1. SHAVE ICE
After hearing everyone rave about Matsumoto’s, I decided to check it out. Sure, it’s a tourist trap but straight up delicious shave ice! No large chunks just total smoothness that melts in your mouth! Shave ice is a big thing in Hawaii and while you’re here it is a must try! There are so many syrup flavours to choose from but Stanley, the owner of Matsumoto’s highly recommends: Peach, lilikoi and guava! Hawaiian rainbow is also one of the best sellers! Don’t forget to add toppings for that pure shave ice bliss!
2. The DOLE WHIP
They say a visit to the Dole plantation is the biggest rip-off in Oahu! But hey, the Pineapple whip alone is worth the drive! This is the best soft serve ice cream I have ever had in my life! (Seriously!) So delish and refreshing! I dare you to drive to the North Shore without stopping for this treat! It may not be cheap at nearly $6 each cone but what flavour! I want one, PRONTO!
3. SHRIMP SCAMPI
A dozen of fresh shrimps served with 2 scoops of rice and a lemon slice! YUM! Be prepared to get your hands dirty! The chickens walking around the tables could be a deal-breaker for the clean freaks, but Giovanni’s will definitely not disappoint! Shrimps are big in size and coated with garlic deliciousness! This garlicky delight has made Giovanni’s famous worldwide! Oh, and before you leave, don’t forget to sign your name in the food truck!
4. ACAI BOWL
If you like acai like I do, you will love this place! Hale’iwa Bowls serves the most addictive healthy treat on the island. When you see a cute little grass hut with friendly local girls serving behind the counter, you’re in the right place! They have a lot of healthy selections, but I’m obsessed with the “MANA” bowl. I prefer my acai’s texture like a sorbet that’s why! I could eat this every day and not get tired of it, trust me this will be your favourite roadside stop in the North Shore!
5. UBE PANCAKES
If you ask me where my favourite brunch place in Hawaii is, it would be at YOGURSTORY! Why? Two words! UBE PANCAKES! Oh my gosh, I’m a fan! This moist and fluffy pancake is visually pleasing and amazingly delicious! It looks oversaturated and extremely sweet but don’t let the colours fool you! The combination of purple yam (ube), purple sweet potato and coconut syrup has the perfect amount of sweetness! I don’t like anything too sweet too, don’t worry! (drooling right now!) jeez!
6. POKE BOWL
Poke is Hawaii’s favourite food and I wanted to know why! As a poke newbie, I tried many different poke places in Oahu and Hibachi is by far the best! They sell real fresh poke bowls at a very affordable price! After sampling on multiple types and flavours, I ordered, Ginger Shoyu Salmon Poke! Oh man, it was darn tasty! Grab one for yourself and enjoy it at the beach! NOM!
7. HOT MALASADAS
Malasadas are a staple in the Hawaii food culture! Therefore, if you’re coming to Honolulu, a visit to Leonard’s needs to be at the top of your list! Just in case you’re curious, a malasada is a Portuguese doughnut without a hole! Their original malasada is a winner! Just a heads up, these warm, delicious fluffs of dough are messy to eat. Sugar goes everywhere, and the custard will leak out! Who cares about a bikini bod? No regrets, Hot malasadas are 100% worth the calories!
8. LOCOMOCO
This Hawaiian plate lunch is one of Barack Obama’s favourite comfort foods! Locomoco may look unappetizing but you’ll be surprised! It’s basically rice topped with 2 burger patties, 2 eggs, a scoop of macaroni salad and gravy all over! Plain simple but bursting with flavour! This plate of carbs is just so BOMBBB, even the locals can’t get enough! The portions are gigantic so if you’re not a huge eater it is best to share!
9. CHOCOLATE HAUPIA CREAM PIE
After tanning at the Beach, come to Ted’s for your quick sugar fix! This is a popular local joint known for their plate lunches but most especially their signature Haupia pie! Flaky crust topped with rich chocolate goodness, then a layer of coconut pudding plus the whipped cream, Oh my… If only I could have a slice right now! Oh, BTW.. From the road it looks like a “bodega” but don’t let the looks deceive you fam! Ted’s might be a North Shore landmark, but you can easily miss it, so drive slowly!
10. PAPAYA BOWL
This small yellow shack right across the road is the cutest spot for breakfast! Order a papaya bowl to jumpstart that cool Hawaiian morning! Their papayas are perfectly ripe and filled with wide array of superfoods! Beautiful, organic… what a healthy indulgence!! Did I mention it’s also a great spot for photo-ops! YAAAAS! Anyway, may it be your hike day or surf day, Sunrise Shack is undeniably a great place to fuel up before a long day at the beach! Shaka!
Hope you guys enjoyed my Oahu food guide!
My 20 blissful days in Hawaii could be over, but memories will be forever!
P.S. I do love the island hikes and the beaches, but more likely I will come back for more food! Craving for locomocos right now!
Oh and btw, don’t forget to follow me on Instagram! Thank you!
Love from Hawaii,
The Travel Belle <3
You may also love more of my Hawaii Blogs:
Cagediving with Sharks
Lanikai Beach & Pillbox Hike Day trip
Koko Head Crater: Brutal but worth it!
Diamond Head Crater: Oahu’s Most Iconic hike
SKYDIVING? 10 ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR FIRST TIME JUMPERS!
Skydiving in Hawaii
6 comments
In addition to this post, also try the Mochi Donuts from MoDo Hawaii & the cream puffs from Liliha bakery are also a must-try! 😋
i just google searched all your suggestions and i am salivating already! I wish there’s Ubereats from Oahu to Sydney! HAHAHA!
And I almost forgot, my favorite Macadamia pancakes and portugese sausage from Boots & Kimo’s are to die for!! 🤤😋
JEEEEEEZZZZ! you’re killing me! I want one, STAT!!!
Yum! Can’t wait for the poke bowels and pancakes!
Hibachi really has the best poke bowls and i swear by Yogurstory’s Ube Pancakes!