Nico’s Pier 38

Good food. Confusing on how to order at 3 different locations and my order was actually wrong at one of them, but what they gave me was very good so I liked it nice live music and hang out before airport, wish there was better circulation. Update - Next year we went again and this is now our Official from-the-airport and to-the-airport stop. Their poke really is the best we have had on the island. The bartenders are great. Sit outside ✌️

Nico’s Pier 38, Honolulu (Hawaii) The location is undeniably appealing, with views over the harbor and airplanes taking off above the ocean, which gives the place a certain charm. The food appears fresh, especially the fish. The tuna steak was as requested medium rare and tasted fresh, yet it was served cold, which was a huge disappointment. Both the appetizer and the main course were served on plastic plates, which I didn’t appreciate. Table placement further reduced the comfort of the experience — the table was positioned directly opposite trash bins. The outdoor seating area also lacks atmosphere, with plastic chairs that feel temporary and out of place. With a harbor location like this, the space could easily be arranged in a more thoughtful, marine-inspired way, using wood elements and nautical details, to create a casual but characterful seafood bar rather than a plasticky functional setup. Service was inattentive. The main course arrived while the appetizer was still being eaten, without any prior check from the server as to whether it was an appropriate time to serve it. This lack of basic attentiveness stood out. The other disappointing aspect, is the menu itself. For a restaurant that presents itself as a seafood restaurant or seafood bar, the seafood selection is surprisingly limited. Beyond a few fish dishes, many classic seafood items one would expect in such a location are simply missing: there are no grilled shrimp, no lobster, no langoustine, no octopus, no scallops, and only a very limited selection of shellfish. Instead, the menu leans heavily toward burgers and heavier American food. In a harbor setting with access to fresh seafood, one would expect a much broader and more seafood-focused offering. Overall, the food is decent and technically correct, but uninspiring and served cold. There are no major flaws in preparation (other than the temperature), yet there is no sense of a memorable culinary experience. With a more thoughtful menu, better service timing, and a more atmospheric design, this place could offer far more than it currently does.

Best in the Buis!

Panko crust led swordfish with Truffle cream sauce was AMAZING!