Grab & Go
Inspired by the bustle of Waikīkī, certified foodie Corina Quach (@fiveftfoodie) takes us on a tour of her favorite bites for a day of exploring the islands.
TEXT BY SARAH BURCHARD
IMAGES BY JOHN HOOK AND NANI KELI‘IHO‘OMALU WELCH
TRANSLATION BY MUTSUMI MATSUNOBU
Doraku
GOD OF FIRE ROLL AND SUSHI NIGIRI DELUXE
Doraku | Building B, Level 3
I have such a fond memory of trying the God of Fire roll for the first time in high school. I saw it as such a treat! And their nigiri options are always really good. This deluxe platter is a great variety of everything. Doraku has always been popular with locals, and it’s an approachable place for tourists to get their sushi fix. The roll and the nigiri platter are such portable bites that they’re perfect to take on-the-go as a quick meal while you explore Waikīkī.
Island Vintage Shave Ice
GREEN ISLAND
Island Vintage Shave Ice | Building B, Level 1
Shave ice can get boring sometimes, especially when it’s just flavored syrup. But because of the variety of toppings, this version is more interesting to eat. I enjoyed the mix of flavors and textures. The tartness of the greek yogurt complements the sweetness. The ice is so fluffy. Plus, they don’t use any artificial flavorings for their syrups.
Junbi
COLD MATCHA LATTE
Junbi | Building C, Level 1
I grew up drinking matcha at traditional tea ceremonies, so the drink has always had a special place in my heart. I like that Junbi lets people choose between having a traditional ceremonial matcha or a creamier latte, which I know is more popular with people. They even have fruity drink options, too. The quality of matcha that they use is really good, and their drinks are larger than other places. Plus, a cold drink on a hot island day is a must.
Kulu Kulu
MATCHA LATTE FLOAT
Kulu Kulu | Building B, Level 2
I don’t drink a lot of caffeine, but I can still indulge in Kulu Kulu’s delicious floats with this matcha flavored one. It’s big enough to share with a lot of people. When the ice cream topping melts, it dissolves into the drink, which only enhances the matcha and transforms it into a delicious milkshake. It’s perfect for walking around with.
Banán
AMAZON
Banán | Building C, Level 1
I really like açaí, but sometimes I can’t finish a whole bowl because it’s too large. I like that Banán is just big enough that I can finish it before going to the beach. And I really like that you can add a scoop of their macnut butter, which I actually have a jar of at home. It adds that sweet and nutty balance. Of course, everything is no added sugar!
Penny’s Waikiki Malasadas
CLASSIC AND ORIGINAL CUSTARD-FILLED MALASADAS
Penny’s Waikiki Malasadas | Building B, Level 2
This Penny’s location at the Royal Hawaiian Center Pā‘ina Lānai is like a hidden gem. Their malasadas are fluffier than other bakeries. I like that they rotate their specialties of the day, so there’s always something new to try. They’re also a little smaller and hence more portable than other malasadas, which is so important when you’re hopping around Waikīkī.
Poke Waikiki
CLASSIC AHI POKE BOWL
Poke Waikiki | Building B, Level 2
Poke bowls are perfect for a day out in Hawai‘i. Because it’s served to you cold, it’s so refreshing. I often take one with me to the beach. I like that Poke Waikiki caters to both locals and tourists. For locals like me, I just really like the simple Hawaiian-style ahi with the rice, fish, and sauce. Here, tourists can also have the option to make it more like a salad with all the toppings.
