Bogart's is one of those hole-in-the-wall places that is a tried and true reliable joint for locals in search of that perfect breakfast. Whether taken to eat on the go or eaten at one of their small sidewalk or indoor tables, Bogart's is a not to miss place for anyone vising Honolulu. The tiny cafe has an extensive hand written menu on the wall, and although it's quite varied and long, everything is really good. The coffees are also great and they have every type of espresso you could want. A real hit is the breakfast bagel sandwich, can't go wrong with that.
Recommended for Homestyle because: A true hole in the wall, Bogart's is a hidden treasure offering delicious breakfast and coffee.
Jade's expert tip: It's a good idea to call ahead and order, they can be quite packed in the mornings.
At this fantastic caf�, you can either step in for a smoothie or a full-bodied cup or coffee, or you can stay awhile and have a light meal as well. Cr�pes are a specialty, both savory and sweet, and you can also pick up an omelet, salad, sandwich, or stir-fried dish. Cakes and cookies make an appearance as well, as do some great vegetarian options, including vegan, low-fat, and tofu-based fare. Although it's located in a modest shopping center, it's actually a super cute and great place to eat. Browse the delightful shops in the immediate area before or after dining.
Recommended for Homestyle because: Mocha Java Cafe puts a healthy twist on traditional breakfast fare with dishes such as tofu scramble and curry crepes.
Jade's expert tip: Call in for a to go order or dine in.
Hip coffee shop, haven for artists of all types, and gathering place for social events - those are just some of the ways you can describe Fresh Cafe in the Kakaako area of Honolulu. Serving up local coffees and espresso in all forms, teas, fruit smoothies, bagels, and other quick and delicious meals, Fresh Cafe is a happening spot that's also home to a bar and gathering space called The Loft. Open from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays, Fresh Cafe has the latest cafe hours in town. They pride on supporting "next level dreamers, fearless innovators, and for having the largest slam poetry event in the nation."
Recommended for Homestyle because: Fresh Cafe is known for their delicious local coffee and healthy food, much of which is locally sourced.
Jade's expert tip: Check out Art and Thrift at Fresh Cafe on Thursdays.
Kono's in Haleiwa is a family run breakfast and lunch spot centrally located in historic Haleiwa on the North Shore. A small deli like eatery, you can call in and order before and pick it up or enjoy it there. They welcome walk in orders, also to be eaten on site or to take on the road. The menu includes breakfast items that deviate from the standard fare with various breakfast burritos and bagels, smoothies, and coffees. A toy box in the back offers plenty of entertainment for children. Surf videos play on the flat screen TV, and outdoor seating offers a place to people watch.
Recommended for Homestyle because: Offering a casual environment where they serve home style breakfast food, Kono's is a North Shore favorite.
Jade's expert tip: Weekend mornings are quite busy, it's a good idea to call ahead and order.
Eat healthy, organic and natural at the Beet Box Cafe in Haleiwa. If you're into vegetarian or vegan food, this is the place to go. The good news is that the Beet Box appeals across the board, those who usually eat meat still love the menu at the Beet Box. A hand written chalkboard on the wall displays their wide variety of smoothies (all named after local surf breaks) and the menu by the cash register shares the healthy breakfast and lunch dishes. Menu includes uniquely named dishes such as the Duppy Conqueror (rice, beans, avocado and mango salsa), Optimistic Thought (hummas wrap), and Three Little Birds (sauteed fake bacon in a sandwich). Salads, tofu dishes, and other wraps and sandwiches compose the rest of the menu. Although there's limited seating in the small restaurant, take out is always a great option here. Call ahead to avoid a wait.
Recommended for Homestyle because: Beet Box Cafe serves vegetarian and organic comfort food for breakfast and lunch.
Jade's expert tip: Call ahead for take out and avoid a wait, or look for the Beet Box Cafe on wheels by Pipeline on the North Shore.
The Heeia Pier General Store and Deli is a classic Kaneohe eatery enjoyed by dedicated locals for three decades as it served up local classic like plate lunches and loco mocos (beef patty, egg and gravy over rice). But recently top chef Mark Noguchi took over the classic eatery and put a modern sustainable and healthier take on the local comfort food. All of the beef is from the Big Island and grass fed, the fish is caught nearby, and other vegetables are all grown locally - a locovore's dream. Located ocean front on the pier, diners can enjoy casual - but really good breakfast and lunch right on the water.
Recommended for Homestyle because: Heeia Pier General Store & Deli puts a modern take on traditional homestyle local dishes.
Jade's expert tip: Try the guava chicken.
Lei Lei's Bar and Grill sits right on the golf course at Turtle Bay Resort on the North Shore of Oahu. Like a bar and grill would be, it's laid back and casual, yet somewhat upscale and classy. There's a putting green out front where the kids can hang out (in full view) if they get restless, and views of the golf course and the mountain range offer gorgeous sights. Unlike the other restaurants at Turtle Bay, this one isn't right in the resort. The full bar can serve up anything you'd like, but their famous for mai tais and Lei Lei's lemonades. The menu has a broad spectrum of great food - burgers, pastas, salads, local fish specials with sides of mashed potatoes, ribs, and the list goes on.
Recommended for Homestyle because: Lei Lei's has a menu offering homey classics like steaks, burgers, and pastas in a friendly atmosphere along side a golf course.
Jade's expert tip: There's a different menu for lunch and dinner.
Cafe Haleiwa is a North Shore staple, owned and operation by a family who's lived there for decades. The cafe has been open for over a decade too, and is a favorite with locals and visitors alike. Until recently the cafe served breakfast only, which was always good. The breakfast menu offered standard breakfast fare like pancakes and eggs, in addition many Mexican breakfast dishes. Just a few months ago Cafe Haleiwa opened for dinner, and is now one of the best dinner spots in the town. Their food is gourmet and still decently priced. The dinner menu offers unique dishes such as savory thyme cheesecake served with greens and fruit, ginger potato soup, and main dishes of fresh local fish, ribs, and steak. It's bring your own beer and wine here, which can be purchased next door at the adjacent wine shop.
Recommended for Homestyle because: Cafe Haleiwa is the best place for a gourmet and unique spin on homestyle breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Jade's expert tip: You'll need reservations for dinner, and expect a wait weekend mornings.