Waikiki Food Guide 2026 for Korean Tourists
From Kona Coffee to Malasada — Everything You Must Eat in Hawaii
Table of Contents
- 01Must-Eat Foods in Waikiki
- 02What is Kona Coffee?
- 03What is Malasada?
- 04Mochi Donuts — MOCHILAND
- 05Bingsu in Hawaii
- 06Recommended Restaurants
- 07Price Guide
- 08FAQ
Must-Eat Foods in Waikiki
Planning a trip to Hawaii? Waikiki is not just beautiful beaches — it is a true food paradise where culinary traditions from around the world come together. For Korean tourists especially, there are must-try foods that you simply cannot miss.
Hawaii's food culture is a unique fusion of Polynesian, Japanese, Portuguese, and American influences. Among these, Kona coffee, malasada, mochi donuts, and bingsu are the most beloved items for Korean visitors to Waikiki.
This guide thoroughly analyzes the best food spots in Waikiki to help make your Hawaii trip a culinary adventure. We cover prices, locations, hours, and even tipping culture — everything Korean tourists need to know.
Kona Coffee
One of the world's top 3 coffees, direct from Big Island
Malasada
Portuguese donut reinvented Hawaiian style
Mochi Donuts
Crispy outside, chewy inside — 12+ flavors
Bingsu
Korean shaved ice with tropical Hawaiian fruits
What is Kona Coffee? — Everything About Hawaii's Premium Coffee
Kona Coffee is a premium coffee grown in the Kona district of Hawaii's Big Island. Ranked among the world's top three coffees, it accounts for less than 1% of global production. What makes Kona coffee special is the Big Island's unique volcanic soil, ideal altitude (200–800m), and perfect microclimate — sunny mornings and cloudy afternoons.
Kona coffee is smooth, clean, low in bitterness, with subtle nutty and caramel-like sweetness. The acidity is bright but gentle, making it enjoyable even for those who don't usually drink coffee. It offers a noticeably different experience from the typical Americano.
Important: products labeled "Kona Blend" can legally contain as little as 10% Kona beans. For the real experience, always look for "100% Kona Coffee." At Kona Coffee Donut, we use only 100% authentic Kona beans.
Growing Altitude
200–800m
Annual Production
<1% of world supply
Harvest Season
August–January
Price Range
$30–$60/lb
TIPRoasted Kona coffee beans can be brought into South Korea without customs declaration. Green (unroasted) beans require phytosanitary inspection, so purchase roasted products.
What is Malasada? — Hawaii's Iconic Traditional Dessert
Malasada is a traditional donut brought to Hawaii by Portuguese immigrants in the 19th century. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, this holeless donut is rolled in sugar while still warm from the fryer. Think of it as Hawaii's answer to beignets — once you try one fresh, you'll never forget it.
Traditional malasadas are simply coated in sugar, but modern versions feature fillings like custard cream, haupia (coconut cream), ube (purple sweet potato), and lilikoi (passionfruit). The tropical fruit fillings available only in Hawaii are especially recommended.
Malasadas must be eaten fresh — the signature crispy texture disappears over time. At Kona Coffee Donut, we fry to order so every malasada is served at peak perfection.
Mochi Donuts — The Irresistible Texture of MOCHILAND
Mochi donuts are inspired by Japanese mochi (rice cake), featuring a uniquely crispy exterior and chewy interior. Unlike regular donuts, they use less gluten for a lighter texture that's satisfying without being heavy.
Our mochi donut brand MOCHILAND at Kona Coffee Donut offers 12+ flavors including ube, matcha, brown sugar, strawberry, taro, and lilikoi. All mochi donuts are freshly made every morning and are best enjoyed while the glaze is still glistening.
While mochi donuts have become trendy in Korea too, Hawaiian mochi donuts stand apart with their tropical fruit flavors and local ingredients. The ube and lilikoi flavors in particular are uniquely Hawaiian experiences.
Bingsu — Korean Shaved Ice Meets Hawaii
What could be more perfect than a bowl of cool bingsu under Hawaii's warm sun? Korea's signature summer dessert is now available in Waikiki. Unlike regular shave ice, bingsu features finely shaved milk-ice with a snow-like, melt-on-your-tongue texture.
At Kona Coffee Donut, we offer special bingsu that combines Korean tradition with Hawaiian tropical fruits. Mango, strawberry, and patbingsu (red bean) are available, plus Hawaii-exclusive lilikoi and haupia (coconut) bingsu. It's a unique fusion of familiar Korean taste with tropical Hawaiian flair.
After a morning at the beach, walk up to Kalakaua Avenue and cool down with a refreshing bowl of bingsu. Instagram-worthy presentation is a bonus.
Recommended Waikiki Restaurants
Curated picks that Korean tourists should not miss.
Kona Coffee Donut
Enjoy 100% Kona coffee, MOCHILAND mochi donuts, malasadas, bingsu, and Korean corn dogs all in one place. Located on Kalakaua Avenue, just a 5-minute walk from Waikiki Beach. Everything Korean tourists love, under one roof.
Island Vintage Coffee
Popular cafe for Kona coffee in Waikiki. Acai bowls are also a hit. Located inside the Royal Hawaiian Center for convenient shopping breaks.
Leonard's Bakery
Legendary malasada shop operating since 1952. The original malasada institution — long lines but absolutely worth the wait.
Matsumoto Shave Ice
Iconic North Shore shave ice shop. Far from Waikiki but a must-stop during a North Shore tour. Operating since 1951.
Marukame Udon
Waikiki's most famous udon shop. Always a line but fast turnover. Affordable fresh udon popular with Korean tourists too.
Waikiki Food Price Guide
Practical price info for Korean tourists (USD, April 2026 rate approx. 1,380 KRW/USD)
Coffee & Drinks
approx. 6,900–9,700 KRW
approx. 8,300–11,000 KRW
approx. 8,300–11,000 KRW
Donuts & Desserts
approx. 4,800–6,200 KRW
approx. 5,500–6,900 KRW
approx. 16,500–22,000 KRW
Meals
approx. 13,800–19,300 KRW
approx. 8,300–11,000 KRW
approx. 16,500–24,800 KRW
US Tipping Culture
- Cafe/Takeout: No tip or $1–$2 (a 15–20% screen may appear but small amounts are fine at cafes)
- Full-service restaurant: 18–20% of pre-tax total is standard
- Calculate tips on the pre-tax amount
- Hawaii sales tax (GET): approximately 4.712%
Practical Info for Korean Tourists
Currency & Payment
Most shops accept credit cards. Visa and Mastercard preferred. Exchange money in Korea for better rates. Carry only small cash amounts ($50–$100).
Business Hours
Most Waikiki cafes open at 6–7AM. Restaurant last orders are typically 8–9PM. Many places are open on Sundays.
Location & Transport
Most food spots are concentrated along Kalakaua Avenue — walkable. Ala Moana Center is about 15 min by bus (TheBus).
Local Tips
Visit popular spots before 10AM to avoid lines. Check real-time wait times on Google Maps. Say "allergy" if you have dietary restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.Where can I drink Kona coffee in Waikiki?
Kona Coffee Donut on Kalakaua Avenue in Waikiki serves 100% authentic Kona coffee — not a Kona Blend, but pure 100% Kona beans. Island Vintage Coffee at the Royal Hawaiian Center also sells Kona coffee.
Q.What's the difference between malasada and regular donuts?
Malasadas are Portuguese-origin Hawaiian donuts without a hole in the center. They're made from yeast dough fried in oil and rolled in sugar while warm. The texture is crispy outside and airy-soft inside. Cream and fruit-filled versions are also popular.
Q.How much should I budget for food in Waikiki?
Coffee is $5–$8 (approx. 6,900–11,000 KRW), donuts $3.50–$5 (approx. 4,800–6,900 KRW), bingsu $12–$16 (approx. 16,500–22,000 KRW). A bit pricier than Korean cafes, but reasonable for Hawaii and 100% Kona beans.
Q.Is there bingsu in Waikiki?
Yes! Kona Coffee Donut serves authentic Korean bingsu with Hawaiian tropical fruits like mango and lilikoi. Located a 5-minute walk from Waikiki Beach — perfect for cooling down after the beach.
Q.Can I bring Kona coffee beans back to Korea?
Yes, roasted Kona coffee beans can be brought into Korea without customs declaration. Green beans require inspection, so buy roasted. We sell 100% Kona bean packages — great as souvenirs. Duty-free up to $800 USD.
Start Your Waikiki Food Tour at Kona Coffee Donut
A cup of 100% Kona coffee, fresh malasada, chewy mochi donuts, and refreshing bingsu. Create delicious memories on your Hawaii trip.
2142 Kalakaua Ave, Waikiki, Honolulu, HI 96815