Valentines on a budget: Oʻahu’s most romantic, affordable restaurants

HONOLULU (KHON2) — Times are tough, but you still want to show that special someone how much they mean to you.

So, KHON2.com did a bit of digging to find the best cheap, casual dining spots on Oʻahu to help you help your romance.

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Nami Kaze
Cuisine: Japanese, Asian fusion
Vibe: Casual, trendy
Note: One of Honolulu’s thrilling new spots, perfect for a modern twist on Japanese cuisine.

Steak Shack
Cuisine: Steakhouses
Vibe: Casual, touristy
Note: A great spot if you’re on a budget—ask for rare with onions and mushrooms for a must-try!

Monkeypod Kitchen
Cuisine: Tacos, pizza, cocktail bars
Vibe: Casual, romantic
Note: Known for excellent service, affordable meals and a great atmosphere for a date night.

Marugame Udon
Cuisine: Japanese, noodles, soup
Vibe: Casual, touristy
Note: A top pick in Waikiki, serving affordable and delicious udon.

$5 Bento Box
Cuisine: Food trucks, seafood, chicken wings
Vibe: Casual
Note: A great value for anyone looking for a quick and tasty meal.

Mara
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, seafood
Vibe: Classy, upscale
Note: A higher-end spot with an F&B credit for dining options.

Basalt
Cuisine: New American, bars, breakfast and brunch
Vibe: Casual, trendy
Note: Trendy and fun, with a fantastic brunch menu and great cocktails.

Side Street Inn
Cuisine: Sports bars, comfort food, Hawaiian
Vibe: Casual, divey
Note: A local favorite for hearty comfort food, though not cheap.

New Queen Barbeque
Cuisine: Barbeque
Vibe: Casual, divey
Note: Friendly service with a spacious dine-in area, great for BBQ lovers.

Thuong An Lac
Cuisine: Vegan, Vietnamese
Vibe: Casual, divey
Note: A hidden gem offering fresh vegetables, soft noodles and great value.

Island Vintage Wine Bar
Cuisine: Wine, tapas, Mediterranean
Vibe: Relaxed, cozy, trendy
Note: A laid-back yet stylish spot offering a fantastic selection of wines and delicious tapas, perfect for a casual yet chic dining experience.

STIX ASIA
Cuisine: Asian fusion, Japanese
Vibe: Trendy, casual
Note: A great spot for Asian-inspired dishes with a modern twist, perfect for food lovers looking for something fresh.

Alejandros Mexican Food
Cuisine: Mexican
Vibe: Casual
Note: Offering authentic Mexican flavors with a casual vibe. Great for a quick bite or a satisfying meal.

Aloha Salads
Cuisine: Healthy, salad, fast casual
Vibe: Casual
Note: If you’re in the mood for a fresh and healthy meal, Aloha Salads offers a variety of delicious salads and bowls.

bEASTside Ventures
Cuisine: American, comfort food
Vibe: Trendy, casual
Note: Known for hearty comfort food with a modern flair. Great for those craving delicious, filling meals.

Pho Dynasty
Cuisine: Vietnamese, Cajun
Vibe: Casual
Note: A unique fusion of Cajun and Vietnamese flavors. Try the pho for a comforting and flavorful experience.

Timmy T’s Moanalua
Cuisine: American, bar food
Vibe: Casual, divey
Note: A local dive bar with great drinks and a solid menu of tasty bar food, perfect for casual hangouts.

Countryside Cafe
Cuisine: American, breakfast and brunch
Vibe: Cozy, casual
Note: A cozy spot serving up delicious breakfast and brunch options. Perfect for a relaxing start to your day.

Deck
Cuisine: Seafood, Asian fusion
Vibe: Trendy, casual
Note: A stylish spot with a seafood-focused menu, perfect for a casual yet upscale dining experience.

Dell’s Kitchen
Cuisine: American, comfort food
Vibe: Casual
Note: Offering comforting American dishes with a twist, Dell’s Kitchen is all about delicious flavors in a laid-back setting.

Eggs ‘n Things Hawaii
Cuisine: Breakfast & brunch, American
Vibe: Casual
Note: A popular brunch spot known for its pancakes, eggs and breakfast classics. Perfect for a hearty start to your day.

Noi Thai Cuisine
Cuisine: Thai
Vibe: Upscale, casual
Note: A great option for anyone craving authentic Thai cuisine with a refined atmosphere.

Ruby Tuesday’s
Cuisine: American, casual dining
Vibe: Casual
Note: A familiar chain offering American comfort food, salads and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.

Tim Ho Wan
Cuisine: Chinese, dim sum
Vibe: Casual
Note: Known for high-quality dim sum in a casual, comfortable environment. A must-try for fans of Chinese cuisine.

Olive Garden
Cuisine: Italian
Vibe: Casual
Note: A classic Italian chain offering pasta, salads and hearty Italian fare. Great for a comforting meal with a familiar menu.

Vein at Kaka’ako
Cuisine: Asian Fusion, healthy
Vibe: Trendy
Note: A trendy, health-conscious spot with creative Asian fusion dishes and a focus on fresh ingredients.

Zippy’s
Cuisine: Hawaiian, American
Vibe: Casual
Note: A local institution offering comforting, home-style meals. Known for their plate lunches and friendly, casual setting.

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Have fun this Valentine’s Day weekend. Remember to drink responsibly and never drink and drive. Your life is too precious.

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