For Those Who Want to Enjoy Honolulu Even More
The Honolulu Century Ride has just wrapped up for this year. Following last year, it was another fulfilling day filled with breathtaking views and unexpected encounters.
Many HCR participants seem to return home on flights either the night after the event or the following day. However, I hope you’ll make the most of every last moment in Honolulu. That’s why I’m here to share some exclusive tips I’ve gathered myself as GR Communication Director, just for you.
First, let me introduce the Highway Inn, a spot serving authentic Hawaiian food located in the SALT complex of the Kakaʻako district, which I’ve mentioned in another article. It’s about 6 kilometers from Waikīkī, roughly a 20-minute ride by bicycle.
Highway Inn is a restaurant started by a Japanese-American couple, offering a wide range of Hawaiian cuisine, from traditional dishes to loco moco. One of the highlights is the Highway Inn Tasting Plate (from $28.99), which features traditional Hawaiian foods like lau lau and poi. It’s perfect for sharing among four people, alongside individual dishes like loco moco or beef stew, making for a satisfying meal.
My personal favorite is the Hawaiian Beef Stew Plate ($16.99), which comes with your choice of white or brown rice and a side of either potato or macaroni salad. I can’t help but wish for one last bowl of that hearty stew with chunks of tender beef before leaving Hawaii!
🍴 Higheway Inn Kaka’ako
In the same Kaka’ako district, you’ll find the popular craft brewery, Honolulu Beerworks, where freshly brewed beer is served alongside Hawaiian-inspired dishes. The beer selection is extensive, ranging from classics like ales, ISAs, and hefeweizens to unique offerings like mango-infused beer and whiskey barrel-aged brews. They even offer 4- or 6-beer tasting sets, making it a must-visit for beer enthusiasts. It’s about 6 km from Waikiki, roughly a 20-minute ride by bike. But if you plan to drink, skip the bike and opt for a bus or taxi instead!
🍴 Honolulu Beerworks
Next is Off the Hook Poke Market in the Manoa district, a very popular poke spot. It’s just under 7 kilometers from Waikiki, or about a 25-minute bike ride. Poke is a dish made by marinating seafood sashimi in soy sauce or spicy sauces. Here, I ordered the Poke Sampler (44.99 USD), which lets you try eight different flavors. You can choose from white rice, vinegared rice, or rice with furikake as a side order.
You pick it up like a bento box, and then you can enjoy it at one of the outdoor tables. It can get crowded, but since they have quick turnover, you don’t have to wait too long.
The flavors are just perfect for Japanese tastes. I definitely want to eat here again!
Rice is ordered separately, and it’s shared among four people.
🍴 Off the Hook Poke Market
The last place I want to introduce is Bogart’s Cafe, where I went to have a delicious breakfast. The dish you absolutely have to try is Mama’s Fried Rice ($15.50). It has a mild flavor with spinach, corn, eggs, and more, and it’s easy to enjoy in big bites. The Chicken & Mushroom Omelette ($18.50) comes with a choice of white rice or baked potatoes as a side. This one was also delicious.
🍴 Bogart’s Cafe
Lastly, I want to introduce the Bishop Museum. It’s a museum that holds the history of Hawaii, from ancient times to the modern era.
I think it would take several days to see all the exhibits here, but there is also a 30-minute guided tour in Japanese, so I definitely recommend joining it. I was truly amazed and learned so much.
🏛️ Bishop Museum
Buying souvenirs is important, but enjoying delicious Hawaiian food and reflecting on Hawaiian culture is also a great part of the travel experience.
All the places I’ve introduced here are within a 30-minute reach from Waikiki. I wrote this article because I want you to enjoy every last second of your time in Hawaii. GR Communication Director, Kawase, confidently recommends these spots.
Before you head back, be sure to try them out!
Text & Photo＿Daisaku Kawase
🚴♂️Related articles🚴♂️
Daisaku Kawase’s Bicycle Journey in Hawaii
#01 Honolulu is ten times more enjoyable by bicycle.
#02 Oahu is ten times more enjoyable by bicycle.
#03 For Those Who Want to Enjoy Honolulu Even More.
Honolulu Century Ride 2023 Chronicle
#01 Bike transport: It’s Always a Dilemma (Part 1)
#02 Bike transport: It’s Always a Dilemma (Part 2)
#03 Hawaii was incredibly Hawaii
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Profile
Daisaku Kawase
He is a Free Producer, the Representative of Days Co., Ltd, Global Ride Communication Director.
Born in Aichi Prefecture. With 16 years of road cycling experience, he loves scenic rides. He squeezes in rides between work and travels all over Japan with his bike. His beloved bike is a Trek. After working as a producer on programs like “Ariyoshi no Okane Hakken Totsugeki! Kaneo-kun,” “Oyasumi Japan Nemuiine,” and “Asaichi” at NHK, he became independent in 2022. In addition to producing programs, he also handles project production for government and corporate clients.