Chain though it may be, Ba-Le is head and shoulders above typical sandwich shops. Known for its French-bread concoctions, the eatery fills tasty rolls with all sorts of yummy ingredients, including pork, tofu, vegetables, chicken satay, and p�t�. Thanks to an Asian culinary heritage, the place also makes available such condiments as pickled vegetables and tangy sauces. Hot, fragrant pho soup can also be had, along with spring rolls, desserts, and coffee drinks. Locations exist all over Honolulu and central Oahu. While enjoying their gourmet savory sandwiches, don't ignore the dessert breads such as chocolate cherry and walnut cranberry that are good enough to enjoy as dessert toasted with butter.
Recommended for Take Out because: Ba-Le creates delicious sandwiches, and they're easy to take on the go.
Jade's expert tip: Take a loaf of chocolate cherry bread to snack on.
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. Consider Mocha Java a stop-off while you run errands, or make it a destination for a satisfying, tasty meal. Call in before ordering if you'd like to just run in and pick it up.
Recommended for Take Out because: A cute cafe with an abundance of menu selections, most of it is easily consumed on the go.
Jade's expert tip: Try the curry vegetable crepe.
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 Take Out because: An oceanfront eatery serving healthy local food, the deli offers easy take out dishes near beautiful beaches.
Jade's expert tip: Try the guava chicken.
Honest, authentic, simply-prepared Hawaiian food is what you'll discover at this fine eatery, a throwback to former days. It boasts island cuisine par excellence, created with love and prepared in the old way. Such attention isn't lost on eager diners, who clamor for kalua pig, pipikaula shortribs, poke (raw seafood salad), and fried fish. There's no designer decor, but no one cares when they dig into these comfort foods, which come � la carte or as part of a set menu. Eat your fill, and revel in the experience. Just don't forget to finish up with a dish of silky haupia (coconut pudding).
Recommended for Take Out because: Helena's serves traditional local and Hawaiian food that's easy to take to go.
Jade's expert tip: Make sure to give poi a try, and haupia for dessert.
A terrific alternative to fast food and a favorite with locals, Andy's has built its reputation on affordable, healthy fare. Since 1977, the casual place has served up vegetarian-oriented food that's not only good for the body but tastes great too. The selection of sandwiches features fresh ingredients, and everything is prepared in-house, as are the smoothies, crammed with lush fruit and natural juices. Breakfast also incorporates island produce, in waffles, muffins, and more. Hot or cold, you're certain to find something delectable at Andy's. And if you're determined to have protein that's not soy-based, they also offer turkey, roast beef, and chicken.
Recommended for Take Out because: Andy's is a long standing sandwich joint in beautiful Manoa Valley.
Jade's expert tip: Don't miss the homemade baked goods too.
Surfer, the Bar is Turtle Bay Resorts new endeavor into into a farm to table restaurants that also offers nighttime entertainment. Opening at 6 p.m. daily, Surfer is part bar, part restaurant and part night club. Great happy hour cocktails are offers along with the full bar and classic Hawaiian cocktails such as the lava flow and the mai tai - their strongest drink. Live music is offered on a regular basis and karaoke happens every Sunday night. Other forms of entertainment like "Talk Story" on Wednesdays offer guests an inside look at the life of people in the surf industry via live interview. Call ahead of time or check thke website for nightly happenings.
Recommended for Take Out because: Surfer, the Bar serves pizzas, burgers, and other easy to go food.
Jade's expert tip: Happy hour is from 6 to 7 daily for appetizers and drinks.
Hawaii's only all vegetarian natural food store has three locations around the island of Oahu. In addition to a thorough array of grocery shopping, each Down to Earth has a well thought out salad bar as well as a hot food bar open from early morning to late at night. While the salad bar selections remain the same throughout the day, the hot food bar changes from breakfast foods to dishes fit for lunch and dinner. The food here is always healthy, much of it is organic, and it's a really satisfying meal that you can enjoy inside or outdoors at tables, or take it to go.
Recommended for Take Out because: Down to Earth offers healthy and organic meals to go.
Jade's expert tip: This is a really good meal option even though it's to-go style.
Read more about Down to Earth All Vegetarian Organic & Natural →
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 Take Out because: Bogart's is in the heart of Honolulu, offering to go meals to be enjoyed nearby at the beach or in a park.
Jade's expert tip: It's a good idea to call ahead and order, they can be quite packed in the mornings.
Pupukea Grill is a favorite for lunch spot for regular pro surfers, locals, and visitors (check out the array of signed surf photos under the tent). Farm fresh island produce and local fish help to inspire a seasonal menu that caters to both locals and visitors alike. This is not your usual lunch wagon. Although plate lunches are served, the rest of the menu consists of non- traditional lunch wagon fare such as panini, freshly made quesadilla, fish taco, signature fish bowls and shaved ice. The most popular item is our fish bowl which is served with freshly made pico de gallo, sour cream, and lime over brown rice. Combining "Okazu", Japanese, Mexican and local style cooking techniques and ingredients have allowed them to create a unique niche on the North Shore.
Recommended for Take Out because: Across the street from the North Shore's best beaches, the grill offers healthy food to enjoy in spectacular surroundings.
Jade's expert tip: Take the food to go and enjoy on the beach, or on the rock wall on the ocean right across the street.