This little factory makes authentic Italian Gelato with a tropical twist. (To anyone who doesn't know, gelato is the upper-class cousin of ice cream). The flavors are inventive, often featuring local Hawaiian fruits and vegetables. Depending on how creative you are, you can munch on Campari, Coconut or Irish Cream Gelato. Although this gelato is sold at various points throughout the island, the least expensive way to get it is direct from the factory. Order it by the pint or the gallon.
A favorite local stop since 1952, this bakery, less than a mile outside Waikiki, is famous for its malasadas. These pastries are a local favorite, similar to doughnuts only without the holes. They're best eaten hot, leaden when cold. Another specialty is pao doce (Portuguese sweet bread). Danish pastries, cookies, breads and specialty wedding and birthday cakes are also available. This is take out only; there is no place to sit. Parking is available.
This bakery is a local secret that islanders have kept close to their hearts for years. The small diner counter almost always has a line and the food is simple and inexpensive. But ask anyone about the bakery and they will drool at the thought of the cocoa puffs. They are small cream puffs filled with a cocoa pudding and topped with a secret Chantilly frosting that is simply legendary. For under a buck a piece, this is one of the best things about Hawaii, ever. It is open from 6 a.m on Tuesday to 8 p.m on Sunday. Mondays remain closed - Lottie Tagupa
This "Shave ice" (snow cones to those from the mainland) institution could be considered the best example of this frozen treat in all of Oahu. At Waiola, there are more flavors than any other ice cream shop, as they grow exponentially with your own imagination. Some flavors range from plebeian banana to exotic li hing mui (pickled plum). There's a extra charge for additional ingredients that can be hidden inside; for example, ice cream or the Japanese favorite, red azuki beans.
In a place where coffee is a major export and cafes abound, this coffee shop still manages to stand out. This is an excellent spot to stop for a latte or for a pound of authentic Kona Gold. The Kalani Street location is a roasting plant, the home of the administrative offices, and a retail location. Take a tour of the factory, and sip a cup of joe afterward. Several other locations can be found in Honolulu.
This award winning bakery/grill/deli has gathered a lot of interest because of the variety of meals, sandwiches and sweets. Plain and almost sparse from the exterior, the interior starts buzzing at dawn with early risers looking for award winning breakfasts, coffee and more. Lunchtime brings the beach crowd who clamor for the yummy turkey and chutney sandwiches. In the evening, area residents stop in to get out of the heat and eat specials like grilled salmon plates coupled along with great service. - Lottie Tagupa
This little factory makes authentic Italian Gelato with a tropical twist. (To anyone who doesn't know, gelato is the upper-class cousin of ice cream). The flavors are inventive, often featuring local Hawaiian fruits and vegetables. Depending on how creative you are, you can munch on Campari, Coconut or Irish Cream Gelato. Although this gelato is sold at various points throughout the island, the least expensive way to get it is direct from the factory. Order it by the pint or the gallon.
Being a small store, it can get quite difficult for patrons to spot Ono Seafood, but the hassle is completely worth it. As you enter this place, a whiteboard announcing the menu welcomes you and one knows what to expect. What draws hoards of tourists and locals to this eatery is the most delicious Hawaiian salad, poke that is served here. Though other varieties are offered here, tako and Ahi poke dominate the menu. Guests can also choose their own fillings and the order will be ready in a minute. So go ahead and gorge on this local specialty!
A favorite local stop since 1952, this bakery, less than a mile outside Waikiki, is famous for its malasadas. These pastries are a local favorite, similar to doughnuts only without the holes. They're best eaten hot, leaden when cold. Another specialty is pao doce (Portuguese sweet bread). Danish pastries, cookies, breads and specialty wedding and birthday cakes are also available. This is take out only; there is no place to sit. Parking is available.
This plain Waipahu fishmonger has expanded from a simple fish market to one of the best kept island secrets for poke, fresh fish and catering for special occasions. If you're visiting on a Friday afternoon, on a day when the University of Hawaii Warriors are on the gridiron, or during the holiday season, be prepared for a long wait. The parking lot will be overflowing with oversized trucks that are filled with barbecue grills, cases of green bottled beer and coolers all set for partying and tailgating Hawaii style.
This bakery is a local secret that islanders have kept close to their hearts for years. The small diner counter almost always has a line and the food is simple and inexpensive. But ask anyone about the bakery and they will drool at the thought of the cocoa puffs. They are small cream puffs filled with a cocoa pudding and topped with a secret Chantilly frosting that is simply legendary. For under a buck a piece, this is one of the best things about Hawaii, ever. It is open from 6 a.m on Tuesday to 8 p.m on Sunday. Mondays remain closed - Lottie Tagupa
Located in one of the older strip malls on the leeward side of Oahu, this small, family-run candy store is an experience in island life. They offer a wide range of yummy treats including generous portions of fluffy shaved ice with an assortment of flavors that range from your simple strawberry to neon-colored toppings including passion orange, lilikoi and more. The shop also has a tempting collection of island treats that range from sweet to salty. Some of the more popular are the senbei, arare, milk candy and more.