Waikiki is famous for beaches and sunsets. It is also one of the best places in Hawaii to enjoy Italian food. Within a short walk of Waikiki Beach, visitors can find everything from handmade pasta and wood-fired pizza to elegant Sicilian restaurants.

Many chefs in Honolulu blend traditional Italian recipes with fresh island ingredients. The result is a diverse dining scene that works for casual dinners, romantic nights, and family meals.

This guide highlights ten of the best Italian restaurants in Waikiki, based on menu quality, atmosphere, and local reviews.

1. San Paolo Pizzeria

San Paolo Pizzeria offers a unique take on Italian pizza. The restaurant mixes Italian tradition with Brazilian ingredients and flavors. This creates creative pizzas that are hard to find anywhere else in Honolulu.

The crust is thin, crisp, and light. Many guests say it is the highlight of the meal. Popular toppings include calabresa sausage, creamy catupiry cheese, and honey with brie.

San Paolo also offers a Brazilian-style all-you-can-eat pizza experience. Servers bring different pizzas around the dining room, allowing guests to try several flavors during the meal.

The restaurant has a modern interior and often features live music, which adds energy to the atmosphere.

Best for: creative pizza and group dinners.

2. IL Tappo

IL Tappo is a relaxed Italian restaurant known for traditional pizza. The pizzas are made using imported ingredients and baked in a hot oven that produces a crisp crust and soft interior.

The menu focuses on classic Italian dishes. Margherita pizza, prosciutto pizza, and burrata appetizers are popular choices.

The casual setting makes IL Tappo a good place for visitors who want simple, authentic Italian food near Waikiki.

Best for: classic pizza and relaxed dining.

3. La Ciccia

La Ciccia specializes in Sardinian cuisine. Sardinia is an island region of Italy known for seafood and handmade pasta. The restaurant brings these traditions to Honolulu.

The menu includes seafood pasta dishes and regional Italian specialties. Ingredients are fresh and the cooking style stays close to traditional Italian methods.

The dining room is small and cozy, which creates a warm neighborhood feel.

Best for: authentic regional Italian cooking.

4. Taormina Sicilian Cuisine

Taormina Sicilian Cuisine is one of the most respected Italian restaurants in Waikiki. The restaurant focuses on authentic Sicilian recipes made with imported ingredients and handmade pasta.

Many diners come for the restaurant’s signature pasta dishes. Lobster pasta and uni pasta are among the most popular menu items.

The elegant interior and attentive service make Taormina a popular choice for special occasions.

Best for: fine dining Italian cuisine.

5. Allegrini Deli

Allegrini Deli is a long-time favorite among Honolulu locals. The restaurant offers simple Italian comfort food and deli-style meals.

Popular dishes include meatball sandwiches, pasta plates, and traditional Italian desserts. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming.

Allegrini is a good option for travelers looking for a casual Italian lunch or quick dinner.

Best for: affordable Italian comfort food.

6. Quiora

Quiora is located inside the Ritz-Carlton Residences in Waikiki. The restaurant offers an upscale Italian dining experience with handmade pasta and seasonal ingredients.

The menu changes often to highlight fresh ingredients. Guests can enjoy wood-fired dishes, pasta, and creative Italian recipes.

The terrace seating and modern design give the restaurant a refined but comfortable feel.

Best for: luxury Italian dining in Waikiki.

7. Arancino

Arancino is one of the most popular Italian restaurants in Waikiki. The restaurant has been serving visitors and locals for many years.

The menu focuses on rich pasta dishes and high-quality ingredients. Truffle pasta, wagyu bolognese, and uni pasta are some of the most requested dishes.

Because of its popularity, reservations are often recommended during dinner hours.

Best for: classic Italian pasta dishes.

8. Rigo

Rigo offers a creative mix of Italian and Japanese cuisine. The restaurant blends Italian cooking techniques with Japanese ingredients and presentation.

The menu includes pasta, seafood dishes, and unique appetizers that combine flavors from both culinary traditions.

The modern interior and relaxed atmosphere make Rigo a good choice for a stylish dinner in Honolulu.

Best for: Italian-Japanese fusion cuisine.

9. Appetito Craft Pizza & Wine Bar

Appetito Craft Pizza & Wine Bar is known for its craft pizza and extensive wine selection. The restaurant offers a relaxed setting close to many Waikiki hotels.

The menu includes both classic and creative pizza combinations. Truffle pizza and prosciutto pizza are among the favorites.

The casual atmosphere makes it a convenient stop after a day at Waikiki Beach.

Best for: pizza and wine.

10. Arancino di Mare

Arancino di Mare is an upscale Italian restaurant that focuses on seafood dishes. The menu features fresh ingredients and traditional Italian recipes.

Popular choices include lobster pasta, seafood risotto, and burrata with prosciutto.

The elegant dining room and attentive service make this restaurant a strong option for a romantic dinner.

Best for: Italian seafood dishes.

Tips for Dining in Waikiki

Dining in Waikiki is easy, but a few tips can help visitors plan a better experience.

Many restaurants fill up quickly during the evening, especially between 6:30 PM and 8:00 PM. Reservations are often recommended for popular places.

Most Italian restaurants in Waikiki are within walking distance of the beach. However, parking can be limited, so valet or hotel parking may be necessary.