Ginza Bairin Tonkatsu & Yoshoku Bistro - Japanese restaurant in Honolulu - 255 Beach Walk, USA

I had an average experience at Ginza Bairin. The Tonkatsu and Yoshoku dishes were decent, but the pricing felt a bit high for the taste offered. It might be seen as a tourist-friendly spot with a standard menu. However, taste preferences are subjective, and others may find it enjoyable. The service was friendly, but overall, I was expecting more for the price.

If you're into tasty Katsu, check out this restaurant. We had the "Specialty" Kurobuta Pork Loin Katsu Set and Chicken Katsu Set—they cooked the meat really well. The set includes miso soup, rice, and veggies, and we also tried the Crab Cream Croquette and Black Tiger Shrimp Katsu as starters—they were good, especially with the sauces.

It is by far the most flavorful pork katsu I have ever had. Curry pork katsu was delicious, the specialty kurobota limited item was juicy. Service took one star away simply because the tea never arrived, we ordered hot rolled omelette and cold tamagoyaki arrived.

Honestly, it's probably one of the biggest tourist trap I've fallen for awhile. Lack of selection, average food, exorbitant prices. They refused to serve a second serving of miso soup when the menu indicated you are allowed that because there's a hidden rule that everyone must order a set in order to get that (not mentioned on the menu at all). Not cool at all since we paid for the set meal. I'd say skip this and cross the street to try Steak Farm instead. Half the price and 10x the flavor and quality.

Great experience! We made a reservation the morning of and came right at 11am when they opened. We ordered the specialty thick cut and specialty kurobuta. Both were delicious and perfectly cooked. The miso soup was lovely. The crab cream croquettes were to die for, melt in your mouth perfection. There was a lunch time special for Asahi beer and that was very refreshing. We were offered complimentary hot tea as well. Would definitely come back!

We came here because we have been to the location in Ginza, Tokyo, and wanted to be transported back. We were very satisfied with the generous cut of the pork katsu, and the impeccable service that you would expect at a Japanese restaurant. Though it was much pricier than dining at Ginza, it was still a great experience for those who love katsu, or have always wanted to try. The only factor deducting the 1 star is the interior, it felt tight and almost like we were dining with the table next to us. Otherwise, this was a great way to spend a dinner during our trip.

eaten here on every single trip ive taken to oahu over the last 3 years and it never disappoints. juicy, high quality pork katsu, with perfectly crispy breading. i’d recommend shelling out for the special katsus if they still have availability—you can definitely tell the difference in juiciness and tenderness! amazing and accommodating service as well. i’d recommend making a reservation beforehand, but even if not, definitely stop by for a delicious dinner in waikiki if you have a chance! one of the best restaurants in this area for sure.

This is our second time here! We were seated on the bistro side the first time and in the tonkatsu room this time. Everything we’ve tried so far has been nothing short of amazing: pork katsu, curry, seafood plate, and the croquette. Service is also impeccable, just like what you can expect in Japan.