Graphic: James Nakamura

It’s hard to believe Thanksgiving is tomorrow—probably because we’ve been ho-ho-hoing our way around town buying and eating these Advent calendar gift ideas. Purely for research purposes, of course. Some ideas are so ‘ono, we have to hold them for the next installment of this five-part series because some people eat the ideas before we can photo them, so we have to go buy more.

We hope you’ll love these suggestions as much as we do. Stay tuned every week for the next three weeks as we bring you more foodie-themed gifts that are made in the Islands or sold at locally owned small businesses.

SEE ALSO: Frolic Foodie Advent Calendar: Local Kine Gifts for Days 1–5

Banana Bread

Photo: Courtesy of @bakinmekrazee

What’s to love: There are lots of banana breads from all kinds of pop-up bakers, but Bakin’ Me Krazee’s is our far-and-away favorite. Moist, but not mushy; firm, but not dense; and rich from ripe bananas, but not overly sweet. This year, owner Malyssa is bakin’ her sumptuous loaves in various flavors and selling them in festive Christmas boxes. —Diane Seo

How much: $6 to $12 for Christmas boxes

Where to find: @bakinmecrazee

Shiny Shave Ice Dog Toy

Photo: Courtesy of @disandbark

What’s to love: First, we love a clear mission statement, like Dis-and-Bark’s “local dog toys for local dogs.” And second, shiny shave ice! Strawberry Lickikoi juice cans! And a lifted pickup truck with detachable cooler! Dis-and-Bark expanded from an online mom-and-pop to three retail locations with plush toys for dogs that may be even more irresistible to their humans. There’s also a maile lei dog toy, a manapua truck with detachable manapua, and a 4-pack of Pawlicken whose plush green bottles each contains a tube squeaker.

How much: $12 to $30

Where to find: Multiple locations, disandbark.com, @disandbark

Holiday Okoshi

Photo: Courtesy of @madebyaliyoko

What’s to love: When we recently gifted baker Alison Yokouchi’s aji amarillo cashew okoshi and her apple cardamom okoshi, the feedback we got was filled with superlatives. “She is a fantastic baker and the okoshi is award-winning! Both flavors are outstanding!” one friend texted. Formerly a pastry chef at Halekulani Hotel, Yokouchi dreams up intriguing flavors for her rotation of Japanese puffed rice snacks, which she sells via Instagram direct messages and at pop-up events at Ethel’s Grill. —Diane Seo

How much: $10

Where to find: @madebyaliyoko

Christmas Tree Ornaments

Photo: Gregg Hoshida

What’s to love: Tree ornaments from CocoNene are designed and made in Hawai‘i on lightweight birchwood. Dozens of Island themes include this trio (Onions on poke bowl? Check. Gravy on loco moco? Check. And those rice grains!), plus a hula girl gingerbread and a smiling Spam musubi. And we love that they’ll fit in any Advent calendar or Christmas card.

How much: $14

Where to find: Multiple locations, coconene.com, @coconenehawaii

Pau Hana drink mixers

Photo: Tev Media

What’s to love: Bartender Tyler Yafuso’s cocktail mixers combine local flavors with a sustainable push. The three flavors—li hing lemon, liliko‘i lime Hawaiian chile pepper, and pineapple lime lemongrass—use excess produce from local farms; recipes on Pau Hana Co.’s website suggest mixing them with locally made spirits. They’re equally good in mocktails.

How much: $15

Where to find: drinkpauhana.com, @thepauhana.co

SEE ALSO: Shake It Up With Pau Hana Co. Drink Mixers

Photo: Lucas Kamata

The night market in the Pearlridge parking lot fronting TJ Maxx starts at 5 p.m., when the day is beginning to cool down. Live music acts interacting with the crowd, fairy lights strung on tents, and the smell of delicious food creates a lively atmosphere. One tip up front: Bring a few friends along. Why? Seating is limited, and this way one of you can save a spot at one of the tables while someone grabs food. So how did our $60 foodie date go?

Market: Village Night Market
When: Saturdays, 5 to 9 p.m.
Where: 98-1005 Moanalua Road
Info: @village.events.hawaii

SEE ALSO: Date Night Market: Honolulu Harbor Nights

My favorite dish of the evening is the one we start with. Pelmeshki is a vendor specializing in Russian dumplings, or pelmeni. At Pelmeshki, for $16, you get 16 bite-size pierogies filled with a beef and pork mixture, served either steamed or pan-fried, but for the order we’re splitting, my girlfriend has the great idea of choosing both. I get it with sour cream, the traditional condiment, and it adds a light contrast to the meaty dumplings. I also ask try the shoyu chile, the most popular option.

Personally, my favorite meal is dumplings, like gyoza and rice. While I enjoy the crispy pan-fried dumplings, my girlfriend prefers the softer, steamed ones. It’s interesting to see how the different textures offer different experiences, making it an excellent option for a side dish or main course.

Photo: Lucas Kamata

As the night grows chilly, we warm up with a shared bowl of Miso Butter Corn Ramen from Ramen Spot Beach for $15.50. The savory, rich miso broth feels comforting. The ramen is sprinkled with tender chashu, bright green onions and an expertly marinated egg. The sweet corn is a nice touch, balancing out the butteriness. We’ve saved some of the pierogies from Pelmeski and we eat them alongside the ramen, almost like gyoza, which makes for a tasty and almost conventional combination!

Photo: Lucas Kamata

Our food adventure continued with a Clam Chowder Bread Bowl from Moore 4 U, especially irresistible since I’ve never seen a bread bowl at a night market. For $16, you get a hearty clam chowder or pasta inside a bread bowl. The clam chowder is thick, creamy and flavorful. While my bowl doesn’t contain clams, a generous amount of potatoes and crispy bacon adds texture and depth. The soft, fluffy sourdough bowl is perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of chowder. I’m a big bread fan and would get this again.

Photo: Lucas Kamata

To end our night on a sweet note, we stop by Da Mochi Guys for their Cookie Butter Crunch, a four-pack of pink mochi generously filled with cookie butter, for $10. The chewy mochi, with its sweet and slightly salted cookie butter filling, is the right dessert to finish our meal.

Photo: Lucas Kamata

Our total before tax tonight is $57.50 for a shared four-course dinner for two. Fullness factor for both of us is 10 out of 10. All in all, this night market offers an outstanding mix at good prices. The market says it will continue every Saturday evening through the holiday season, with no breaks. So bring friends, scope out the vendors and make a game plan for your own foodie date night at the market!

SEE ALSO: Date Night Market: A $60 Sunset Date at ‘Ono Grindz & Mākeke

430 PKWY

Kaka‘ako

A speakeasy cocktail bar and lounge from Chris Kajioka is planned for the Waimanu-Pi‘ikoi corner of Kaka‘ako, already home to Tempura Ichika, Sushi Gyoshin and Hangang Korean Grill House. Look out for opening details in December.

430 Pi‘ikoi St., @430_pkwy

Amaterasu

Ala Moana

Frolic’s editors have been fond of Hideo Ohmiya’s thoughtful sushi omakase since he opened his first counter at Artizen inside the Velocity luxury car showroom. Since Amaterasu closed in April, we’ve kept our ears to the ground for when and where it would reappear. Amaterasu’s first brick-and-mortar opened yesterday, Nov. 20, one floor below Ala Moana Center’s Lanai food court near Macy’s. Soft-opening price is $100 a person; reserve on OpenTable.

1450 Ala Moana Blvd., @amaterasushi808

SEE ALSO: Amaterasu, the City’s Newest Sushi Omakase, Is in a Car Showroom

Big Island Burger

Waikīkī

Photo: Thomas Obungen

Jeff Carzino’s Big Island beef burgers are now in Waikīkī. Carzino’s Ultimate Burger in Kailua-Kona is popular for its commitment to local ingredients, 100% grass-fed Big Island beef and fresh-cut fries. On O‘ahu, I’m told there will be plant-based options, a 10% kama‘āina discount and parking validation with a minimum spend. Find this in Waikīkī Shopping Plaza on the street level.

2250 Kalākaua Ave. #102, @bigisland.burger

Faria

Kailua

Photo: Courtesy of Faria

Faria bills itself as a Pasifika Portuguese restaurant that, when it opens in early December, will pay homage to Hawai‘i’s Portuguese immigrants and their descendants. Recipes from co-owner Kawehi Haug’s family include alcatra con purê de batata, an Azorean pot roast stew; and pulvo á lagareiro, seared octopus with potatoes and sausage. I’m looking forward to the Butter Mochi Amendoa, Haug’s riff on bolo de arroz (rice flour cake) and butter mochi with an almond float topping.

305 Ku‘ulei Road, fariahawaii.com, @fariahawaii

Favorite Son

Waikīkī

Favorite Son has a lot going for it. Offerings at this deli-meets-diner on the ground floor of the Romer Waikīkī start with breakfast and continue through the day with toasted hoagies, Detroit-style pizza, salads, protein bowls and cocktails too. The bright, airy space is on the quieter ‘Ewa end of Waikīkī.

2040 Kūhiō Ave., romerhotels.com, @favoritesonwaikiki

Gecko Girlz Shave Ice

Diamond Head

Photo: Thomas Obungen

There can never be too many shave ice shops in Hawai‘i. Gecko Girlz proves my point, bringing its vibrantly hued creations and syrups from Kona to a location near Diamond Head. The Kona Sunset with vanilla ice cream, liliko‘i and lychee syrups, liliko‘i puree, coconut cream snow cap and mochi is an especially sweet signature item, but you can also craft your own.

3045 Monsarrat Ave., geckogirlz.com, @geckogirlzshaveice

Honolulu Bagel Co.

Downtown

With the recipes and baker from now-shuttered Lox of Bagels on board, Honolulu Bagel has opened Downtown on the Pauahi Street portion of Fort Street Mall. Daily bagel selections, schmears and a roster of sandwiches round out a menu that will also bring back the schmear-stuffed Bagel Bombs.

73 S. Pauahi St., @honolulubagelcompany

Gohan

Makiki

Photo: Thomas Obungen

Honolulu’s first made-to-order musubi and hand roll bar brings new excitement to this stretch of South King Street. Gohan pairs fluffy, freshly milled Tsuyahime rice with crisp Ariake nori to make excellent rice balls and hand rolls with classic and inspired toppings. The tonjiru pork miso soup and tsukemono pickles are also worth trying. Grab-and-go options are available, but dine at the counter for the best experience.

1314 S. King St., @gohan.hawaii

SEE ALSO: Gohan Is Honolulu’s First Craft Musubi Bar, and It Just Opened in Makiki

Harumi

Waikīkī

Photo: Thomas Obungen

Waikīkī’s newest izakaya offers a broad menu of Japanese classics: sushi rolls, nigiri, yakitori and tempura. Menu items that stand out: fava bean tempura ($6.95), beef and pineapple kushiyaki ($3.95) and Hawaiian-style oxtail soup ($11.95). If you’re game to brave Waikīkī parking, Harumi looks like it might be a fun joint to start the night.

339 Royal Hawaiian Ave., @harumi_waikiki

SEE ALSO: Where to Park in Waikīkī

Lady Elaine

Mānoa

Lady Elaine, the second Mānoa Marketplace restaurant by Dusty Grable’s Lovers + Fighters group, is expected to open in December. Grable says menu items will range from Southern Italian and Sicilian to dishes with Moroccan, Provençal and Lebanese influences. The restaurant will have indoor and outdoor seating and a large by-the-glass wine program, which I am especially looking forward to.

2752 Woodlawn Dr.

SEE ALSO: The Hospitalitarian: Dusty Grable Is the 2024 Restaurateur of the Year

Mille Fête

Chinatown

Photo: Sean Marrs

James Beard Award-winning chef Robynne Maii is putting the final touches on her new Chinatown bakery-café with pastry chef Katherine Yang of Gigi Blue in New York. Expect sandwiches, ice cream, baked goods, cakes and other confections from these two powerhouse chefs. The opening was planned for December but it’s looking more like January 2025.

1113 Smith St., @millefete

Please Come Again

Kailua

Photo: Thomas Obungen

Ube crunch. Rose lychee. Shiso mint chip. These are some of the 16 ice cream flavors lingering on the brain after a visit to Please Come Again, a craft parlor that opened in early November in Kailua. As the name suggests, we will be coming again and again to try more whimsical ice creams and sorbets.

322 Ku‘ulei Road, @pleasecomeagainhawaii

SEE ALSO: Sweet Treats: Kailua’s New Ice Cream Parlor Has One Request

Tonkatsu Kuro

Kaka‘ako

Expect cold soba and premium kurobuta pork tonkatsu combination sets from Tonkatsu Kuro, which is slated to open in coming weeks in the space on the corner of Halekauwila Street and Robinson Lane, kitty corner from Rinka.

1000 Auahi St., @tonkatsu.kuro.hi

Youpo Noodles

Chinatown

Photo: Thomas Obungen

After a brief experiment with Nasi Lemak, a farmers market stall with a focus on Malaysia’s national dish, Andrew Pressler is bringing back the hand-pulled biang biang mien that was the original star of his operation. The super chewy, spicy noodles get their flavoring from scalding hot oil hitting the herbs and spices in an aromatic flash. This time, however, Youpo Noodles has graduated from the farmers markets to its first brick-and-mortar spot in Chinatown. It’ll be closed Thanksgiving week and back in operation the first week of December.

1109 Maunakea St., @youponoodleshi

SEE ALSO: Find Fresh, Spicy, Hand-Pulled Noodle Bowls at These O‘ahu Farmers Markets

Graphic: James Nakamura

We know you, you’re eating your last stashes of Halloween candy while planning your Thanksgiving dish AND your Christmas gift list. Same here. So we came up with our first-ever Frolic Foodie Advent Calendar, with 25 gift ideas for 25 days of giving.

Some are edible or drinkable, others are foodie-themed. All are made in these Islands or sold at locally owned small businesses. You can find them online or at places on O‘ahu, listed below. We’ll be bringing them to you five gift ideas at a time, every week, in a five-part series that starts here. Happy giving!

SEE ALSO: Frolic Foodie Advent Calendar: Local Kine Gifts for Days 6-10

Guava Li Hing Gummies

Photo: Mari Taketa

What’s to love: The chew on these gummy bears is not too sticky, not too bouncy, but juuust right. Add the guava tang and generous bits of peel, and you can see why this was a hit at our staff meeting. Props for packaging in a jar and not a bag. Note: We were so excited, we started eating before we remembered to take a photo.

How much: $6.99 for a 6-ounce jar with Maika‘i card through Nov. 26, then $8.39

Where to find: Foodland and Foodland Farms stores

Hawaiian Krunch Granola

Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

What’s to love: Someone who travels a lot told us this makes good omiyage, so we tried it out. Verdict: Canoe crops do make good granola! Flavors balance coconut, honey, warm seasonings and mac nuts with crunchy niblets of ‘ulu, kalo and ‘uala (our fave because it comes with cacao nibs). Handmade in small batches in Upcountry Maui.

How much: $17.99 for a 10-ounce bag in stores; $34.99 for a sampler pack of three 5-ounce bags or $39.99 for a sampler gift box at hawaiiankrunch.com

Where to find: ChefZone, Farm Link, hawaiiankrunch.com

Info: hawaiiankrunch.com

SEE ALSO: The Snack You Didn’t Know You Needed: Hawaiian Krunch Turns Canoe Crops Into Granola

Kakimochi and Chex Mix Coasters

Photo: Courtesy of Jana Lam Hawai‘i

What’s to love: These two-sided coasters are hand-printed at Jana Lam’s small studio in Kaka‘ako. A third layer sandwiched in between adds stability. We love that these are made from leftover scrap material, meaning less waste. And it’s kakimochi and Chex Mix!

How much: $38

Where to find: janalam.com

Food, Ka Mea ‘Ai

Photo: Mari Taketa

What’s to love: Written in conversational English and ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i, this picture book introduces keiki ages 1 to 5 to the names of local foods like mango and noodles. Part of Resi Suehiro’s six-book Little Island Readers series, whose other topics include recycling, shave ice and endangered animals. Maika‘i loa!

How much: $10.95

Where to find: Da Shop, Bess Press

Photo: Mari Taketa

SEE ALSO: Da Shop’s Greatest Hits: Volume 1

Kvasir’s Mead

Photo: Courtesy of Village Bottle Shop

What’s to love: New meads from Hawai‘i Island—Kvasir’s started out in Mountain View in 2021—are made from the family’s generations-old Polish recipes. Ingredients come from Big Island beekeepers and natural farmers, and each mead comes with a story (our current fave: Yeastie Boys. Read it on the website.) In stock at Village Bottle Shop in Kaka‘ako are 500-ml bottles of Yeastie Boys, a banana-longan mead; White Rabbit, a banana-vanilla mead; and Dark Horse, a medieval black or bochet mead.

How much: Dark Horse $25.99, White Rabbit and Yeastie Boys $28.99

Where to find: Village Bottle Shop in Kaka‘ako

Info: kvasirsmead.com

Welcome to $10 Eats, my journey to find filling dishes you can savor without breaking the bank. Today, I’m taking you to three must-visit places not far from the UH-Mānoa campus.

SEE ALSO: Beer Lab Opens a Fun Bar and Lounge with Food at Puck’s Alley

Rainbow Drive-In’s Loco Moco Bowl

Photo: Lucas Kamata

First up is the Loco Moco Bowl from Rainbow Drive-In, a true local classic for just $7.50. Picture this: a mound of rice topped with a seasoned hamburger patty, all smothered with that rich brown gravy. Add a perfectly cooked egg of your choice on top, and you have the ultimate comfort food. It’s a smaller version of the famous loco plate, but the flavors are the same, incredibly bold and satisfying. This dish is a must for a quick lunch or a casual dinner, and trust me: It’s a decent portion that will leave you feeling full and happy. Also at Rainbow’s, things like the Chili Dog Boat and Rainbow Royal with double patties are less than $10.

Multiple locations, (808) 737-0177, rainbowdrivein.com, @rainbowdrivein

Okata Bento’s Mini Mix Plates

Photo: Lucas Kamata

Next, let’s head to Okata Bento in Kaimukī for the Mini Mix Plate featuring your choice of meat. From the menu of beef teriyaki, char siu chicken, tonkatsu and other hard-to-choose classics, I decide on the Mahi Mahi and Teriyaki Chicken for $9.50. This is a delightful flavor combo. The Mahi Mahi is expertly grilled, while the teriyaki chicken is sweet and savory with a nice char. What’s unique about Okata Bento is that your meal is prepared fresh when you order it, ensuring you get a piping hot experience every time. Just remember to bring some cash, as Okata doesn’t accept plastic.

3616 Wai‘alae Ave., (808) 737-6063, @okatabento

Burritos at Koa Pancake House

Photo: Lucas Kamata

Last, let’s not forget the massive burritos at Koa Pancake House. This is a tossup: My friends swear by the Vinha D’alhos Burrito with fried potatoes, onions and eggs for $7.50, while my go-to is the Koa Breakfast Burrito with Portuguese sausage, cheese, eggs and potatoes for $6.95. There’s also a Veggie Burrito. These burritos are enormous! The vinha d’alhos one is stuffed with marinated pork loin that bursts with flavor in a soft tortilla. Each bite offers a combination of savory flavors and textures that make your taste buds dance. It’s perfect for anyone with a good appetite but not a hefty wallet.

Multiple locations, (808) 739-7778, koapancakehouse.com, @koapancakehouse

Hungry yet? Stay tuned for Part 2 because I’m exploring options for cheap burgers and pizza.

SO much choice, O‘ahu. We have that to be thankful for. The roundup of Thanksgiving menus that you’ve been browsing and bookmarking since we started that post has swollen to 65 restaurants, which is a lot to scroll through. And they’re still coming. So we’re starting a second round here—all new dine-in and takeout menus in addition to those in Part 1.

That gives you two roundups to browse. Click the link below to view offerings from the first 65 restaurants, and keep checking this post as we add more and more. For more info about each menu, just click on the image. As we said, SO much choice!

SEE ALSO: O‘ahu Restaurants’ Dine-In and Takeout Menus for Thanksgiving 2024

Aloha Bites

Kailua

Anna Miller’s

‘Aiea

Atsushi Honolulu (@sushi)

Kaka‘ako

Basalt

Waikīkī

Beyond Pastry Studio

Downtown

Big City Diner

Multiple locations

Brug Bakery

Multiple locations

Crouching Lion

Ka‘a‘awa

Dell’s Kitchen & Bakery

Mō‘ili‘ili

Diamond Head Market & Grill

Diamond Head

Eating House 1849

Waikīkī

Elena’s Filipino Restaurant

Waipahu

Goen Dining + Bar

Kailua

Great Harvest

Multiple locations

The Hau Tree

Waikīkī

Hawai‘i Dim Sum & Seafood

Chinatown

Hawai‘i Doggie Bakery

Mānoa

Hawaiian Pie Co.

Kalihi

HI Cravings / Hawai‘i Smoothie Bowls

Kaka‘ako

Hideout at The Laylow

Waikīkī

Hoku’s at The Kāhala

Kāhala

Holoholo Grill

UH Mānoa

HoMA Café

Makiki

Hometown BBQ

‘Ewa

Honolulu Mochi

Multiple locations

Island Craves

Online

Jade Dynasty

Ala Moana

Kaiten Sushi Ginza Onodera Hawai‘i

Mō‘ili‘ili

Kapa Hale

Kāhala

Kapi‘olani Coffee Shop

Waimalu

Khan Skewer Restaurant

Mō‘ili‘ili

Kickin Kajun

Multiple locations

Kotetsu Chaya

Pāwa‘a

Kulu Kulu

Multiple locations

La Gelateria

Pāwa‘a

Local Boy Sushi

Multiple locations

Local General Store

Kaimukī

Mahina and Sun’s

Waikīkī

Marian’s Catering

Wahiawā

Mercado de La Raza

McCully

Moku Kitchen

Kaka‘ako

Monkeypod Kitchen

Ko Olina

Waikīkī

Morning Glass Coffee

Mānoa

Nico’s Pier 38

Iwilei

Ocean Side Bakery

Chinatown

Pagoda Restaurant

Pāwa‘a

Pipeline Bakeshop

Kaimukī

Plumeria Beach House at Kāhala Resort

Kāhala

Pu‘uwai Aloha Bakery

Kaka‘ako

Roy’s

Hawai‘i Kai

Ko Olina

Waikīkī

Senia

Chinatown

Sing Cheong Yuan Bakery

Chinatown

Southern Love

Kaka‘ako

Sunset Texas BBQ

Kaka‘ako

Sushi You

Makiki

Taka’s Box Lunch

Mapunapuna

Texas de Brazil

Ala Moana

This Lil Piggy

Kunia

Waikīkī Beach Marriott Resort

Waikīkī

Wai‘Olu Ocean Cuisine

Waikīkī

Wallflour Bake Shop

Mō‘ili‘ili

Whiskey Smoke 808

Kāne‘ohe

W&M Burger

Kaimukī

SEE ALSO: O‘ahu Restaurants’ Dine-In and Takeout Menus for Thanksgiving 2024

Editor’s note: This roundup quickly became so massive as we kept adding new menus that we had to start a new post. Check out Part 2: More Thanksgiving 2024 Menus—we’ll be adding new items to that roundup until T-Day.

Yes, we do know it’s not even Halloween yet, but enough of you have been searching our site for Thanksgiving menus that we decided to get a headstart this year. Just click on the image to find out more about a restaurant’s offerings. And keep checking back—we’re still more than a month out from T-Day, so we’ll be adding dozens more menus as restaurants announce their offerings.

SEE ALSO: Thanksgiving 2024 Part 2: More Menus From Restaurants All Over O‘ahu

53 by the Sea

Kaka‘ako Makai

Ala Moana Hotel by Mantra

Ala Moana

Ali‘i Fish Market

Mō‘ili‘ili

Arden Waikīkī

Waikīkī

Artizen by MW

Kaka‘ako

Basalt

Waikīkī

SEE ALSO: Where to Park in Waikīkī

Breadshop

Kaimukī

Buffet at Hyatt

Waikīkī

C4 Table

Kaka‘ako

Chef Chai

Kaka‘ako

Deck

Waikīkī

Diamond Head Market & Grill

Diamond Head

Donnie’s BarbeQue Smokehouse

Wahiawā

Eating House 1849

Waikīkī

Et Al

Kāhala

Feast by Jon Matsubara

Mānoa

Foodland

Multiple locations

Fujiya Hawai‘i

McCully

Guava Smoked

Multiple locations

Guieb Café

Multiple locations

Hi Pie Bakery

Hale‘iwa

HI Steaks

Multiple locations

Ige’s ‘Aiea

‘Aiea

Ige’s Halawa Lunch & Catering

Halawa

Jolene’s Hawai‘i

Multiple locations

Kako‘o ‘Ōiwi

He‘eia

Kilani Bakery

Wahiawā

Koko Head Café

Kaimukī

Kualoa Grown

Kualoa

Lanakila Pacific

Liliha

Liliha Bakery

Liliha

Little Sparrow

Online

M.A.C. 24/7

Waikīkī

Mahi‘ai Table

Kapolei

Mango Street Grill

Wahiawā

Mara Honolulu

Pawa‘a

Marukai Hawai‘i

Dillingham

Merriman’s Honolulu

Kaka‘ako

Murphy’s

Chinatown

MW Restaurant

Kaka‘ako

Nami Kaze

Iwilei

Ocean Side Bakery

Chinatown

‘Ōlena by Chef Ron Simon

Iwilei

Olive Branch

Online

Over Easy

Kailua

Pagoda Restaurant

Ke‘eaumoku

Peace Café

Mō‘ili‘ili

Perefoti Island Vaifala

Online

Piko Kitchen + Bar

Waikīkī

Poke Stop

Mililani Mauka

Prince Waikīkī

Waikīkī

Redfish Poke

Waikīkī

Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu

Turtle Bay

Shay’s Filipino Café

Waipahu

Side Street Inn

Hopaka Street

Kapahulu

Slice by HB Baking

Kapahulu

Spitfire at Dukes Lane

Waikīkī

Stripsteak

Waikīkī

Sweet Revenge

Multiple locations

Tango Café

Kaka‘ako

Tanioka’s Seafoods & Catering

Waipahu

Tex 808 BBQ + Brews

Multiple locations

Tiano’s Restaurant

Kunia

Young’s Fish Market

Kalihi

Zippy’s

Multiple locations

SEE ALSO: Thanksgiving 2024 Part 2: More Menus From Restaurants All Over O‘ahu

Young Park and Angela Tang eat out in Las Vegas 11 times a week. That pales in comparison to how often they out in Honolulu, which is 21 times a week—every meal of every day of the couple’s twice-yearly monthlong stays. So naturally, after Park spontaneously texted us loving descriptions of all 15 of his favorite dishes in Honolulu, we asked the Las Vegas resident to do the same with his top picks in the Ninth Island.

SEE ALSO: Top 15 Picks of a Las Vegas Man Who Eats Out in Honolulu 180 Times a Year

Park graciously obliged; Tang followed up with photos. These aren’t the celebrity chef restaurants of the Strip, nor, for the most part, national chains. Park and Tang support local eateries. From pancakes to pizza to Peking duck, they know these dishes only as true fanatics can: When they find something they love, they go back for it repeatedly, even in the same week.

They did this with Honolulu’s Sushi Gyoshin, booking four more omakase dinners in April after we met there that month—even though Gyoshin’s waitlist stretched into summer. How? I asked. If you’re diligent, there are last-minute cancellations, they said. They must have called nearly daily. While they were at it, they booked five more reservations at Gyoshin for their return visit next month.

So what do they love in Las Vegas? Bookmark this and read on.

SEE ALSO: Honolulu’s Omakase Obsession

Photo: Angela Tang

Spicy Pig pizza and tagliatelle pasta at La Strega

The crust on the Spicy Pig is legit—slight crunch and a nice chew but not overly doughy. Not super thin like Joe’s Pizza (my favorite NYC pie), but it’s damn good. Red sauce is house-made, and the soppressata, smoked mozzarella and chives make this something special. Gina Marinelli travels to search out new and different dishes for her ever-changing seasonal menu. A newer item, the tagliatelle pasta served on bone marrow with guanciale and pomodoro, is a simple dish done extremely well. You want great Italian in Vegas? Pass on Carbone and go to La Strega—you will thank me.

3555 S. Town Center Dr., Summerlin, lastregalv.com, @lastregalv

Photo: Angela Tang

Carne asada burrito at Buena Vista Kitchen

I may be Asian American, but I grew up in LA. My favorite Mexican spots there, to establish some street cred with you, are King Taco (El Taurino aka “Hoover Taco” if you’re from Ktown) for their red chile sauce, Sonora Town for the grilled carne asada, and Leo’s Taco Truck for out-of-this-world al pastor tacos.

At Buena Vista Kitchen, Manny Garduno makes everything from scratch, including his flour tortillas, which are to a great burrito like rice to sushi or bread to a sandwich. The tortilla is thin and has a stretch when you bite in. The burrito has quality carne asada, which is pretty rare unless you’re going to a fancier Mexican spot like Javier’s. Served with house-made guacamole, pico de gallo salsa, choice of refried or black beans, and that’s it! Plus house-made corn tortilla chips and mixed green/red chile that is very, very good.

2620 Regatta Dr., Summerlin, buenavistakitchen.com, @buena_vista_kitchen

Photo: Angela Tang

Peking Duck at Mott 32

This is the one exception to my “I don’t dine at Strip restaurants” mantra. The 42-day aged duck at Hong Kong-based Mott 32 is as good as the best in China or Hong Kong. Executive Chef Alan Ji (he opened Hakkasan in Miami and led Wing Lei at Wynn in 2016) is the real deal—his Chinese culinary knowledge and experience are reflected in the dishes. The Peking duck is perfect, from its crispy, light and flavorful skin to the tableside presentation and cutting to the sauces and ultra-thin wraps. Despite a modern Asian nightclub vibe, the restaurant is not so noisy. Service is exceptional—special shoutout to King Kai “Danny” Chan who is the best server!

3325 S. Las Vegas Blvd., mott32.com/las-vegas, @mott32vegas

Double Double at In-N-Out Burger

Truly still one of my most favorite things to eat. During the COVID lockdowns when we couldn’t see family and friends and most other restaurants were closed, In-N-Out saved me from going insane. No need to describe the legendary Double Double. I believe In-N-Out was Anthony Bourdain’s favorite restaurant in LA.

Multiple locations, in-n-out.com/locations/nevada

Photo: Angela Tang

Twice-cooked pork and boiled fish with rattan pepper at Spicy Zest

Chef Alan Ji of Mott 32 opened Spicy Zest in May 2024 with his wife, Vivo Mo, who works the front of the house. Spicy Zest brings Michelin-star-level Szechuan dishes in a warm, casual, family-friendly setting, with prices that are also friendly. The twice-cooked pork is exceptional and properly enjoyed with a bowl of white rice. The flavor and texture are perfect, prepared by a chef who knows what this dish is supposed to taste like. The boiled fish with rattan peppers is equally outstanding with a broth of liquid gold that is spicy but not overwhelming. In southwest Vegas, the new hot spot for Asian restaurants.

7320 S. Rainbow Blvd., (725) 214-3383

SEE ALSO: The Ultimate Guide to Chinese Food

Photo: Angela Tang

Italian beef sandwich at Amore Taste of Chicago

Authentic Chicago-style Italian beef sandwiches in a nice, large sports bar setting. The sandwich comes with a generous portion of beef, side of au jus and house-made giardiniera peppers. The bread is slightly toasted, crisp outside and airy inside. Comes with fries for $10.95, an unbeatable deal. This is a guy’s dish for sure—any woman who likes this sandwich or is willing to just watch her man enjoy it is a keeper.

Multiple locations, amoretasteofchicago.com, @amoretasteofchicagolv

SEE ALSO: My 8 Favorite Sandwiches on O‘ahu

Photo: Angela Tang

Chocolate banana cake at Nutriente Pastry Studio

Neither words nor pics can do justice to the magical delights that chef-owner Diana Dimitrova creates. Like all of her desserts, you can taste the quality ingredients in the chocolate banana cake from the first bite to the last. Nothing else in Vegas compares. The setting is cozy, humble and confident. Dimitrova greets and treats each guest like a good friend. Simply magical.

7225 S. Durango Dr., nutrientepastrystudio.com, @nutriente_pastry_studio

Photo: Angela Tang

Spicy Shoyu Ramen at SilverLake Ramen

Everyone has their favorite ramen spots, and folks get pretty heated about where is best. For me, it’s SilverLake. The broth is not too heavy and not too light, the noodles are just the right chew and the chashu is thicker and has that LA carnitas vibe that I love. SilverLake, which originated in Los Angeles and now has locations across the mainland, including a newly opened spot in Vegas’s Chinatown, has successfully taken its Japanese origins and combined them with the LA/SoCal palate.

3455 Arville St., silverlakeramen.com, @silverlake_ramen_lv

Grilled salmon bento at Japan Creek Market

This is a tiny grocery store specializing in Japanese food products in a Henderson strip mall off the 215 freeway. The grilled salmon is perfectly prepared medium, not overcooked, and comes with rice and small sides of macaroni salad, nikujaga and pickles, all for $9.99! Workers are super courteous and service is great—I call in my order, and it’s ready in 20 minutes. This is an easy, delicious, healthy and inexpensive meal that I enjoy at least once a week.

9310 S. Eastern Ave., japancreek.com

SEE ALSO: My 12 Favorite Restaurants Off the Strip in Las Vegas

Photo: Angela Tang

Organic Chicken Katsu at Katsu Ya Ton Ton

Easily the best Japanese katsu spot in the Western United States. We are lucky that Chef Masa and his wife Reiko relocated to Vegas from Ginza Bairin Tonkatsu & Yoshoku Bistro in Waikīkī. Katsu Ya uses a superior rice bran oil and sources its pork and meats from Sunterra Farms. Their signature panko is from Japan’s Kyoei Foods, which specializes in panko. All the katsu dishes are outstanding, but for me, the organic chicken is just so damn juicy and light and flavorful. Also, the panko crust is always perfect on the chicken compared to the pork. Pair the chicken katsu with Asahi on draft in a frosted mug, and you are good to go.

7225 S. Durango Dr., tontonlv.com, @tontonkatsuya

Photo: Angela Tang

Chef Roy Ellamar’s mom’s banana bread

I don’t know if you can still get the banana bread at Fine Company in downtown Summerlin, since Roy parted ways in June with LEV Group. Some of you may know him as a local from Hilo—I’m keeping in touch with him and will let you know when I find out where I can get that frickin’ banana bread.

Photo: Angela Tang

Hainan Chicken at 88 Noodle Papa

I’m a fein for good Hainan chicken, and Noodle Papa easily turns out the best in Vegas. And I’ve tried them all. Noodle Papa is a little spot in Shanghai Plaza in Chinatown (on Spring Mountain) that turns out some great Hong Kong-style dishes. Pair the Hainan chicken with the HK-style iced lemon tea and close your eyes and you might be in Hong Kong.

4276 Spring Mountain Road, 88noodlepapa.com

Photo: Angela Tang

Khao Soy with Scallops and Shrimp Pad Thai at Weera Thai

Vegas has many Thai restaurants, including very good ones like Lotus of Siam and Weera Thai (which has multiple locations; this is about the Rainbow location—I can’t speak to the others since I haven’t been there). The general manager, Peter, is Thai and runs this restaurant with hospitality and genuine warmth, which are hallmarks of the beautiful Thai culture. This is where the local Thais come to eat with three generations of family. That’s how you know the food is authentic and good. The pics do more justice to how good these dishes are than my clumsy words, so I will stop here.

7337 S. Rainbow Blvd., weerathai.com, @weerathai.rainbow

Editor’s Note: After Tuesday’s thunderous downpours and nail-biter elections, we could all use some soul-soothing. That’s what you’ll find in these five bowls—readers’ top picks from our January 2022 poll asking for their favorite version of a local classic.

Oxtail soup, not surprisingly, is subjective. Do you like a clean, classic broth or a deeper one rich with spices and mushrooms? Leafy greens twined through the oxtails or no veggies at all? Don’t even get us started on peanuts. Or are you forever smitten with the version you grew up with?

With several restaurants around the island laying claim to the tastiest oxtail soup, we put the vote to you, our readers. More than 1,200 of you weighed in, many writing in your favorites. Props to all who voted for your own recipe or your dad’s or brother-in-law’s and to those eateries that led the write-in voting: Guieb Cafe, Rokaru Shabu Shabu, Tanaka Saimin and MW Restaurant.

Among the top vote-getters, voting was very close among Nos. 2 to 5, but you left absolutely no doubt about your No. 1 choice. Here are O‘ahu’s favorite oxtail soups.

No. 5: Espresso Bar at Neiman Marcus

Photo: Sean Morris

This may seem like a surprise pick, with 5.8% of votes cast, but the oxtail soup at Neiman Marcus Ala Moana’s Espresso Bar has had a following for years. The off-menu item is a Thursday special at this lunch café and often sells out by noon, so best to get there early. Remember, Thursdays only!

1450 Ala Moana Blvd., (808) 951-3445, stores.neimanmarcus.com

No. 4: Zippy’s

Photo: Mari Taketa

Because sometimes you need oxtail soup at midnight. Because you need it everywhere. Because the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender, and because there’s peanuts. The oxtail soup at this favorite local chain got 6.8% of reader votes.

Multiple locations, zippys.com, @zippys

No. 3: Asahi Grill Ward

Photo: Mari Taketa

Another famous old-school classic, this purist version with clear, collagen-rich, sticky-lip broth and nothing else in the bowl save big, tender oxtails with cilantro and green onion got 8.2% of the vote. Not to be confused with Asahi Grill Ke‘eaumoku, now known as Asahi Grill Kaimukī after its move to Wai‘alae Avenue.

515 Ward Ave., (808) 593-2800

No. 2: Kapi‘olani Coffee Shop

Photo: Lee Tonouchi

It’s in Waimalu now, but Kapi‘olani Coffee Shop traces its roots back to the old Aloha Motors site, aka where the Hawai‘i Convention Center is now on Kapi‘olani Boulevard, in the 1960s. With a classic broth, this bowl from the self-proclaimed “Home of the Famous Oxtail Soup” drew 8.4% of reader votes.

98-020 Kamehameha Hwy, (808) 488-7708

SEE ALSO: Battle of Two Legendary Oxtail Soups

No. 1: The Alley at ‘Aiea Bowl

Photo: Martha Cheng

OMG, O‘ahu! Seriously, 32% of all votes cast? We knew the oxtail soup at this bowling alley restaurant had buzz, but the Alley’s bowl dominated this poll. New-school touches include house-made ponzu sauce for dipping. Next time you go for the tasty chicken and a slice of lemon, pumpkin or strawberry crunch, don’t sleep on the oxtail soup.

99-115 Aiea Heights Dr., (808) 488-6854, aieabowl.com/restaurant, @aieabowl

SEE ALSO:

• You Voted: Here’s Your Top 5 Ramen Shops on O‘ahu
• You Voted: Here’s Your Top 5 Saimin Spots on O‘ahu
• You Voted: Here’s Your Top 5 Okazuya on O’ahu
• You Voted: Here’s Your Top 5 Classic Loco Mocos
• You Voted: Here’s Your Top 5 Poke Shops

Molcajete at Taqueria El Ranchero. Photo: Courtesy of Taqueria El Ranchero

Seriously, good luck trying to narrow your picks for where to eat during Honolulu Restaurant Week. We tried, for purposes relating to personal pleasure (and budget), but 1) this inaugural Restaurant Week brought in 63 eateries across O‘ahu, way more than expected; and 2) there are deals across the board, from fine dining to plate lunch.

Like what? A three-course prix fixe from a poke shop. Greatest hits course meals at restaurants in Kaimukī and Kaka‘ako. Whiskey and cocktail flights, both paired with bites. Discounts on farm-to-table kaiseki and omakase sushi. Plus steak, pizza,  skewers, brunch, Mexican, and would you prefer lobster or crab with your multi-course Chinese meal, and how would you like it prepared? More on menu highlights below.

But first, what is Honolulu Restaurant Week, and who benefits? The effort, sponsored by First Hawaiian Bank and Mastercard®, is a push to support Hawai‘i restaurants during a historically slow season. Participating eateries put together special deals, often full-course meals, that give diners a chance to sample a slew of dishes. That wallet-friendly showcase aspect makes it a win for customers, too, and a fun excuse to try new places and revisit favorites.

Honolulu Restaurant Week starts Nov. 9 and runs through Nov. 17. For the full, searchable list of 63 restaurants and their special menus, head to hnlrestaurantweek.com. Some sample menus to start with:

Photo: Courtesy of Ali‘i Fish Market

In Mō‘ili‘ili, Ali‘i Fish Market’s three-course takeout special ($26) starts with ‘ahi shumai saimin on Sun Noodles in ‘ahi broth, segues to a loaded poke bowl with two kinds of poke and finishes with a pie of lychee gelée and fresh strawberries on a buttery crust, finished with a sprinkle of orange zest.

Appetizer Sampler. Photo: Courtesy of Chef Chai

In Kaka‘ako, Chef Chai’s $69 prix fixe packs in fan favorites, including kataifi-crusted jumbo black tiger prawns, smoked duck tacos with spicy mango salsa and Mongolian lamb chops or Chai’s oxtail soup. Dessert choices include chocolate lava cake and coconut cheesecake.

Across town in Kaimukī, XO Restaurant echoes the best hits theme—its $60 seven-course menu includes XO scallops, buttermilk fried chicken with adobo butter sauce, loaded potato gratin and brown butter bunny butter mochi.

Photo: Courtesy of Wolfgang’s Steakhouse

Steak dinners? You’ll find all kinds among other choices in Kāhala at Et Al and Kapa Hale; and in Waikīkī at Aloha Steakhouse, The Butcher Bar, Heavenly Island Lifestyle, Mahina & Suns, Monkeypod Kitchen, Restaurant Suntory, TR Fire Grill, Waikīkī Shokudo and Wolfgang’s Steakhouse.

SEE ALSO: Where to Park in Waikīkī

Chinese choices range from Mongolian-inspired to new Hong Kong at Downtown’s Honolulu Seafood Restaurant, where a $128 prix fixe for two is highlighted by your choice of 2.25 pounds of fresh lobster or 2.5 pounds of Dungeness crab, both prepared in your choice of styles, including with ginger and onion or salted golden egg yolk. In Mō‘ili‘ili, Khan Skewer House’s $68.99 prix fixe feeds two or three people and comes with three appetizers plus scallops, eggplant and skewers of grilled wagyu beef, Maui venison, pork belly and lamb, plus fluffy snow milk ice for dessert.

Photo: Courtesy of Khan Skewer House

Budget-friendly choices include Chengdu Taste’s lunch special of two ($24.99), three ($36.99) or four ($48.99) entrées plus rice and soft drink. Toothpick lamb’s not on the list, but mapo tofu, sautéed chicken with pickles and eggplant with spicy garlic sauce are. Domo Café in Kāhala is offering a $16.95 bento with fresh yuzu ‘ahi poke, salmon nigiri sushi, rice, edamame and miso soup. Golden River Restaurant in Chinatown has cool vermicelli rice noodles tossed with fresh greens, grilled pork and shrimp for just $12. And Kaimukī Shokudo’s $18 lunch teishoku comes with salmon sashimi, grilled saba or washugyu sukiyaki beef, Okinawan sweet potato salad, mini soba and rice.

Photo: Courtesy of Eleven

Less expected are the lineup of four whiskies at Eleven, the cocktail bar inside Foodland Farms Ala Moana: Ohishi Islay Cask Whiskey, The Balvenie Doublewood 12-Year Scotch, Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Whistlepig Piggyback Rye, each paired with an indulgent app, for $24. And Yours Truly’s flight of three custom cocktail samples and elegant bites for $30, downstairs at the AC Hotel Downtown.

SEE ALSO: Three Places to Eat and Drink at Downtown’s New AC Hotel 

And yes, dessert. Save room and try the offering of three slices for $21 from Slice by HB Baking, the ice cream pie shop on Kapahulu: cherry cheesecake mousse, Snuggy Bear Pie of coffee almond fudge and English toffee ice creams on an Oreo crust with salted milk crumble, and a pumpkin pecan ice cream cupcake.

It’s a good thing Honolulu Restaurant Week, from Nov. 9 to 17, is actually nine days. Don’t forget your stretchy pants!

hnlrestaurantweek.com