When navigating a gluten-free lifestyle, finding a restaurant that feels like a “treat” rather than a “compromise” can be a challenge. In Waikiki, there is one open-air sanctuary that has mastered this balance so effectively that travelers find themselves returning day after day: Lulu’s Waikiki.
Perched on the second floor at the corner of Kalakaua and Kapahulu, Lulu’s offers more than just panoramic views of the Pacific—it offers a dedicated gluten-free experience that rivals any standard menu.
The centerpiece of Lulu’s experience is undoubtedly the Bananas Foster Mochi Pancakes. For the gluten-free traveler, these are nothing short of a revelation. By utilizing a mochi (rice flour) base, Lulu’s bypasses the dry or grainy texture often found in gluten-free substitutes. The result is a signature “chew”—bouncy, light, and perfectly golden. Topped with deeply caramelized bananas, it prioritizes the “science” of flavor. It proves that being gluten-free doesn’t mean missing out on the “ultimate” breakfast indulgence.
Lulu’s commitment to a gluten-free lifestyle extends far beyond the breakfast griddle. Their menu is thoughtfully curated to ensure that those avoiding gluten have access to a full range of island-inspired flavors: From the Lulu Moco (Wagyu beef and Kalua pork over rice) to Spam Fried Rice, the kitchen has adapted local comfort foods for safe enjoyment.
One of the rarest finds in gluten-free dining is a safe, crispy batter. Lulu’s utilizes rice flour for their Chicken Wings and Mango Sweet Chili Cauliflower, providing that essential crunch without the wheat. High-quality gluten-free buns are available for their Wagyu beef burgers, ensuring a quick beachside lunch is never a compromise.
Beyond the plate, the draw of Lulu’s is the environment. The open-air architecture allows the trade winds to sweep through the dining room, offering a front-row seat to the surfers catching morning waves at Waikiki Beach.
It is the kind of setting that encourages a “reset.” Whether you are looking for a quiet morning with a book and a view or a lively lunch after a session in the waves, the service is intuitive, and the vibes are a consistent 10/10.
It is rare to find a vacation spot that warrants a return visit three or four times in a single week. However, between the safety of the kitchen, the innovation of the mochi-based dishes, and the unparalleled view, Lulu’s Waikiki has earned its reputation as the gluten-free gold standard on the island.
