hiD's Profile
Is opakapaka or ono ever supposed to be served rare?
Both are typically served raw as sashimi or poke on the islands. It is not unusual for them to be served rare at a restaurant either.
Hawaii...Big Island
Blue Dragon Coastal Cuisine is Kawaihae is a MUST. Sustainable food presented well with nightly entertainment. Pick up a copy of Big Island Weekly free paper (or visit their website) and you will probably find a coupon for 2 for 1 entrees.
baked Goods/ breakfast on Big Island near Kona area?
The Coffee Shack in Hōnaunau is to die for, not only in terms of yummy baked goods and drinks, but also for its glorious views of the coast.
Island Lava Java on Ali'i Drive in Kona has a breakfast that won't disappoint.
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Coffee Shack
83-5799 Mamalahoa Hwy, Captain Cook, HI 96704
Island Lava Java
75-5799 Alii Dr Ste A1, Kailua Kona, HI 96740
Chocolate in Hawaii
Big Island Candies is where it's at! Chocolate-dipped mac nut shortbread to die for. The new lemon dipped and mint dipped are phenomenal.
Sometimes we skip breakfast and just go to Big Island Candies instead. You are given samples and coffee the second you walk in the door.
They also carry some unusual treats like chocolate dipped ika (cuttlefish).
Big Island - farmers markets and fresh fish?
Suisan in Hilo is your best bet for fresh fish.
93 Lihiwai St
Hilo, HI 96720
(808) 935-9349
Don't worry too much about having a plan of attack for the Hilo market; you're sure to find what you're looking for, and a few surprises too. The Sunday Maku'u market in Puna is worth checking out - not so much for fresh foods, but the prepared foods are outstanding!
I do suggest you talk to the vendors at the market so that you know where your food is coming from; we've seen a few re-selling items from CostCo's bulk packages, unfortunately.
There IS Good Mexican in Hawaii
^^Maui Tacos - an international chain. Pretty average to me. I wish the Big I would be graced by the presence of authentic Mexican food.
Japanese Favorites on Oahu
Wasabi & Nadaman... the best! Sleek ambiance, melt-in-your-mouth fresh fish, artistic presentation, and outstanding service.
Help! I'll Be in the Waikiki Area with a Vegetarian!
Howabout Indian? Cafe Maharani is delish, and BYOB. India Cafe is a good stop for lunch. Both will fit your budget and are within taxi range of Waikiki.
Cafe Maharani: 2509 S. King St.
India Cafe: 1016 Kapahulu Ave.
Best fish on the islands...
Visit Suisan Market in Hilo. "You can't get fresher fish without getting wet or sunburned."
Lots to choose from, and plenty of poke too. They'll even throw your purchase on the grill out back. Next to Queen Liliuokalani Garden.
http://www.suisan.com/market/fishprod.html
Week in Hilo with chef
- Hilo Bay Cafe. A must if you're traveling with a Chef. A nice bistro focusing on local, organic foods. Excellent drinks, such as the Lilikoi Martini. Not cheap, but won't break the bank either.
- Garden Snack Club in downtown Hilo for creative Thai dishes. Good for lunch or casual dinner. BYOB.
- Miyo's for authentic, affordable, fresh Japanese. Also BYOB. Great view of Wailoa pond. Lots of interesting combination plates, or a la carte items.
Brunch in Waikiki?
Any other brunch suggestions? I'm heading to Waikiki this weekend and looking for something casual, hopefully outdoor seating with a decent view. I'd rather not have to make reservations since, in the interest of full disclosure, I tend to sleep in.
Where'd everybody go?
Hello and Aloha! Perhaps I can step into one of the vacancies on this board. I recently moved from Chicago to Hilo. I'm in love with food - growing it, cooking it, eating it, and adding it to my compost pile to start the cycle again. I do eat fish, but am otherwise vegetarian.
Garden Snack Club in Hilo recently topped my list of restaurants I wake up thinking about.
Indian in Honolulu? (Urgent -- for Valentine's)
After reading your recommendation, I tried Cafe Maharani earlier this month. The food was great - basic dishes for a decent price. Is anyone aware of any other BYOB Indian restaurants in the [Waikiki/Honolulu] area?
Asian Grocery on Big Island?
Is there something very specific you are looking for? I've found that most food stores, including KTA and Island Naturals, carry many Asian products. KTA in Hilo has an entire row of Chinese and Japanese food products.
