Are you looking for unique things to do near Orlando? The Honu Restaurant and Tiki Bar in Dunedin, Florida, is a fantastic destination to consider. With its rich history and delectable cuisine, this hidden gem is a must-visit spot for anyone in search of a memorable dining experience. Dunedin, a charming coastal town on Florida’s Gulf Coast, has a culinary history as vibrant as its seaside atmosphere. The Honu Restaurant and Tiki Bar play a significant role in preserving and celebrating this history.

The Honu interior tiki decor — Inside The Hanu is a well appointed tiki inspired lounge.

A Taste of Hawaiian Flavors

The Honu’s story begins with its unique name. “Honu” means “turtle” in Hawaiian, and this name pays homage to the Hawaiian influence found in the restaurant’s menu. As you savor your meal, you’ll discover an array of mouthwatering dishes inspired by the Aloha State, including fresh seafood and tropical flavors.

The stack the hanu — We typically make sure we all get something different from the menu, but tonight we all got variations of “The STACK”. It was delicious!

A Trip Back in Time

One of the most appealing aspects of The Honu is its historical setting. Housed in a beautifully restored 1920s bungalow, this restaurant and tiki bar exudes old-world charm. The building itself has a story to tell, having been a part of Dunedin’s history for nearly a century.

The Hanu front yard outdoor dining — Outdoor dining in the “front yard” is great for a nice night, but it’s not very “tiki” themed.

Sip on Tiki Elixirs

While indulging in the culinary delights, don’t forget to explore The Honu’s impressive tiki bar. Craftsmanship abounds here, with bartenders skilled in mixing up tiki elixirs that transport you to a bygone era of exotic cocktails. Enjoy a mai tai or a classic piña colada while surrounded by tiki torches and tropical decor.

As far as tiki drinks are concerned, they were enjoyable but not as sophisticated as the unique blend of flavors you’d expect from higher-caliber tiki establishments.

Tiki drinks the Hanu — (From left to right) Spicy coconut rum colada, Flight to Hawaii, Honu punch, a non-alcoholic colada.

An Evening Under the Stars

The Honu takes full advantage of Florida’s warm weather with its outdoor seating. Dine on the lush patio beneath the twinkling stars, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a tropical paradise. This open-air experience adds to the unique ambiance of this restaurant and tiki bar. The outdoor bar is 21 and over, so our family sat indoors.

the hanu cafe tiki bar — The “backyard“ is the open-air 21 and over restaurant and bar. It’s well decorated and a lively place where friendly locals and visitors enjoy the beautiful mild nights in coastal Dunedin Florida

the hanu ka-pakele rum bar — (From left to right) Spicy coconut rum colada, Flight to Hawaii, Honu punch, a non-alcoholic colada

Whether you’re a local or a visitor to the Orlando area, The Honu Restaurant and Tiki Bar offers a unique dining experience rich in history and flavor.
So, if you’re on the lookout for distinctive things to do as a day trip from Orlando, make sure to add The Honu to your list of must-visit destinations. It’s a taste of Hawaiian charm in the heart of Florida, where history and cuisine come together for an unforgettable experience.