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Nestled right next to the pier lives one of the most famous restaurants in Surf City USA. It is named after none other than the famous surfer Duke Kahanamoku. This man helped Huntington Beach become famous for its competitive waves. I loved every moment of my dining experience and am excited to share why Duke’s Huntington Beach is the best restaurant.
All photos in this post are mine except otherwise indicated. This post was written based on my personal experience. I was not paid, reimbursed or otherwise solicited to write this post. Just a girl looking to share her favorite places. Cheers!
1. The Food
Even though I went to Duke’s for the cocktails, I ended up falling in love with the food. There is something about Polynesian food that captivates me. I opted for the Huli Huli Chicken which is a Hawaiian plated lunch. The Huli Huli Chicken came with grilled chicken, jasmine rice and macaroni salad. Every bite made me think I was sitting along the beaches of Hawaii.
2. The Drinks
When you go to Duke’s, you have to try their famous Mai Tai’s. It is mandatory… kind of. Treat yourself to the rum drink that has been served to beach-goers and tourists for years.
After my meal, I wanted a small dessert. Even though the dishes on the menu looked incredible, I knew I had to try a Pina Colada before leaving. This was hands down the best Pina Colada of my life (and I drink a lot of Pina Coladas!).
3. The Menu
Whether you have had Polynesian food before or it is brand new to you, you have plenty of options at Duke’s. The menu ranges from salads to burgers, with some Hawaiian lunches available.
Click here to see a complete list of menus at Duke’s Huntington Beach.
4. The History
Duke’s is outfitted with different surf and Hawaiian décor. After its namesake Duke Kahanamoku, the restaurant encapsulates the tropical oasis feel of the beach while honoring traditional Polynesian dishes.
One of the most famous surfers in the world, Duke was a staple in Hawaii and California where he set records and made history in the water. It only makes sense that his legacy now lives on with tourists visiting daily.
Click here to read more about Duke and his legacy.
5. The View
In addition to views of the Huntington Beach and Pier, I also loved watching the beach trail. There was no shortage of people riding by on bicycles, scooters, etc. There were many cute dogs walking around, too. I loved watching everyone enjoying their morning at the beach.
6. The Culture
"In Hawaii we greet friends, loved ones and strangers with aloha, which means love. Aloha is the key word to the universal spirit of real hospitality which makes Hawaii renowned as the worlds center of understanding and fellowship. Aloha to you."
Duke’s is proud of its Hawaiian routes. I can attest that they practice what they preach. The staff was extremely attentive and friendly. I showed up when the restaurant first opened for the day and the waiters looked genuinely thankful to work at the restaurant.
7. The Pictures
If you are going to visit Duke’s Huntington Beach, I recommend taking pictures to document your trip. My parents visited Duke’s in 1987 for their honeymoon. I think about how cool it would be if they had pictures of that day. Now that we go as a family and take our pictures, we are watching new generations visit these memorable places. I always take pictures when I visit Duke’s to someday share with my kids until they are old enough to have a Mai Tai there with me.
8. The Memories
My parents visited Duke’s Waikiki in Honolulu on their honeymoon in 1987. Since then, it is required that we stop in for a mai tai. The memories at Duke’s Waikiki, and now Duke’s Huntington Beach always make me smile. During a tough day of work, I like to think about drinking a mai tai while looking over the water.
Interested in more? Check out 5 reasons to dine at the famous Duke’s Waikiki.
9. The Location
Located on Pacific Coast Highway, Duke’s Huntington Beach is prime location within the city. You cannot walk on the Pier without walking past Duke’s first. You are walking distance from main street and different surf shops like Billabong and Roxy. A little further down PCH is Pacific City, which offers shopping and dining with a view of the Pacific Ocean.
See over 2,000 reviews of Duke’s Huntington Beach on YELP!
Whether you are planning a trip to Huntington Beach or are just looking for inspiration for your next vacation, I hope you enjoyed reading about my favorite places. The only thing better than visiting these spots and enjoying them is getting to share them with friends and family. Please comment if you have tried Duke’s Huntington Beach and tell me how you liked it.
Are you looking for places to eat and drink? Check out 5 of the best restaurants in Huntington Beach.
I am always open to recommendations. If you have any favorite spots, please share them below!
Cheers!
