Posts Tagged ‘Haleiwa Joe’s’

Living in Kaneohe for over 7 years, I have had the chance to comb through all the dining options this sleepy town has to offer. Kaneohe town has recently had some upgrades including renovations in Windward Mall and even a few new restaurants. Unlike other areas of the island, Kaneohe residents like their no fuss restaurants, large portions sizes, and want affordablity.  For the most part, the restaurants in Kaneohe have been around for a while, things are kept simple, most restaurants close by 9 pm, and the customers leave satisfied.

Here are a few of my favorite eateries in Kaneohe:

Koa Pancake House, 46-126 Kahuhipa Street, (808) 235-5772.  Packed on the weekends, this place gives large portions of breakfast and local favorites.  Ono grindz, affordable prices, fast and friendly service keeps local residents coming back.  Hours are 6:30 am to 2 pm daily.

Kikuya Restaurant, 46-148 Kahuhipa Street, (808) 235-2613.  A small hole in the wall, this place serves simple authentic style Japanese food like fresh sashimi, shrimp tempura, and aku belly.  I heard this place has been around for years and years.  If your looking for good Japanese food, large portions, and don’t mind running into someone you know this is the place to go.  This place can get crowded during peak dining hours, so go early to avoid the lines out the door.

Saigon Noodle House Kaneohe, 45-1151 Kamehameha Highway, (808) 235-6107.  For a huge steaming bowl of pho or practically any type of noodle dish you desire this is the place to go.  The spring rolls are especially tasty and crunchy.  The prices are very reasonable and the service is speedy.

Haleiwa Joe’s Seafood Grill, 46-336 Haiku Road, (808) 247-6671.  I recommend Haleiwa Joe’s for that special occasion or nice place to take a date for a mai tai and their ‘Black and Blue Ahi.’  They specialize in their prime rib and fresh island fish with a view.  The beautiful island ambiance is what makes this place worth visiting.  The prices are high and this place doesn’t take reservations, so be prepared to wait on the weekends.  Get married at Haiku Gardens wedding site or join them for Sunday brunch.

El Mariachi, 45-1151 Kamehameha Highway, (808) 234-5893.  Located right next to Saigon Noodle House, this restaurant surprised me with great authentic Mexican food.  Try their chicken chimichanga or their beef fajita burrito that comes with beans and Spanish rice.  This restaurant is smaller than a hole in the wall, so I recommend take-out.  If you do take-out don’t forget to get chips and salsa to-go, their salsa is excellent.