Join me on a culinary journey through Oʻahu, Hawaii, as I explore local favorites and hidden gems. From the bustling streets of Waikiki to the charming town of Haleʻiwa, discover authentic Hawaiian flavors, locally-owned eateries, and the stories behind them. Dive into the vibrant food scene of Oʻahu with the Local Bites series!
Aloha, friends! I'm happy to introduce you to a new feature on my blog: Local Bites. In this series, we'll explore the authentic, mouthwatering food scenes of the places I visit that are dishing up some seriously delicious eats. Additionally, this series will spotlight locally owned establishments, those that champion local ingredients, and those that incorporate local cuisine into their offerings. Our inaugural culinary adventure leads us to the sunny shores of Oʻahu, Hawaii.
Okay, let's dive into the delicious specifics. When visiting Oʻahu, my culinary quests typically take me to two main spots: the lively streets of Waikiki and the quaint, relaxed town of Haleʻiwa in the North Shore. These are the locales where I've savored some of my most memorable meals and treats, and they're places I find myself returning to each visit. Whether you're mapping out your Oʻahu itinerary or simply daydreaming about the flavors of Hawaii, these are some spots you'll want to bookmark. Let's start our journey with Waikiki's vibrant and varied food landscape.
Waikiki
Island Vintage Coffee/Island Vintage Wine Bar
Island Vintage Coffee is my absolute favorite restaurant on the islands. Founded by Paul Kang in 1996, this coffee haven has expanded its reach to multiple locations on Oʻahu, Maui, and Big Island, serving up 100% Kona coffee to locals and tourists alike.
Every trip to Hawaii feels complete with a daily pilgrimage to Island Vintage Coffee. It's a spot that magnetically pulls me in each morning without exception. What's the charm? It's a delightful mix of delicious food, welcoming staff, a spotless setting, and visually appealing dishes that are a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. The incorporation of local ingredients adds a genuine touch that I truly value.
A few years ago, Island Vintage Coffee was the only option. From early morning until night, the coffee shop was always buzzing with activity. Seating was limited, but that changed with the opening of the Island Vintage Wine Bar next door. Now, you can grab a quick coffee or pastry on the go or enjoy a more relaxed, sit-down experience at the wine bar. Just remember to make a reservation to skip the line!
Everything I've tried on the menu at Island Vintage Coffee is excellent, but I have my favorites. I adore all their acai bowls, but especially the Haupia Moana Bowl. If you're in the mood for a savory breakfast, you can't go wrong with their braised beef loco moco (don't forget to add a side of local papaya!). When it comes to coffee, I prefer the Niu Cold Brew, as I'm not a fan of sugary coffees. Prefer sweeter coffee? Try the Mauna Kea Iced coffee, a cold brew with a scoop of gelato. For the gelato, you can choose between three flavors (the macadamia nut is my favorite!).
If you find yourself in Hawaii, do yourself a favor and drop by Island Vintage Coffee. It's more than just a coffee shop—it's a taste of the islands you won't forget. Don't forget to take a bag of their Kona coffee home!
Redfish
Next up on our foodie tour of Oʻahu is Redfish, a recent addition to the Waikiki dining scene. Located at the Wayfinder Hotel, Redfish opened its doors in the spring of 2023 and has been serving delicious meals, from breakfast to dinner and even late-night options. The Waikiki location is their second one, further expanding their reach and making their delicious offerings more accessible to locals and tourists alike.
Redfish is a creation by Foodland, a well-known grocery store chain in Hawaii, and they source their poke directly from them. I know what you're thinking: poke from a grocery store?! But trust me, Foodland's poke is fresh, delicious, and comes in various options. It's a testament to their ingredients' quality and commitment to authentic Hawaiian cuisine.
What sets Redfish apart is not just their poke but also their innovative approach to classic dishes. For instance, their fries come with a unique Hawaiian and Japanese twist, adding an unexpected but delightful flavor to a familiar side dish.
Whether you're craving a poke bowl, looking for a late-night bite, or simply trying something new and delicious, Redfish won’t disappoint you on your Oʻahu food adventure.
Paia Fish Market
Born in 1989 in the fishing town of Paia, known to surfers, windsurfers, local fishermen, and sugar mill workers, Paia Fish Market has since grown into a beloved island staple. The story of this place is as rich as its menu. In 1994, the Fishmarket was bought by Moon, who hired Yuri, a young surfer with big dreams. Starting as a dishwasher, Yuri worked his way up to become an owner in 2001.
Today, Paia Fish Market boasts five locations, three on Maui and two on Oʻahu, and has been voted as having the Best Fish Sandwich on Maui. I could happily dine here every single day when I'm in Waikiki. They usually have a fantastic fish selection, often including a catch-of-the-day. Menu permitting, try the Hawaiian Grouper; I like to order it blackened.
One entree that I can't recommend enough is the ahi tuna quesadilla. Tuna, in a quesadilla?! I know it may sound like a disgusting combination, but trust me—it's delicious (and one of the best things I've ever eaten!). It's packed with cheese and beans, and the ahi tuna adds a unique twist that makes it irresistible. The entrees come with a choice of fries, homestyle potatoes or rice, and a side of coleslaw.
If you're in Waikiki and looking for a place that serves fresh, delicious fish, check out Paia Fish Market. You won't be disappointed!
Island Vintage Shave Ice
If you're strolling around Waikiki and find yourself craving a refreshing treat, look no further than Island Vintage Shave Ice. Nestled near its sister establishment in a small stand near the street, this little stand is a treasure trove of icy delights that locals and visitors alike can't get enough of.
Open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily, Island Vintage Shave Ice is the perfect pit stop for a mid-day cool down or a post-dinner indulgence. They've got a rainbow of flavors on offer, with fan favorites like Heavenly Lilikoi, Pink Island, Tropical Island, and Coconut Island leading the pack.
It gets busy, especially as the evening rolls in, but the wait is worth every second. The combination of the melt-in-your-mouth shave ice and the warm aloha spirit is a match made in Hawaiian heaven.
Whether you need a quick pick-me-up or are hunting for the perfect dessert to round off your meal, Island Vintage Shave Ice is a must-visit. After all, what better way to embrace the island life than with a cup of shave ice in hand, right?
Heavenly Island Lifestyle
Breaking away from my usual Island Vintage Coffee routine can be a challenge, but Heavenly Island Lifestyle makes it worth the effort. Located inside the Shoreline Hotel, this cozy café is a hotspot for breakfast, serving Hawaiian-style food from 7 AM to 2 PM and then reopening for dinner from 4 PM to 10 PM.
Heavenly Island Lifestyle prides itself on using local, organic ingredients—creating dishes that are as nourishing as delicious. One of my favorites is the local tomato and avocado benedict, a fresh, flavorful twist on a classic breakfast dish.
Their approach to acai bowls is unique, too. Unlike Island Vintage Coffee and other acai establishments, Heavenly's acai bowls are served more like a frozen sorbet, offering a refreshing treat perfect for those warm Waikiki mornings.
As with most great eateries in the area, it gets busy during peak hours—so arrive early or try to make a reservation. Heavenly Island Lifestyle is definitely worth a visit.
Haleʻiwa
Ray’s Kiawe Broiled Chicken
Next up on our foodie tour of Oʻahu, we're heading north to the charming town of Haleʻiwa, a haven for food trucks and open-air eateries. One standout spot that's a must-visit is Ray's Kiawe Broiled Chicken. This open-air grill, known for its huli-huli chicken broiled over kiawe wood, is a local favorite and a hit with visitors alike.
Located along Kamehameha Highway, Ray’s is a testament to the fact that exceptional food isn't always found in fancy restaurants—sometimes it’s found in bustling parking lots and food trucks. With its high ratings and rave reviews, it's clear that Ray's is doing something right.
Ray's Kiawe Broiled Chicken has a rich history, starting as a humble food truck and growing into a beloved destination for food lovers. The dishes here are simple yet flavorful, usually paired with rice and pineapple coleslaw. The chicken is consistently moist and packed with flavor, thanks to the kiawe wood grilling process. And don’t forget to try it with Grandma’s Special Sauce.
If your plans involve a scenic drive around the island or a trip up to North Shore, make sure you hit up some of the food trucks, and include Ray’s on your foodie list.
Matsumoto Shave Ice
Next up, we're heading to a place that's a must-visit for anyone on the island: Matsumoto Shave Ice. This family-owned shop has been serving up some of the best shave ice on Oʻahu since 1951, and its story is as rich and colorful as the shave ice they serve.
The shop started as a humble grocery store founded by Mamoru Matsumoto and Helen Momoyo Ogi Matsumoto. Mamoru left his home in Japan to seek a better life in Hawaii and worked relentlessly to make his dream of business ownership come true. With the addition of their three children, the couple decided to broaden their business horizons by venturing into the world of Hawaiian shave ice. This decision would ultimately make Matsumoto's a household name in Hawaii.
Today, the shop is run by their youngest son, Stanley, and his wife, Noriko. They've successfully transitioned the store from groceries to t-shirts, souvenirs, snacks, and their famous shave ice. The legacy of Mamoru and Helen lives on, not just in the store itself, but in the joy and refreshment their shave ice brings to locals and tourists alike.
Matsumoto's is always buzzing with activity, and there's often a line out the door. And there's good reason—they know their Hawaiian shave ice! With over 33 flavors, sugar-free options, and loads of toppings, you can customize your shave ice to your heart's content. If you're indecisive, try one of their recommended combinations.
Matsumoto's is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM except for some holidays. So plan your visit accordingly, and get ready to enjoy some of the best shave ice on the island!
Teddy’s Bigger Burgers
Craving a juicy burger with a tropical twist? Look no further than Teddy's Bigger Burgers, a vibrant burger joint and tiki bar that's become a staple in the Hawaiian food scene. This isn't your average burger shop. Teddy's Bigger Burgers has a story that's as flavorful as their menu.
Teddy's Bigger Burgers was born out of the backyard cookouts of owners Ted and Rich. The pair had a passion for good burgers but noticed the lack of fast food joints that could match the quality of their homemade burgers in a speedy service setting. They thus embarked on a mission to establish a restaurant that could serve great burgers in a lively, swift-paced atmosphere. Their vision came to fruition in 1998 when they launched their first outlet at the base of Diamond Head. Today, Teddy's Bigger Burgers is a family-run business that has captured the affection of locals and visitors with its inventive burgers and tiki bar vibes.
Their menu is a celebration of Hawaiian flavors with a creative twist. They serve up mouthwatering burgers, some with a unique Hawaiian spin, alongside other tasty offerings like chicken tenders, salads, fries, tater tots, and more. One of their standout dishes is the Tiki Tots with teriyaki, a must-try if it's on the menu when you visit.
Teddy's Bigger Burgers is more than just a place to grab a bite. It's a spot where you can enjoy live music some days, adding to the lively and welcoming atmosphere.
Nalu Health Bar & Café
During one of our hiking trips, we stumbled upon a delightful surprise, Nalu Health Bar & Café. Nestled in the heart of Haleʻiwa and with another location in Waikiki, this café is a haven for health-conscious foodies.
Nalu was born out of the shared passion of four friends from South America who came to Hawaii to surf and experience the island's unique lifestyle. After surfing, they'd often meet at each other's houses to make food and acai bowls since they didn't have any fresh food restaurants locally. In 2014, they decided to open their own café and transformed their dream into a reality. Today, Nalu is a thriving business that has won the hearts of locals and tourists, even winning the "Honolulu Best Acai" award in 2023.
Their menu is a vibrant mix of smoothies, juices, and bowls, with the acai bowl being a standout favorite. The acai, straight from the Amazon, is organic, grade-A, and sweetened with a native berry syrup from Brazil. Unlike many other places, their acai base is pure and not mixed with other berries, which gives it a deep, dark purple color and a unique, authentic taste. But the goodness doesn't stop at acai bowls—they also offer a variety of fresh food, such as salads, sandwiches, and wraps. Everything is made with fresh, organic, locally obtained ingredients as often as possible.
Nalu is a great example of the power of dreams, the bond of friendship, and the magic of good food. Stop by and treat yourself to a healthy, delicious meal if you're in the area. I loved their acai bowl!
Farm to Barn Café & Juicery
In the heart of Haleʻiwa town, you'll find Farm to Barn Café & Juicery, a culinary gem that's been delighting food lovers since 2018. The café, situated on a 2.5-acre organic-certified property, has a rich supply of fresh greens that are used in a variety of their dishes. The menu, lovingly created by owner Michelle Ching, is a tribute to the local, fresh ingredients and offers a diverse selection from burritos and loco mocos to waffles and bagels.
Farm to Barn is not just about great food; it's about creating a local Haleʻiwa town experience that combines culture and cuisine. The café is a hub of activity, with live music on weekends and sunrise and sunset yoga sessions on their open-air outdoor property. Their commitment to cultural immersion and whole-hearted hospitality brings to life the art of gathering, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Whether you're on your way to a hike or just exploring Haleʻiwa, don't forget to swing by. Note the café's hours, which is from 9 AM to 3 PM (so arrive early!). Even if I'm not hungry, I'll often pop by for a quick cup of nitro cold brew or kombucha.
The Last Bite: Final Thoughts
There's something truly special about Oʻahu's food scene. It's a vibrant mix of flavors, each restaurant and café offering its own unique take on the island's rich culinary heritage. From the comforting warmth of a cup of Kona coffee at Island Vintage Coffee to the refreshing, organic acai bowls at Nalu Health Bar & Café, there's a taste for every palate.
In this guide, we've explored some of my favorite spots in Oʻahu. We've discovered the joy of shave ice at Matsumoto, tasted the farm-to-table freshness at Farm to Barn Café & Juicery, and indulged in the hearty burgers at Teddy’s. Each of these places adds a unique flavor to the Oʻahu food scene, making it as diverse and inviting as the island itself.
When you find yourself in Oʻahu, I hope this guide inspires you to explore these local bites. It's through food that we often connect with a place, and Oʻahu's food scene is as welcoming as its people. Stay tuned for more food-focused journeys in the next Local Bites blog post. Until then, enjoy every bite and every moment.
Remember to bookmark this page for your next Oʻahu adventure, and don't forget to share it fellow foodies destined for Oʻahu! If you've visited any of these places or have other local favorites, I'd love to hear about them—drop a comment below, or connect with me on Instagram.
Aloha,
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