




About
Late Night Energy in the Heart of Waikiki
When the sun sets over the Pacific and the standard dinner spots shutter their doors, Insomnia remains a glowing beacon for the Waikiki night owl. Positioned in the thick of Honolulu’s nightlife corridor, this spot captures a distinct urban energy that feels worlds away from the nearby resort calm. The interior leans into a high-contrast industrial aesthetic, where the low hum of bass lines mingles with the sharp clatter of shakers behind the bar.
The Culinary Rhythm
This isn't your average midnight snack bar. The kitchen focuses on elevated bar fare designed to soak up late-night libations. You will find that the menu leans heavily into fusion plates that mirror the melting pot culture of Oahu. The signature sliders are a local favorite, often served with a proprietary spicy aioli that cuts through the richness of the beef. Expect your meal to arrive with the scent of toasted brioche and charred aromatics, a welcomed contrast to the cool, air-conditioned interior.
What to Expect
The space is built for social groups and night-shift workers looking for a reprieve. It is loud, vibrant, and moves at the speed of the city’s nightlife. Be mindful that during peak weekend hours, the space reaches capacity quickly, and you might find yourself shoulder-to-shoulder with fellow patrons at the high-top tables. It is an unapologetic hub for those who prefer the moonlight to the daylight, offering a reliable, flavor-forward menu that keeps Honolulu running long after the streetlights have flickered on.
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Location
669 Auahi St, Honolulu, Hawaii, 96813-5105
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Reviews
Showing 10 of 137 community reviewsWilliam SmithGoogle Maps
Recently
There are places you visit, and then there are places that find you. Insomnia is unquestionably the latter. From the moment you walk in, the world outside simply falls away. The space feels less like a business and more like someone’s most carefully loved living room. But it’s the owners who make it truly extraordinary — in an age where hospitality has become a transaction, they treat every guest like a long-awaited friend. Their warmth isn’t performed — it’s genuinely, beautifully real.
Tony FrancioneGoogle Maps
Recently
OMFG, love this place. It's a wife & husband team and they are the absolute BEST! The food is served with Aloha and you know you are being well taken care of the moment you walk in. Also great to see so many regulars dining in and grabbing takeout. They also have cute like coffee machines and moka pots decorated on the walls of the restaurant. Love this place and be sure to check their hours into the afternoon.
Mei WuGoogle Maps
Recently
4 stars for hospitality! Extremely caretaking and sweet owners 💕. Bless their sweet soul for still serving the community here! The beef pho was not as flavorful as I wanted. It did not have the depth of salty umami I needed for pho broth and the beef.. well.. it had a funky taste so I avoided it entirely. I only ate the beef meatballs. I found myself wondering if the broth was just water and salt + pepper in a quick boil with some beef slices to give some flavor versus a rich beef broth simmered with bones. I really tasted the starch from the rice noodles in the broth, which tells me probably it was not cooked separately nor drained. 🙈
Not SquidwordGoogle Maps
Recently
Strong Vietnamese coffee served from a very kind & happy to serve family. I will have to come back and try some food & enjoy the atmosphere & decor soon…
Nicole WangGoogle Maps
Recently
Very home cook style operated by a friendly Vietnamese couple. Good place to enjoy traditional Vietnamese food and quiet corner. Like the decor style.
Sharif MatarGoogle Maps
Recently
The Vietnamese owners are friendly and wonderful. I love the iced Vietnamese coffee and they always remember how I like it, not too sweet. This little cafe is great for a quick pastry or drink or a casual meeting or meal. Nice inside and outside seating by the street. I go here almost every morning when I’m in town and it always brings me joy. ☕️ ❤️ 🏝
YennyGoogle Maps
Recently
Delicious coffee and breakfast options. I had the breakfast special with bacon on the side. I also ordered the Vietnamese coffee (dark roast), which is very smooth and strong. The owners were the sweetest! Thank you 🌺
Sarah HorngGoogle Maps
Recently
I have not tried the food bc I come here regularly for Vietnamese ice coffee! This is the best one I’ve found for Vietnamese ice coffee on the island! Def strong in caffeine 😍 The owners are super friendly. There is a wait sometimes since they make everything themselves so call in your order ahead of time if you want! They do have tap pay! Street parking or parking garage available!
G modsGoogle Maps
Recently
Perfect.... that is all I have for you. The owners are beyond positive and polite, the food was fresh and bursting with flavors and aroma. The atmosphere was relaxing and delightful. The bathroom was clean and organized. I'll be sure to visit this location again. It's a short walk from the cruise terminal, if that's how you came. A+ and beyond...
Magical PancakeGoogle Maps
Recently
The couple that runs this Cafe are incredibly hospitable. Atmosphere is good and ac feels comfortable. Coffee is next level and jet fuel as far as I'm concerned. Strongest coffee for the money on the island hands down. The banh mi is pretty good and we had the lemon grass chicken. The lemon grass chicken was flavorful and had a bit of heat. Overall lovely experience and would recommend to any coffee lover looking for different food offerings.
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