The best places to eat and drink in Hawaii's most populous island
A trip to Oahu, Hawaii’s most populous island, will swiftly quiet any notion that Hawaii is home to nothing but white, sandy beaches. Aside from being blessed by Mother Nature, Hawaii also possesses a fantastically rich history that has given life to a cuisine characterised by Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, Portuguese and Native Hawaiian influences. Mochi, spam, steamed buns and saimin egg noodles are just a few of the many multi-ethnic dishes that have become quotidian to the people of Hawaii. From decades-old institutions to buzzy newcomers, there’s no wrong way to tackle Oahu’s dining scene.
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Start the day at... Bogart's Café
Every city has its own tried and true, reliable all-day breakfast spot, and Bogart’s Cafe is Oahu’s version of just that. Both locals and tourists flock to the cafe for its famous açaí bowls, waffles, and omelettes, as well as local dishes such as loco moco, fried rice, and taro and banana pancakes. While açaí bowls can be found all over the island, the ones at Bogart’s are known to have a generous ratio of açaí to fruit and granola. Its location makes it an ideal stop before or after a walk to the top of the popular Diamond Head lookout, and a half an hour wait is not at all uncommon on weekends. Note: Bogart's is cash only.
Bogart's Café, 3045 Monsarrat Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815; +1 (808) 739-0999; bogartshawaii.com