Mariposa

I planned a trip to Hawaii over a year ago and was really looking forward to a special Friday night experience in Waikiki. After seeing videos online, I learned about the weekly fireworks show and that it could be viewed from Mariposa Restaurant’s outdoor balcony seating. Three months in advance, I called to make a reservation. I spoke with a very friendly staff member and clearly explained that my party and I were specifically coming to see the fireworks and wanted to be seated outside. I even asked what time we should arrive, and she recommended 7 PM. She noted our request for outdoor seating, but never mentioned that it wasn’t guaranteed. Had I known that, I would have made different arrangements, especially considering the menu is limited and on the pricier side. The morning before our reservation, I received a confirmation call and was asked if I wanted to come in earlier. I declined and didn’t restate our outdoor seating request because I felt confident it had already been handled. We arrived about 30 minutes early, only to be told by the host that we would be seated inside. I explained that we had made the reservation months in advance specifically for outdoor seating to view the fireworks. I was then told there was no outdoor seating available—even though I could clearly see several empty tables outside at the time. The host mentioned they were overbooked and that multiple parties would have to sit inside, which was confusing and frustrating. We were seated near a window, which still did not provide the experience we had planned for. After ordering, we informed our server that someone in our party has a shrimp allergy. He went to check with the kitchen and returned to inform us that shrimp is fried in the same oil as other items like fries, and that the grill is shared as well—significantly limiting safe options. Given the already limited menu and lack of accommodation, we ultimately decided to cancel our order and leave. This was a disappointing experience, especially for a restaurant that presents itself as high-end. From the lack of transparency about seating, to overbooking, to limited accommodation for dietary needs, the overall service—including management—felt unhelpful and unaccommodating. I’m sharing this in hopes of saving others time, money, and the hassle of making the trip expecting a specific experience that may not be honored.

It’s a shame that they’re closing soon, and it’s also a shame that I didn’t decide to come check out this place until when I found out about their closing! At least, I got to try their famous complimentary soufflé bread and their whipped guava butter. Also got to try their chilled crab salad which was super delicious! I ate the whole thing quick. Got to try my friend’s laksa and the taste was good too! Our server was very friendly and answered a lot of our questions. The ambiance was amazing too. We were seated outside with the beautiful ocean view. I hope to try a few more dishes here before they’re gone for good.

We sat on the lanai tonight for their lounge menu. The food was decent and the service was amazing. Going to miss this place. They had live music tonight.

Beautiful place to dine, the food was amazing and the service was wonderful. I have came here a few times and everything that I have tried was good, the complementary soup was divine. I had the hokaido scallops, lobster sandwich, and the short ribs and by far the scallops were my favorite. Our server hunter was very welcoming as well and the service was nice . So sad that this place is closing soon.

Too bad this place is closing soon. Great view of the ocean while you dine here. The food was great, my friend and I ordered the same special featured on the menu. Our server was nice and prompt with our orders.

While visiting Hawaii my wife and I decided to try this place based on all the previous suggestions and the views. Upon walking in we were immediately greeted and told us it would be a short wait and it was. The decor was beautiful and there was a live musician playing the acoustic guitar on the side which gave the place a very relaxing vibe. We were lucky enough to get a balcony table. I’d suggest this so you can have a spectacular view of the ocean and the sunset. My wife and enjoyed the warm bread brought to the table served with this delicious strawberry butter. It wasn’t very heavy either. The drinks were really good as well. Our server (actually all of them) Tony was extremely good. He came and checked on us and made sure everything was good with us. When I go back I will definitely look for him. If you’re interested in something relaxing with a classy vibe. I recommend this place.

Mariposa is a great spot for a business lunch or a relaxed professional meeting. The open-air atmosphere captures the Hawaiʻi breeze beautifully and offers a lovely view of Ala Moana Beach Park, creating a calm yet upscale setting. The food is consistently excellent. They start with their signature popover—my personal favorite—which I enjoyed so much this time that I completely forgot to take a photo. On this visit, I ordered the pork chop, while my colleague had the crab pasta. Both dishes were beautifully presented and absolutely delicious, with great balance and flavor. Service is top-notch. The staff is friendly, attentive, and professional, making the overall experience seamless and enjoyable. Highly recommended for business lunches, client meetings, or anytime you want dependable food and great ambiance.

The patty of my cheeseburger was so black. It was so burnt. All the foods are looks so great and the staffs are very kind. Asian foods are not that good but Italian foods and American were good.

First I want to say the front desk for dinner service was exceptional! The two gentlemen and the tall lady who run the front with a very friendly and gracious manner, were a delight. Smiles on arrival and warmth on exit. Service is without a flaw! Attentive and swift. Server was around when needed and the server assistants filled the gaps. The view from the lanai can’t be beat! You get to enjoy the sunset and fireworks on Fridays; both were a spectacular display. However the lunchroom vibe cannot be ignored. Big open space with tables make you feel like you are in high school, prison, retirement home or any combination of the three. The place that the edge was lost, was the food! It was just ok. Lacking any notable flavor, every dish was very bland. In fact, it reminded me a lot of hospital food. No fun textures, just mushy mushy mush mush cafeteria style food that is easily forgettable. Noticeably, the quality of ingredients, you can tell they cut corners wherever possible to maximize profits. The drinks were also extremely weak and disappointing. Stick with water. Or a tiny $10 glass of beer. I have no intention on going back although the view and service were pleasant, the lack luster menu and dishes we tried, left nothing worth dipping back into. Glad it’s busy and popular, not sure why.