Aloha, fellow DINKS! If you’re anything like us, you savor every moment of your travel experiences, seeking the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and of course, great food! Hawaii is a treasure trove of sensory delights, and our recent trip to Waikiki on Oahu was no exception. From the sun-kissed shores to the bustling streets of Waikiki, we discovered culinary gems that tantalized our taste buds and left us yearning for more. So grab your surfboard (or just your appetite), and let’s dive into our top three quick bites and the ultimate happy hour spot that made our Waikiki getaway truly unforgettable.
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EbiNomi: A Garlic Shrimp Love Affair
Our quest for the best garlic shrimp on the island led us to the unassuming yet utterly divine EbiNomi. This local favorite serves up Garlic Shrimp Kahuku style, a heavenly dish that rivals those found on the North Shore. Imagine succulent, large shrimp, cooked “just right,” served over a bed of fluffy steamed garlic rice. The option to kick it up a notch with some spice made our taste buds dance the hula. It was so good that we made it our go-to spot, visiting twice – yes, even for breakfast!
ALOH Health Bar & Cafe: Acai Bowl Paradise
Next, we stumbled upon the vibrant ALOH Health Bar & Cafe, a sanctuary for those seeking a quick, yummy, healthy bite. Our favorite was the Diamond Head Bowl, a delicious acai blend topped with an array of superfoods like hemp hearts granola, banana, and bee pollen, all drizzled with raw honey. The addition of peanut butter and raw cacao nibs added a rich, indulgent twist to this nutritious bowl. And let’s not forget the coconut shred that gave it that tropical flair. We couldn’t resist returning for a second round of this blissful breakfast.
Aloha Melt: The Ultimate Grilled Cheese Experience
As the day turned to night, our adventure led us to Aloha Melt for the ultimate grilled cheese experience. They transformed a simple into a gourmet delight. Their Four Cheese option was a gooey, melty marvel that pulled apart in the most satisfying way. But it was the Classic—with its caramelized onions, crispy bacon, and a dollop of aioli sauce—that truly stole our hearts. The perfect late-night snack, Aloha Melt’s creations are a must-try for cheese lovers seeking comfort food with a Hawaiian twist.
PAIA Fish Market: A Must Visit for Seafood Lovers
On our culinary adventure through Waikiki, we couldn’t resist the allure of PAIA Fish Market, a renowned fast-casual eatery that any seafood lover will appreciate. Known for its fresh, flavorful seafood dishes, we opted for the fresh catch plate, choosing Ono, prepared Cajun style, and Mahi Mahi, served blackened. Each dish was a testament to the flavors of the sea, perfectly spiced and cooked to perfection, making every bite a memorable part of our journey.
The popularity of PAIA Fish Market is no secret, often resulting in long lines. We recommend visiting for an early lunch or dinner to avoid the peak crowds, ensuring you can enjoy your meal in a more relaxed setting. Whether you’re seeking a hearty meal or a healthy option, PAIA Fish Market delivers with its exceptional seafood.
Monkeypod Kitchen: The Happy Hour Hotspot
No Hawaiian day is complete without a magical happy hour, and Monkeypod Kitchen inside the Outrigger Reef Hotel in Waikiki is where happy hour dreams come true. With its long bar and stunning beach views, especially the sunsets off DeRussy Beach, we were in paradise. Led by the classically trained, award-winning Chef Peter Merriman, Monkeypod Kitchen offers a culinary experience that’s both locally inspired and creatively delightful.
We sipped on the Makawao Avenue, a refreshing concoction of sazerac rye, lemon, honey, and house-made cayenne-ginger beer. However, it was the Monkeypod Mai Tai that had us at “Aloha.” With its blend of organic rums, lime, house-made macadamia nut orgeat, and honey-lilikoi foam, we found ourselves ordering not one, not two, but three rounds of this tropical paradise. And let’s not overlook the Roasted Chicken Wings, a happy hour staple with just the right mix of sweetness and spice.
Savoring the Aloha Spirit
In Oahu, every corner is an opportunity to indulge in the island’s rich culinary culture. As DINKS, we have the luxury to explore and savor these experiences without restraint. So whether you’re craving a quick bite or a leisurely happy hour, Waikiki Beach has something special waiting for you. Mahalo for joining us on this delicious journey!