Best Haupia at Ted’s Bakery, Oahu
Ted’s offers a variety of pies, cakes, and plate lunches. For an extra special treat, try the chocolate haupia pie at Ted’s Bakery! This blend of creamy coconut haupia layered with rich chocolate creates a flavor that’s both indulgent and unforgettable. It’s the perfect taste of island sweetness. If you’re looking for a plate lunch to take on a beach picnic, Tedʻs Bakery is the place!

Favorite Poke at Tamashiro Market, Kalihi
For an authentic poke experience, head to Tamashiro Market, one of Honolulu’s oldest poke destinations. Located at the back of this 1940s grocery and seafood market, the poke counter boasts around 30 varieties, from Korean-style raw crab poke (a unique experience where you’ll need to savor the meat from the shell) to ginger kajiki (mild and lean marlin) and limu aku (skipjack tuna, known for its stronger flavor). It’s a local favorite, and popular items sell out fast!

Top Saimin at Palace Saimin
For traditional saimin, we recommend Palace Saimin, a cherished spot with a rich history dating back to 1946. Founded by Kame Ige, an Okinawan immigrant, Palace Saimin began as a family restaurant near the iconic Palace Theater and has since been passed down to trusted hands. The current owners, Susan Nakagawa and her husband Scott, have spent years perfecting the dashi recipe under the guidance of longtime waitresses Setsuko Arakaki and Yoshiko Takahashi. Each pot of broth is crafted with care, ensuring that every bowl captures the authentic taste and spirit of Hawaii’s culinary traditions.

Best Malasadas at Pipeline Bakery, Kaimuki
For a classic Hawaiian donut, Pipeline Bakery in Kaimuki is a beloved favorite. Their warm, sugar-coated malasadas are fluffy, light, and completely addictive—Cake Bombs are miniature flavored cakes with the flavor in the cake base as well as the glaze.  A must have treat when in Honolulu.