Restaurants near Puu Ualakaa State Park

Nothing beats the view if you are fortunate enough to get a table by the edge facing the ocean. We reserved our table on thanksgiving day in time to see the sun go down and a sunset over the ocean in Hawaii is very hard to beat. It does indeed create memories. The food was ok. But honestly the service was great and the atmosphere was what it was all about. Come here for that if not for anything else.

Last night, I had an exceptional dining experience at Ruth’s Chris in Hawaii. From the moment we walked in, the service was impeccable—friendly, attentive, and professional. The food? Absolutely phenomenal. The steaks were cooked to perfection, with the signature sizzle that makes Ruth’s Chris stand out. The sides and desserts were equally delicious, making the entire meal unforgettable. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, perfect for a special night out or just treating yourself to a top-tier meal. If you’re in Hawaii, I can’t recommend this location enough. It’s a must-visit for steak lovers or anyone seeking a high-quality dining experience. I’ll definitely be back!

I went with my family, and it was fantastic! I made a reservation on OpenTable, and the only time available for six people was 5:15 PM. Although it was early, we got to enjoy a stunning sunset view of Diamond Head, and happy hour lasted until 6 PM, which worked out perfectly. We ordered a mix of dishes from the happy hour menu, including regular fries, margarita pizza, hamachi, roasted salmon, calamari, chicken wings, and a sushi roll. Everything was delicious—we even ended up ordering a second round of hamachi. I’d definitely come back!

Excellent service, beautiful view of ocean at sunset. The restaurant was loud because it was busy but we were still able to carry on a conversation. The live music was amazing! Food was great, especially the dessert. The Mai Tai was fantastic. We will be back!

As you eat a meal at Merriman's, you can tell that each ingredient is selected with care. Sure enough, when I asked I found out the food is locally sourced from farms that the owners and Chef know and trust. Many items are hand selected by the box, not the truck load. Since the Chef from Maui transferred over to Merriman's Oʻahu, our entrees have been especially ono. At lunch today I planned to take home one of my two fish (ahi) tacos. No way! I couldn't stop finishing both. Last night my husband and I walked into Merriman's without reservations and sat at the bar. Who cares if we didn't get a table? The gregarious host, Cody Merriman, stopped by to share a laugh or two and answer our questions about the menu. My husband ordered their chicken entree for dinner and said it was the best chicken he'd ever had. And my taro falafel was also delicious. We can't resist their Waialua Chocolate Purse for dessert. I felt a little decadent afterward, but what the heck? There are lots of restaurants in our neighborhood, but for five years now we keep coming back to Merriman's which seems to be even better the last six months. Could it be the addition of the Maui Chef? We like the vibe. Energetic without being so loud you cannot carry on a conversation. We both think their Hawaiian music playlist is the best in the City. Wish I could think of something negative to say to make this review real. But having just come back from a great lunch with memories of a wonderful dinner there last night, I am only happy and satisfied.