Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    T8ste Buds

    4.8 (127 reviews)
    ModerateSushi Bars, Poke
    Closed 11:00 am - 6:00 pm
    Updated 2 months ago

    T8ste Buds Photos

    Business Info

    T8STE BUDS ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Good for kids
    Good for groups
    Outdoor seating

    You might also consider

    More like T8ste Buds

    Recommended Reviews - T8ste Buds

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    John F.

    Fish tacos were good, sushi taco was one of those in the combo which is popular and tasted good. Three tacos were in the combo which. Spicy Ahi Poke bowl was good but no wow factor. I could get the same at Foodland with a larger portion. Friendly staff, would try again if in the area.

    Kathy N.

    Went again recently since our first experience was amazing! So disappointing! Fish had no flavor and for $17 for 3 small tacos, it wasn't worth it. Love supporting small local businesses, but with the cost, and tasteless fish...I'll have to pass the next time around.

    My husband HS 'Ohana! Made us feel so special every time we get to stop by and support!
    Sharon S.

    With easy parking, a nice place to dine in or outside and the true Aloha and service! We have been there twice now and cannot wait to go back for another poke bowl and I want to try their rolls! If you're wanting to experience and support local while having authentic food come here! You will not want to miss this stop along your way to your beach day on the west side best side! Don't forget to sign your name or take a picture this place will make you feel like 'Ohana! You are not supporting corporation but a true family that hustles and is giving you their best! We want them to come big Island puna side but if you're on Oahu this is a must support, try and share spot! Put down your mushubi and run don't walk to get your spam tacos for a crunch and texture that just different and a nice spin on a local delicacy!

    Cali sushi tacos
    Hien D.

    I've been wanting to try this spot for the past 2 years but never made it out to Waianae. Today was finally the day -- and it did not disappoint. I ordered their infamous sushi tacos: Cali and spicy ahi. I know, basic choices... but trust me, the flavors were anything but basic. The crunch from the nori/taco shell was incredible. You get 3 sushi tacos for $17 -- not exactly cheap, but not outrageous either for the quality. Service was quick and the guys working were super kind. I do wish they offered a mix-and-match option for the sushi tacos because I'd love to sample every flavor on the menu. They also have poke and nigiri, which I haven't tried yet -- but that's a reason to come back. Definitely worth the drive. Plus, it's right by the beach, so you can enjoy your food with a bonus ocean view. (;

    Spicy ahi poke bombs
    Kylie S.

    Stopped here yesterday for an early dinner after hiking nearby. I usually go with their poke tacos (which are always amazing), but opted for the spicy ahi bombs. Service was friendly. Seemed like it was just the one guy working yesterday, but he was quick and efficient! There's seating indoors with AC, and a few seats outside with fresh air. Parking is free in the lot outside just off the highway. Rice was soft and moist, seasoned well. Maybe not the most generous with the fish atop, but nevertheless it was delicious and the fish tasted fresh. Also should note that they were not that spicy (which was fine with me as I have a low spice tolerance)! Will be back again!

    Lechon poke bowls special
    Shana Q.

    Came back for another poke fix and they updated their menu options. I tried the lechon poke bowls and this is my newest fave!! I would always get the sushi Tacos at events but I've missed a few events and decided to head to their store in Maili. I decided to dine in and man it was alot of food. The fish was nice and fresh with lots of flavor. Now for the lechon poke bowl it was a very nice twist of poke with crispy pork. It was alot of food that I had to get a to-go container and finish the rest at home.

    Spicy Ahi Taco
    Kaya B.

    T8ste Buds is an amazing fix if you're ever craving sushi on the Westside. Their sushi tacos are so tasty and the crunch? Yes ma'am. The sushi sans (sandwiches) are very filling and the Cali-san is my personal favorite. The spicy ahi taco...need I say more? The best part, putting your leftovers in the fridge and leaving it to sit for a few hours and letting all the flavors meld into each other is the chefs kiss!

    West side special
    Alyson W.

    Bomb, innovative sushi. Sauce is super tasty. I got the west side special tacos and my husband got the spicy poke bowl. He said it was the best poke he'd ever had. The rice was nice and fluffy - delicious, and the fish was perfectly seasoned, fresh, and tender. I loved the taco shells. Inside is small, but we were helped super quickly at the counter.

    Seriously can't say enough good about this place, everything was SO good! You can really taste the quality and care in the food. Fresh fish, flavors on point, and everything was super filling! My personal favorite was the Cali Bowl and Shenron roll, but everyone NEEDS to try all the sushi tacos! The vibe is nice, all the chefs and staff are amazing people. Super well rounded spot, 10/10 recommend definitely coming back!

    Spicy-Tuna-San sushi sandwich
    Sandra X.

    This place has such innovative twists on sushi! I tried the Salmon Trio sushi tacos and the Spicy-Tuna-San sushi sandwiches, and both were delicious. Salmon Trio Sushi Tacos: These came with 3 pieces for $16. The tacos had a super crispy nori-rice paper shell and were loaded with sauces (garlic aioli, ponzu caramel) and a bunch of toppings. The flavors meshed perfectly--I was literally salivating after the first crunch. Spicy-Tuna-San Sushi Sandwiches: These came with 4 pieces for $16. Like the sushi tacos, they were packed with toppings and sauces, making them incredibly flavorful, fresh, and delicious. They weren't that spicy though; I would've liked a bit more heat. They also had a light dusting of Hot Cheetos, which was a fun, unique touch, but the Cheeto flavor didn't really stand out. That said, I'm just being picky--the dishes were amazing overall! It's definitely on the pricier side, but considering the creative take on sushi, I think it's worth giving a shot. Takes some time for the food to be prepared, but service was friendly. As for the location, it's a small and cozy spot with limited seating. There are about 6 counter seats inside by the window (with AC) and a few outdoor seats as well. It's more of a quick-eats kind of place than a sit-down restaurant. I've heard they're known for their T8ste Bombs, which I still haven't tried. I'm looking forward to coming back one day to give them a shot, especially if I'm ever on the west side again!

    spicy ahi sushi tacos and Shenron roll
    Amanda P.

    Just a heads-up--the spicy ahi sushi tacos and Shenron roll (and probably several other items) use a thick, blended seafood paste instead of actual chunks of ahi. Some people might like it, but I thought it was pretty gross.

    Salmon trio sushi tacos
    Tri An V.

    This place is a must-go whenever you come to the west side! It's more of a grab-and-go type of place but they do have limited seating inside and outside of the storefront if you wanted to sit down and enjoy your food. There is a decent amount of parking so it shouldn't be an issue. I always receive friendly service whenever I come! I always get their salmon trio sushi tacos and they're so yummy! The fish quality seems good and I love how they make their sushi tacos with the fried nori and rice paper. I'm sure all the items on their menu are good and they have large variety of items so there's plenty to choose from. I definitely recommend coming to T8ste Buds if you're ever in Waianae!

    First time going there and I really enjoyed myself. The employees were extremely warm, kind, and welcoming. Definitely felt as if i was visiting family. The food was DELICIOUS!!! as if the visual wasn't enough to persuade you, the taste definitely sealed the deal. If you are ever on the West Side of Oahu and are looking for some Ono Poke Bowls, Sushi Sandwiches, or Sushi Tacos? Better hit up T8stebuds HI. YOU'RE WELCOME!!!

    wasabi ahi bowl and side of pork rinds

    See all

    12 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    9 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 3
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Angelo M.

    Angelo M.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 1

    1 year ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 2
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1

    2 years ago

    Helpful 15
    Thanks 3
    Love this 14
    Oh no 1

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Paul B.
    4
    344
    3

    11 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Ari M.
    110
    42
    9

    9 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 5
    Thanks 1
    Love this 3
    Oh no 1

    2 years ago

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 4
    Love this 6
    Oh no 2

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Joel C.
    261
    47
    11

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 1
    Love this 5
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 5
    Thanks 0
    Love this 5
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 1
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    11 months ago

    Best crunchy tacos on the island, hands down! Always worth the drive, and great service

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    We ordered a poke bowl, but the tuna didn't taste very fresh. The texture felt a bit off. Hopefully this was just a one-time issue.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Eric A.
    29
    79
    139

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 4

    Ask the Community - T8ste Buds

    You might also consider

    Waianae Kalbi & Sushi Mart - Unagi Bowl ONO BRAH!

    Waianae Kalbi & Sushi Mart

    4.2(24 reviews)
    0.7 mi

    If you're looking for a solid sushi or Korean barbecue place to get food then this place hits the…read morespot. Glad to see they've returned only negative is there is only enough space for 4 to eat in. Best for take ou

    Monday, 7/28/2025 - Saw this Korean BBQ & Sushi. But for some is called Waianae Kalbi & Sushi Mart…read moreon Yelp and Google. Restaurant address is 86-120 Farrington Hwy, Ste C306, Waianae, HI 96792. Maybe they just changed their restaurant name? I don't know. We decided to try them and see how it is. Upon arrival.... Pros 1) large parking lot. Plenty of parking. 2) lots of other small shops here. I see Long's drugs, Team Mibile, Pizza Hut, etc here, just to name a few. 3) we were the only one there. I see one lady at the cash register. She took our orders. She smiley and nice. 4) we ordered the Special for $18.99. We got chicken katsu cones with rice and 4 sides. We also got the Shrimp Temp Maki for $11.99 + 2 drinks. 5) it's also a mini mart. They have a few other items got sale here too. See pictures. 6) love all the sides I picked. Rice tasted good. Cons 1) I didn't see a bathroom. Maybe I should have asked. 2) shrimp tempura maki roll was not very good. The other person who ate this roll was not very impressed. I tried a piece and it was just ok. I've had better. But we didn't get wasbi and ginger with it. We had to ask for soy sauce. They don't provide it unless you ask. 3) Most of our chicken tempura was over cooked. It was very chewy and hard to eat. There were a few pieces that was not over cooked and still good to eat. We didn't like our plate. But we ate it anyways just because we already paid for it. 4) Conclusion We weren't very impress with this market/restaurant. Foods weren't good. But the cashier lady was nice. Food sides were good. There was only 1 small table and another table that fits 4 people, inside restaurant. They do have a few items for sale. Not going here for food again. But maybe shop for items instead. You may like the foods here better than me/us.

    Photos
    Waianae Kalbi & Sushi Mart - At a glance - @ Korean BBQ & Sushi, Monday,  7/28/2025

    At a glance - @ Korean BBQ & Sushi, Monday, 7/28/2025

    Waianae Kalbi & Sushi Mart - Spicy ahi maki & hawaiian style poke bowl

    Spicy ahi maki & hawaiian style poke bowl

    Waianae Kalbi & Sushi Mart - Menu

    See all

    Menu

    Kazoku Sushi - Baconator

    Kazoku Sushi

    4.0(728 reviews)
    9.0 mi
    $$

    Kazoku Sushi is one of those places you almost don't want to tell people about... but it's too good…read morenot to. We've been twice now, and it's officially a must-visit every time we're on the island. It's a true hole-in-the-wall spot! nothing flashy, but don't let that fool you. The sushi is phenomenal. Every roll we've tried has been consistently amazing, and the rice is perfect (which honestly makes all the difference). You can immediately tell how fresh the fish is! everything tastes clean, high quality, and thoughtfully prepared. I've even ordered rolls to go, and they hold up so well. The staff is another highlight, so kind, welcoming, and genuinely sweet. It adds to that feeling like you stumbled onto a local favorite rather than a tourist stop. Seating is a little limited, so just be prepared. There are a few small booths, but most of the seating is along the sushi bar. Totally worth it though. This is hands down a place I think about long after leaving, and one I'll keep coming back to every time I'm in Oʻahu.

    Wanted to go to Sushi Bay but they were closed. Found this place near Aulani which had good…read moreratings. Ambiance When I found it I realized we have been here years before. It is a small dated place. Most times than not these places have good food. Customers appeared to be locals which is a good thing. Rate 3 Customer Service The 2 young ladies serving were very polite and attentive. Rate 5 Dragon Roll Very tasty spicy tuna and tempura. Consistency of rice was a bit dry, however very good. Beautiful plating. Rate 4 Oyako Don Chicken, vegetables and egg over rice. A bit too sweet for me but very good. Rate 4

    Photos
    Kazoku Sushi
    Kazoku Sushi - Tamago and hamachi

    Tamago and hamachi

    Kazoku Sushi - Agedashi Tofu and Shrimp Shumai

    See all

    Agedashi Tofu and Shrimp Shumai

    Sushi Bay - Spicy ahi left and onion salmon right (yummy) *3/9/2025

    Sushi Bay

    4.1(2k reviews)
    8.9 mi
    $$

    When I say I love Sushi Bay, I truly mean it. I've been coming here since they first opened years…read moreago--back when I was still in high school--and it has stayed one of my all-time favorite sushi spots on the west side. To put it into perspective, there was a flash flood warning during a storm this week and I still drove 40 minutes just to pick up takeout from them. That's how worth it this place is to me. The portions here are insanely generous, especially for the price point. You get so much food, and the quality never feels compromised. The fish is consistently fresh, flavorful, and well prepared, which is why I keep coming back year after year. Their service is also incredibly efficient. You can tell this team really knows how to run a tight operation. They stayed open and adapted throughout COVID, and that ability to pivot and keep things running smoothly still shows in how quickly and reliably they handle orders today. If you wanna sit inside, I urge you to come towards open or with the expectation to wait a bit. You sign up on the clipboard outside and wait patiently. The good news is that they turntables extremely quickly. Places like this are rare--great food, great value, and a team that clearly cares about what they're doing. I'll always make the drive for Sushi Bay, and I genuinely hope they stay open forever.

    It's kind of a gem that they're a conveyor belt sushi place (the belt doesn't run, actually) and…read morethey're still reasonably priced. No wonder it is always packed! We had to wait 1.5 hours on a Saturday lunch rush! The service is really good and they do try to make sure you're taken care of, I guess people just constantly order and stay forever. The fish quality is good for this type of restaurant. I probably won't return unless I'm in the area and definitely not during weekend lunch rush!

    Photos
    Sushi Bay - 6x of spicy ahi bento from sushi bay yummy *6/10/24

    6x of spicy ahi bento from sushi bay yummy *6/10/24

    Sushi Bay - Shrimp Tempura and Mini Spicy Don

    Shrimp Tempura and Mini Spicy Don

    Sushi Bay - Mix don so yummy *6/2025

    See all

    Mix don so yummy *6/2025

    T8ste Buds - sushi - Updated May 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...