Ala Moana is one of Honolulu's best spots for Japanese and broader Asian dining, with a concentration of well-executed restaurants that make it a natural choice for a special occasion meal. Expect to spend on the higher end here, but the quality of the shabu-shabu and Japanese options in particular justifies the occasion. The area around Ala Moana Center gives you a solid anchor point, with dining choices that go well beyond mall food into genuinely considered cooking.