Occasionally, out-of-town guests will hit me up for dining recommendations. Being a self-proclaimed foodie, I’m happy to oblige.
* * * D I S C L A I M E R * * *
These recommendations are for visitors staying in Waikiki. As a traveler myself, I truly value convenience and time (i.e., I wouldn’t send someone to Tanioka’s in Waipahu just for a half-pound of poke.)
Waikiki:
- Duke’s (local food, ambiance, Hula Pie)
- International Marketplace (upscale food court)
- Waikiki Yokocho (Japanese Gourmet Alley)
Kapahulu:
- Rainbow Drive-In (plate lunches)
- Leonard’s Bakery (Malasadas)
- Side Street Inn (local food, pork chops)
Kaimuki:
- Koko Head Café (brunch)
- Kaimuki Superette (brunch)
- Farmer’s Market @ KCC (Saturday’s)
Ala Moana Center:
- Shirokiya Village Walk (Japanese food court)
- Makai Market Food Court (international food court)
Kakaʻako:
- Paʻina Café (poke bowls)
- Highway Inn (Hawaiian food, brunch)
- SALT (an event venue with cafés, bars, and restaurants)
Town:
- The Willow’s (buffet of Hawaiian & local food)
- Zippy’s (local food, family style restaurant)
Chinatown:
- Pig & the Lady (Vietnamese fusion)
- Lucky Belly (bao / ramen)
- Legend’s (dim sum)
Honolulu Harbor:
- Nico’s Pier 38 (local food, desserts)
- Liliha Bakery (local food, brunch)
Kalihi:
- Helena’s (Hawaiian food)
- Alicia’s Market (poke, roast pork)
- Shimazu Shave Ice (fave shave ice)
Hawaii Kai:
- Roy’s (seafood, upscale island cuisine)
- Kona Brewing Co. (micro-brewery, pizza)
Kailua:
- Boots & Kimo’s (brunch, Macnut Pancakes)
- Cinnamon’s (brunch, Red Velvet Pancakes)
Kahuku / North Shore:
- Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck (Garlic Shrimp Plate)
- Papa Ole’s (plate lunches, short ribs)
Haleʻiwa:
- Matsumoto Shave Ice (iconic place)
- Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck (2nd location)
Alan Tamayose 