Best Appetizers in Waikiki: Start Your Meal at PESCA

When you're in Waikiki, starting your meal with a mouthwatering appetizer is the perfect way to set the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. At PESCA, a premier seafood restaurant offering fine dining with stunning views of Waikiki Beach, you'll find some of the best starters Hawaii has to offer.

Fresh, flavorful, and expertly crafted, these appetizers are the perfect complement to the vibrant coastal scenery. Whether you're a seafood lover or looking for a fresh take on classic dishes, PESCA delivers a culinary experience that will leave you eager for more.

Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail

PESCA’s Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail is a must-try for seafood enthusiasts looking for a fresh and flavorful start to their meal. The plump, chilled shrimp are perfectly complemented by a tangy cocktail sauce that adds just the right amount of zest.

This appetizer embodies the fine dining experience you expect from a top seafood restaurant in Waikiki. Served with a backdrop of the sparkling Waikiki Beach, it's not just a dish, but a sensory experience. It’s the best way to kick off a meal when you’re ready to dine with a view in Hawaii.

“Since this was our first visit, but definitely not the last we went for a good selection of the appetizers… I ordered the soup of the day, which turned out to be a tomato bisque, along with the shrimp cocktail, and a bruschetta assortment of crab shrimp, and Ahi…Appetizers arrived, which was absolutely beautifully presented and tasted excellent, the shrimp cocktail was just as fresh as it can get…” - Greg T., Yelp Review

Tuna Tartare

Tuna Tartare at PESCA highlights the restaurant's commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced right from the local waters of Hawaii. This appetizer bursts with fresh flavors, from the delicate texture of the tuna to the zesty citrus notes that enhance every bite. Perfect for those who love to start with something light yet sophisticated, it’s a favorite among seafood lovers.

As you sit overlooking Waikiki Beach, this dish reminds you why dining in Hawaii is such a special experience. The Tuna Tartare truly exemplifies what makes PESCA one of Waikiki’s best fine dining spots.

Grilled Octopus

For something a bit more adventurous, try PESCA's Grilled Octopus, a tender and flavorful appetizer that embodies the best of fine dining in Hawaii. Expertly cooked, the octopus is tender and lightly charred, served with a blend of herbs and seasonings that highlight its freshness.

The dish pairs perfectly with a stunning view of Waikiki Beach, enhancing the entire dining experience. It’s a fresh, bold choice for seafood lovers looking to try something unique and authentic. As one of the restaurant’s standout appetizers, it’s a great way to start a memorable meal.

“The food was amazing just like the atmosphere. We ordered the octopus for appetizer which was delicious! Then we went with the uni pasta and the Ehu local fish aqua pazza style cooking the fish melted when I would take a bite! The staff and servers were extremely friendly and welcoming. I will definitely recommend this place and come again!” - Christian R., Yelp Review

Oysters on the Half Shell

No seafood restaurant experience in Waikiki is complete without sampling fresh Oysters on the Half Shell. Served ice-cold with a selection of sauces, these oysters offer the best in ocean-fresh flavors, perfect for a light yet luxurious start to your meal.

The briny, delicate taste pairs beautifully with the surrounding view of Waikiki Beach, enhancing the feeling of dining in paradise. These oysters are not just a dish, but a celebration of Hawaii’s abundant seafood. For those looking to dine with a view and enjoy the freshest offerings, this appetizer is a must.

“….As our appetizer we got the half dozen oysters , which were amazing and so fresh…After our meal they were sweet enough to bring us a complimentary red velvet cheesecake to celebrate our anniversary! Over all we had a great experience at PESCA. It is definitely on the pricier side, but for a nice dinner date or special occasion I would 100% recommend!” - Sammy B., Yelp Review

Ahi Tuna Sashimi

The Ahi Tuna Sashimi at PESCA Waikiki is a fresh and flavorful appetizer, featuring premium ahi marinated in a delicate soy-infused extra virgin olive oil. The rich umami from the soy perfectly complements the buttery texture of the ahi, while the wasabi adds just the right amount of heat for a balanced finish.

This dish showcases the best of fine dining with a subtle yet bold flavor profile, making it a must-try for seafood lovers. The sashimi’s freshness is enhanced by PESCA's oceanfront views, creating an unforgettable dining experience. It’s the ideal appetizer for those looking to savor a taste of Hawaii’s finest seafood.

“...I ordered the ahi sashimi w/soy ginger sauce. There were 3 pieces and it was $14. The ahi was very fresh and tasty!..” - Tina M., Yelp Review

“Well! The service was excellent, the cocktails were fantastic & delicious happy hour appetizers…We’ll be sticking to Happy Hour and seafood there in future. Definitely recommend dining here or at the very least Happy Hour (ps. the local Ahi Sashimi with ginger soy sauce is to die for).” - pinkerrific, Trip Advisor

Fresh Caviar Plate

The Fresh Caviar Plate at PESCA Waikiki is a luxurious appetizer, featuring 30 grams of premium caviar accompanied by an array of carefully curated garnishes. Served with traditional blini, the caviar is paired with capers, finely chopped egg white, egg yolk, red onion, sour cream, and chives, allowing you to craft each bite to your taste. The rich, briny caviar contrasts beautifully with the creamy and tangy accompaniments, creating an exquisite balance of flavors.

This dish exemplifies the fine dining experience at PESCA, offering a fresh and indulgent start to your meal with breathtaking views of Waikiki Beach. For those seeking a refined and elegant appetizer, the Fresh Caviar Plate delivers the best in luxury seafood.

“We started with the caviar, it is amazing…” - Jon S., OpenTable

5 Tips for Enjoying the Freshest Seafood Appetizers

Eating a seafood appetizer is an art that combines freshness, flavor, and texture. Whether you're enjoying oysters, shrimp, or sashimi, knowing how to properly savor each bite will elevate your dining experience. Here are a few tips to help you fully enjoy your next seafood appetizer, whether you're at a fine dining restaurant like PESCA Waikiki or anywhere else in Hawaii.

1. Start with Freshness

Always ensure the seafood is fresh when enjoying an appetizer, as this directly impacts the flavor and texture. Fresh seafood should have a clean, ocean-like smell and firm texture, with no fishy odor. When dining at a reputable seafood restaurant like PESCA Waikiki, you can expect only the freshest ingredients, which enhance your overall dining experience.

2. Pair with the Right Drink

Choosing the right drink to accompany your seafood appetizer can elevate the flavors. A crisp white wine or light sparkling beverage often complements the delicate and fresh taste of seafood without overpowering it. For more adventurous pairings, try exploring local drinks, like a tropical Hawaiian cocktail, to enhance the island experience.

3. Savor the Sauces

Many seafood appetizers come with various dipping sauces or garnishes that are meant to enhance the natural flavors. Whether it’s a tangy cocktail sauce, a wasabi blend, or a citrusy dressing, these accompaniments provide depth and contrast to the seafood. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different sauces to find the combination that best suits your taste.

4. Take Note of Texture

The texture of seafood is an essential part of the tasting experience, from the tenderness of ahi tuna to the crispness of fried calamari. Appreciating the texture, whether smooth, flaky, or crunchy, can help you better understand the quality of the dish. A well-prepared seafood appetizer should maintain its texture without being too dry or overly chewy.

5. Mind the Serving Temperature

Seafood appetizers are often served either chilled, like oysters, or warm, such as grilled shrimp. Ensuring that your dish is served at the appropriate temperature preserves its taste and texture. Cold seafood should be served fresh and cool, while hot appetizers should be enjoyed warm to savor the full flavor profile of the ingredients.

Seafood Appetizers and Panoramic Views at PESCA Waikiki

Imagine savoring the freshest seafood appetizers while gazing at the breathtaking panorama of Waikiki Beach from the 30th floor of the Ilikai Hotel. This unparalleled dining experience elevates your meal to new heights, as the stunning ocean views and gentle sea breeze create an ambiance that's simply unmatched.

The combination of delectable flavors and mesmerizing scenery makes this a truly unforgettable experience, surpassing any other restaurant in the area. From succulent shrimp cocktails to delicate tuna tartare, each bite is enhanced by the captivating backdrop of Waikiki's turquoise waters and golden sands. Elevate your dining experience and create lasting memories at this extraordinary location.

Indulge in the Best Seafood Appetizers in Waikiki at PESCA

PESCA Waikiki stands out as a top seafood restaurant, offering an unforgettable dining experience with its stunning oceanfront views and exceptional appetizers. From the freshest Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail to the luxurious Fresh Caviar Plate, each dish promises a burst of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.

Elevate your next visit to Waikiki by indulging in these exquisite appetizers at PESCA – an experience that perfectly combines fine dining with the vibrant spirit of Hawaii. Make sure to book your table in advance to secure your spot at one of the best restaurants in Waikiki!