Photo: Courtesy of Ward Village

With a variety of local, national and global boutiques, you’re sure to find something for everyone on your list. During Black Friday, November 29th, shop the seasonal offers happening throughout the neighborhood. On Small Business Saturday, spread aloha and show your support for the local businesses that contribute to making Ward Village a special place to visit, play, shop, and above all, live.

Photo: Courtesy of Ward Village

Then, from December 1st to the 15th, you can participate in the Elf Scavenger Hunt for a chance to win a $100 gift card to a Ward Village store or restaurant of your choice. The more you find, the greater your chance of winning! Fifteen winners will be announced and featured on Instagram the week of December 16th.

Photo: Courtesy of Ward Village

At Ward Village, you can shop unique boutiques for one-of-a-kind gifts, fuel your shopping trip at a grab and go eatery, gather for an unforgettable meal at an award-winning restaurant, and get in the spirit with a variety of festive events and activities—all in one vibrant neighborhood.

Discover all that awaits this holiday season in the Holiday Guide.

Photo: RumFire

RumFire Pō‘ipū is the ultimate south shore spot for a holiday dining experience. Enjoy island-inspired cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and Kaua‘i’s largest rum selection, all paired with sweeping 180-degree ocean views that make every sunset magical. Gather with ‘ohana or friends, and savor locally sourced flavors with global twists. Reserve your holiday table now at rumfirekauai.com and make this season one to remember.

Photo: Alexander & Baldwin

Kailua Town’s 125-plus shops and restaurants, together with convenient parking, add up to a stress-free destination for holiday shopping. With dozens of locally owned small businesses, it’s easy to find unique gifts for everyone on your list, from keiki to kupuna (and canines, too).

We did some of the leg work for you during a recent stroll through Kailua Town. The rest of the exploring is up to you! And mark your calendar for two upcoming shopping events you won’t want to miss: Black Friday Weekend and their annual Holiday Sip + Shop event.

Photo: Lanikai Bath & Body

For stocking stuffers or office Secret Santa gifts, check out mini desktop reed diffusers from Lanikai Bath & Body in holiday scents, or the Mokulua Surf Co. car diffuser/ornaments—available in both floral and holiday fragrances. Their refillable perfume bracelets with shell bands and medallions are also a hit.

Photo: Alexander & Baldwin

Discover new treasures at Lauren Roth, where vibrant Hawaii-inspired designs are featured on apparel, accessories, home goods, and more. Her limited-edition hand-painted ornaments and cheerful items like tea towels, tote bags, and coffee mugs make great gifts.

Black Friday & Shop Small Saturday | Nov 29–Dec 1 

Skip the frenzy at the malls and shop “small.” Kailua Town is a great place to find yourself on the biggest shopping weekend of the year. Check out the list of Black Friday deals from Kailua Town merchants here. (It will be updated as new deals are added, so check back often.)

Kailua Town’s Holiday Sip + Shop Event | Thurs Dec. 12, 4:30–7:30pm 

Gather your friends to sip, shop, and enjoy festive treats while supporting small businesses. For a $10 donation to Shop Small Hawaii, you’ll gain access to refreshments, live entertainment, and a chance to win a $500 Kailua Town gift package. Learn more and get tickets here.

Photo: Better Sour

Noticed Better Sour’s Guava Calamansi Lime or Pomegranate Apricot sour gummies on your recent trip to Foodland, Times, Down to Earth or Longs and wondered who’s behind the eye-catching new brand? Well, that would be two kamaʻāina and lifelong best friends, Bella Hughes and Semira Nikou! Some might be familiar with Hughes, a serial entrepreneur who also co-founded Shaka Tea and local contemporary arts nonprofit Hawaiʻi Contemporary. Better Sour is a dream come true for these two BFFs, who are absolutely obsessed with sour fruit flavors from around the world and take inspiration from their island roots and shared Iranian heritage.

Photo: Better Sour

Almost two years into business this wāhine-owned business has a new flavor coming out, Passion Fruit Sour Gummy Stars, a collaboration with Disney celebrating the release of Disney’s Moana 2, the all new movie only in theaters on November 27, 2024. Better Sour’s new Passion Fruit Sour Gummy Stars featuring  characters from Disney’s Moana 2  will be found on Hawaiian Airlines, 7-Eleven Hawai‘i, Foodland, KTA, and Longs Drugs.

Learn more at @eatbettersour or www.bettersour.com

Photo: Courtesy of Jonathan You

We came, we sipped, we scored amazing holiday deals! On Saturday, November 9th, over 300 guests joined us for Kāhala Mall’s Holiday Sip + Shop, an exclusive event combining festive shopping, seasonal treats, and holiday cheer. Everyone enjoyed holiday wine tastings and bites from local restaurants at 11 participating stores, all offering event-only discounts and promotions. Plus, a commemorative Sip + Shop holiday wine glass and a tote to carry their gifts! With live music and a special holiday giveaways, it was the ultimate kick off to their holiday shopping.

Photo: Foodland

The season of giving is here, but that doesn’t mean you have to break the bank. These seven inexpensive gifts are perfect for every kind of foodie — plus, they’re easy to find at your nearest Foodland.

Photo: Foodland

• Every family has a hostess with the mostest, and this festive melamine tray will ensure they’re ready for serving all the season’s sweet treats. Plus, baking kits that come with a holiday spatula are available for Lilikoi Cornbread Muffins, Chocolate Peppermint Brownies, or Chichi Dango Mochi. Mele Kalikimaka Tray, $9.99 and Take & Bake Kit, $12.99
  
  

  Photo: Foodland

   

• Pre-wrapped for easy gifting, this Chichi Dango Mochi Kit comes with three flavors: Coconut, Strawberry, and Melon. Perfect for your loved ones to ring in the new year with a fresh batch of this local fave. Chichi Dango Mochi Kit, $23.99

Photo: Foodland

• Make movie time mo’ bettah for the film lover in your life by elevating their favorite cinema snack with kaki mochi, furikake, and more. Maika‘i Kine Hurricane Popcorn Kit, $24.99

Photo: Foodland

• What are holidays without a little vino? Grab a bottle for aunty and uncle, then wrap it up in a reusable wine tote. Maika‘i wine, $13.99 (Coming soon to a Foodland near you); Reusable wine tote, $4.99

Photo: Foodland

• Satisfy every sweet, salty, and sour tooth this holiday season with a variety of local snacks. Prune Mui or Guava Li Hing Gummy Bears, $6.99; Manoa Chocolate Peppermint Chocolate Bar, $9.99

Photo: Foodland

• Noodles symbolize longevity, good luck, and prosperity — making them the perfect holiday present before the new year. Noodle Lover Essentials Kit, $24.99
• If you’re feeling unsure about the perfect present, remember that you can never go wrong with a gift card! They’re always the right flavor and available in any amount.

Photo: Foodland

Don’t forget to check out the selection of local gift wrap and gift bags to dress these presents up in Hawaiian-style holiday cheer!

An all-time classic gem on Kapi‘olani Boulevard, Yanagi is a haven for local Japanese food enthusiasts. From omakase sushi to kalbi short ribs and chawanmushi, HONOLULU Magazine’s 2024 Hale ‘Aina Gold winner for Best Sushi offers a diverse menu that caters to all tastes, making it a perfect spot for anyone to enjoy a satisfying meal.

After many visits, we’ve come to have some favorite staples, along with a few new items that pleasantly surprised us on our first try. Following recommendations from our waiter and sushi chef, we’ve curated a list of our top picks.

The appetizers are a must—they’re perfect for sharing with a group, allowing everyone to sample more of the extensive menu. Our favorite go-to starters are the tempura, karaage and chawanmushi, a savory Japanese steamed egg custard with hidden bits of kamaboko inside. Served piping hot from the steamer, this dish is a warm, comforting delight—just be careful not to burn your mouth!

One of our new discoveries was the salmon skin salad, which will definitely be a repeat order. Composed of crisp microgreens, thinly sliced onions, crunchy bits of salmon skin, and drizzled with a tangy shoyu dressing, this salad is a light and refreshing way to start any meal. It’s perfect to share between two people.

Sushi and rolls are a highlight here, and we couldn’t resist trying the unagi and negi hamachi rolls. Each roll typically comes with eight pieces, making them ideal for sharing or enjoying on your own. The unagi roll is soft, slightly sweet and perfectly complemented by warm, freshly made rice. The negi hamachi roll combines fresh green onions with succulent fish, offering a delightful burst of flavors in every bite.

The omakase sushi platter is another standout, featuring a variety of 11 expertly crafted pieces and eight pieces of rolls. This platter is not only a fantastic way to sample the chef’s selections, but also offers plenty of food for one person, often with leftovers. The omakase includes an array of high-quality sushi pieces such as uni, otoro, salmon, ikura, unagi and more. We were pleasantly surprised by how filling and well-priced the omakase was, making it a great value for sushi lovers.

With its wide array of dishes, exceptional quality and welcoming atmosphere, Yanagi delivers a memorable dining experience. Whether you’re a sushi aficionado or simply looking to explore Japanese cuisine, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.

Sponsored by:

A hidden gem located in ‘A‘ali‘i Shops in Ward, Cino has quickly become a favorite, offering a dining experience that seamlessly blends traditional Italian flavors with modern twists. With an array of fusion pasta dishes and locally sourced ingredients, the crudo-bar-meets-chophouse concept—which, this year, took home Hale ‘Aina Gold for Best New Restaurant—promises an explosion of flavors, thoughtfully placed in every dish.

After trying a few of its most popular items, here’s a list of our favorite must-try eats that should not be slept on at this elegant date night experience.

Charred Spanish Octopus

Photo: Madison Chow

One of the standout dishes at Cino is the charred Spanish octopus. Starting with visual appeal, the octopus is grilled to perfection, achieving a delicate balance between a crispy exterior and a tender, juicy interior. We have never experienced a more tender piece of octopus. The smokiness enhances the tako’s natural sweetness, while a zesty citrus dressing adds a refreshing brightness.

Crab Spaghetti

Photo: Madison Chow

For pasta lovers, the crab spaghetti is a must-try. It’s cooked al dente and generously coated in a light, flavorful sauce that perfectly compliments the sweet, tender crab meat. Hints of garlic and fresh herbs add depth to the dish and, paired with uni, the pasta has a delicate creamy texture. Every bite is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, from crisp breadcrumbs to dill toppings.

Osso Bucco with Broccolini

Photo: Madison Chow

Cino’s osso bucco with broccolini is automatic comfort food. The veal shank is slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in a dish that’s both rich and tender. The meat, practically falling off the bone, infused with the flavors of the herbs. With a house-made saffron risotto, this dish is hearty and so flavorful.

Scallop Crudo

Photo: Madison Chow

As a lighter dish at the beginning of the meal, the scallop crudo was one of our favorites. Featuring thinly sliced, impeccably fresh scallops, it’s paired with a piece of grapefruit that enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops without overpowering the dish. A sprinkle of fresh herbs and microgreens adds that extra finishing touch. This is enough to share between two to three people.

Panna Cotta

Photo: Madison Chow

With its silky-smooth texture—a light and perfect sweet treat after the heavier meal—Cino’s panna cotta does not disappoint. A fresh topping of berry compote adds burst of sour and sour that perfectly balances the sweetness.

From the charred Spanish octopus to the indulgent osso bucco and flawless panna cotta, every dish is a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to quality fresh ingredients. And the atmosphere—exciting, sophisticated and timeless—makes you feel as if you’re about to embark on an exciting new adventure. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a night out, Cino deserves a spot on your must-try list.

Cino, 987 Queen St. Suite 100, (808) 888-3008, @cinohawaii

Sponsored by:

Photo: Courtesy of Foodland

When Foodland launched its collection of five-ingredient recipes, we didn’t think dinner could get any easier. Now—busy parents, lazy cooks and potluck hosts, listen up!–it’s one-upped itself with the brand-new lineup of Maika‘i marinated meats, a selection featuring beef, pork and chicken that’s packaged with all the flavor and seasonings done for you. All you need to do is bust out the grill or turn on the stove, and your dinner is ready in no time.

Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

Less time cooking means more time for winding down. Or, in our case, wine-ing down. For your ultimate low-key evening, try these pairings from Foodland Vice President and Chief Food Officer Keoni Chang, found in the Grill & Chill section of Foodland stores. The best part? Each bottle is only $12.99!

Carne Asada and Innocent Bystander Pinot Noir, 2019

Photo: Courtesy of Foodland, Aaron K. Yoshino

This vibrant red hails from Yarra Valley, the oldest wine region in Victoria, Australia. Smooth, with pops of berry flavors and a weighty, earthy undertone, Innocent Bystander’s acidity gives a vibrant boost to holds its own against the strong, meaty flavors carne asada.

Ginger Teriyaki Beef and Wildsong Hawke’s Bay Rosé, 2022

Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

A pretty, strawberry-pink rosé from New Zealand, this wine is as easy on the eyes as it is on the tastebuds. Bright, dry and with notes of ripe strawberry and watermelon, it’s easy drinking on its own or, as we suggest, alongside zingy, sweet teriyaki beef.

Sesame & Salt Boneless Beef Short ribs and Carmel Road Cabernet Sauvignon, 2021

Photo: Courtesy of Foodland, Aaron K. Yoshino

A full-flavored dish shines when paired with a full-bodied wine. The easy-to-drink Carmel Road cabernet sauvignon is a people pleaser that pairs well with a variety of dishes, and especially with grilled meats like Foodland’s rich, flavor-packed boneless beef short ribs.

Miso Chicken Thighs and Novellum Chardonnay, 2021

Photo: Courtesy of Foodland, Aaron K. Yoshino

A 100% chardonnay from France, Novellum is extra dry, full-bodied and has a refreshing flavor that pairs well with lighter meats such as pork, shellfish and chicken.

Spicy Bulgogi Pork Butt and La Quercia Montepulciano d’Abruzzo D.O.C., 2021

Photo: Courtesy of Foodland, Aaron K. Yoshino

A true crowd pleaser with notes of dark plum, spices and just a bit of smoke, this medium-bodied Italian wine is perfect paired with hearty meats like bulgogi, as well as pizza and hard cheeses.

To shop Foodland’s new lineup of Maika‘i marinated meats and Grill & Chill wine selection, visit foodland.com.

Photo: Ward Village

Mark your calendars for Taste of Ward, happening Thursday, October 10th to Friday, October 18th. This event invites you to support Ward Village eateries and create meaningful experiences while enjoying exclusive menus and special offers on local fare and global flavors. Experience the variety of cuisine available for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and everything in between in this one vibrant neighborhood.

Taste of Ward Participants

Aliʻi Coffee

Ăn Đi Dzô

CINO

Ginza Sushi

Happy Lemon

Holey Grail Donuts

House of Mana Up

Istanbul Hawaii

Kamitoku Ramen

Maile’s Thai

Merriman’s

Nalu Health Bar & Café

Nori Bar Honolulu

Okayama Kobo Bakery & Cafe

ONKEE Korean Grill House

Planted by La Tour Café

Robata JINYA

Scratch Kitchen

Selfmade Something

Straits

Sugarlina Bakery

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf

Offer Highlights

Enjoy a special four-course tasting menu at Istanbul Hawaii, try the new Queen Bowl at Nalu Health Bar, delight in a new menu item at Merriman’s, receive a complimentary beverage with the purchase of a four-pack Tasting Box at Holey Grail Donuts, and indulge in a cold brew float with your choice of Dave’s ice cream at Ali‘i Coffee.

Learn More

More than 20 establishments are participating, so visit your tried-and-true favorites or discover something new. The full list of participating restaurants and their respective offers can be found here.