Chachi Flores
Wife and I were in the area and looking for some quick local eats. This spot was top notch. Fresh and made to order Teri steak was super tender and the Chicken Katsu was crisp & delicious. Couple tables on the sidewalk and window bar top seating is available inside. We will be back!
… moreShauna M.
I finally found a traditional Hawaiian spot in Oahu, and North Shore Grinds absolutely delivered! The chicken katsu was incredibly fresh—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor. I also tried the #3 Hawaiian plate, which was an authentic, hearty, and delicious taste of local tradition. And let me tell you, the mac salad did NOT disappoint. Creamy, perfectly seasoned, and the ideal complement to the rest of the plate—it’s the kind of side dish you could eat all on its own. On top of the amazing food, the customer service was outstanding. Friendly, welcoming, and truly made me feel like family. This place isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that captures the heart of Hawaiian hospitality. If you’re looking for a genuine local spot that nails both food and service, North Shore Grinds is a must-visit.
… moreRonin
I’ve visited this shop about 6 times in the past year. Its close to my work place and my coworkers like eating here.
I find the food inconsistent in taste. My coworker constantly buys one entrée and he says the taste, or quantity is always different.
I typically get the chicken katsu plate. Its good and I believe is consistently the same. This time I got the herb crusted ono and it was a big flop. I understand the fish is alittle tougher in texture, but the herb crusted part didnt elevate the dish. Without the garlic aioli sauce, the herb crusted ono would have been bland. The fish was not crispy and the herb topping appeared more decorated that tasty.
All-in-all this is my baseline drive inn style food.
… moreJohn G
We got a couple of sandwiches and the fried fish with rice and macaroni salad. Food tasted good overall, the fish was crispy and the sandwiches tasty. The sandwiches are a better deal though I think, for the fish it didn’t feel like we got enough for the price.
Folks working there are pretty cool some of the are/were fishermen and had some good conversations while waiting.
When we went there they were doing some changes to the restaurant and only had the option for take out so we drove to the waterfront park and had the food there.
… moreSarah Kim
The best smoked meat plate I had in Hawaii! I didn’t even know what Hawaiian smoked meat is but we will definitely be back. We were welcomed by the owner and his daughter, they gave us recommendations and even had us try Aku. The kalua pig was also very delicious!! Thank you guys and we will be back
… moreBryan
North shore grinds was hands down the best food we had while on Oahu. Up in a neighborhood, their Katsu was up near the best I’ve ever had and I’ve had a lot. The staff was super friendly and shared their specials and popular dishes and what customizations were allowed. This is the place to go for Hawaiian food. We were going to go again on our vacation but they are closed a couple days of the week so make a note of their open hours and plan to visit them!
… moreLaura Zacharia
New owners are still doing a mean chicken katsu. The mahi wasn’t as juicy, and the sauce is pretty thick, but still pretty nice.
The surf and turf (pulehu steak and shrimp scampi) was just the right amount of pulehu seasoning and cooked to medium). Excellent choice too. I’d still opt for the katsu and the horseradish katsu sauce.
Found out they sell their katsu by the pound $18.95/pound. It’s cheaper to get the plate lunch. $30 gets 1.5-2x the katsu of a plate lunch.
Also, the chicken long rice has curry powder in it. Kind of grainy and not for my tastes. Interesting though, just not was I was craving.
… moreMatthew
The Dynamite Ahi Katsu was unbelievably delicious! Picture doesn’t do this meal justice as it is a filling entree with a distinguished ahi taste! While I did not get it, I got a sample of the dry aku and man does it take beef jerky by storm! Will definitely be back!
… moreSamantha Erb
Amazing food, not to be overlooked. With all the hustle and bustle at the Waikiki strip don’t overlook your chance for an amazing meal at this hidden gem! The staff were super friendly and talked story with me while my food was prepared and the food itself was amazing.
… moreRobyn Lung
Grabbed poke bowls here after a hike w/ my friend. The new owners are super welcoming, generous with samples, and really making an effort to provide fresh fish at every turn! Poke bowls were delicious and filling! And I thought it was wise on their part that they kept the rice and fish separate to keep the rice from “cooking” the poke/making it easier to store leftovers. LOVED the cucumber kimchi pickles. Could eat a whole jar of that alone. Will be back again soon!
… more