Disney’s Aulani is a favorite vacation destination for our family.  We’ve gone the last two years in a row and each time we find new things to experience.  There are many food choices on the resort but today, I’m discussing the best family-friendly restaurants near Disney’s Aulani Resort in Ko Olina Oahu.

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Here are some Family Friendly Restaurants Near Disney’s Aulani

1.  Monkey Pod Kitchen

Monkey Pod Kitchen is a restaurant directly across the street from Aulani.  I recommend going for happy hours for really good drinks and small plates.  We ordered the fish tacos and the burger amounts a few other things.  Our food was fresh, tasty and the happy hour prices made the meal reasonable. 

We got there when it was still early but by the time we left, there was a long wait for a table. On certain days there are drink specials and live music!  It’s a great place when you need a break from the resort food.

Address: 92-1048 Olani St Kapolei, HI 96707

2.  Mekiko Cantina

Mekiko Cantina is a popular dining spot located near Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaii. This charming Mexican food eatery offers a casual atmosphere with a menu filled with delicious options. The restaurant features a variety of delicious dishes, including Hawaiian-style tacos, fresh fish, and homemade desserts like churros.

One of the standout features of Mekiko Cantina is its commitment to using locally sourced ingredients. This ensures that the dishes are fresh and flavorful while also supporting the local community. In addition, the restaurant has a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, making it a great choice for visitors of all ages. If you’re in the mood for a delicious Mexican meal with a laid-back vibe, be sure to stop by Mekiko Cantina during your next visit to Aulani or the Ko Olina area.

Address: 92-1047 Olani St Ste 2-101 Kapolei, HI 96707

3.  Koa Pancake House

Located about 15 minutes from the resort the Koa Pancake House is a cheap and delicious option for breakfast.  It may not look like much from the front, but we always have tasty food and excellent service here.  I know a lot of people order the omelets or mixed plates but we always order the macadamia and buttermilk pancake breakfast plates!  Their pancakes are huge, fluffy and tasty. 

This place is popular with locals so be prepared to wait during their morning rush hour crowd!

Address: 91-590 Farrington Hwy Kapolei, HI 96707

4. Eggs ‘n Things

Known for fluffy pancakes and signature egg dishes, Eggs N Things provides a dependable breakfast and brunch option just minutes from Aulani Resort. The family-owned chain opened its Kapolei location to serve visitors and locals hearty comfort food classics with a Hawaiian twist.

From macadamia nut pancakes to spam and eggs, plate options appeal to young and old. Most breakfast entrees fall in the $10 to $15 range. They also offer tasty lunch plates like barbecue chicken or shrimp salad for under $20.

With its family-sized portions, kids’ menu, and casual dining style, Eggs ‘n Things offers a convenient, affordable meal choice for families.

Eggs ‘n Things satisfies with generous diner favorites prepared with aloha. Fuel up with pancake plates, loaded omelets like the Makaha with kalua pork, and signature banana macadamia nut French toast before a day of fun. With its close proximity to Aulani and kid-friendly menu, Eggs ‘n Things is the perfect local spot for a relaxing Hawaiian breakfast or lunch.

If you’re looking for a place that serves breakfast and burgers this is your spot! The staff is friendly and attentive, the service was relatively quick, and most importantly, the food was hot and delicious.

Eggs ‘n Things is across the street from Disney Aulani.

Address: 92-1047 Olani St Ste 1-101 Kapolei, HI 96707

5. Kalapawai Cafe & Deli

Kalapawai Cafe & Deli is about 10 minutes from the Four Seasons and Aulani Resorts and a nice change-up as there are not many restaurants near the hotel.  Kalapawai Cafe is a great family-style deli near Koa Pancake House!

Kalapawai’s menu features breakfast sandwiches, salads, and sandwiches for lunch averaging $10-15. Heartier options like fish tacos, burgers, and macaroni salad plates are under $20. With its outdoor garden seating and kid-tailored breakfast items, Kalapawai provides a family-friendly meal choice not far from Disney Aulani.

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6. Mina’s Fish House

Located in the West Oahu town of Ko Olina, Mina’s Fish House is a popular restaurant serving fresh local Hawaiian seafood and ingredients in a casual yet upscale setting. With its waterfront location looking out to the beautiful Ko Olina lagoons, Mina’s provides scenic indoor and outdoor patio seating perfect for laidback island dining.

While slightly pricier than more casual Kapolei eateries, Mina’s offers exceptional quality fresh fish entrées averaging $30, with whole fresh fish running $40 and up. Creative preparations showcase island flavors like macadamia nut crust, mango salsa, and kalua pork.

The kids’ menu features favorites like fish tacos, chicken tenders, and grilled cheese, all under $10. With its family-friendly service and ambiance, Mina’s Fish House is a great option for visitors dining with children.

Combining knowledgeable wait staff, quality ingredients, and preparation expertise reflected in its prices, Mina’s Fish House gives guests a true fine-dining Hawaiian seafood experience. Watch the sunset over the Pacific as you savor the day’s catch cooked to perfection at this West Oahu gem. The relaxed yet upscale Mina’s Fish House promises a memorable meal.

Address: 92-1001 Olani St Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina Kapolei, HI 96707

7. Roy’s Ko Olina

Roy’s Ko Olina brings the signature “Hawaiian Fusion” cuisine of acclaimed chef Roy Yamaguchi to the leeward side of Oahu. Located inside the Ko Olina resort complex, Roy’s delivers an upscale yet family-friendly dining experience in a refined open-air setting.

The menu features Chef Roy’s blend of European techniques and fresh local ingredients like fish, meat and produce at its peak of ripeness. Signature dishes include misoyaki butterfish, hibachi-style island fish, and molten chocolate soufflé.

Roy’s offers a keiki (kids) menu with favorites like burgers, chicken tenders and mac & cheese for under $15. The average entrée cost is $40. With its kids’ options and a casually elegant ambiance, Roy’s is a great fit for visitors with children.

From the tropical décor to the exceptional service, Roy’s Ko Olina provides the perfect destination for a special occasion dinner or night out with kids. Savor expertly prepared Hawaii regional cuisine while soaking up the sunset views over the Pacific.

Address: 92-1220 Aliinui Dr, Kapolei, HI 96707

8. La Hiki

For casual, family-friendly Hawaiian cuisine, La Hiki at the Four Seasons Resort Oahu offers oceanfront outdoor dining in a relaxed yet upscale setting. Using ingredients from local fishermen and farmers, the menu spotlights fresh traditional plates with contemporary flair.

Popular options like the shoyu chicken plate, kalua pork quesadilla, and Hawaiian seafood curry average $25-35.

Keiki favorites like pancakes, burgers, chicken tenders, and grilled local fish appeal to kids, with meals under $15.

The outdoor setting features a poolside vista of the ocean, with chic yet comfortable furnishings. With its tasty, approachable food and family-ready atmosphere, La Hiki provides an ideal casual dining experience for parents and children alike.

For terrific views, local flavors, and family friendliness, La Hiki offers a quintessential Hawaiian dining experience.

Address: 92-1001 Olani St Kapolei, HI 96707 (Inside the Four Seasons Resort)

9. Island Café by ABC Stores

For a convenient, casual dining option near Aulani, Island Café by ABC Stores is a local favorite. Located just a mile north of the resort in the Ko Olina Station plaza, Island Café offers tasty, filling plates showcasing Hawaiian comfort cuisine.

Popular menu items like katsu chicken, kalua pork, loco moco, ube pancakes and fried saimin noodles range from $10-15 a plate. Island Café also serves up refreshing tropical fruity desserts like haupia pie and lilikoi mousse. With its kid-pleasing American and local dishes and colorful décor, Island Café provides family-friendly dining in a casual café atmosphere.

The attached ABC Store sells snacks, drinks, and essentials for the beach.

Island Café gives visitors a taste of real local Hawaiian fare at affordable prices. Savor garlic shrimp, chicken katsu, or a hearty plate lunch on Island Café’s shaded lanai after a day of fun at Aulani or Ko Olina lagoons. The convenience to the resort areas, signature Hawaiian dishes, and relaxed dining style make Island Café a perfect pick for both kids and adults.

Address: 92-1048 Olani St Kapolei, HI 96707

10. Tropic Poke

For fresh, Hawaiian-style poke bowls, Tropic Poke is a go-to eatery located just across the street from Disney Aulani Resort. Their endless poke bowl combinations highlight the flavors of the islands using quality fish and local ingredients.

Patrons can customize poke bowls by selecting a base like sushi rice or greens then adding desired proteins, mix-ins, and toppings. Signature bowls like the Tropic Storm with spicy ahi average around $15, while build-your-own bowls start at $11. With its poke creations and casual vibe, Tropic Poke offers kid-approved dining at affordable prices. Boba tea, fruit bowls and Hawaiian shave ice also available.

Tropic Poke’s proximity to Aulani makes it ultra-convenient for families staying at the resort. Get your fresh poke fix featuring just-caught Hawaiian fish and creative sauces and toppings. Savor island-inspired bowls on the lanai or grab take-out for the beach. For delicious, healthy, local Hawaiian fare perfect for sharing, Tropic Poke satisfies.

Address: 92-1047 Olani St Ste 1-103 Kapolei, HI 96707

11. Longhi’s 

The perfect place for dinner or a sweet treat in Ko Olina is Longhi’s, an open-air restaurant located right on the beach. With stunning ocean views, Longhi’s offers a variety of food options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Start your day with Longhi’s famous banana macadamia nut pancakes, fluffy and dripping with homemade macadamia nut sauce.

At lunch, try one of their fresh fish sandwiches or salads featuring locally-grown greens and tropical fruits.

For dinner, Longhi’s has something for everyone. Enjoy freshly-caught seafood like seared ahi or roasted whole fish. Carnivores will love the tender, juicy steaks grilled over an open flame.

There are also pasta dishes made with Longhi’s own housemade sauces, as well as scallops and salad options with fresh produce. Leave room for dessert – Longhi’s makes decadent Hawaii-inspired treats like the macadamia nut pie and chocolate lava cake.

In addition to delicious food, Longhi’s offers an extensive cocktail menu perfect for sipping while watching the sunset. Parking is easy with a large lot right in front of the restaurant. With scenic views, delicious dishes, and signature cocktails, Longhi’s is the perfect Ko Olina dining experience.

Address: 92-161 Waipahe Pl Marriott Beach Club Kapolei, HI 96707

Disney’s Aulani Resort

For those that are looking to stop by Disney Aulani Resort itself for a meal (reservations are recommended for Makahiki and ‘Ama’Ama), below are the various options that are waiting for you:

Makahiki – This Disney character breakfast buffet offers favorites like Mickey waffles, plus Hawaiian dishes like kalua pork and poke. Enjoy live entertainment and activities for kids.

‘AMA‘AMA – This oceanfront spot is considered one of the best restaurants on-site and it serves locally-sourced Hawaiian cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with ingredients from nearby farms and fisheries. Try the fresh fish and tropical cocktails.

Off the Hook – This quick-service poolside eatery, focuses on meals like poke and chicken tenders.  Off the Hook also has a full bar and can whip up any cocktail that you ask for.

Papalua Shave Ice – Cool off from a long day in the Hawaiian heat with flavorful shave ice in tropical flavors like guava, pineapple, and coconut. This spot also sells corn dogs and chicken tenders and it’s a favorite quick bite spot for families.

Ulu Cafe – This quick-service cafe offers grab-and-go items like acai bowls, sandwiches, dole whip and snacks throughout the day. Stop by for a cold brew coffee or smoothie to enjoy poolside. This is the spot to also get the reusable popcorn buckets and reusable drink cups!

‘Olelo Room – For fine dining, this casual open-air bar serves artfully plated dishes featuring sushi, sliders, and more. Live music and an extensive wine and cocktail list are available.

Other Aulani reads:

Best Instagrammable Spots At Aulani

Characters to See at Disney’s Aulani!

8 Things to Pack for Disney’s Aulani