Between tearing up the pipeline (or attempting to), insane shopping and hula lessons – Waikiki is the perfect place to awaken your inner foodie. From local ‘grinds’ to hot wings – this town manages to bring me back every year for one last bite.
Street Style – Garlic Shrimp
Despite what you’ve been told by your parents – in Hawaii – the best seafood sometimes comes from the street. What used to be a delicacy only found on the North Shore, is now being served up on the street corners of Waikiki. Keep an eye (and nose!) out for the locals who will set up shop and start cooking these bad-boys up.
Roof top Mexican – Buho Cocina Y Cantina
What’s a better combo than watching the sunset from a roof top while eating seriously good tacos? Nothing. Buho Cocina Y Cantina serves up a modern twist on Mexican with killer views, right in the heart of Waikiki. I highly recommend the Kauai Shrimp and Smoked Brisket Tacos on a count that I still dream of them from my office in Brisbane.. 6 months later.
The Waikiki institution – Dukes
In between shopping and swimming, a girls gotta eat! Stroll in from the beach through to the Barefoot Bar inside Dukes Waikiki. Order some local Pu-Pu platter items, a cold cocktail and watch the waves crash from only meters away. The Waikiki Hot Wings and Panko Fried Calamari never disappoint.
Something fresh – Island Vintage Coffee
Head to Island Vintage Coffee for a break between tacos and wings. This café is a hidden gem – most famous for their insane acai bowls – my savory-loving-self always picks the Lox Plate. My eyes light up and I get serious heart-flutters when they bring me a plate of local rye bread, fresh smoked salmon accompanied by a local salad.
Eat like a local – Ono Hawaiian Foods
Ono Hawaiian Foods has been serving up ‘grinds’ to locals and visitors for years. The dining room may look small but the food here is made with a lot of love. On my first visit, I was a bit confused as the menu is in Hawaiian so asked the waitress to pick for – best decision ever! We sampled Lau Lau (juicy pulled chicken wrapped in Taro leaves), Kalua pulled pork, Lomi-lomi salmon served with Poi (blended taro root) and the in-house poke.
Hint: it’s cash only and they don’t take reservations but I promise – it’s worth the line up!
