Nestled along the scenic shores of Diamond Head and housed in the Kaimana Beach Hotel, Hau Tree will enchant your date (and you) with its ocean views and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Together, savor vibrant plates like seafood and pasta paired with seasonal vegetables or tender lamb chops complemented by squash and chimichurri. Linger over a glass of wine from the outstanding list while enjoying the soft crash of waves under a canopy of swaying palms.

This imaginative seasonal American spot is what landed chef Robynne Maii her James Beard Award in 2022. And even though the dining room draws a serious crowd for an inventive mix of French, Italian, Korean, and Hawai‘ian flavors, the bar is unofficially dedicated to regulars. Fête’s all-day service means you and your SO can make a tradition out of popping in for a glass of wine and carbonara with Portuguese sausage, plus a scoop of the housemade rocky road ice cream for dessert.

Step into Tempura Ichika, and you’ll be greeted by an intimate setting where culinary artistry takes center stage—literally. The center of the dining room has a large chef’s counter for watching the action, or snuggled up to your date in a more private booth. Either way, expect omakase-style tasting menus starring golden-fried seasonal vegetables and seafood delicacies prepared by MICHELIN-pedigreed chef Kiyoshi Chikano.

For an intimate yet refined ambiance, head to Podmore which serves up contemporary takes on comfort food classics. The menu has hearty dishes such as crispy chicken paired with housemade sauces and decadent vegetable-forward dishes. Pair them with playful, tropical-inspired cocktails like a spicy twist on the margarita with guava and jalapeño. With plush, curved booths and marble tables tucked into intimate corners, Podmore is a top choice for a private romantic dinner in Honolulu.

A classic Waikiki fine-dining icon, Hy’s Steak House is a destination for its swanky, old-school chophouse vibes. Known for its impeccable tableside service and expertly prepared steakhouse fare—think dry-aged beef cooked over kiawe wood and indulgent sides like truffle-infused mashed potatoes. Its classic interior, dark wooden bookshelves, and crystal chandeliers provide a timeless backdrop for romantic celebrations.

Perched near the base of Diamond Head, Michel’s at the Colony Surf boasts breathtaking ocean views and a refined take on French cuisine. Indulge in elegant dishes like lobster bisque and chateaubriand served tableside. Voted “Most Romantic Restaurant on Oahu’s Gold Coast” by The Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous, the restaurant provides an elegant setting and attentive service for the most special of meals.

Et al.’s unlikely location—inside a supermarket—makes it an especially quirky date destination. But there’s something super smooth about stepping past shoppers and into a calm and cool oasis. Grab a spot at the bar and floating island or a corner booth, depending on how things are going. If you can swing it, go for the daily afternoon special and get to know each other over specialty cocktails and chic small bites like oysters, ahi tartare, and more.

Pasta and wine are always a good idea, especially if you’ve got something major to toast. Book a table on Quiora’s quiet, sunset-washed lanai—translation: uninterrupted ocean views—for a postcard-perfect moment with your special someone. The restaurant’s extra-attentive staff (you’re at the Ritz-Carlton, after all) will start you off with pitch-perfect drink recs to go with Hawaiʻi-inspired Italian food like fresh garlic prawns from Kauaʻi and housemade pappardelle with Big Island oxtail.

Amuse Bar is a dream date-night spot for wine enthusiasts, equipped with high tables and a state-of-the-art wine system that serves a selection from 50 bottles plus fancy snacks like pizza and truffle fries. It’s also set in the ultra-chic Honolulu Design Center, so you can both live out your HGTV fantasies as you sip and browse. For a more typical sit-down dinner experience, head next door to Amuse’s sibling French restaurant, Stage.