Hau Tree pairs ocean views with a strong brunch lineup

What the reviews say

Hau Tree holds a 4.2 Google rating from 1,919 reviews, a substantial pool that supports its reputation as a popular Honolulu occasion restaurant. Across the sample feedback, the setting is the clearest point of agreement. Diners repeatedly describe ocean and beach views, an attractive outdoor area and an atmosphere suited to honeymoon dinners, sunset meals and relaxed brunches.

The overall picture is positive but not flawless. Several guests praise the food and drinks in emphatic terms, while another considers the cooking merely fine and believes the view carries more of the experience. That split suggests expectations matter. Hau Tree appears strongest when treated as a scenic, moderately priced restaurant rather than a meal built solely around culinary fireworks.

Food worth considering

Brunch receives the broadest range of specific praise. One table enjoyed the crab Benedict, loco moco, ricotta pancakes and ube cinnamon roll, with the cinnamon roll earning the most enthusiasm. Another lunch guest ordered a burger and eggs Benedict but found neither especially distinctive. Taken together, the Benedict options appear popular, though reactions to the daytime menu are not uniform.

Dinner feedback is more limited but encouraging. One reviewer who was not usually fond of eggplant still praised the eggplant appetizer, and the same meal included well-received hamachi and drinks. A honeymoon dinner was described as flavorful and distinctive, with the table sharing its selections. No full dinner order was provided in that account, so the strongest dish-level signals remain the eggplant appetizer and hamachi.

Setting, seating and service

Outdoor placement is central to Hau Tree’s appeal. Reviews mention watching surfers, sailboats and even a seal from the dining area, although one brunch guest noted that the beach view was slightly obstructed. The atmosphere and decor also receive praise, including the waiting area.

Seating can materially change the experience. One evening diner found the indoor area plain after sunset and preferred the bar, lounge or outdoor sections. Early outdoor reservations may also mean direct heat before the sun drops. In one case, staff supplied handheld fans, but the table still faced a hot wait for sunset.

Service reports vary. A honeymoon guest praised the waiter and appreciated a thoughtful guava cake for the occasion. By contrast, a lunch party waited 15 minutes for a table that appeared available and then experienced slow order-taking. Reservations also warrant advance planning. One Friday booking made weeks ahead had no availability later than 5 p.m.

Editorial verdict

Hau Tree makes the most sense for diners who value ocean scenery as much as the plate. Brunch has several promising signatures, especially the ube cinnamon roll and crab Benedict, while dinner reviews support the eggplant appetizer, hamachi and drinks. Securing the right table is important, particularly for sunset. With variable service and occasional heat or obstructed views, the restaurant is not uniformly polished, but its setting and strongest dishes still make it a compelling Honolulu choice.