You know the saying, “don’t judge a book by its cover?” Of course you do, but we bet you didn’t know it also applies to restaurants — especially in Hawaii. You see, when you call an island chain surrounded by the Pacific Ocean home, you inevitably become spoiled by the incredible, fresh seafood and sushi options available to you, but the best of the best isn’t served at fancy resorts nestled along Waikiki Beach. In fact, it is behind the doors of this underrated eatery in Honolulu that you will find some of Oahu’s best sushi. Ready to dig in? Let’s head to Morio’s Sushi Bistro.

Housed in the former Precisio Radio storefront — which stands out for its seafoam green paint — is Morio’s Sushi Bistro, a magnificent spot for sushi if you can look past the unassuming storefront.

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This tiny little eatery may not look like much from the exterior, and, to be honest, the inside leaves a lot to be desired as well, but the sushi served here is some of the best on the island — and that’s saying a lot.

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Morio’s Sushi Bistro/Google

The absolute definition of a hole in the wall, owner Morio serves up some mighty fine sushi for dinner six days a week in his tiny dining room that seats approximately 15 people.

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A renowned fishmonger who gets first dibs on some of Japan’s best seafood, Morio is not only a talented sushi maker but makes his guests feel right at home in his tiny establishment, entertaining them with his lively spirit and hilarious antics. You’ll love the laid-back attitude and casual atmosphere.

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From sashimi, tempura shrimp, and lobster soup to scallops, sea urchin, yellowtail, and saltwater eel, the sushi served at Morio’s is a step above the rest.

Morio’s Sushi Bistro/Google

For the full experience, order the omakase, a Japanese phrase that means “I’ll leave it up to you,” and gives you a sampling of everything Morio’s Sushi Bistro has to offer.

Morio’s Sushi Bistro/Facebook

Word of mouth and relatively cheap prices have made Morio’s one of the island’s hottest hole in the walls, and we can’t disagree. If you’d like to enjoy a drink with your meal, bring your own beer or sake and offer some to Morio (he’ll love that).

Morio’s Sushi Bistro/Google

If you’re looking for mouthwatering sushi far away from the tourist traps of Waikiki, head to Morio’s Sushi Bistro. You will have to make a reservation, though: rumor has it that Morio’s can be booked for months in advance.

Morio’s Sushi Bistro/Facebook

Morio’s Sushi Bistro is located at 1150S King St., Honolulu, HI 96814, and is open for dinner Monday through Saturday from 6 to 10:30 p.m. They are closed on Sundays. For more information, visit their website or follow them on Facebook.

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Morio’s Sushi Bistro/Facebook

If you’re looking for another under-the-radar seafood spot in Honolulu, look no further than Ono Seafood.

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