Hawaii Restaurants & Dining Archives | Hawaii.com

The Heart of Hanalei: Fresh Bite Farm to Beach

Ginger Keller — Wed, 01 Jun 2022 02:15:58 +0000

Fresh Bite makes and creates a variety of bowls, like Chop Lee (left), named after the owner’s mom, which also can come with grass-fed steak. (Photo: Fresh Bite Farm To Beach)

When asking children what they want to be when they grow up, some of the top replies are a doctor, princess, pro athlete or movie star. But for Sara Carsia, who’s the chef and co-owner of Fresh Bite Farm to Beach, her answer was always the same: restaurant owner.

“I’ve always loved cooking and farm-fresh foods,” says Carsia. “I graduated from college with a degree in nutrition and then moved to Kauai with my now husband, Zak. We worked at some of the most delicious restaurants and would shop at our beautiful farmers markets. After having our first daughter, we made the leap to start Fresh Bite Farm to Beach with our family.”

Found in the quaint and magical town of Hanalei, the Kauai food truck serves up fresh, local and organic fare that’s packed with flavor and good-for-you contents. Menu items cater to plant-based eaters and include salads, wraps and bowls, though, Carsia says there’s surely something for everyone.

Take the 808 steak sandwich ($13), for example, which comprises local, grass-fed steak with Kailani Farms greens, green onion, tomato and a choice of a homemade sauce (buttermilk ranch, honey mustard, chipotle or chimichurri).

The Buddha wrap with organic chicken ($16), meanwhile, is a bestseller. It includes local organic salad greens, crispy and crunchy fresh cabbage, cucumber, carrots, green onion and macadamia nuts that comes together with a rich, creamy, vegan macadamia nut satay sauce in a locally made whole wheat tortilla.

When asked what her favorite thing on the menu is, Carsia says, “I love everything equally, like my keiki, ‘cause I made them all,” with a smile.

“But, today, I’d eat a Chop Lee quinoa bowl with local and grass-fed steak. It’s hearty with organic quinoa, salad greens, tomatoes, roasted corn, hard boiled egg, avocado, green onion, crispy chickpeas and drizzled with the most delicious ranch dressing made fresh every week by my mom, Lee.

Fresh Bite is your quintessential family-run biz, something Carsia says is wonderful but can be challenging at times. But there isn’t a day — or lunch rush— that goes by where she’d want to work with anyone else.

“When you come to Fresh Bite, you are supporting so many local Kauai families and their small business dreams,” she says. “We are connecting people; you can taste the freshness and aloha.”

Fresh Bite Farm to Beach

5-5100 Kuhio Hwy., Hanalei (Kauai)
Phone: 808-652-0744
Web: freshbitekauai.com
Instagram: @freshbitekauai
How to pay: Cash, credit cards and Apple Pay
How to order: Phone or in person

—
Originally published in the Star-Advertiser’s Crave section.

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Iconic Ted’s Bakery Ends Wholesale Operations

Hawaii.com Team — Wed, 11 May 2022 19:13:21 +0000

Who doesn’t love a Ted’s Bakery pie? From its island-famous chocolate haupia pie to its blueberry cream pie, there’s really no wrong choice. However, you’ll soon have to make the trek down to the bakery’s physical location on the North Shore of Oʻahu to get a slice for yourself, as the business will be ending its wholesale operation on May 20, 2022, after 26 years.

While you could easy find a Ted’s Bakery pie in local grocery stores and shops—like Foodland, Times, Don Quixote and Tamura’s—around Oʻahu, Maui and Kauaʻi, an unexpected supply chain issue has been plaguing the local business for years—and enough is enough. The ingredient causing the issue is a specific type of starch that Ted’s Bakery uses in its baking process that keeps the right consistency right as it is frozen and shipped to local grocery stores and outlets.

Photo: CRAIG T. KOJIMA/Honolulu Star-Advertiser

Tory Nakamura, who now runs the shop after the semi-retirement of her father, Ted Nakamura, said that the manufacturer of the ingredient is no longer producing it, which is turn makes it unclear whether or not the bakery will be able to return to its wholesale operation at all.

“This has been an ongoing challenge since the summer of last year, and we have tested multiple substitutes but unfortunately have not had great success. At this time, we don’t know if we can go back to wholesale,” said Ted’s Bakery in an Instagram post. “Pies and cakes will still be available at our Sunset Beach location. We truly appreciate your understanding and continued support.”

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A post shared by Ted’s Bakery (@tedsbakeryhi)

So if you’re craving a Ted’s pie, what should you do? Make a day of your sweet-tooth journey and head up to the North Shore, where you can also enjoy some of the best beaches on Oʻahu. And for visitors traveling to the state, you’ll have a great excuse to actually check out the bakery’s brick and mortar location, which also happens to sell delicious plates of garlic shrimp as well as burgers and other delectable plate lunch options.

For more information and for store hours, visit Ted’s Bakery’s website.

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11 New Maui Restaurants That Are Now Local Favorites

Hawaii.com Team — Tue, 18 Jan 2022 00:57:36 +0000

Photo: Paia Bowls.

There are some things on Maui that never change, like the fiery beauty of a Haleakala sunrise or the trade winds on summer afternoons.

Then there’s the Maui restaurant scene, where seemingly the only constant is change — oftentimes for the better. While it’s always hard to see your favorite restaurant close its doors, there’s an excitement surrounding the chance to try out someplace different and new.

Here’s a roundup of some of the best new Maui restaurants over the past few years that are now local favorites.

1. Fork and Salad

Photo: Fork and Salad.

Fork and Salad is the place to go for a healthy lunch of freshly made sandwiches and salads. The fresh produce is sourced here on island, and the restaurant’s mission is to bring farm-to-table dining to the casual lunchtime crowd. Considering it’s run by the same chefs behind Three’s Bar and Grill, it’s little wonder that the healthy options have become an instant hit.

2. The Pint and Cork

Catch of the day the Mediterranean spiced Ono, cucumber tomato salad, roasted beet reduction, pickled jalapeño. Photo: The Pint and Cork.

A little bit further south in Wailea, another gastropub, The Pint and Cork, serves food until midnight for anyone looking for late night food in Wailea. The sports on TV and craft beers on tap help make it a popular gathering place for visitors and South Maui locals, and it’s carved out a classy but casual niche since opening in 2016.

3. Humble Market Kitchin

Chef Roy Yamaguchi. Photo: Hawaiʻi Food and Wine Festival.

Just across the parking lot at the Marriott Wailea Beach Resort, Humble Market Kitchin is the latest brainchild of famed chef, Roy Yamuguchi. Specializing in breakfast and dinner, the restaurant stays true to its island roots with loco moco in the morning, and fancies it up with ribeyes and butterfish at night when the sun goes down.

4. Maui Teriyaki Company

For a casual South Maui meal that’s friendly for families as well as your wallet, Maui Teriyaki Company is located inside the Dolphin Plaza and across from Kamaole II beach. Most plates are under $10 and it makes for a casual, flavorful meal of teriyaki chicken or pork.

5. Baya Bowls

Baya celebrated two years in November 2017. Photo: Baya Acai Bowls Maui.

An affordable newcomer to Lahaina is the popular Baya Bowls food truck, which you’ll find parked on Waine‘e Street just a three-minute walk from Front Street. The healthy selection of acai bowls is a hit with the local beach community, as is the cold brewed coffee that serves as the perfect party-town pick me up.

6. Alchemy Maui

Photos: Alchemy Maui.

For another healthy Lahaina option that’s opened within the last year, Alchemy Maui is a located a bit off the well worn visitor track, but the menu of sandwiches and tangy kombucha makes up for the industrial setting.

7. Mauka Makai

For the latest installment of Hawaiian Regional cuisine in Ka‘anapali, Mauka Makai is the signature restaurant of the Westin Nanea Villas, and features a menu of dishes sourced from the mountain slopes (mauka) down toward the sea (makai).

8. Nylos

If you find yourself on the North Shore by night, the recently opened Nylos restaurant brings fine dining to funky Paia with three course dinners plus wine.

9. Acevedo’s Hawaicano

Or, if you’re simply looking for Mexican food with a local Hawaiian twist, Acevedo’s Hawaicano is a classic, family owned hole in the wall that’s conveniently located just five minutes from Kahului Airport. The industrial setting is the absolute antithesis of oceanfront dining on Maui, but the portions are huge, the taste is authentic, and it sometimes sells out by mid-afternoon—which means they’re doing something right.

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Kauai Cuisine: Eating Good on the Garden Isle

Hawaii.com Team — Sun, 28 Jun 2020 14:27:45 +0000

Kaua‘i’s more than 500 square miles of ‘āina (land) is home to a range of microclimates.

Rainforests dripping with precipitation and dry cactus-laced coastlines make the island an exclusive location for harvesting a variety of food.

Chefs have the privilege of using purple sweet potatoes, green beans, mango and lychee to spruce up their dishes, as they are among the bountiful edibles regularly available to them. That’s what makes dining here so special.

This variety of flavors straight from the soil is why the culinary culture on the Garden Isle is something to look forward to during your Hawaiian vacation.

Fresh, Local Ingredients

Most restaurants encompassing the island have at least one or two specialty dishes that use fresh, local ingredients. You’ll find salads made with greens from north shore farms and desserts created with fruits plucked from west side gardens. Most places strive to use as much local produce as possible for their dishes.

Fresh Catch of the Day

The cuisine on Kaua‘i also represents the myriad of fish found in deep waters surrounding the island’s coasts. Often, restaurants will serve the fresh catch of the day, which can fluctuate from ahi (tuna) to ono (mackerel). Chefs use the fish in a range of ways from baked with a macadamia nut crust to rolled raw in sushi. There’s often an Asian Pacific flare to these dishes as well. Teriyaki sauces and miso glazes are common to many menus — something you won’t be able to taste in quite the same way anywhere else.

The Kauai Food Truck Scene

Sit-down restaurants aren’t the only option if you want to experience Kaua‘i’s culinary culture. Food trucks keep springing up in places like Hanalei, Kapa‘a and Po‘ipū. They are a less expensive, more casual option, but the food is just as delicious. Many of these trucks also go out of their way to work with farmers and fisherman to accommodate the local food movement.

Farmer’s Markets

It goes without saying that farmer’s markets are one of the best places to get in on Kaua‘i’s culinary action, especially one where value-added products are sold. These items are pre-made and can be anything from popsicles made with fresh fruit and homemade jams, to pasta and soup.

Kaua‘i’s cuisine is so eclectic with such a unique tropical flare it would be difficult not to please your palate during your stay in paradise.

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Mochi for Breakfast? Here are 5 Spots You Must Try

Olena Heu — Sun, 02 Feb 2020 20:12:22 +0000

Craving something sweet, light, fluffy yet chewy and perhaps a texture that you’ve never encountered before? Enter delightfully delicious mochi pancakes and mochi waffles, artfully created using rice flour. This iconic Japanese treat, which originally dates back to just before the 800’s, is setting a new trend. Here’s a look at five of the most innovative and mouthwatering mochi pancakes and mochi waffles you must try on Oahu.

Koa Pancake House

Photo: Koa Pancake House

A staple for breakfast with an impressive menu spanning everything you can imagine — from omelets, to benedicts and more — Koa Pancake House has been open for nearly four decades and now boasts Butter Mochi Pancakes and a Butter Mochi Waffle topped with Guava Lava puree. Butter mochi is a more decadent mochi, usually a golden yellow hue and includes … yes, rich, silky butter. The chewy texture is addictive and a perfect blend of sweet with savory.

Koa Pancake House
6 Locations island-wide
Oahu, Hawaii
www.koapancakehouse.com

YogurStory

Photo: YogurStory

Famous the world over for their vibrant purple ube pancakes, the management team at YogurStory decided to try something new — Ube Waffles. This pairing of ube (purple yam) with mochi flour topped with a sour cream whipped cream will leave your tastebuds dancing. The waffles have more of a spongy texture when compared to traditional pancakes, and the ube syrup is a blend of coconut milk and sweet yam, which offers a nutty, creamy and comforting essence.

Yogurstory
745 Keeaumoku Street
Honolulu, HI 96814
(808) 942-0505
www.yogurstory.com

M.A.C. 24/7 Waikiki

Photo: M.A.C. 24/7

An all-day and all-night eatery serving unique island favorites along with traditional comfort classics, these Mochi Pancakes are uniquely delicate, alarmingly addictive and easily devoured. Naturally gluten free and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for breakfast, lunch, dinner or a late-night snack, the original option is served with a spiced vanilla butter, or you can choose to add freshly picked fruits to enhance the flavor profile. Honestly, these pancakes are so yummy you don’t need to add anything to them in this chic, contemporary yet charmingly convenient gem.

M.A.C. 24/7 Waikiki
2500 Kuhio Avenue
Waikiki, HI 96815
(808) 921-5564
www.mac247waikiki.com

Herringbone Waikiki

Photo: Herringbone Waikiki

Weekend brunch just got better when you add Mochi Pancakes from Herringbone Waikiki to the mix. Topped with lilikoi (passion fruit) butter and seasonal fruits, this order of pancakes is almost too beautiful to eat. Lilikoi is a blend of both sweet and sour, so if you would prefer to enjoy the delicate flavor of the gluten-free pancake, ask for the sauce on the side. A convenient location at International Market Place, along with the idyllic decor, makes this a hot spot for those who love to enjoy an afternoon meal with flowing mimosas in the tropics.

Herringbone Waikiki
2330 Kalakaua Avenue #316
Waikiki, HI 96815
(808) 797-2435
herringboneeats.com/locations/waikiki

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Oahu’s Best New Restaurants for Winter 2019-2020

Olena Heu — Wed, 01 Jan 2020 17:58:30 +0000

A blend of casual treats and fine dining highlight our best new restaurants this winter. You’ll find luxurious nuances like truffle and caviar, while on the flip side tasty sandwiches, robust sweet treats and boba teas will satiate your hunger. Here’s a look at the best new restaurants on Oahu this winter.

Mugen Waikiki

Photo: Mugen Waikiki

Japanese-French cuisine cannot even begin to describe the innovative menu at Mugen Waikiki (pronounced moog-in). The experience is world class and the ingredients are exquisite. Now offering lunch and dinner in Waikiki, Mugen features ala carte lunch offerings like Miyagi Oysters, Chioggio Beef and Kona Abalone. Meanwhile, the eight-course seasonal dinner menu is outstanding and worth experiencing for your special occasion or adventurous night out with loved ones.

Mugen Waikiki
2452 Kalakaua Ave
Honolulu, HI

Salt and Pepper Cafe Hawaii

Photo: Salt and Pepper Cafe

A casual eatery in the heart of Honolulu, Salt and Pepper Cafe is located in the former L’Uraku spot near Piikoi Street. The promise of freshness and well-composed vegan options means they love to serve naturally fresh food. Breakfast features items from the griddle, and lunch showcases poke bowls, salads and sandwiches —- perfect for the brunch-loving crowd.

Salt and Pepper Cafe
1341 Kapiolani Blvd
Honolulu, HI 96814

malu

Photo: malu

Artfully crafted fresh and vibrant cakes served with jelly drinks, soft serve, kimbap and bentos showcases a diverse yet flavorful menu. Specialty cute cakes (chocolate mousse, strawberry cheesecakes, strawberry shortcakes) are available for custom order, or you may stop by and grab a cream puff, soft serve, drink or savory daily bento that often features noodles, veggies, meats and homemade sauces. Grab a light lunch and a truly memorable sweet ending.

malu
661 Keeaumoku Street
#106E
Honolulu, HI

La Vie Waikiki

Photo: La Vie

Modern French cuisine can now be found at The Ritz Carlton Residences in Waikiki. La Vie is a breakfast, lounge and dinner spot that is exquisitely elegant, while highlighting local ingredients served with specific attention to detail. Artfully composed, each dish is a piece of modern art that includes items featuring Wagyu Steak, Lobster Toast and the world’s finest caviar. This refined modern approach to classic French cuisine is elevated, extraordinary and offers three- and five-course menu tastings to savor and enjoy.

La Vie
383 Kalaimoku Street
Honolulu, HI

Cloud Nine Cafe

Photo: Cloud 9 Cafe

Enjoy a fun and flavorful menu of boba teas, soufflé pancakes, salads and sandwiches at this new cafe located at Market City Shopping Center. This eatery which serves up Taiwanese inspired street foods and treats is the perfect spot to relax, enjoy, do work and surf the web. Their soufflé pancakes are an impressive combination of over the top flavors and ingredients served on a fluffy moist pancake, a must experience delight.

Cloud Nine Cafe Hawaii
2919 Kapiolani Blvd
#206D
Honolulu, HI 96826

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Check out these restaurants for great local grinds on Kauai

Hawaii.com Team — Sat, 28 Sep 2019 22:09:55 +0000

Interested in tasting authentic plate lunches and some of Hawaii’s most beloved local grinds? You’re in luck because several spots around Kauai stay true to the eclectic cultural flavors that make Hawaiis food so unique.

Mark’s Place

Photo: Mark’s Place

This is one of the most popular places for Pacific Rim Cuisine. Tucked in an industrial area in Puhi, it’s where you’ll find a variety of grab-and-go plate lunches and bento boxes that you can take with you or enjoy at one of their outside tables. Try a little bit of everything when you order Mark’s Famous Mixed Plate, served with chicken katsu, teriyaki beef, beef stew, rice and a scoop of classic potato macaroni salad.

Smiley’s Local Grinds

Photo: Smiley’s Local Grinds

This place has just about every single kind of local plate you can imagine. Try any number of items, including laulau, chicken long rice, kalua pig or loco moco at a fraction of the cost of other places. And bring your appetite to this small diner, which is nestled inside a mini strip mall on Rice Street, because portions are ample.

Hamura Saimin

Located in an obscure alley in Lihue, this place has bustled with customers ever since opening in the 1950s. And not much has changed about it since then, including its old-fashioned U-shaped counter. Visit on a chilly evening and order a warm, heaping serving of saimin, a bowl of soup reminiscent of the plantation days when workers would cobble together ingredients in order to fill their bellies after a hard day’s work. Each bowl is made with ramen noodles, broth and a range of other ingredients, such as lunch meat, fish cakes and roasted pork.

Koloa Fish Market

Get your fill of locally caught, fresh fish at this tiny South Shore grab-and-go eatery. This little hole in the wall is the perfect place to pick up something to bring to the beach for a picnic. They’ve got ahi poke with all the spicy trimmings, as well as fish plates that come with rice, green salad and macaroni salad.

Fish Express

This is another fresh fish option that serves an array of poke bowls, as well as Hawaiian plates made with your choice of laulau or kalua pork, lomi salmon, rice and a side of poke. They also have grab-and-go gourmet bento boxes with options like baked teriyaki chicken and furikake crusted salmon. Best of all, this is an excellent place to pick up fresh fish, such as ahi, ono or mahimahi, to take with you and grill yourself.

Pono Market

This locally owned and operated Kapaa eatery, which also serves as a convenience store, opened in 1968. The market is known for its Hawaiian plate lunches that include an assortment of flavorful options, such as spicy poke, lomilomi salad, chicken laulau steamed in taro leaves and hefty scoops of rice. They also make musubi by the hundreds every day with different flavors and meats, including teriyaki beef or chicken, and, of course, classic Spam.

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Check out these new Oahu restaurants for fall 2019

Olena Heu — Tue, 17 Sep 2019 18:39:18 +0000

It’s all about comfort food this fall and that means lobster rolls, soft serve and ono-licious plate lunches. Familiar favorites and delicious delicacies are topping our list of best new restaurants to try on Oahu this fall.

Jolene’s Market

Photo: Jolene’s Market

A casual food hall hidden in Honolulu’s Chinatown district, Jolene’s Market pairs East and West in an approachable setting with attractive prices. Fan favorites include the Maine lobster rolls, cajun style seafood with an asian twist and other delights popular in Vietnam, Hong Kong and China.

Jolene’s Market
100 North Beretania Street
Honolulu, HI 96817

Tex 808

Photo: Tex 808

Sizzling steaks, fried pickles, brisket/pulled pork BBQ is the name of the game in this new Hawaii Kai eatery. Southern comfort foods abound in this cozy restaurant known for it’s Texas-style BBQ and brews. Portions are generous, the Mac-N-Cheese is delicious and be sure to save room for bread pudding.

Tex 808
333 Keahole Street
Honolulu, HI 96825

TBD Hawaii

Photo: Olena Heu

Just as its name suggests the future of this pop-up restaurant is TBD (to be determined). Chic fine dining with a worldly twist, TBD has an 18 month commitment at this location (Lotus Honolulu) and will likely find a new home next year. A plethora of Indian/Global-inspired dishes are crafted using local ingredients and innovative techniques. Try the meatballs, escargot and mango dessert!

TBD Hawaii
2885 Kalakaua Avenue
Honolulu, HI 96815

Hamada General Store

Photo: Hamada General Store

Hello Hamburger Steak, Loco Moco, Garlic Shrimp and other local favorites. Hamada General Store takes classic island favorites and elevates them to the next level. Gourmet plate lunches also means you’ll find sous vide items and simple SPAM and eggs too. The food is filling, flavorful and perfect for when you’re craving a hearty meal.

Hamada General Store
885 Queen Street
Honolulu, HI 96813

The Moani Island Bistro & Bar

Photo: The Moani Island Bistro & Bar

island cuisine paired with refreshing drinks and live entertainment is what you’ll find at this new Kapolei restaurant. Greatly inspired by the local music scene and Hawaii entertainers, you’ll find specialty burgers, fried rice and perfectly prepared chicken karaage. Local delights and comforts are easy to spot and enjoy.

The Moani Island Bistro & Bar
91-5431 Kapolei Pkwy
Kapolei, HI 96707

Thrills

Photo: Thrills

A soft serve and frozen yogurt shop that has taken Honolulu by storm, Thrills is both delicious and extremely photogenic. New and exciting flavors create the perfect combination for your sugar addiction. Items like Mango, Ube and Oreo are more than just a lick or two and the cones can be dazzled with toppings including like cookies and cereal too.

Thrills
510 Piikoi Street
Honolulu, HI 96814

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Happy Hour in Honolulu: Our Top Picks for Summer 2019

Olena Heu — Sat, 13 Jul 2019 19:31:03 +0000

Time to relax and refresh with a chilled beverage and a bite to eat. There’s no better way to welcome the evening than with happy hour. In Honolulu, we are lucky to have a broad range of delightful happy hour spots to satiate your hunger and quench your thirst. Here are some places to check out:

Moku Kitchen

Photo: Moku Kitchen

Located in Kakaako between Aloha Tower and Ala Moana Center is a farm-to-table eatery that specializes in combining delicious locally grown produce and proteins with sumptuous flavors and exotic treats. Moku Kitchen serves happy hour daily from 3 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. and offers half-off all small plates and $9 pizzas, along with beers $2-$3 off and wines by the glass for $6, while cocktails range from $6 (classic) $8.50 (signature).

Moku Kitchen
660 Ala Moana Blvd.
Honolulu, HI 96813

Top of Waikiki

Photo: Top of Waikiki

Boasting panoramic views of Waikiki from Manoa to Diamond Head from Hawaii’s only revolving bar and restaurant,Top of Waikiki offers an eclectic mix of local favorites, fine seafood cuisine and innovative cocktails. Towering above the rest in Waikiki is sure to impress from sunset to moonrise. Happy Hour is offered nightly 5 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. at the bar with drink specials including beer, spirits and wine all for $5, and signature cocktails for $9. Pupus are $8 to $15.

Top of Waikiki
2270 Kalakaua Ave.
21st Floor
Honolulu, HI 96815

Sansei Seafood Restaurant & Sushi

Photo: Sansei Seafood Restaurant & Sushi

Excellent quality sushi and delightful blends of Japanese cuisine with Hawaiian Regional flare create the menu at this lively sushi eatery. Famous for their Happy Hour offerings there is always a line to get in the door at least one hour prior to opening. Happy Hour Sunday and Monday is 50% all food and sushi 5:30 p.m. – 6 p.m., Tuesday – Saturday food and sushi is 25% off 5:30 p.m. – 6 p.m. and Late Night Happy Hour is offered Friday and Saturday from 10 p.m.-1 a.m. (21 and over required) select appetizers and sushi included.

Sansei Seafood Restaurant & Sushi
2552 Kalakaua Ave.
Honolulu, HI 96815

Chef Chai

Photo: Chef Chai

Located off of Kapiolani Boulevard near Blaisdell Center is Chef Chai. Known for his contemporary Thai influences and amazing ability to craft local favorites in a new and innovative way, Chai also boasts a wonderful hidden happy hour. Available nightly in the bar area, 4 p.m.-6 p.m. drink specials include $3 beers, $5 wines and $5-$8 cocktails and martinis. Appetizers range from $7-$10 and are a delightful blend of shellfish bites, chicken sate and fresh oysters.

Chef Chai
1009 Kapiolani Blvd.
Honolulu, HI 96814

Maui Brewing Company

Photo: Maui Brewing Co.

Hawaii’s largest craft brewery has expanded to Oahu from Maui to the delight of many. Handcrafted food and drink abound in the heart of Waikiki and Kailua. Happy Hour is served twice daily 3:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. and again from 10:30 p.m. until close. Guests can enjoy $2 off all beers, $3 off all culinary and classic cocktails, 50% off most appetizers and $10 pizzas. You’ll often find live music and the food pairs perfectly with a Hawaiian brew.

Maui Brewing Co. Waikiki
2300 Kalakaua Avenue
Honolulu, HI 96815

Bevy

Photo: Bevy

New York meets Honolulu at this rustic neighborhood watering hole. Modern cocktails pair with fresh bites and unique eats. Happy Hour is offered Monday-Saturday from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. with the star of the show being their $1.50 oysters on a half shell. Other Happy Hour offerings include $2 off small plates, $2 off all beers in a can, $6 wines and classic cocktails. On Tuesdays you’ll find $4 tacos and freshly made pasta and other eats created daily. This lively location is in the Kakaako neighborhood.

Bevy
675 Auahi Street #130
Honolulu, HI 96813

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5 Restaurants to Check Out on the Big Island in Summer of 2019

Karen Rose — Sat, 29 Jun 2019 00:03:16 +0000

Several new restaurants have popped up on the Big Island of Hawaii in 2018 and early 2019. Here are our picks for new places you should try:

Magic’s Beach Grill

Magic’s Beach Grill. Photo: Karen Rose.

With a magnificent view of the Kona coastline, Magic’s Beach Grill is quickly becoming a favorite among Kona residents and visitors. Chef Dan Robayo creates fresh dishes that highlight local farmers and food producers. Menu items include the Kimchi Gumbo and the Kimchi Rueben sandwich. Another popular dish is the Ulu Fries with a trio of sauces that include malt vinegar aioli, spicy ketchup and mango mustard. Don’t forget to top off your meal with a slice of the Okinawan Sweet Potato Haupia Pie! Magic’s Beach Grill is located at 77-6452 Ali‘i Drive in Kailua-Kona and is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, and brunch on Sundays.

Kuleana Rum Shack

Located in the Queens’ MarketPlace in Waikoloa, Kuleana Rum Shack serves up fresh island dishes and handcrafted cocktails made with rum from their on-island distillery. The Rum Shack features authentic yet creative cuisine inspired by the melting pot of Hawaiian cultures. Try the Pipikaula Lumpia, Hawaiian salted beef dried in the sun, served with Swiss cheese, house-made kimchi and kochu-jang aioli. There are plenty of amazing dishes to choose from, but whatever you choose, be sure to save room for dessert. The malasadas (Portuguese donuts) are freshly fried to perfection and served with three self-serve injector fillings of chocolate, haupia and lilikoi. It’s the food your Hawaiian aunty made with an epicurean flare.

Nui Italian

The Hilton Waikoloa Village has brought authentic Italian cuisine to Hawaii Island, with Nui Italian Restaurant. Fresh from Italy, Chef Gino Cipriano serves up delicious, traditional dishes from his native country and turns food into art. Everything is fresh and superbly tasty — even the bread is beyond compare. One can’t go wrong with a genuine Italian pizza and the great selection of Italian wines. Nui has exceptional food with attentive service and true Hawaiian hospitality.

Ola Brew

Known for their tasty brews and ciders, Ola Brew now offers a menu of light but certainly not boring pub-grub to pair with your favorite suds. The flatbreads are perfect to share with friends, and the Poke Melt turns this traditional Hawaiian dish into an entirely new experience. The Poke Melt is made with locally baked focaccia bread and poke from The Poke Shack, which was rated the No. 1 poke spot in the world on Yelp. Topped with cheese and slightly heated just to melt the cheese, it’s the best tuna melt you’ll ever taste. Ola Brew is located in the Old Industrial area of Kailua-Kona.

Pele’s Wok Bistro & Bar

Pele’s Wok. Photo: Karen Rose.

The most recent addition to Shops at Mauna Lani on the Kohala Coast is Pele’s Wok Bistro & Bar. This Chinese-inspired restaurant elevates Chinese take-out to a whole new level. Committed to supporting local food producers, the chef pairs the best Chinese ingredients with locally sourced seafood and meats. The menu items are a bit pricier than your average Chinese food but well worth the extra expense. The quality of the dishes and the portion sizes make it a decent value. Be sure to try the Wok Tossed Brussels made with vinegar, honey, chili, sesame, garlic and fish sauce, and the Red Ginger Cake with Mango Ice Cream.

The post 5 Restaurants to Check Out on the Big Island in Summer of 2019 appeared first on Hawaii.com.

5 New Oahu Restaurants to Try in Summer 2019

Olena Heu — Fri, 28 Jun 2019 23:45:52 +0000

Variety is the name of the game this summer when it comes to new restaurants on Oahu. You’ll find everything from tapas, toast, pasta and plate lunches to appease your appetite.

Rigo Hawaii

Rigo Hawaii. Photo: Olena Heu.

A blend of Spanish tapas with an elegant Italian twist, Rigo Hawaii takes contemporary cooking and pairs it with inspired comfort foods. The wood-fired oven and fresh seafood paella are standouts, while the pasta carbonara and diverse wine selection complement the decor of this stylish and chic new restaurant on the outskirts of Waikiki.

Rigo Hawaii
885 Kapahulu Avenue
Honolulu, HI 96816
(808) 735-9760

2. Let’s Toast

Let’s Toast. Photo: Olena Heu.

Hidden in Kailua is a quaint cafe that specializes in a wide variety of impressive toast options, along with bubble waffle ice cream sundaes. This isn’t your average avocado toast, as you have a stellar selection of both sweet and savory toppings that are elegantly presented and very generous. Get the sampler and feast on all the toast options your heart desires.

Let’s Toast Cafe
26 Hoolai Street #500
Kailua, HI 96734
(808) 200-5949

3. Da Kitchen Kakaako

Photo: Da Kitchen Kakaako.

The sister restaurant to Maui’s famed eatery Da Kitchen has returned to Oahu, located at the John A. Burns School of Medicine (JABSOM) in Kakaako. Hearty plates with kalbi, fresh fish and robust local flavors abound. Located a few minutes from downtown, this spot is great for takeout and to enjoy with an ocean view.

Da Kitchen Kakaako
651 Ilalo Street
Honolulu, HI 96813
(808) 888-3488

4. Aloha Steakhouse Waikiki

Photo: Aloha Steakhouse Waikiki.

An approachable, casual steakhouse in Waikiki that serves reasonably priced cuts of meat and savory steaks is a rare find. Now Aloha Steakhouse prides itself as a new restaurant that serves sizzling steaks, seafood and sides that the entire family can enjoy. Try the sweet Maui onion ponzu sauce.

Aloha Steakhouse Waikiki
320 Lewers Street
Honolulu, HI 96815
(808) 600-3431

5. Adela’s Country Eatery

Adela’s Country Eatery. Photo: Olena Heu.

Head to the windward side and enjoy the majestic Koolau Mountains and a slower pace. Adela’s Country Eatery in Kaneohe blends Filipino, Italian and local flavors with their homemade noodle machine and various toppings. Pasta is made from unique ingredients like taro, breadfruit and moringa, then topped with choice of sauce and protein. The pasta noodles are vibrant and the toppings are bursting with flavor.

Adela’s Country Eatery
45-1151 Kamehameha Hwy
Kaneohe, HI 96744
(808) 236-2366

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6 New Oahu Restaurants to Visit in Spring 2019

Olena Heu — Sat, 23 Mar 2019 20:05:51 +0000

Joy Cup Noodles Mean. Photo: Olena Heu.

With blustery weather, diners have been seeking dishes that warm the mind, body and soul. This season’s specially created comfort foods have emerged from new Oahu eateries that boast hot pot, noodles, curry and craft eats. Here’s a look at the best new restaurants on Oahu just in time for spring.

1. Joy Cup Noodles Mean

Joy Cup Noodles Mean. Photo: Olena Heu.

Hidden along the King Street end of Kalakaua Avenue, about a mile before you enter Waikiki, is a true mouthwatering hole in the wall. This gem serves elegantly prepared, fresh yet humble noodle dishes with the potential to really fire up your tastebuds. Owned and operated by a husband and wife duo (Joy is the namesake and wife/chef’s daughter of the noodle shop), all have an unmistakable passion for Szechuan cuisine.

With spice levels from 0 to 14, your level of tolerance can be tested. The flavors are robust, perfectly cooked, the noodles are ever so chewy and served as a very generous portion. Favorites include the Beef Noodles and Dan Dan Noodles, along with the popular Okinawan Taco Rice (which doesn’t feature noodles at all).

Joy Cup Noodles Mean
1608 Kalakaua Avenue
Honolulu, HI 96826

2. Shabuya

Shabuya. Photo: Olena Heu.

When there’s a slight chill in the air and the breeze is cool, you’ll crave hot pot. What makes Shabuya even more palatable is the fact that it is all-you-can-eat. Located at Ala Moana Shopping Center in the Ewa Wing, you’ll find a glorious heaven for hot pot lovers.

Shabuya is a traditional hot pot restaurant offering five styles of broth, an impressive meat selection and unlimited fresh ingredients, which include noodles, vegetables, seafood options and dipping sauces. Sauces include the Original House Broth, Miso Broth, Spicy Miso, Tonkotsu Broth and Sukiyaki. They don’t take reservations and the wait list can get pretty long but most diners are in and out pretty quickly. Lunch is $17.99 and dinner is $27.99.

Shabuya
1450 Ala Moana Blvd
Honolulu, Hi 96814
https://shabuya.net/all-you-can-eat/

3. Seoul Tofu House

Seoul Tofu House. Photo: Seoul Tofu House.

A taste of authentic Korea just made its way into the heart of Waikiki. Serving traditional style Soondoobu (traditional spicy soup), each stew is made with beef broth boiled for 24 hours then served with various proteins, vegetables and topped with a freshly cracked egg in a hot stone pot.

Complete meals include freshly made soft tofu, side dishes along with delicious types of Soondoobu served boiling in regular spicy, curry or plain broth. Ingredients include meat, seafood, kimchi, ham and cheese, vegetable or cod roe. Spice levels are regular, hot or danger. You can also select a not-spicy plain or curry option.

Seoul Tofu House
2299 Kuhio Avenue
Honolulu, HI 96815
https://seoultofuhouse.business.site/

4. Minori Craft Japanese Tavern

Minori Craft Japanese Tavern. Photo: Olena Heu.

Taking fresh Japanese cuisine to the next level, Minori is combining the art of Japanese cooking with Hawaii-grown ingredients and local flare. An emphasis — and all-you-can-eat locally sourced salad bar — is made to highlight farm fresh ingredients from Oahu farmers, along with supporting local products, including Aloha Tofu.

The menu is chic, trendy and innovative. Dishes are broken into categories: signature dishes, fried goodness, charcoal grill, bowls, noodles, sushi and hot pot. Standouts include the Homemade Bacon Potato Salad, #BrokeDaMouthChicken, Minori Juicy Gyoza, and hot pot with Original Chicken Paitan broth.

Minori Craft Japanese Tavern
1731 Kalakaua Avenue
Honolulu, HI 96826
www.minorihawaii.com

5. Nico’s Upstairs

Nico’s Upstairs. Photo: Olena Heu.

Famous for his fresh island fish, local lunch plates and delightful seafoods, Nico Chaize recently took over the former location of Harbor Restaurant at Pier 38. With an eatery already located downstairs, the chef and restauranteur decided to expand upstairs too.

Nico’s Upstairs Steak and Seafood serves lunch, happy hour, dinner and Sunday brunch, showcasing a more refined and elevated experience. The restaurant also combines Nico’s home inspirations, including French classics like Escargot, Bistro Style Tuna Steak and Creme Brûlée, while also offering worldly elements including miso, Spanish octopus and New Zealand Oysters.

Nico’s Upstairs
1129 North Nimitz Hwy
Honolulu, HI 96817
www.nicospier38.com/upstairs

6. Hapa Restaurant

Hapa. Photo: Olena Heu.

Asian fusion is the main focus of this new restaurant on Kapahulu Avenue. As the name implies, the owners, a female chef and a male business manager — a hapa/mixed ethnicity couple — decided to create comfort foods using unique ingredients. The pair, originally from Maryland, utilize local ingredients and Asian flavor profiles to showcase their signature dishes.

Currently open for dinner only, they hope to expand into the lunchtime crowd. Notable items include the Hapa Potstickers, Black Garlic Filet Mignon and Kauai Shrimp and Grits. Portions are generous, proteins are perfectly cooked and complemented with unique flavor combinations.

Hapa Restaurant
829 Kapahulu Avenue
Honolulu, HI 96816
www.hapaeats.com

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