Honolulu has a burger destination where Hawaiian-influenced smashburgers meet island hospitality in the heart of Waikiki. 🍔
Banzai Burger opened as one of the signature concepts at Kuhio Avenue Food Hall, bringing a fresh approach to burger culture in Hawaii.
This locally-owned establishment specializes in delicious, juicy, made-to-order smashburgers with Hawaiian influences that set them apart from typical mainland chains.
Located at the International Market Place on Kalakaua Avenue, the restaurant transformed casual burger dining into something uniquely island-style with creative flavor combinations.
How Banzai Burger won Honolulu’s hearts
Banzai Burger captured Honolulu’s attention by creating Hawaiian-influenced burgers that honored local flavors while maintaining quality ingredients and proper cooking techniques.
Their signature smashburger technique using 4-ounce ground steak patties on brioche buns delivered the perfect combination of crispy edges and juicy centers that burger enthusiasts crave. 🌺
Their Hawaiian Burger with grilled pineapple became an instant favorite, with the juiciness of the pineapple mixing with the patty to create a very wet but absolutely delicious eating experience.
The central location at Kuhio Avenue Food Hall, with free validated parking for the first hour, made them easily accessible for quick lunches and casual dinners.
Their daily operating hours from 11 AM to 9 PM seven days a week gave burger lovers consistent access to island-style burgers.
The restaurant’s cozy patio area is ideal for people-watching in Waikiki, adding to the casual, enjoyable dining experience.
Their ability to exceed expectations compared to more famous establishments like Cheeseburger in Paradise proved that locally-owned concepts could compete with national brands.
Food Highlights
- Waimea Burger: A hearty double-patty option with two 4oz ground steak patties, bacon, American cheese, lava sauce (ketchup, mustard, pickle juice), and garlic aioli that delivers serious flavor and substance.
-
Hawaiian Burger: The signature creation featuring 4oz ground steak on a brioche bun with garlic aioli, Hawaiian teriyaki sauce, and Swiss cheese, topped with grilled pineapple and red onion. 🍍
- Mushroom Burger: A more earthy option featuring sautéed mushrooms with cheese that earns consistent praise when paired with crispy onion rings.
- BBQ Bacon Burger: Another highly recommended creation combining bacon, BBQ sauce, and cheese that delivers classic American burger flavors with an island twist.
-
Pipeline Burger: The most popular choice featuring cheese, lava sauce (tangy ketchup), and pipeline sauce (thousand island) with lettuce, tomato, and onion. 🌊
-
Smokey BBQ Burger: A classic favorite showcasing bacon, mayo, BBQ sauce, and cheddar cheese, topped with an onion ring that combines smoky, sweet, and savory flavors.
Atmosphere
The vibe at Banzai Burger creates a casual, welcoming island experience perfect for Waikiki dining. 🌴
The food hall setting at International Market Place provides a modern, clean environment with multiple seating options both indoors and on the patio.
The central Waikiki location makes it an easy choice for tourists and locals looking for quality burgers while exploring the area, with the bonus of people-watching opportunities from outdoor seating.
Bottom Line
Visit Banzai Burger for Hawaiian-influenced smashburgers made to order with island flavors, signature creations like the Hawaiian Burger with grilled pineapple, reasonable pricing in expensive Waikiki, and a convenient food hall location with free parking validation. 🤙
Address:
2330 Kalakaua Ave #156 (inside International Market Place), Honolulu, HI 96815
📞 (808) 470-3463
🕐 Open Daily, 11 AM–9 PM