World of Noodles
In Waikiki, find everything from spaghetti to udon—noodles for all!
The beauty of dining on noodles is the ability to sample it cooked in a variety of different methods, adapted to any and every style of cuisine. Not to mention, there’s nothing quite like the comfort a bowl of noodles provides. Just because you are on vacation doesn’t mean you can’t find comforting cuisine nearby. Here are a few suggestions…
Spaghetti alla Pescatora at Arancino on Beachwalk. Photo: Courtesy Arancino
Spaghetti alla Pescatora
Close enough to be within walking distance of most hotels, but far from the noise of the main road is a hidden gem serving heartwarming Italian cuisine.
Since 1998, Arancino on Beach-walk has been catering to those looking for a more intimate venue with food that may make you momentarily forget you are on a tropical getaway.
A favorite among diners is the Spaghetti alla Pescatora ($33), which Executive Chef Daisuke Hamamoto recommends for seafood lovers. And for good reason.
The spaghetti noodles are cooked in a white wine and olive oil sauce and include clams, shrimp, mussels and calamari topped with shrimp scampi.
And if you’re farther from the area but still want to experience Arancino’s eats, the restaurant also has two other locations: Arancino di Mare located at Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort and Arancino at The Kahala, located in Kahala Hotel and Resort.
But keep one thing in mind: If you’re looking to try the Spaghetti alla Pescatora, it is only available at the Beachwalk location.
Arancino on Beachwalk
255 Beachwalk Ave. [C:6 Waikiki Map]
(808) 923-5557
Niku Udon at Marukame Udon. Photo: Anthony Consillio
Niku Udon
Despite the bustle of Waikiki and the seemingly endless streets full of shops and restaurants, it’s easy to spot Marukame Udon. Travel to Kuhio Avenue and look for the long line that inevitably forms to get through its doors.
The cafeteria-style Japanese eatery has been serving its delicious bowls of udon—noodles that are thicker than ramen—to visitors and locals for three years. According to shop manager Ladylyn Kamelo, Marukame serves approximately 1,300 hungry customers daily.
One of its most popular items is the Niku Udon ($5.75, regular; $6.75, large). The restaurant’s fresh and handmade noodles are combined with broth and sweet beef and garnished with green onions and tempura flakes.
Before heading to the register, continue down the line and pick up some enticing sides. Marukame also offers various tempura and musubis.
And that line you saw? Don’t be discouraged by it. The restaurant’s efficient service allows things to move quickly.
Marukame Udon
2310 Kuhio Ave. [B:8 Waikiki Map]
(808) 931-6000
Three Beef Pho at Pho Factory. Photo: Lewis Harrington
Three Beef Pho
Newer to the Waikiki scene and located in the Royal Hawaiian Center’s food court, Pho Factory is serving delicious bowls of this Vietnamese favorite.
Each dish is made with fresh vegetables, allowing its pho to shine with refreshing flavors.
Its signature dish, Three Beef Pho ($8.79), includes a beef meatball, beef brisket and rare steak. Raw bean sprouts for added texture and fresh basil create an overall clean flavor with each bite.
Before the broth is served, it is simmered for at least 20 hours. According to manager Billy Giang, it is made from scratch and takes approximately two days from start to finish. Pho Factory also makes a point to skim the fat off the top of its broth to allow customers to enjoy a healthy meal.
Though subtle in flavor, a sauce bar invites diners to create their own unique flavors with hoisin, chili garlic, sriracha and others.
Pho Factory
Royal Hawaiian Center
2233 Kalakaua Ave. [C:8 Waikiki Map]
(808) 922-1888
