If you’re like most people visiting Hawaiʻi, your itinerary is chock full of places to go, activities to enjoy and new things to try. And while quality dining is always enjoyable, sometimes you don’t have the time to gather the troops and enjoy a leisurely, sit-down meal before the first stop on your morning journey.
Don’t worry—This Week Hawaii has got you covered.
Here we’re breaking down our favorite spots on the Big Island, Kauaʻi, Maui and Oʻahu to savor a quick bite before hopping back in the car for your next adventure.
Big Island
Cafe 100 – Cafe 100 is a Hilo staple and known as the “Home of the Loco Moco.” Offering over 30 different varities of this local favorite, Cafe 100 is a walk-up dining establishment serving up speedy breakfast dishes in addition to its famous “Loco Moco Family” of menu items. There’s the Double Loco, Oyako Loco, Smokie Sausage Loco, Stew Loco, Teri Loco…we could go on and on! If you’re looking for something a little more classic, opt for the Sunriser sandwich or Dad’s Homemade Hotcakes.
Ken’s House of Pancakes – Food lovers everywhere have a great appreciation for 24/7 eateries like Ken’s House of Pancakes. Since 1971, Ken’s is a family-friendly operation known for its scrumptious pancakes and breakfast items. The “Local Style” Pancakes are no joke, and taste even better with their famous “Kokonut,” Passion and Guava syrups! If you’re not a “pancakes for breakfast” kind of person, not to worry—Ken’s extensive menu ensures that no diner leaves hungry!
Kauaʻi
Gina’s Anykine Grinds Café – Often known by its former name of Yumi’s Restaurant, Gina’s Anykine Grinds Café is a great place to stop and fill up before exploring the breathtaking Waimea Canyon. People love Gina’s for its friendly service and local comfort food offerings at reasonable prices. During your quick stop at Gina’s, make sure you sample their popular Portuguese Sweetbread French Toast (pictured). You can even opt for their famous apple or coconut pies to-go!
Little Fish Coffee – If you don’t have time for a sit-down meal, stop in at Little Fish Coffee for a quick and delicious coffee beverage featuring 100 percent Hawaiian grown and organic fair trade coffee. Also up for grabs are gourmet acai and pitaya bowls, fresh sandwiches and bagels and yummy fruit smoothies. All three locations are open daily and serve as the perfect starting point for a day of exploring the Garden Isle.
Maui
Joey’s Kitchen – Joey’s Kitchen is situated in Whalers Village in the heart of Kaʻanapali, serving up local favorites in a welcoming environment. Ask a local what to try—we bet they’ll recommend the Local Breakfast Burrito! Stuffed with mouthwatering garlic fried rice, bacon, sausage, eggs and cheese, the breakfast burrito is definitely a crowd pleaser. Other popular picks include the Banana Macadamia Nut Pancakes (pictured), Pork Adobo Fried Rice and Short Rib Hash.
Tasty Crust – Tasty Crust is a classic diner favorite in Wailuku town. Known for their ‘World Famous Pancakes,’ Tasty Crust flips up some serious flapjacks with an iconic “tasty crust.” Whether you opt for the popular Banana Hotcakes or stick with the classic regular order, you’ll fall for these crowd-pleasing ‘cakes. A hit with visitors and locals alike, Tasty Crust also offers iconic breakfast favorites like Loco Moco, Fried Rice and Opakapaka and Eggs.
Oahu
Fatboy’s – Whether you’re cruising around Haleʻiwa or driving through Hawaiʻi Kai in east Oʻahu, you’re likely to spot a Fatboy’s. Stop in at one of Fatboy’s four popular locations around the island for what they’ve dubbed “Eat-in Takeout,” also known as quick and casual dining! Sample the John Papa’s Corned Beef Hash, Aliʻi Fried Rice or Island Sweet Bread French Toast for a taste of classic Hawaiʻi.
Like Like Drive Inn – You can often tell the quality of a dining establishment by how long it’s been in business, and Like Like Drive Inn is no exception. Still fitted with its glowing neon sign to welcome hungry patrons, Like Like has been a Keʻeaumoku staple for over 60 years, making people happy with authentic local breakfast items and their popular “complete meals.” Favorites include the Old Fashioned Hot Cakes, traditional Eggs and Things and the filling Loco Moco.
Just because you’re in a hurry doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice good food during your tropical getaway. Enjoy a quick, memorable meal at one of these delicious joints around the islands, or visit our website for more of our favorite picks.
Happy adventuring!
Megan
