Restaurant Reservations - Free • Instant • Confirmed
Learn More
Restaurant Reviews
Find Restaurants in Your Area
Select a Location
Most Reviewed Restaurants
Top-Rated Restaurants
Reserve now:

53 by the Sea Reviews List

53 by the Sea

Designed around its breathtaking view of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head, 53 By The Sea offers you the opportunity to experience Hawaii dining like never before. Delight at Chef Hiroshi Hayakawa’s artistry as he combines fresh local ingredients with succulent seafoods and the finest hand-cut meats. Just as exquisite are the melodic sounds of local pianists playing on the Italian made Fazioli piano in the adjacent T’s at 53 lounge, featuring wines and spirits from around the globe. 53 By The Sea is truly a celebration for all the senses! Collared shirts are required please.
See more 53 by the Sea details
251 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
4.2 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.2 / 5
(251 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 251 reviews
5 stars
(124)
4 stars
(79)
3 stars
(30)
2 stars
(13)
1 star
(5)
Food 
4 / 5
(Outstanding) 4 / 5
Service 
4.3 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.3 / 5
Ambiance 
4.6 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.6 / 5
Noise Level
1.9 / 3
Moderate
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • scenic view(195)
  • special occasion(186)
  • romantic(152)
  • great for lunch(85)
  • fit for foodies(71)
  • notable wine list(65)
53 by the Sea Reviews List
Review 1 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Excellent

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/16/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Great view of Kakaako. Excellent view of the Honolulu City Lights. No sunset view. Suggest dinner. Arrive at dusk."
Dined on 5/16/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, scenic view, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 2 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Great location and atmosphere.

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/15/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The location was great and the view and ambiance to match. Service started out nicely but faltered through dinner; especially for a slow, barely half full Wednesday. Food was okay but nothing to write home about. I had the veal chop, vegetables were unseasoned and the dish overall would have benefited from a sauce. My fiance had the sirloin which was fatty and could have been trimmed better. We wanted the 8 oz. ribeye but they were out?!! Started off with their signature seafood assortment appetizer; lobster, scallops, crab and a couple of sashimi; okay but not spectacular. All in all, you pay for the location and view. We enjoyed ourselves but for $250 (tax & tip) with dessert and 2 glasses of wine I know it wasn't the food we paid for."
Dined on 5/15/2013
Special Features: romantic, scenic view, notable wine list, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 3 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Spectacular Honolulu Shoreline View

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This new restaurant on the site of the former John Dominis offers a spectacular view of the Honolulu shoreline, upscale wine list and innovative menu. It is very accesssible with excellent parking. Aloha"
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: good for groups, notable wine list, romantic, scenic view, late-night find, great for lunch, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 4 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/07/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"The prices increased from the last time I was there. The fruiti di mare wasn't as tasty as the last time and the mussels were really tiny. The dessert was presented beautifully however, it's didn't taste all that great. They should go back to serving their sorbet. The service was EXCELLENT and everyone were really personable. I was really impressed of our waiter...he really made the birthday celebrant feel special. Thank you for a wonderful experience. I'm bringing more friends and family soon. :)"
Dined on 5/07/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, scenic view, great for lunch, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 5 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Beautiful View, But

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/05/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Beautiful view during the day...I liked the previous mostly Italian food. I think they are now overpriced."
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, scenic view, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 6 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great Experience

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Had a wonderful time, staff was very nice and the view was incredible!"
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: great for brunch, special occasion, kid-friendly
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 7 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Diamond Head View

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/03/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Great view..ocean front , see the beach front and all of Honolulu lights... and on Friday nights free Fire works show from the Hilton. Food and service very good. Will do again next time we visit the island."
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: romantic, scenic view, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 8 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Good for Honeymooners :)

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/30/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"It was a little noisy, but the scenery and the food was good for enjoying romance. The recommended menu(chicken with mushroom) was so delicious!!"
Dined on 4/30/2013
Special Features: great for brunch, romantic, scenic view, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 9 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

What a find

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/02/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Loved this restaurant. The food was excellent, the staff was great and the view was beautiful. Would recommend to all. Really made my anniversary special."
Dined on 5/02/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, scenic view, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 10 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Service

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/29/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Our waiter Dirk was outstanding, very patient with four 80+ seniors."
Dined on 4/29/2013
Special Features: scenic view, notable wine list, special occasion, great for lunch
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 11 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

The view of the ocean is magnificen

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"The view of the ocean is magnificent and enhances the dining experience. The service and food is impeccable. Methods of preparation are unique regarding the steaks and lamb chops. I had the lamb chops which was delicious and highly recommend this entree."
Dined on 04/28/2013
 2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, scenic view, great for lunch
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 12 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Outstanding!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Overall experience outstanding! Once you try 53 by the sea you'll be a returning customer too!"
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2013
Special Features: romantic, scenic view
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 13 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

I was really satisfied with

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I was really satisfied with your atmosphere, food, service on that day. Especially my friend was very pleased to have her Birthday lunch over there."
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2013
Special Features: special occasion, great for lunch
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 14 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

By far the finest dining my

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"By far the finest dining my wife and I have ever treated ourselves to. If you go request to be seated in the section Scott is serving. Greatest server we have ever had. Very knowledgeable and charismatic, never once did we see him without a giant smile"
Dined on 04/25/2013
 2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 15 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Disappointed

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Weather was not cooperative, overcast and rainy. I opted for the soup of the day, Minestrone. For $12.00 it came to a $1.00 a spoonful, barely enough to savor a taste. I don't mind spending money for an excellent dinner but half filled bowls leaves one wanting. Since they were already out of the Ranchers Prime Rib (at 6:30PM) I had the Filet with the Cabernet wine reduction. I was pleased with my choice. As a side I ordered the Homemade French fries. Bad decision. They were awful. Nothing but overdone dry potato wedges of which there were too many. Skimp on the potatoes and offer more soup. My companion had mahimahi which she said was good. We had 3 nights in Honolulu and all three dinners we had left a lot to be desired."
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2012
Special Features: romantic, special occasion, scenic view
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 16 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

everything was great except

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"everything was great except for the open face crab sandwich...such a small portion that we were wondering if someone in the kitchen ate the other half."
Dined on 04/24/2013
 2011
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 17 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Exceptional View/Unexceptional Food

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"If you are willing to pay a lot for the view, then this place is okay. The food is unexceptional and the prices steep for what you get. Lunch provides the view; dinner only provides the lights of Waikiki.
Previously, lunch began with an appetizer cart from which to select, which was nice, but that has now been replaced with a totally unremarkable fixed plate appetizer with 4 small items. My entree was a crab sandwich ($29) consisting of much-too-salty crab meat that probably came from a can (not large chunks as I expected), topped with the saltiest bacon I've ever been served. The included dessert consisted of a small scoop of sorbet and two berries!"
Dined on 04/22/2013
 2011
Special Features: scenic view
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 18 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Not as good as Michaels and

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Not as good as Michaels and Hys."
Dined on 04/06/2013
 2008
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 19 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Exceptional service and ambiance!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Exceptional service and ambiance! Great for a lunch date"
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2011
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 20 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

The setting!!! Perfect. Best

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The setting!!! Perfect. Best view of Diamond Head and the ocean!!!The food.....just ok"
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2009
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 21 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

This was my third visit.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This was my third visit. Was surprise that the lunch prices had gone up considerably and the appetizer cart was eliminated. What was originally a great dining experience at a reasonable price has now become quite pricey. Would recommend restaurant for a special occasion only. Riesling was not available and had to settle for Pino Grigio, including the guest of honor."
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2009
Special Features: late-night find, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 22 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Poor service and subpar food

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This restaurant's only bright spot is its location which provides a nice city view of the Waikiki coastline. Everything else leaves much to be desired. I've had better food/service at other restaurants on the island in this price range. Service here is horrible as no one came to check up on us during our meal. Had they done so, we probably would have ordered more drinks, and possibly other dishes to try since we did not like the ones we ordered. The quality of food here is also lacking. We had the sea bass and the seared ahi. Both did not have any taste, and could have used seasoning. We also tried the chocolate cake and the creme brulee for dessert. Both were nothing special."
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2012
Special Features: scenic view
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 23 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

VIstited Honolulu and 53 is

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"VIstited Honolulu and 53 is always on the must-visits.
Started with seafood platter for two ($30) and had Ahi and Hamachi Sashimi, lobster, crab and scallop. Great value
Had an entree of the filet and was very pleased.
Attentive wait staff, beautiful view of the harbor and Waikiki. Enjoy!"
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 24 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Beautiful dinner

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Very nice place and great foods, live pianist, their version of tiramisu is mildly sweeten, good with me, but probably not for most people. Expected less noise, but that's the customers..."
Dined on 04/18/2013
 2011
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 25 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

I went with my Japanese customer

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I went with my Japanese customer for lunch. I was sure they would love it and they did. Really enjoyed service, food, view and atmosphere of the restaurant. They said good cost performance."
Dined on 04/16/2013
 2013
Special Features: great for brunch, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 26 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Highly recommend this restaurant!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Highly recommend this restaurant!"
Dined on 04/12/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 27 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

53 by the Sea was AWSOME !!!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Excellent service, food was very good , I will be coming back & letting all my friends know about 53 by the sea."
Dined on 04/12/2013
 2010
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, late-night find, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 28 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great setting, view and good food!

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The food was delicious. Escargots were exotic but a little on the salty side. A little less salt and it would have been perfect. The calamari salad was very nice, grilled calamari would have been better than battered ones. The vegetable linguini was very nice, almost perfect. The spaghetti Bolognese was very rich but delicious all the same. The service was first class. The view was fantastic. Overall, a very pleasant experience. Definitely will revisit with friends or for special occasions."
Dined on 04/08/2013
 2013
Special Features: romantic, special occasion, scenic view
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 29 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Awesome setting for a delicious

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Awesome setting for a delicious dinner and fine wine with dear friends. Beautiful evening view of Waikiki. Enjoyed our dining experience at 53 by the Sea...."
Dined on 04/06/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 30 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Took Mainland relatives for

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Took Mainland relatives for lunch. Makes a terrific impression, especially for visitors familiar with Honolulu, because this is a new, special place to dine. Jimbo (server) was very attentive and friendly. We ordered some new things this time and were surprised and very pleased."
Dined on 04/08/2013
 2011
Special Features: great for brunch, notable wine list, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 31 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

While dinner can be quite

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"While dinner can be quite pricey, their lunches are quite reasonable. Entree selections automatically include appetizers and dessert and seem to average around $20. The views of Diamond Head and Kewalo are spectacular, and the tables are optimized to take advantage of this."
Dined on 04/03/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 32 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

VERY Enjoyable, Excellent!!!!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Awesome meal,! excellent server, she was very attentive,-We went for our Anniversary, last month, but, will be back soon!"
Dined on 03/24/2013
 2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 33 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Beautiful decor, very good

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Beautiful decor, very good service. Filet mignon was excellent. Seafood pasta a little too al dente for my taste. They were changing the menu to reflect the new chef. Would like to dine again to see."
Dined on 03/17/2013
 2007
Special Features: romantic, special occasion, scenic view
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 34 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

A very special restaurant

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"A very special restaurant that locals should celebrate special occasions and business people should not miss."
Dined on 04/03/2013
 2007
Special Features: notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 35 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5

Food below average, service

Food 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Food below average, service good,very pricey,noisy, would not go back."
Dined on 04/03/2013
 2010
Special Features: notable wine list, scenic view
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 36 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

too expensive to try again

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Three tries and I cannot say I will be back, except for happy hour to show out of town guests the view. The seafood pasta (like spaghetti) tasted reheated from lunch, dry without flavor, and not much in the way of seafood. On a previous visit a friend ordered this for lunch and it looked and tasted freshly made, so after two more times ordering it at dinner with the same result, I would not order it again. The filet my husband had looked overdone and when he complained they brought it back and said it was because of the tinted windows, so he ate it without further fuss. The manager came over and asked if everything was alright and reexplained about tinted windows. My husband said it still tasted overdone."
Dined on 04/02/2013
 2010
Special Features: special occasion, scenic view
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 37 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

What a wonderful experience.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"What a wonderful experience. Our expectations were high and they managed to exceed them! Congratulations. A definite "must-return" restaurant. Can't say enough good things about it...
Gene Vosberg
"
Dined on 03/31/2013
 2013
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 38 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Overrated

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Food was good, nothing outstanding or exciting.
Service was professional but lacking. Servers seen to be jumping from table to table with a predetermined script. I could hear the server using the same examples in the same tones over a handful of times. Water cups we're not always refilled without asking.
Was a bit noisy. Love music was playing.
Went out of a birthday dinner and was disappointed to find out a complementary dessert was given after we placed an order."
Dined on 03/29/2013
 2012
Special Features: notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 39 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

33rd anniversary. Prix fixe

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"33rd anniversary. Prix fixe lunch quite tasty (we're foodies) and a bargain. The "Happy 33rd Anniversary" dessert plate written chocolate, including a drawing of Diamond Head, was a lovely touch. Cozy side-by-side seating in a booth with a beautiful view looking out toward Waikiki and Diamond Head. What a gorgeous view!"
Dined on 03/30/2013
 2007
Special Features: special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 40 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Low Class Waiter

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Our dining experience was rather disappointing primarily due to the lack of professionalism by our waiter. He spilled water on my purse because he did not bother to have a towel to wipe the pitcher and when it was pointed out to him, he did not bother to apologize nor acknowledge his mistake. The appetizers were quite disappointing; I would have prefered to get a salad instead. When the waiter brought us the bill, he had a iron in his left hand that he had used to iron the table cloth on the table next to us. I thought this was rather tacky."
Dined on 03/29/2013
 2010
Special Features: scenic view
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 41 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Definitely worth another visit!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We loved this place. The lunch prices were excellent for the quality of the food. We will definitely visit this place again. The view was wonderful. Service was excellent and the space was quite lovely."
Dined on 03/22/2013
 2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 42 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

JUST SIMPLY OUTSTANDING IN

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"JUST SIMPLY OUTSTANDING IN EVERY WAY, WHAT MORE CAN I SAY.
Charles David Dreher
Director
Waikiki Health
"
Dined on 03/28/2013
 2012
Special Features: good for groups, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 43 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

What a great view!

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"A gem located in Kakaako and who knew? I've been coming to Hawaii for over 50 years and certainly didn't. We'll be back!"
Dined on 03/28/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 44 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

What a beautiful experience!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"What a beautiful experience! The food, service, and ambiance was excellent."
Dined on 03/27/2013
 2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 45 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Trio for lunch, weather great,

Food 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Trio for lunch, weather great, seated at a requested window table, view spectacular...but, food terribly disappointing. Limited menu is all right (after all it's lunch) if the dishes were satisifactory. I'm told that restaurant will have a new menu soon. Great news. We felt that emphasis on presentation bordered on the ridiculous; its miniscule portions in the appetizer and dessert dishes could all be collected and downed in one dainty swoop.
Two of us had the chicken parmesan; both had the same round shape but one was way larger than the other?? Mine was chewy and rather dry.
I had dinner with my family (4 of us) in January and all felt that Diamond Head was commanding, the food average."
Dined on 03/25/2013
 2013
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 46 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

The food was good not great

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"The food was good not great but the views of the
ocean and Diamond Head were worth having lunch
there. Service was exceptional. Nice place for lunch
or to celebrate a special occassion.
"
Dined on 03/24/2013
 2013
Special Features: romantic, special occasion, great for lunch
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 47 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Quality of pasta dishes was

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Quality of pasta dishes was very good. Fish was very good.Problem was long wait before main dishes arrived."
Dined on 03/24/2013
 2012
Special Features: special occasion, scenic view
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 48 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Our first dining experience

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Our first dining experience here was a very enjoyable evening. Food and service were very good. The shared mixed-seafood appetizer was a pleasant surprise...very fresh, nicely prepared and ample portions. While the restaurant orientation does not provide sunset views, the views toward Waikiki and Diamond Head are terrific!"
Dined on 03/23/2013
 2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 49 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Awesome gem! Food was outstanding.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Awesome gem! Food was outstanding. Great value, good portion. Ambience is amazing. We will definitely return."
Dined on 03/23/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 50 for 53 by the Sea
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

My first visit was more enjoyable

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"My first visit was more enjoyable -- friendly server, appetizer cart with ample servings, relaxed timing
Second visit -- was disappointed with the teeny appetizer serving and the selection o breads. Entree also looked a bit smaller than previously. Server looked and addressed only my guest, totally ignored me other than taking my order. I felt rushed with the server removing items and checking for payment. Previous server had a more hospitable pace.
"
Dined on 03/20/2013
 2013
Special Features: scenic view, great for lunch
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
1 2 3 next>>