The Slower Days

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The slower days in Hawaii – Where to eat in Waikiki, Honolulu and North shore, Oahu, Hawaii.

The slower days in Hawaii – Where to eat in Waikiki, Honolulu and North shore, Oahu, Hawaii.

We escaped to Hawaii with Leo, my parents and my brother and soaked in every warm, slow moment. It was chaotic, beautiful, and everything in between. Traveling with toddler is not easy, but definitely worth it. I loved watching Leo having so much fun at the beaches and get so excited with all the activities we did together. Here’s what we loved the most — in case you ever need a happy escape to Oahu.

🍽️ Where to eat (Mostly in Waikiki)
Duke’s Waikiki

Iconic beachfront spot at the Outrigger resort. Coconut shrimp, galbi tacos, and cheeseburgers were all amazing — but don’t miss the Hula Pie for dessert. Tip: Go for lunch to avoid the dinner crowds and enjoy the ocean view!

Tommy Bahama Restaurant

Honestly, we were surprised by how good the food was! There’s live music, pretty decor, and an open-air space overlooking Waikiki’s streets.
Order the pork ribs and coconut shrimp — and trust me, end your meal with the Piña Colada Cake. So good.

📍298 Beach Walk Suite 137, Honolulu, HI 96815
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Island Vintage Coffee

You’ll see this chain all over, but the one inside the Royal Hawaiian Center was our favorite.
Perfect spot for a macadamia nut latte, poke bowls, or an acai bowl.
Bonus: Their shave ice (especially near the beach locations) is also really good.

Kona Coffee Purveyors

My favorite coffee spot in Waikiki. Their Kona coffee is smooth and rich, and the Kouign Amann is a must. Located in the International Market Place (bottom floor).

Eating House 1849

A casual spot by Chef Roy Yamaguchi serving Hawaiian-Japanese fusion. Very family-friendly with live music and even complimentary kids’ meals (yes, with guava juice!).
We loved the miso-glazed dishes and pork belly bao. And the ramen was amazing.

📍2330 Kalākaua Ave #322, Honolulu, HI 96815

https://share.google/9sMxCQaNh5ioSoXkh

Musubi Cafe Iyasume

Spam musubi heaven. So many varieties and perfect for a quick bite on the go.
They have multiple locations — just look for the one closest to you!

📍 2330 Kalākaua Ave (Kuhio Mall Entrance)

Chez Kenzo Bar & Grill (Local Gem)

Chez Kenzo (Japanese Izakaya-style Pub)
This place had such a fun local vibe. Go during happy hour (5–7pm) — all menu items are $9 and the portions are great for sharing.
If you’re craving Japanese pub food at an awesome price, this is your spot.

📍1451 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96814

https://share.google/BkkgtaUqUzsiAyehc

I-naba (Local Gem)

One of our all-time favorites in Hawaii. Walking in feels like you’ve been transported straight to Japan — so cozy and authentic.
They offer BYOB, so bring your favorite drink if you want to sip something with your meal.
Don’t leave without trying their desserts — especially the fried mochi with red bean. So good.

📍1610 S King St # A, Honolulu, HI 96826

https://share.google/yReN5YyQhws56UkhP

Side Street Inn (local comfort food)

Perfect for big groups and big appetites! They’re known for their generous portions and Hawaiian-style comfort food.
The kalbi, fried chicken, and fried rice are must-tries.
Tip: Make a reservation — it gets packed, especially with large parties.

There’s 2 locations, I usually goes to Kapahulu location.

📍614 Kapahulu Ave #100, Honolulu, HI 96815

https://share.google/7QqVoURdNoHxAW6l3

📍1225 Hopaka St, Honolulu, HI 96814

https://share.google/t58Ettwb82gWRThGi

Ulalani’s Shave Ice

So colorful, so fluffy, and so delicious. Tons of fun flavors and perfect for a sweet treat after the beach.

📍909 Kapahulu Ave unit 4, Honolulu, HI 96816

https://share.google/Y1veD0TcCD44i9ZWd

🦐 North Shore Musts

Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck – The garlic butter shrimp is signature dish you need to try in Hawaii, and Giovanni Shrimp truck is one of the most popular garlic shrimp truck. We tried Shrimp scampi, Hot& spicy shrimp and Lemon butter shrimp. They are all good, but Scampi was my favorite. Hot & Spicy is pretty spicy but addicting. You have to try, this place is the MUST!

📍 66-472 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712
https://share.google/qibuPtNfLWt9bTqk1

  • Matsumoto’s Shave Ice – Classic and colorful. You have to wait on a long line, but line moves pretty quickly.
  • 📍66-111 Kamehameha Hwy #605, Haleiwa, HI 96712
  • https://share.google/DvSMD4WHjV7wmr15P

These were my favorite places to eat in Oahu island. I will share places to visit in next post. Are you going to Hawaii? If you have any other recommendations in Oahu, please share with me!

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