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 Steakhouses because: Lei Lei's dinner menu serves perfectly cooked, local steaks of various kinds.
Jade's expert tip: There's a different menu for lunch and dinner.
Founded by surfer Joey Cabell in 1969, this restaurant remains the only independently-owned Chart House in the chain. It's also a perennial favorite with islanders, thanks to beautiful harbor views and great steaks and fish. Service is attentive, and prices aren't as steep as at many upscale places. The bar also makes a fun hangout. It offers dinner entrees and appetizers until late, along with well-mixed drinks. You'll even find live music each night just to put you in the appropriate mood for sociability and relaxation. Located in the heart of Waikiki, diners can take a post dinner stroll in the area and find entertainment.
Recommended for Steakhouses because: The Chart House is well known for perfectly cooked, hefty steaks as well as their fresh seafood.
Jade's expert tip: The lychee martini is a must try.
Intimate, subtly lit, and genteel, this well-respected steak house is a special-occasion favorite, thanks to its refined ambiance and pricey entrees. Waiters in tuxedos add class to an evening out, as do table side preparations of caesar salad and bananas Foster. Beef, however, is the attraction, whether you select kiawe-broiled NY strip, prime rib, or a T-bone. Rack of lamb, lobster tails, and veal chops also make ideal main courses. Wines, liqueurs, and live music round out the experience. This is where you want to go for a special date night or celebratory meal. Dress up and don't forget to make reservations for this hot spot.
Recommended for Steakhouses because: Locally renowned as one of the best steak houses on the island, Hy's is known for delicious steaks and elegant atmosphere.
Jade's expert tip: Dress up and don't forget to make reservations for this hot spot.
It's dinner and entertainment rolled into one at this Japanese hot spot. Vivacious chefs chop, slice, and sauté steak, chicken, shellfish, and vegetables right before your eyes in an exuberant display of teppanyaki cooking. It's just the place to visit if you're in the mood for an evening of sociability and fun. If you need a sushi fix along the way, don't despair - they'll set you up with an assortment of your favorite rolls. The superb bar begins serving drinks at 5 p.m., including sake and Japanese beer.
Recommended for Steakhouses because: Kobe is known for top of the line steaks as well as fresh local sushi, much of it prepared table side for fun.
Jade's expert tip: Don't forget to make reservations.
Tuxedo-clad waiters set the tone for a Midwest classic that's staked a claim in the North Pacific. Known for table side presentations (yes, that's a live lobster on the cart), this steakhouse is famous for its 24-ounce porterhouse and its hearty portions. Sides must be ordered separately at additional cost, and the menu offers seafood, chicken, lamb, and veal for those who don't relish red meat. Wine complements are available as well, and this is a fun place to dress up a bit for. It's located inside of the Ala Moana Shopping Center but offers a view of the ocean.
Recommended for Steakhouses because: Morton's is centrally located in Honolulu and is famous for perfectly cooked, well portioned steak dishes.
Jade's expert tip: Go for the POWERHOUR menu from 9 to 10 p.m. for great deals on drinks and food.
Take in the North Shore's relaxed lifestyle at this fantastic eatery. Kick back on the lanai, take in the incredible island scenery, and revel in the moment. While you do, make sure to sample terrific seafood and steak entrees. Prime rib is always popular, and coconut shrimp maintain a faithful following as well. You'll also find grilled fish, fresh soups and salads, and tempting desserts. In the bar, a wonderful selection of appetizers makes for great nibbling. There's another location in Kaneohe called Haleiwa Joe's Haiku, but it's this North Shore location that really draws crowds and loyal local customers.
Recommended for Steakhouses because: Haleiwa Joe's is famous for its steaks, especially the prime rib which must be reserved because it sells out each night.
Jade's expert tip: Fill up at this ocean side eatery before spending a day on the North Shore.
Not far from Kailua Beach on Oahu's windward side, this venerable institution captures the spirit of Hawaii as it existed in years past. Rustic and comfortable, Buzz's also boasts walls full of photographs, which add a note of personality. The menu is relatively uncomplicated and more than capably done. At lunch, folks come in for juicy burgers, salads, and other light fare, while dinner is a touch more refined, with steaks, lobster, and fresh fish getting most of the attention. The bar serves refreshing drinks; the ambiance is fun yet classy. Reasons to dine here are many, it's ideal for anything from date night to a group celebratory meal.
Recommended for Steakhouses because: Buzz's Original Steakhouse is well known for its great steak and huge portions.
Jade's expert tip: The calamari steak is a must try dish and a fun change from the usual steak.
Cozy wooden booths line the dining room at this local favorite - perfect for a romantic dinner. Subdued lighting, elegant table settings, and understated, graceful decor set the scene for a fantastic meal with a mellow and quiet ambiance. Portions are large and satisfying, so you might want to forgo the appetizer and head straight for a luscious, dry-aged, prime cut of beef. Filet mignon, New York strip, steak au poivre, and the house specialty - a 22 oz. bone-in rib-eye - are all tender and flavorful. A decent selection of seafood, including Caribbean lobster tail, adds depth to the menu.
Recommended for Steakhouses because: d.k. Steakhouse is a favorite steakhouse for locals, and offers a very romantic, quiet setting.
Jade's expert tip: Grab an outdoor table to watch the sunset.
Whether it's rare or well-done, prime corn-fed beef is this steakhouse's trademark. A favorite of the business set, the place exudes class. Each cut of meat is sublime, boasting sensational flavor and texture thanks to the signature "cooked from the top down" technique. À la carte items include gulf shrimp in creole rémoulade sauce and crispy French-fried onion rings. If you make it to dessert, consider the luscious chocolate praline encore or maybe chocolate chunk bread pudding. This is located in the heart of Honolulu, and although it's not super fancy, it's fit for dressing up a bit, and don't forget to make reservation.
Recommended for Steakhouses because: Ruth's Chris is all about the steak and is known for their amazing dishes.
Jade's expert tip: Go for the early bird $40 prix fixe complete meal menu, and on Wednesday nights they offer 25 percent off bottled wines.