luaus

Of course we had to attend a luau while we were there. It’s hard to travel to Hawaii and not be tempted to eat at one. Because we were already going to the Polynesian Cultural Center we chose to add on the Ali’i lu’au. A lot of research went into which luau to attend because we had to make sure all dietary restrictions could be accommodated. This luau is quite popular and able to accommodate a multitude of diets. My youngest niece is vegetarian and was able to find plenty of options at the luau as well. Another reason I went with this luau is because the menu is listed online highlighting which items can be accommodated to meet each diet.

The only complaint we have was that once up at the buffet the items are not listed with symbols or abbreviations. Some you can naturally tell will fit your diet, but others weren’t. Luckily, they had a hard copy of the menu at the table you could bring with you or you could scan a QR code that brings up the specific menu you are interested in. That is what we did and it worked pretty well…it’s just hard to balance a full plate in a crowded area while you are trying to look at your phone to see what is safe. In the end, everyone had a great time and ate way more than we needed to.

Here are a couple of helpful pointers for eating at a luau:

Research the luau you want to go to.
If a menu is not easily accessible make sure you reach out to them ahead of time to see if they can accommodate the gluten free diet.
- A friendly reminder closer to the date to ensure things go as smoothly as possible is very helpful.
Keep all the waiters and servers informed at all times.

Eating at an open-air market/festival or food truck

- Clarify everything is gluten free. Keep in mind things may have been prepared offsite so the onsite staff may not have a clear answer…in that case it is best to pass on the product.
- Ask to see the ingredients on the back of the bottle or bag.
- Stick to foods that are simpler.
  - We find taco food trucks seem to carry corn tortillas and most of their meat options are gluten free.
  - We found a great little taco stand called Papi’s Tacos near the Polynesian Cultural Center. Their tacos were made with corn tortillas and all the meats were safe except the carne asada because it is beer battered.
- Stick to foods that are naturally gluten free.
  - Fruits and Vegetables – We found Hawaii street corn that was fantastic.
- Research: If you know ahead of time which vendors might be there we suggest checking an online menu or calling. Oahu is notoriously known for its food trucks so you would be able to check ahead of time on some of the famous ones (i.e. Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck).
- Lastly, you can always pack snacks.

Hawaii

Gluten Free Maui

Hawaii, United States