Goma Tei - Honolulu Restaurant Image
#508 of 1,740 Restaurants in Honolulu Japanese

Goma Tei

4.0(23 community reviews)
Moderate ($$)

About

Discover Goma Tei, offering the best Japanese experience in Kaimuki / Kahala. Enjoy Moderate ($$) meals, explore their menu, and read reviews from the community on TasteHi.

A Slurp-Worthy Tradition in Ward Village

Stepping into Goma Tei, you are immediately greeted by the rhythmic clatter of ladles and the deep, toasted aroma of sesame seeds. This Honolulu staple has carved out a dedicated following for its specialty: Tan Tan Ramen. Unlike the lighter broths found elsewhere in the city, the signature bowls here rely on a rich, nutty sesame paste base that coats every strand of noodles in a velvety, savory layer of comfort.

The Art of the Sesame Broth

The kitchen team focuses heavily on the balance of spice and acidity. Their classic Tan Tan Ramen features a deeply complex broth spiked with chili oil, topped with seasoned ground pork that provides a pleasant textural contrast to the springy ramen noodles. If you prefer a sharper kick, the spicy options are handled with care, offering heat that warms the palate without masking the intricate nuttiness of the broth.

Why Locals Keep Coming Back

While the dining room is often bustling with a mix of office workers and families from the surrounding Kaka'ako area, the service maintains a fast-paced, functional efficiency. It is the kind of spot where you come for a focused meal rather than a drawn-out conversation, especially during the peak lunch rush when the line can snake toward the door. Don't be surprised if you find yourself waiting a few extra minutes for a table; the turnover is brisk, and the steam rising from the ceramic bowls is well worth the short wait. Whether you are craving a hearty bowl of noodles after shopping in Ward or looking for a reliable dinner, Goma Tei remains a cornerstone of the local ramen scene.

Photos

Goma Tei - Honolulu Restaurant Image
Goma Tei - Honolulu Restaurant Image
Goma Tei - Honolulu Restaurant Image
Goma Tei - Honolulu Restaurant Image
Goma Tei - Honolulu Restaurant Image
Goma Tei - Honolulu Restaurant Image
Goma Tei - Honolulu Restaurant Image
Goma Tei - Honolulu Restaurant Image

Location

4211 Waialae Ave, Honolulu, Hawaii, 96816-5319

Directions

Reviews

Showing 3 of 23 community reviews
B

bing yeungGoogle Maps

Recently

I don't appreciate it when restaurants secretly charge customers for service fees when it's not applicable. We were charged 15% when our party was 5 (not 6-8 as stated on the menu). It wasn't even busy at 3.15-3.45pm. I also asked about the TanTan broth. It apparently has peanut flavor like I thought but the young waiter insisted it was just sesame upon inquiry. I would have ordered other broth if he was honest. On the bright side, the female waitress was welcoming, provided great service with our food packaging, and friendly. My party enjoyed the shoyu ramen and spicy TanTan. However, I'm not sure I'll be back in particular.

B

Bill StrayerGoogle Maps

Recently

One of my go-to spots for ramen! There’s rarely a wait since I avoid peak meal times. They have tables for groups and counter seating for solo diners. The staff is quick to take orders and regularly checks in, keeping my water refilled. They’ve also added some fish dishes, which are really good. I especially like the Kahala location—right across from the theater—making it an easy stop before or after a movie.

N

Nina VGoogle Maps

Recently

I don’t know why I have never been here in spite of my grandparents and parents living in Kahala until now. The prices can’t be beat. The volume of food is crazy. I can see why local people love coming here for the portions and variety of noodle soups and rice dishes and bentos. We ordered the dumpling and ramen option (tantan, shoyu) and the kakuni udon. Everything was tasty AND left us feeling very heavy. The bright side is that after this for lunch I can almost skip dinner. Wontons were tasty but I started to strip off the extra dough after the 2nd of 4 wontons. The ramen is cooked perfectly (al dente). Service was very friendly and efficient. The environment feels very stripped down to the essentials with 2 rows of solo eating (minimal eye contact with neighbor) “bar” seats and several tables for 4. Just a caution that if there is a small screaming child in the restaurant their voice will reverberate against the tiled walls. For that reason I give the atmosphere a low score. Will be back to try the other options on the menu.🤭

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Frequently Asked Questions about Goma Tei

Common questions from diners about Goma Tei in Honolulu.

Yes, they provide table service.

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