Istanbul Hawai'i

November 18, 2025

Istanbul offers a variety of dishes that are very unique to Hawaii, especially since there is only a small variety of Mediterranean dishes offered here. Since we were not familiar with the dishes, our server took his time to explain what each dish and how it was made. I enjoyed the different dips offered in the Meze Platter along with its 72-hour fermented sourdough, as well as the shaved lamb and beef doner pide wrap. I especially enjoyed the strong turkish kahve and the refreshing date cardamom lemonade. I also liked the fact that the interior of the restaurant complimented the dishes served. Overall, the service was impeccable and the food was exquisite. I cannot wait to come back and try out more of their dishes

November 16, 2025

We absolutely love coming here, and a huge part of that is because of our server, Ali. He has taken care of us multiple times, and every single visit he provides the most amazing, attentive service. He always makes us feel welcome, remembers us, and goes above and beyond every time. The food is incredible as well — the shakshuka and the Turkish Breakfast are hands-down the best around. Both dishes were perfectly prepared and full of flavor. Truly outstanding! Highly recommend this place, especially if you’re lucky enough to be served by Ali.

October 27, 2025

I was in Honolulu for a week, and one of the great restaurants we tried was Hawaii Istanbul Restaurant. We ordered the Jidory Chicken Tagine, lamb shish kebab and Baba Srf Kefte, and everything tasted delicious with great flavors. The presentation was nice as well. The only thing was that our waiter mentioned bread comes with the meal, but we were charged. Overall, the food was amazing and definitely worth trying if you’re craving tasty Middle Eastern cuisine in Honolulu!

September 22, 2025

One of the best restaurants I’ve been to, the food was delicious and outstanding. Our server, I believe her name was Samantha (blonde and blue nails) was wonderful. She was sweet and a great server and made my birthday dinner special. The outdoor seating was good and breezy. We ordered the appetizer platter, the Mai tai, Santorini sunset, levrek, and lamb shish. Couldn’t have eaten better food anywhere else. Definitely want to go back.

October 20, 2025

Very nice place, I love the Turkish touches from cupper plates, table clothes, cupper cups for water, and of course the Menu! We ate mercimek soup, chicken shish and künefe. Everything was delicious, and we enjoyed a lot! The souce(marination) of chicken was great, and the rice came with it was very authentic. We were happy with all the dishes, service and atmosphere.