Dairy-Free Hawaii (Oahu): Best Restaurants & Shops

Last Update in November 2023! We’ve created this ever-growing guide to restaurants, bakeries, cafes, ice cream shops, and stores in Oahu that are friendly to dairy-free diners. It’s a collection based on research and reader recommendations (send yours!) that’s divided into restaurants & shops by city (first) and major chains found throughout the state (second). And we’ve started a section for specialty dairy-free foods produced in this state.

We Update Continuously! You can ignore the original date on this post going forward. We update the information below whenever we’re alerted to a new recommendation, change, or closure.

Photo from Banán with locations around Oahu. Dairy-free banana soft-serve on plant-based ulu waffles.

Dairy-Free Oahu, Hawaii: Best Restaurants & Shops

You won’t have too much trouble finding dairy-free eats on Oahu. Most Hawaiian dishes are naturally dairy-free, and their favorite condiment is plain old mayonnaise. Poke bowls are available in every little town (grocery stores, markets, restaurants, you name it!), and Japanese food is a local staple. Fruit is also front and center for anytime refreshment in acai bowls, papaya boats, slushes, shave ice, and dairy-free Dole Whip. But we’ve rounded up many favorites spots below.

We’ve listed these recommendations alphabetically by city and then by the restaurant or shop name. For large chains with locations throughout the state, see the Major Restaurant & Grocery Chains section below. We have dedicated posts with dairy-free details for many of the big guys.

⭐️ = Restaurant is either dairy-free, has a dairy-free menu, has dairy-free labels on their menu(s), or lists top allergens with menu items. (At the time of our last review.)

Aiea

7 Vegans Hawaii ⭐️ – This local pop-up also takes custom orders. They specialize in desserts, but often serve some savory items, too.
California Pizza Kitchen – See our California Pizza Kitchen Dairy-Free Menu Guide for more details.
Down to Earth – This Hawaiian natural grocery store is purely vegetarian, and they are abundant with dairy-free and vegan products. They also have an amazing in-house deli and bakery, with many dairy-free goodies.
Oh My Grill – They serve classic Hawaiian plate lunches, so you’ll find plenty of dairy-free options. But they also offer dairy-free acai bowls, sorbet, and smoothies.
Pieology – See our Pieology Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Rainbow Drive In – This iconic counter-serve spot serves classic Hawaiian plate lunches (and dinners). According to management, all of their plate lunches (including the loco moco), sandwiches sans cheese (only a couple come with cheese), and sides (including the macaroni salad and coleslaw) are made without dairy. But use caution if ordering breakfast or dessert, a few items contain dairy.

Haleiwa

Banzai Bowls ⭐️ – It’s all about dairy-free smoothies and acai and pitaya bowls at this local spot. They use hemp milk, coconut milk, and apple juice as options for their blends.
Coffee Gallery – This roaster and shop also bakes their own house granola (available by the bag), which is dairy-free, and used on their acai bowls. They also offer dairy-free smoothies, coffee drinks, usually have a couple vegan entrees, and sometimes have a vegan baked goodie or two.
Farm to Barn Café – They have a healthy selection of vegan and dairy-free options at this little red barn. Their menu choices include a good selection of bowls (sweet blends and savory entrees), toasts, salads, and other entrees you can custom order, like bagel sandwiches.
Haleʻiwa Bowls ⭐️ – In addition to blue majik and acai bowls, they have chia pudding, an array of healthy smoothies, coffee drinks, and local kombucha. It’s all vegan, except for the bee products.
Haleiwa Joe’s – Enjoy a picturesque dinner at this local seafood grille. They have many menu items that are dairy-free, or can easily be made dairy-free, including several pupus (like Black and Blue Ahi, Ceviche, and Edamame), a selection of salads, and many surf and turf options (like baked, steamed, or grilled fish, kalbi ribs, and steaks).
IL Gelato – This is a popular local chain that offers vegan sorbetti, acai and pitaya bowls, and a full coffee bar.
Island Vintage Coffee – This location has a more petite menu than their Honolulu cafes. But they still serve an array of dairy-free acai bowls, smoothies, and poke bowls, and have many other options that are easily dairy free.
Kono’s Northshore – This is a hip, quick-serve variation on classic Hawaiian fare. Their specialty is 12-hour slow-roasted Kalua pulled pork with house-made guava barbecue sauce. You can order it in a plate, bowl, or wrap. Their management is quite helpful with special diet inquiries.
Kula Shave Ice North Shore – They take shave ice seriously at this local spot. They use purified alkaline water, organic fruit and organic cane sugar or raw honey. Most of their menu is, or can be made dairy-free, since the offer “vegan creams” (they offer coconut whip and coconut sweetened condensed milk), and have their our own house vegan coconut ice cream and dairy-free sugar-free Keto ice cream!
Mack’s Handcrafted Soda + Pops – Most of the refreshing drinks at this local food truck are naturally dairy free, and a great way to cool off after a day on the beach.
Makua Banana Bread – I bet you weren’t expecting to find a banana bread cafe on the north shore of Hawaii. Even more surprising? Their signature banana bread is naturally dairy free!
MyFit Bread – This local dairy-free, gluten-free bread baker doesn’t have a storefront, but offers delivery and sells at the Waimea Valley Farmer’s Market.
Nalu Health Bar – We love their dairy-free acai bowls, which come in different sizes. They also have many dairy-free smoothies, and some healthy wraps, salads, and sandwiches that can be ordered dairy-free. They use Boar’s Head meats.
North Shore Crepes Cafe – Their crepe batter is dairy free! Here’s what they told us, “we make our savory crepes in a French traditional manner, using buckwheat flour, salt and water. Totally gluten free, vegan and dairy free as well. We also serve our dessert crepes. The batter is dairy free as well. No milk.” Just make sure to order dairy-free fillings and toppings.
Poke for the People – Their staff kindly let us know that most of their menu is dairy-free, including all of their sauces and toppings. Just skip the cookies and butter mochi, which do contain milk. They also have vegan poke bowl options available.
Sunrise Shack – This small roadside shop is locally owned and operated by four legendary surfers. Almost everything on their quick-serve breakfast and lunch menus is dairy-free, and even plant based. Some of their Bullet Coffees contain butter, but they also pour vegan bullet coffee. And they serve cold-pressed juices, kombucha, smoothies, smoothie bowls, avocado toast, sandwiches, salads, wraps, some local treats, and my favorite, papaya bowls.
Sweet As ⭐️ – This is a New Zealand-style ice creamery that blends vanilla ice cream with your choice of real fruit. They offer a dairy-free options of locally made coconut milk ice cream as the base. When I ordered the dairy-free base, their staff asked if my order was preference or an allergy, without any prompting, and they cleaned the equipment before making my order.
The Beet Box – Their heavily dairy-free and vegan menu is filled with healthy breakfasts, lunches, acai bowls, smoothies, and even a nice keiki (kids) menu. They also have some nutritious sweet treats on hand.
The Cosmic Kitchen ⭐️ – This North Shore restaurant is completely vegan, and serves casual local favorites with a faux meat and cheese spin.
Waialua Bakery and Juice Bar – Their dairy-free smoothie bar even uses non-dairy yogurt. Their main menu isn’t dairy-free, but it boasts many dairy-free sandwiches and salads, as is, or with custom order. They have three house-baked dairy-free breads to choose from (including gluten-free) for sandwiches or as “hunks” of bread. This is a cash only business.

Honolulu

Aloha Whip – Inside the open-air foyer of the Queen Kapiʻolani Hotel, at the far east end of the Waikiki strip, you’ll discover this Dole Whip haven. They swirl a couple fruity flavors daily, like pineapple, strawberry, raspberry, mango, orange, lemon, or lime, and also to create their own dairy-free coconut and ubae flavors.
Anu Island Soft Serve ⭐️ – This is a dairy-free, plant-based soft serve ice cream shop with wonderfully tropical flavors like hibiscus, coconut, Thai tea, ube, and mango.
Banán ⭐️ – This completely dairy-free local soft serve chain swirls plant-based “nice cream” made from bananas. Each flavor is either unsweetened, or contains just a little honey, and uses ingredients sourced locally. For topping, they offer locally-sourced options like papaya, pineapple, honey, dark chocolate, guava jam, mac nut honey butter, or granola. You can also order your soft serve in a fresh-squeezed orange float, shake, papaya boat, or on a plant-based ulu waffle. Many items are vegan – honey is the only non-vegan ingredient they use.
Barefoot Beach Cafe – This casual outdoor eatery is one of the cheapest places in Waikiki to dine oceanside. It’s just east of the main strip, and serves a big menu of Hawaiian-American fare, along with a full vegan menu. This is a no frills spot, and I don’t recommend it if you have additional allergies or want to order dairy-free off the vegan menu. Their staff gets easily confused and isn’t the friendliest with special orders. Possibly because they are usually quite busy. They often have live music in the evenings.
Ben & Jerry’s – See our Ben & Jerry’s Dairy-Free Menu Guide for details.
Big Kahuna’s Pizza – They offer dairy-free cheese, and have several dairy-free and vegan pizza and sandwich options you can order.
Blondie’s Plant-Based Food Truck ⭐️ – They offer vegan breakfasts and sandwiches, and sell their own vegan mixes for making your own dairy-free cheese, eggless egg, and more.
Bluetree Cafe ⭐️ – Whether you’re craving fresh-pressed juice, a dairy-fee smoothie, an acai bowl, coffee, a baked treat, or some healthy eats, this vegan cafe has you covered. Raw house-made almond mylk is a featured throughout their beverage menu, but they also offer vegan cheeses to make paninis and quesadillas, and have unique options like matcha waffles. There are two Honolulu locations, both in the Ala Moana-Ward Center neighborhood.
Cafe Glace – They have two shops, one on each end of Waikiki. They serve creamiest dairy-free sorbetto, and have numerous flavors daily. The staff is usually quite kind about offering samples to try.
Cafe Nala – Located inside the Stix Asia Food Hall, this island-style cafe offers vegan smoothies, acai bowls, rainbow bagels (peanut butter available as a spread), and bento boxes. Plus, there are lots of different quick-serve Asian eateries around it!
California Pizza Kitchen – See our California Pizza Kitchen Dairy-Free Menu Guide for more details. They have a few locations in Honolulu.
Down to Earth – This Hawaiian natural grocery store is purely vegetarian, and they are abundant with dairy-free and vegan products. They also have an amazing in-house deli and bakery, with many dairy-free goodies.
Duke’s – Be sure to make reservations well in advance if you want a good view of the ocean sunset while you dine at this Waikiki institution. If you’re last minute, their “bar” side doesn’t require reservations, and is really just an extension of the restaurant seating. They are legendary for their salad bar and their conscientious treatment of food allergic guests. Many of their delicious meals are naturally dairy-free and they are happy to accommodate.
Eating House 1849 – You can’t visit Oahu without going to a Roy Yamaguchi restaurant, and this is our favorite one – located in the International Marketplace in Waikiki. The cuisine is Hawaiian-Asian with a good range of dairy-free options and a staff that is attentive on allergen requests. They even notified us of the shared fryer. Their pupus are amazing – including their house-cured pipikaula, popular Szechuan baby back ribs, and vegetarian tofu and noodles. But they also serve full lunch and dinner menus, with casual and elegant dishes that utilize many locally-sourced ingredients.
El Gallo – This Peruvian food truck is located in the Kaka’ako neighborhood. They offer unique vegan sweets like butternut squash donuts and purple corn pudding. On the savory side, they have a couple dairy-free optional items.
Floralia Pizzeria ⭐️ – This vegan pizza oven is open Friday through Sunday only, for dinner pick up. But it’s worth the week long wait for their from-scratch creations.
Gelatissimo – This Waikiki kiosk serves three to four dairy-free sorbetti flavors daily, usually with a sugar-free option. The flavors can include classics like strawberry and raspberry, or locally inspired options, like lilikoi and dragon lychee.
Häagen-Dazs – See our Häagen-Dazs Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details
Helena’s ⭐️ – It’s become quite touristed, but this restaurant is still a local institution. They serve small plates, made for sharing. Our server told us that everything was dairy-free, even the haupia dessert, but verify when you visit.
HiBlend Health Bar & Cafe – They blend dairy-free smoothies and smoothie bowls, and have a couple vegan items (wraps and salad), along with a couple dairy-free options, on their savory menu.
Hoku’s – Located at the Kahala Resort, they have great dairy-free options for their upscale Sunday brunch, and can usually accommodate special diets special dinner tasting menus (just make sure to call ahead).
Holey Grail Donuts ⭐️ – This local shop sells taro donuts that are fried in coconut oil. All varieties are dairy-free, and most are vegan (one variety contains honey).
Hula Grill – They have a great happy hour at this Waikiki restaurant, and the staff is quite helpful with dairy-free guests. They always have a handful of options on their pupu and seafood menus. At last check, they even had a house-made dairy-free and gluten-free dessert.
IL Gelato – This is a popular local chain that offers vegan sorbetti, acai and pitaya bowls, and a full coffee bar.
Island Vintage Coffee – This is a favorite local cafe with a few spots in Honolulu. They have vegan options right on their breakfast and lunch menus (including French toast!), serve an array of dairy-free acais bowls, and have a healthy selection of salads. Jenna at The Urben Life says, ” I suggest their vegan poke or Cacao Moana Bowl!”
JINYA Ramen Bar – Believe it or not, many ramen bases contain milk. But JINYA offers a couple vegan ramen options and most of their ramen dishes, soups, and expansive small plates are dairy-free. They have a great comprehensive allergen chart.
Juicy Brew – This midday vegan cafe is popular for delicious, comforting dishes using many local ingredients. they also offer some baked goods.
Kai Coffee – They have a few locations in Honolulu (including in Waikiki), and each one offers a big array of milk alternatives, which can include almond, soy, oat, coconut, hemp, and macadamia nut milk! Jenna at The Urben Life says, “You’ve gotta try their macadamia nut latte! I got mine with macadamia nut milk and it was divine.”
Kokoro Cafe – Located in the Royal Hawaiian in Waikiki, this little cafe offers pineapple Dole Whip, refreshing Dole Whip floats and slushes.
Kono’s Northshore – This is a hip, quick-serve variation on classic Hawaiian fare. Their specialty is 12-hour slow-roasted Kalua pulled pork with house-made guava barbecue sauce. You can order it in a plate, bowl, or wrap. Their management is quite helpful with special diet inquiries. Their Waikiki location also offers some dairy-free fruit smoothies (but some contain dairy) and serves dairy-free Dole Whip soft serve.
Lanikai Juice – This local smoothie chain offers fresh-pressed juices, smoothies made with coconut, almond, or soymilk, acai bowls, pitaya bowls, and other smoothie bowls. They do use whey protein in some blends, but have plant-based protein available.
La Tour Cafe – They have a vegan cheese pizza available (with Daiya cheese alternative). Additional dairy-free toppings can be ordered, and they have some sandwich options.
Leahi Health ⭐️ – This is a plant-based, quick serve restaurant serving healthy smoothies, tacos, and bowls.
Little Vessels Donut Co. ⭐️ – This vegan donut shop is right on trend with their yeast-raised, square donuts. They offer unique and locally-inspired flavors.
Loving Hut ⭐️ – See our Loving Hut post for details.
Makua Banana Bread – If you’re out at Ewa Beach, you might be surprised to find this local banana bread maker. Even more surprising? Their signature banana bread is naturally dairy free! They offer a seasonal pumpkin bread, too. They offer a seasonal pumpkin bread, too.
Mami’s Empanadas – This food truck specializes in Cuban food, and always has some vegan and dairy-free empanadas on hand. Jenna at The Urben Life said, “You have to order ahead of time because he gets so many orders each night. Big flavor from a small cart parked next to a few other food trucks a few blocks from the beach. The vegan empanadas are INCREDIBLE!”
Marugame Udon – This noodle house almost always has a line out the door. You order and pick up cafeteria style, but everything is made from scratch, on the spot, including their amazing thick udon noodles. We were told that all the broths, except the curry, are dairy-free, and the wide array of tempura is also made without milk.
Maui Brewing Company – This popular island brewery has a few restaurant and brewpub locations. They offer a house vegan burger and spicy edamame for vegan guests. They have a few other menu items that can be ordered dairy-free on request, including cheeseless pizza, which are a great deal at happy hour.
Nalu Health Bar – We love their dairy-free acai bowls, which come in different sizes. They also have many dairy-free smoothies, and some healthy wraps, salads, and sandwiches that can be ordered dairy-free. They use Boar’s Head meats.
Niu Soft Serve ⭐️ – This is a dairy-free, plant-based, soft serve ice cream shop (also at local farmer’s markets). They focus on unique local flavors, like panden, ube cookies and cream, and boba milk tea.
Noods Ramen Bar – Believe it or not, ramen often contains dairy. But there are lots of dairy-free options at this local noodle bar, and they have an extensive vegan menu.
Oh My Grill – They serve classic Hawaiian plate lunches, so you’ll find plenty of dairy-free options. But they also offer dairy-free acai bowls, sorbet, and smoothies.
OMG Oahu Mexican Grill – This Tex Mex restaurant has two locations, including one right on Waikiki’s main drag. They use only grass-fed free-range beef and all-natural meats (no added hormones or antibiotics), and they make their salsas and guacamole from fresh produce daily. Even their frozen margaritas are homemade and all-natural. And according to the owner, “everything but the cheese and sour cream” is dairy-free at this casual establishment. They also have numerous vegan options, including two different types of rice and beans, and their roasted vegetables. You can build your own burrito, taco, bowl, salad, or plate . In the morning, they have a full breakfast menu with some dairy-free items. And to cool off, they offer their own creamy, house-made, dairy-free horchata.
Peace Cafe ⭐️ – This all-vegan cafe offers a plant-based spin on many Hawaiian favorites, like poke, katsu, musubi, and eggs. They’re open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and serve a big dessert menu that includes dairy-free cheesecake and house-made ice creams.
Pieology – See our Pieology Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Plant-Based Paradise – This cafe is tucked away in a yoga studio. Once you find it, you’ll discover a great menu of healthy dairy-free lunch and brunch items.
Plumeria Beach House ⭐️ – Kahala Resort is great at accommodating special diet needs, and this on-site, open-air restaurant has dairy-free options labeled on each menu. You can find great Hawaiian-style items for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even on their keiki (kids) menu. Their menus are labeled for dairy-free, gluten-free, egg-free, and nut-free.
Pressed Juicery – See our Pressed Juicery Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Pu’uwai Aloha Bakery ⭐️ – This is a dedicated gluten-free bakery with lots of labeled dairy-free and vegan goodies. This includes cakes, pies, cinnamon rolls, and artisan breads. They have a retail shop open select days of the week and are at major farmer’s markets on the island.
Rainbow Drive In – This iconic counter-serve spot serves classic Hawaiian plate lunches (and dinners). According to management, all of their plate lunches (including the loco moco), sandwiches sans cheese (only a couple come with cheese), and sides (including the macaroni salad and coleslaw) are made without dairy. But use caution if ordering breakfast or dessert, a few items contain dairy.
Seaside Grill ⭐️ – This is another Kahala Resort favorite. They serve a light breakfast menu, with dairy-free options like chia pudding, avocado toast, and acai bowls. For lunch, you’ll find some healthy taro burgers with dairy-free cheese, salads, a couple other light bites, and some items that can be modified. Their menus are labeled for dairy-free, gluten-free, egg-free, and nut-free.
Sip Honolulu – Their menu includes a plethora of dairy-free and vegan options, including breakfast wraps, avocado toast, pizza, donuts, acai bowls, and more. They also have a full coffee bar with dairy-free milk alternatives available.
Sunrise Shack – This small shop is locally owned and operated by four legendary surfers. Almost everything on their quick-serve breakfast and lunch menus is dairy-free, and even plant based. Some of their Bullet Coffees contain butter, but they also pour vegan bullet coffee. And they serve cold-pressed juices, kombucha, smoothies, smoothie bowls, avocado toast, sandwiches, salads, wraps, some local treats, and my favorite, papaya bowls.
Surfer’s Wife ⭐️ – This is a plant-based farmer’s market vendor that makes waffle falafels in several flavors.
Sweet Creams – This is a Thai-style rolled ice cream shop and they have a dairy-free and vegan base option for your custom order.
Swell Restaurant and Pool Bar ⭐️ – Located at the ‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach, this casual eatery labels their menu for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan guests. Their options include pupus like crispy coconut shrimp and Hawaiian chicken wings, salad bowls, and tacos.
The Cheesecake Factory – See our Cheesecake Factory Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
The Other Side Diner – If you’re heading to Chinatown, this spot might be worth a stop for a meal or dessert. They offer vegan and dairy-free options for most of their menu, and also have vegan milkshakes (sans whip) on request.
The Pig & The Lady – Their main location is in China Town, but they are at several farmer’s markets each week on the island. They serve modern, elevated Vietnamese food, but their menu is still mostly dairy-free (but avoid the desserts!). They also have vegan options.
Tucker & Bevvy – This Australian “picnic” shop has two location on the main Waikiki drag, one near the middle in the Hyatt shops, and one at the far east end on the east side of the Park Shore Hotel. They have grab and go and counter serve options with a focus on sandwiches, salads, and smoothies. Jenna at The Urben Life said they have “fantastic salads and smoothies.” The prices are a little steep, but the ingredients are fresh, and this is Waikiki.
Ubae – Most of their ube (local purple yams) desserts contain dairy, but they do offer dairy-free, plant-based ube soft serve.
ʻUlu & Kalo Bakery ⭐️ – They use ulu (breadfruit) and kalo (taro) flour to create a variety of pastries and snacks. At last check, all of their goodies were dairy-free and gluten-free, and they seem to be vegan-friendly. They don’t have a storefront, but you can order online for pick up or visit them at the local farmer’s markets.
Umeke Market ⭐️ – This is a local vegan restaurant that serves full breakfasts, plate lunches, sandwiches, and more.
Up Roll Cafe – Their heavily dairy-free menu consists of sushi burritos and poke bowls, which includes vegan options on the menu. They also serve iced teas and lemonades with sorbetto and lattes with oat milk.
VeganCity ⭐️ – Their menu is all about plant-based comfort food, with burgers, sandwiches, salads, and
Waikiki Brewing Company – On the menu, they have a vegan superfood salad, chick pea dip, and some custom order dairy-free options.
Wing Ice Cream Parlor ⭐️ – This unassuming ice cream shop in China Town carries a few dairy-free, coconut milk-based, house-made flavors daily.
Wow Baguio ⭐️ – This is a “Pasalubong Shop” that creates vegan handcrafted products infused with locally sourced ingredients. Their menu includes specialty baked goods and house-made jams.
Yard House – See our Yard House Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.

Kahuku

Kahuku Farms Cafe – When they say from farm to table, they mean from their own farm! Most of their entrees have to be special ordered to be dairy free, but their smoothies, sorbets, and acai bowls (check on the topping though) are dairy-free, and use their own fruit. Yes, they grow their own acai!
Raised by the Waves ⭐️ – This dairy-free, plant-based eatery serves sandwiches, salads, bowls, toasts, smoothies, shakes, and some baked goodies. They are primarily a vegan establishment, but do offer honey.
The Country Eatery – Located at the Kahuku Sugar Mill, this cafe offers all types of healthy vegan eats and baked goodies. They also have juice cleanses, coffee drinks with oat or almond milk, and on-the-go items.

Kailua

Bee & Tea – Their acai bowls are made with a dairy-free, vegan base, and you can order their milk teas, boba smoothies, and fruit smoothies with coconut milk or oat milk.
Bottleheads – This local wine bar offers a small food menu with a couple dairy-free options, including a local hummus plate. It’s a nice place to meet up for a glass of wine (or another drink) and snacks.
Bowles Burritos – They build burritos in two sizes: big and bomber-size. But if you want less commitment, they also make bowls and tacos. This is a friendly, local establishment, with the owners often rolling your burrito. All of their meats, rice, beans, and salsas are dairy-free (at last check), and so are several of their special sauces. Just skip the cheese and sour cream, but load up with the lettuce, olives, and other produce toppings.
Cafe Kopi – Their savory menu always includes an assortment of dairy-free and vegan breakfast, lunch, and snack items. We’ve seen unique musubis, house-made dumplings, and even vegan grilled cheese sandwiches. They also bake some sweet vegan treats and often have dairy-free and gluten-free options, too.
California Pizza Kitchen – See our California Pizza Kitchen Dairy-Free Menu Guide for more details.
Down to Earth – This Hawaiian natural grocery store is purely vegetarian, and they are abundant with dairy-free and vegan products. They also have an amazing in-house deli and bakery, with many dairy-free goodies.
Easy Que – This is a popular local spot for barbecue that has many dairy-free options for meats, sides, and sandwiches. The staff is friendly and helpful, and they offer adult slushies in rotating flavors.
Grace in Growlers – This is really a beer tasting room, but they let you bring in food from restaurants and vendors, and there are several within close walking distance. It’s a great gathering spot for people with different dietary needs or tastes. They offer board games, trivia nights, etc.
Jewel or Juice – This tucked away shop serves acai bowl and a plethora of dairy-free smoothies, including “creamy” varieties made with vegan soy cream.
Kalapawai Market – They have a couple locations in town. The Kailua Beach location offers counter-serve poke bowls, sandwiches, salads, and coffee drinks with dairy-free options. They also carry some vegan baked goods and pre-packaged cookies. The Kailua Town location has a full cafe with a bigger menu, including bento boxes and vegan muffins. Both locations carry a lot of local retail items.
Kono’s Northshore – This is a hip, quick-serve variation on classic Hawaiian fare. Their specialty is 12-hour slow-roasted Kalua pulled pork with house-made guava barbecue sauce. You can order it in a plate, bowl, or wrap. Their management is quite helpful with special diet inquiries.
Lanikai Juice – This local smoothie chain offers fresh-pressed juices, smoothies made with coconut, almond, or soymilk, acai bowls, pitaya bowls, and other smoothie bowls. They do use whey protein in some blends, but have plant-based protein available.
Manoa Chocolate Factory – They offer chocolate tastings which include a plethora of dark chocolate bars, and sometimes a vegan milk or white chocolate variety. They also offer tours by appointment, and have a wine bar open in the evenings on select days.
Maui Brewing Company – This popular island brewery has a few restaurant and brewpub locations. They offer a house vegan burger and spicy edamame for vegan guests. They have a few other menu items that can be ordered dairy-free on request, including cheeseless pizza, which are a great deal at happy hour.
Nalu Health Bar – We love their dairy-free acai bowls, which come in different sizes. They also have many dairy-free smoothies, and some healthy wraps, salads, and sandwiches that can be ordered dairy-free. They use Boar’s Head meats.
Pieology – See our Pieology Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Plant-Based Paradise – This cafe is tucked away in a yoga studio set up a couple floors. Once you find it, you’ll discover a great menu of healthy lunch and brunch items.
Sunrise Shack – This shop is locally owned and operated by four legendary surfers. Almost everything on their quick-serve breakfast and lunch menus is dairy-free, and even plant based. Some of their Bullet Coffees contain butter, but they also pour vegan bullet coffee. And they do use butter on their toast (you can request without it). They serve cold-pressed juices, kombucha, smoothies, smoothie bowls, avocado toast, sandwiches, and my favorite, papaya bowls.
Surfer’s Wife ⭐️ – This is a plant-based farmer’s market vendor that makes waffle falafels in several flavors.
Taqueria El Gallo Rosa – Most of their over-stuffed street tacos can be ordered dairy-free, and they have a vegan taco option, along with some snacks.
The Beet Box – Their heavily dairy-free and vegan menu is filled with healthy breakfasts, lunches, acai bowls, smoothies, and even a nice keiki (kids) menu. They also have some nutritious sweet treats on hand.
Up Roll Cafe – Their heavily dairy-free menu consists of sushi burritos and poke bowls, which includes vegan options on the menu. They also serve iced teas and lemonades with sorbetto and lattes with oat milk.

Kaneohe

Haleiwa Joe’s – Enjoy a picturesque dinner at this local seafood grille. They have many menu items that are dairy-free, or can easily be made dairy-free, including several pupus (like Black and Blue Ahi, Ceviche, and Edamame), a selection of salads, and many surf and turf options (like baked, steamed, or grilled fish, kalbi ribs, and steaks).
Noods Ramen Bar – Believe it or not, ramen often contains dairy. But there are lots of dairy-free options at this local noodle bar, and they have an extensive vegan menu, complete with creamy almond milk options.
Pieology – See our Pieology Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.

Kapolei

California Pizza Kitchen – See our California Pizza Kitchen Dairy-Free Menu Guide for more details.
Down to Earth – This Hawaiian natural grocery store is purely vegetarian, and they are abundant with dairy-free and vegan products. They also have an amazing in-house deli and bakery, with many dairy-free goodies.
Kalapawai Market – They carry a lot of local retail food items, and have a full cafe menu with many dairy-free options, including some sandwiches, poke bowls, bento boxes, and more.
Lanikai Juice – This local smoothie chain offers fresh-pressed juices, smoothies made with coconut, almond, or soymilk, acai bowls, pitaya bowls, and other smoothie bowls. They do use whey protein in some blends, but have plant-based protein available.
La Tour Cafe – They have a vegan cheese pizza available (with Daiya cheese alternative). Additional dairy-free toppings can be ordered, and they have some sandwich options.

Laie

Sweet As – This is a New Zealand-style ice creamery that blends vanilla ice cream with your choice of real fruit. They offer a dairy-free options of locally made coconut milk ice cream as the base.
California Pizza Kitchen – See our California Pizza Kitchen Dairy-Free Menu Guide for more details.

Pearl City

Cherry on Top – Their frozen yogurt selection typically includes a couple dairy-free sorbet flavors with local inspiration, like Dole Whip or Hawaiian Delight. They sometimes offer a creamy dairy-free coconut variety, too.
IL Gelato – This is a popular local chain that offers vegan sorbetti, acai and pitaya bowls, and a full coffee bar.
La Tour Cafe – They have a vegan cheese pizza available (with Daiya cheese alternative). Additional dairy-free toppings can be ordered, and they have some sandwich options.
Up Roll Cafe – Their heavily dairy-free menu consists of sushi burritos and poke bowls, which includes vegan options on the menu. They also serve iced teas and lemonades with sorbetto and lattes with oat milk.

Wahiawa

Dole Plantation – Get your dairy-free Dole Whip straight from the source. This is a popular family tourist outing for their activities, but you can also enjoy lunch and dessert. In addition to soft serve, their Grille also serves plate lunches with some dairy-free options.

Waialua

Gordos – They have several authentic, dairy-free Mexican dishes on their menu, but they also offer a full vegan menu and vegan horchata.
Wicked Hi Cafe – They make the “original honey slush,” which comes in a few locally-inspired flavors, all dairy-free, and some with coconut cream. They’re also well known for naturally-fermented sourdough pizzas, and they have a vegan pizza on the menu (most others can be ordered dairy-free).

Waianae

Kahumana Organic Farms & Cafe – They offer vegan prepared meal plans, and have prepared vegan meals (meat and seafood options on order), vegan sauces, and vegan desserts (many gluten-free) available. You can also stop by for a freshly prepared lunch at the cafe – they have a small but eclectic menu with dairy-free and vegan options.

Waimanalo

Kalapawai Market – They carry a lot of local retail food items, and have a full cafe menu with many dairy-free options, including some sandwiches, poke bowls, bento boxes, vegan muffins, and more.

Waipahu

Oh My Grill – They serve classic Hawaiian plate lunches, so you’ll find plenty of dairy-free options. But they also offer dairy-free acai bowls, sorbet, and smoothies.
Rainbow Drive In – This iconic counter-serve spot serves classic Hawaiian plate lunches (and dinners). According to management, all of their plate lunches (including the loco moco), sandwiches sans cheese (only a couple come with cheese), and sides (including the macaroni salad and coleslaw) are made without dairy. But use caution if ordering breakfast or dessert, a few items contain dairy.

Photo from Farm to Barn Café in Haleiwa

Restaurant & Grocery Chains found throughout Oahu, Hawaii

Some recommended restaurant and store chains are getting too big for our city listing britches. They have many locations, or are rapidly growing, and you might stumble across them in a number of towns in this state. Click on them for more dairy-free details.

Jamba – You can find this juice and smoothie chain all over the island. They’re a great value spot for acai bowls!
Teddy’s Bigger Burgers – Teddy’s staff is always helpful with allergen inquiries. At last check their buns were dairy-free, but have a “may contain milk” warning. If concerned about that potential cross-contamination, they make a great burger salad and have dairy-free dressing options. They have a location in every major town on the island.
Zippy’s – This is Hawaii’s major fast food chain. They have an allergen chart, which includes many traditional plate options that are dairy-free. They also have some dairy-free burgers, local stews, sandwiches, and breakfast items.

Photo from the vegan shop Little Vessels Donut Co. in Honolulu

Local Dairy-Free Food & Drink Producers on Oahu, Hawaii

These dairy-free friendly companies don’t have their own retail location, but are on Oahu. So you have a good chance of finding their products at grocery stores, restaurants, and/or other shops in this state. Keep an eye out!

Aloha Tofu – Look for Oahu’s best, local tofu at grocery stores.
Chee Hoo Bars – These are made by Banan, and sold at Foodland stores on Hawaii. They’re a banana-based soft serve enrobed in chocolate, and come in several flavors.
Hawaiian Sun – This Honolulu company makes all types of packaged products in Hawaiian flavors. Their pancakes mixes come in a fun array of flavors, have just add water instructions, and most flavors are dairy-free (but check the packaging; they all contain wheat and egg). They’re sold in major stores and at ABC stores.
Hawaii Star Bakery – This is a wholesale bakery, but you can find their products at most supermarkets in the area. They make dense dairy-free English muffins in white, wheat, and poi, along with sourdough breads. They do make a couple of items containing dairy in their factory, but most
Koko Kai – Look for their dairy-free, coconut yogurt at natural food stores and farmers markets.
Uncle’s Hawaiian Ice Cream Sandwiches – Most of their treats are made with dairy, but they offer two dairy-free varieties: Vegan Baked Banana Sandwich and Vegan Caramel Coffee Ice Cream. Keep an eye out for those at local stores and restaurants.

Photo from Nalu Health Bar in Haleiwa, Honolulu, and Kailu

This Guide is Continuously Updated with Recommendations

We welcome you to recommend other dairy-free friendly restaurants. Leave a comment or contact us and tell us why you like a certain restaurant. Restaurant owners and employees are also invited to reach out and let us know how you welcome dairy-free customers.

Please kindly let us know in the comments if any of these restaurants close. We want to keep this list current for you, but aren’t always notified when a restaurant closes. Let us know and we will quickly update!

This Guide is for Informational Purposes Only

Menus, ingredients, kitchen procedures, management, and restaurants are subject to change at any time. Always read the menu and discuss your dietary needs with the staff before ordering. Make sure that they can accommodate your situation.

There is always a risk for potential cross-contamination of allergens in any commercial kitchen. If cross-contamination is an issue for you, always speak with the manager to ensure that your meal can be safely prepared. Listings here do not guarantee that a restaurant is safe enough for your individual needs. Only you can make that decision.

Hawaii, Oahu: Dozens of Restaurants & Shops with Dairy-Free Aloha