Hawaii Mom Blog

Visit Kauai - Mariachi Mexican Cuisine

noreply@blogger.com (nadiablogs) — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 17:00:00 +0000

After our hike in Kilauea, we drove back towards Lihue in search of lunch. When we spotted Mariachi's Mexican Cuisine restaurant we decided to check it out. The menu is extensive with your choice of tacos, enchiladas, burritos, and so much more. They also have a nice collection of margaritas.

I ordered the mariachi's chimichanga with shredded beef that was served with rice and refried pinto beans. The complimentary basket of chips and salsa was delicious and held us over until our meals arrived. We all really enjoyed the food and the nice relaxing ambience of the casual eatery. Service was great too. Perfect for large groups.

Mariachi Chimichanga

Tacos

Mariachi's Mexican Cuisine

4-1387 Kuhio Hwy, Kapaʻa, HI 96746

five | one | six at Four Seasons Resort Oahu

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Stunning views and chill vibes await at five | one | six at Four Seasons Resort Oahu — a rooftop bar and lounge where you can unwind with your favorite cocktail (or mocktail).

I was fortunate to attend a media event there to experience the amazing views and easygoing vibes for myself.

It's a great spot for pre-dinner drinks, or if you simply need a place to hang out and relax with a drink in hand after a long day.

Sit back, order a drink, and enjoy the view at five | one | six!

five | one | six

Four Seasons Resort Oahu
92-1001 Olani St

Kapolei, HI 96707

Visit Kauai - Bella Dia Spa

noreply@blogger.com (nadiablogs) — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 03:31:40 +0000

If you are ever in need of a massage in Lihue, Kauai, check out Bella Dia. Located on the second floor of the Lihue Harbor Mall, Bella Dia offers spa services as well as yoga and fitness classes. I found Bella Dia from their great reviews on Yelp. Our group of three wanted to get massages on a Sunday before flying back to Oahu. They called in extra therapists to accommodate us so we could have massages at the same start time which we really appreciated.

I had a Swedish massage with Chelsea and she was amazing. She listened to my concerns and checked with me on the pressure. The massage was wonderful and just what I needed. My friends had deep tissue massages with Michael and Missy and they also raved about their experiences. Highly recommend!

Bella Dia

3501 Rice St Suite 2016

Lihue, HI 96766

(808) 378-2278

DOMODOMO

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 13 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000

I have an affinity for golf course restaurants, so I was excited to visit DOMODOMO.

Agedashi Tofu

Chef's Choice 8-Piece Sushi Plate

Truffle Salt Fries

Miso Black Cod

Washu Beef Udon

Pork Loin Katsu

Upon arrival, we were told we had a 2-hour time limit for dinner.

I enjoyed the tofu (lots of umami) and the fries (so addicting). I don't eat much sushi, but the kids loved it.

I had the Miso Black Cod. I thought the carrot puree gave it a little too much sweetness, but overall the dish was fine.

The Sushi & Hand Roll Course can be shared.

Sushi & Hand Roll Course:

Seasonal Fish Crudo

Chef's Choice 9-Piece Premium Sushi

Hand Rolls

The timing was off for the coursed menu.

We were waiting a very long time for the hand rolls to come out. When a FOH was clearing the dishes, she asked if we were waiting for anything else, and we had to advise her we were still waiting for the hand rolls.

Turns out, regardless of when you were seated, if you ordered the coursed menu, the third courses were all dropped at the same time.

A server finally came out with 4 plates of hand rolls and dropped them to tables that were seated much later than us, with our table being the last to get dropped.

We decided not to get dessert because we didn't want to wait any longer than we needed to.

Despite the timing and service issues, the food was overall good.

DOMODOMO
91-050 Fort Weaver Rd

Ewa Beach, HI 96706

Visit Anchorage: Akutaq at Blackbull Native Store

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 12 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000

I saw a thread on Reddit that you can find akutaq, a type of Native Yup'ik "ice cream," at Blackbull Native Store.

Traditionally made with animal fat (from caribou, reindeer, etc.), fish, and berries, modern versions are made with Crisco, sugar, and berries.

At Blackbull Native Store they offered a huge variety of flavors.

The employee said to try the "OG" flavor, which was made with salmonberries.

It was slightly sweet, slightly tart. It was nice to try a native type of dish.

The store also offers teas, goods, and other types of foods.

Definitely check out Blackbull Native Store to try some akutaq!

Blackbull Native Store

501 W International Airport Rd Unit 30
Anchorage, AK 99518

Ninja Sushi

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Ninja Sushi is still a go-to spot for whenever we need quick, reasonably-priced meals.

Green Dragon Maki

Superman Maki

Udon Sushi Bento Set

Kal-bi Chicken Bento Set

California Maki

Spicy Ahi + Teriyaki Chicken Combo Bento

Curry Chicken Donburi

My go-to is the Curry Chicken Donburi. The curry is so tasty, and the bite-size chicken pieces are always crispy on the outside, tender on the inside.

Ninja Sushi offers a great variety of foods!

Ninja Sushi - Mililani

95-1249 Meheula Pkwy

Mililani, HI 96789

Visit Kauai: Ocean House by Roy Yamaguchi

noreply@blogger.com (nadiablogs) — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 01:40:30 +0000

Crab Mac Nut Crusted Local Catch

My friends and I are big fans of Chef Roy Yamaguchi's restaurants so we planned a quick girls' trip to Kauai so we could support his latest restaurant opening. Ocean House by Roy Yamaguchi opened in June at the Outrigger Kauai Beach Resort and Spa and is open for breakfast and dinner. Led by Executive Chef Samual Taganeca, the restaurant serves signature dishes featuring Kauai's finest ingredients.

During our one night stay at the hotel, we celebrated a friend's birthday at dinner and then enjoyed breakfast at the restaurant the next morning. The dinner menu offered appetizers, a selection of sushi rolls, noodles, and a nice variety of entrees. I ordered the rigatoni that was served with a tomato cream sauce. It was very tasty and generous in portion size. My friends also really liked their entrees and we thought service was great. My favorite was definitely the Halo Halo for dessert. It is a must order!

If you are a Hawaii resident, be sure to ask for the Kamaaina discount. Reservations can easily be made on Open Table.

Rigatoni

Rainbow Roll

Luau Plate

Halo Halo

Chocolate Crunch Bar

Avocado Toast

Egg White Frittata

Big Island Candies' Lemon Shortbread Dipped Combo Box

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Mahalo to Big Island Candies for the complimentary box!

Big Island Candies' Lemon Shortbread Dipped Combo Box is the perfect treat to celebrate the flavors of summer.

The lemony shortbread is so bright and tasty on its own, the blueberry and raspberry white chocolate takes them to another level.

Both flavors are delightful, but if I had to choose a favorite, it would be the blueberry.

The Lemon Shortbread Dipped Combo Box includes 8 each of the popular Raspberry White Dipped Lemon Shortbread, and the new Blueberry White Dipped Lemon Shortbread ($23 at the Ala Moana Center location and $21 online, via mail order, and at the Hilo Flagship Store & Factory).

These cookies are an ideal summer treat!

Special Olympics Hawaiʻi Celebrate 35 Years of Tip A Cop with Newly Rebranded Tip A Hero Event

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 22:02:12 +0000

In celebration of its 35th year, Special Olympics Hawaiʻi’s Tip A Cop fundraiser is entering a new chapter as Tip A Hero — a rebranded event that brings together more first responder agencies, restaurant partners and community supporters while continuing its mission of supporting Special Olympics Hawaiʻi. The event takes place Friday, August 7, through Sunday, August 9, at six California Pizza Kitchen locations, three Goma Tei locations, two Olive Garden locations, one Maui Brewing Company location, and The Counter on O‘ahu.

During Tip A Hero, first responders around the island serve guests at participating restaurants by delivering meals and busing tables to raise awareness and resources for Special Olympics Hawaiʻi athletes and programs. The event will take place during the following dates and times:

California Pizza Kitchen – Ala Moana Center, Ka Makana Aliʻi, Kahala Mall, Kailua Town, Town Center of Mililani and Pearlridge Center

● Friday, August 7: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
● Saturday, August 8: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
● Sunday, August 9: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Goma Tei – Ala Moana Center, Kahala Mall and Pearlridge Center

● Friday, August 7: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
● Saturday, August 8: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
● Sunday, August 9: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. (Kahala Mall and Pearlridge
Center — 5 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.)

Maui Brewing Company – Kailua Town

● Friday, August 7: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. (Dinner only)
● Saturday, August 8: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. (Dinner only)
● Sunday, August 9: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. (Dinner only)

Olive Garden – Ala Moana Center and Ka Makana Aliʻi

● Friday, August 7: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
● Saturday, August 8: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
● Sunday, August 9: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.

The Counter – Kahala Mall

● Friday, August 7: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
● Saturday, August 8: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
● Sunday, August 9: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.

“We are excited to introduce Tip A Hero, a new name and expanded vision for an event that has brought our community together for 35 years,” said Tracey Bender, Director of Development for Special Olympics Hawaiʻi. “While the name has changed, the heart of the event remains the same — bringing our community together to support Special Olympics Hawaiʻi athletes. We are deeply grateful to the off-duty, volunteer first responders who not only make this event possible but who bravely serve our community every day. We invite everyone to join us for a great meal while making a meaningful impact for our athletes.”

Since its inception, Tip A Hero has raised $603,518 for Special Olympics Hawaiʻi. Proceeds from this fundraiser will help Special Olympics Hawaiʻi continue to provide year-round sports training and competition and health, wellness and leadership programs for more than 3,000 athletes statewide with intellectual disabilities, free of charge. Since 1968 Special Olympics has been changing attitudes about the talents of people with intellectual disabilities and raising awareness to build an inclusive and unified community.

For more information on Tip A Hero, please visit www.sohawaii.org. Follow Special Olympics Hawaiʻi on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SpecialOlympicsHawaii.

Introducing the Executive Business Lunch at Orchids Halekulani

noreply@blogger.com (nadiablogs) — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 18:43:27 +0000

Orchids Lunch with a View

Orchids at Halekulani may be best known for their amazing Sunday brunch, but they also serve lunch during the week. They have recently introduced an Executive Business Lunch menu that will rotate monthly and feature new seasonal dishes throughout the year. Available Monday through Friday, the Executive Business Lunch offers a two-course prix fixe menu with a choice of appetizer and main course or main course and dessert. The experience is designed to be enjoyed during the lunch hour, which makes it perfect for business meetings and client lunches.

Hawaii Mom Blog was invited to taste the inaugural menu showcasing a selection of Orchids favorites like the vine-ripened Kamuela Tomato Soup and the signature Orchids Burger. Although I was stuffed from the delicious meal, I just couldn't resist Halekulani's heavenly Signature Coconut Cake.

If ordering the Executive Business Lunch, all guests at the table must order the prix fixe menu. While the full Orchids lunch menu is still available, the two menus cannot be combined. You can easily call the hotel to make dining reservations or use Open Table.

Two-Course Prix Fixe $52

Vine-Ripened Kamuela Tomato Soup

Crab Salad New York Croissant

Mozzarella di Bufala Campana

Gnocchi Portofino

Orchids Burger

Catch of the Day

Halekulani's Signature Coconut Cake

Gelato

Orchids at Halekulani Hotel

2199 Kalia Road

Honolulu, Hawaii

(808) 518-2019

Visit Anchorage: WooHoo! Ice Cream

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000

After a disappointing dinner near our hotel and not wanting to patronize the restaurant longer than we needed to by ordering dessert, we headed to WooHoo! Ice Cream to lift our spirits and satisfy our sweet tooth.

It's a small shop with a limited number of flavors,

Cookies & Cream

Nutella

I had the Cookies & Cream, and I loved how it was loaded with cookie pieces. It was rich, creamy, and just what I was looking for.

WooHoo! was a great place to visit, with a friendly employee, and the customers were friendly too!

WooHoo! Ice Cream
5881 Arctic Boulevard

Anchorage, AK, 99518

Black Sheep Cream Co.

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Black Sheep Cream Co. is one of my favorite ice cream shops on the island.

Buttah Cakes

The Buttah Cakes is my go-to. Super creamy, indulgent cream cheese cream with pieces of butter cake. Get it in the housemade waffle cone!

Guilty of Strobbery

Go Shawty it's Your Birthday

Black Sheep is a fave for quality ice cream in creative flavors!

Black Sheep Cream Co.
94-1235 Ka Uka Blvd.
Waipahu, HI 96797

Lunch at Rigo

noreply@blogger.com (Nat) — Wed, 05 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000

It had been a while since my last lunch at Rigo, so I was excited to return and see what was new. One thing I noticed right away was that the parking lot is now valet only. After seeing how busy the restaurant was on a weekday afternoon—and how small the parking lot is, I can see why they have valet parking only.

I met up with a couple of friends, and one of them insisted that we order the crostini to start. It featured toasted bread topped with prosciutto, fresh papaya, mascarpone cheese, and macadamia blossom honey.

I'll admit, I was skeptical. Two of us at the table aren't even fans of papaya. But after one bite, I was happily proven wrong. The sweetness of the papaya paired beautifully with the salty prosciutto and creamy mascarpone. I never would have thought to order this.

Before our entrées arrived, each of the lunch specials came with a fresh salad to start. Crisp, fresh, and lightly dressed.

For our entrées, we ordered different dishes from the July Specials menu: Shrimp & Shiso Cream, Lamb Ragù Puttanesca, and the Seafood Caldoso.

Every dish was nicely plated and packed with flavor. I really appreciate how the pasta was prepared al dente!

To finish, we each ordered the gelato/sorbet, where you get to choose two flavors. I went with vanilla and raspberry, and the combination was light, refreshing, and the perfect ending to our lunch.

This visit left me wondering why I'd waited so long to return. Hopefully, it won't be nearly as long before my next meal at Rigo.

RIGO

885 KAPAHULU AVENUE

808-735-9760

Visit Anchorage: The New Peanut Farm

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 05 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000

The New Peanut Farm was right near our hotel, so we decided to visit for dinner one evening.

It's a seat-yourself establishment, and we almost didn't eat there, because it took a good 20 minutes for our server to come by.

Once she did come, however, she was friendly.

Chicken Wings

Alaskan Halibut and Salmon Combo

Corn Fritters

Fried Pickles

Southwest Eggrolls

Yukon Burger

I wasn't very hungry so I just munched on some of the apps, which were pretty standard, but good.

The overall dining experience, however, left much to be desired. Other than not having a server come by upon seating for some time, after we got our food, we still did not have any silverware or napkins, so we had to wave down another server.

The table and floor were sticky, and it took a while for us to get our check too.

The New Peanut Farm
5227 Old Seward Hwy

Anchorage, AK 99518

Diamond Head Chocolate

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 04 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000

A couple of decades ago, someone gave me chocolate-covered graham crackers from Honolulu Chocolate Company, which later re-branded to Diamond Head Chocolate, and I was a fan ever since.

I had no idea they opened up a location in Waikele a few years ago, so I recently visited.

It's a chocolate-lover's dream - OREOs, fortune cookies, bark, berries, wafo rolls, and more are covered in chocolate to satisfy your chocolate cravings.

They have pre-packed treats as well as a display of chocolates and other goodies you can buy by the piece (like the chocolate-covered graham crackers).

Stop in for omiyage or for the perfect chocolaty treat!

Diamond Head Chocolate
94-798 Lumiaina St #416
Waipahu HI 96797

A Night with Michael Mina

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000

One of my favorite restaurants on the island is Mina's Fish House at the Four Seasons Oahu, where Chef Michael Mina initiated the concept of the Fish Sommelier.

On Friday, the media was invited to A Night with Michael Mina, where guests indulged in a thoughtfully-crafted tasting menu highlighting local seafood and dishes with internationally-inspired elements.

Sesame Sweet Soy Poke

Burrata & Stone Fruit

Bacon-Wrapped Scallops

Kataifi-Wrapped Kauai Prawns

Several dishes were served family-style - the poke, burrata, scallops, and prawns. I thought the poke was seasoned perfectly, with a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, salty, and spicy components.

Everyone commented on just how enormous the burrata was. It was creamy, and indulgent, and I couldn't stop eating it with the pita croutons.

I love scallops and I love bacon, and together they are great match!

The kataifi offered a delicate, yet crunchy contrast to the tender prawns.

Caviar Parfait

Kona Lobster Agnolotti

Everyone could choose their own entree, and I chose the agnolotti. I loved the stuffed pasta, and I would've been happy with just the pasta, but the addition of the lobster, Parmesan, and truffle really elevated the dish, adding levels of umami.

Lobster Pot Pie

Lobster Pot Pie assembled

Kona Kanpachi

Hawayej-Spiced NY Striploin

The tasting menu ended with two delightful desserts. The shave ice was so refreshing, and the Chocolate Caramel Crunch was reminiscent of a nostalgic candy bar - so delicious!

Pina Colada Shave Ice

Chocolate Caramel Crunch

At the end of the night, we were gifted with a copy of his most recent cookbook, My Egypt, which dives into Chef Michael's roots.

Although this special event was one-night only, the daily dinner menu still offers guests amazing line-to-table delicacies and signature seafood dishes.

Mina's Fish House
Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina
92-1001 Olani St, Kapolei, HI 96707
(808) 679-0079

Marujuu Hawaii

noreply@blogger.com (Nat) — Sun, 02 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Gem and I recently met for lunch, as a birthday do-over. I suggested Marujuu because I'd been wanting to try their Japanese-style Hamburg steak and there is parking and it's located near the freeway.

The funny part? Marujuu specializes in hamburg, but Gem (the birthday girl) doesn't actually eat hamburg!

Fortunately, the menu has other options. She ordered the fried chicken and French fries, while I went with the restaurant's signature hamburg steak with the signature onion sauce.

Shortly after we ordered, our server brought out soup and let us know that both the soup and rice come with unlimited refills - bonus!

When my hamburg arrived on its sizzling platter, it smelled incredible.

The onion sauce paired perfectly with the juicy hamburger steak, and I can definitely see why it's their signature dish. Gem also enjoyed her crispy fried chicken and fries, so we both left happy despite ordering completely different meals.

The service was warm and attentive throughout our meal

I'd happily return—especially with my boys, who I know would love the sizzling Hamburg steaks, fried chicken, and unlimited rice.

MARUJUU HAWAII

1145 12TH AVENUE

(808) 260-4967

Here is the Story of . . . Ono Kettle Pop

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 31 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000

We started a new series at Hawaii Mom Blog - Here is the Story of . . .

Because everyone has a story to tell.

Impromptu, informal, random encounters with people sharing pieces of their stories.

We feature anyone who wants to share - the makers, the doers, the dreamers . . .

Here is the first in our series - Ono Kettle Pop!

You can follow us on IG, Facebook, and YouTube!

Mililani Restaurant

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 30 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Mililani Restaurant is another neighborhood restaurant that has been around for decades (since 1979).

Fried Saimin

Portuguese Sausage Fried Rice

Their Fried Saimin and Portuguese Sausage Fried Rice are my go-tos, and I noticed they had something new - Ginger Chicken Fried Rice, with their staple ginger chicken sauce, so we ordered that too.

The plates were heaping with food!

Ginger Chicken Fried Rice

I've tried other dishes before, but the Fried Saimin and the Fried Rice are the classics that never disappoints.

Mililani Restaurant
95-221 Kipapa Dr
Mililani, HI 96789
(808) 625-2000

Supreme Dumpling Opens at Ala Moana Shopping Center

noreply@blogger.com (nadiablogs) — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0000

Supreme Tan Tan Noodles

You can now satisfy your xiao long bao craving any day of the week at Supreme Dumplings located in the Ala Moana Shopping Center. The restaurant opened last month and features soup dumplings in a variety of fillings each folded by hand.

We ordered the Supreme Pork Xiao Long Bao and the Black Truffle & Chicken Xiao Long Bao. Each order comes with six dumplings. While they seemed good sized, they are easily eaten in one bite. Just let them cool a little first. The restaurant had an extra order of Supreme Tan Tan Noodles and let us have it on the house. That was very fortunate for us because the noodles were delicious. We ended the meal with the popular Onyx Golden Lava Custard Buns.

Supreme Pork Xiao Long Bao

Black Truffle & Chicken Xiao Long Bao

Onyx Golden Lava Custard Buns

Booth Seating

Main Dining Area

The restaurant itself is bright, modern, and fitted with both tables and booth options. The service was great as well. You can make a reservation on Yelp. My friend and I already know what we are ordering when we return!

Supreme Dumplings
1450 Ala Moana Blvd Ste 2500

Honolulu, HI 96814

Visit Anchorage: South Restaurant + Coffeehouse

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Our hotel provided a free breakfast buffet, but on our last day in Anchorage, I suggested we go out for brunch, so we went to South Restaurant + Coffeehouse.

We dined in the restaurant side, and ordered:

Vegas, Baby! Omelet

This omelet consisted of honey-cured bacon, roasted garlic, red onion, tomato, avocado, pepperjack, ranchero sour cream, and pico de gallo.

Sourdough Pancakes with Side Bacon

Sourdough is very significant to Alaska's history, so we had to try the Sourdough Pancakes. You could definitely taste the tang in the pancakes.

Death by Bacon

I love bacon, so this sandwich was the obvious choice. It had simple, quality ingredients that made it delish - egg, bacon, arugula, cheddar, and maple bacon aioli.

Chorizo Burrito

You can add ranchero, salsa verde, or both for extra.

Service was a bit on the slow side because there was a huge mishap with a table next to us, and a lot of attention was being spent on them, but the food was good.

After we ate, I went over to the coffeehouse side to pick up some sweet treats to go.

Walnut Brownie

Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie

McNeill Bar

Oatmeal Scotchie

Turtle Bar

The fresh baked treats were great!

South Restaurant + Coffeehouse
11124 Old Seward Hwy

Anchorage, AK 99515

Mu‘u & Mimosas, a Kaimana Tea Party

noreply@blogger.com (nadiablogs) — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 03:17:48 +0000

I love a tea party so I was happy to join my friend at Mu‘u & Mimosas held by Hau Tree at the Kaimana Beach Hotel. This weekly Saturday event features locally sourced Hobbs Tea from Kauai, island mimosas, craft cocktails, and house-made bites all served while you enjoy a gorgeous view and live music.

Our tea experience started with very delicious house-made vanilla scones and choice of Hobbs tea as well as our choice of island mimosa, specialty cocktail or iced tea. Then we were served our sweets: ube macaron, guava fruit tart, dream cake; and our savories: gougere, ham and cheese spiral, cucumber dill sandwich, and chicken salad croissant.

Love the setting!

The green tea was very good.

These house-made scones were my favorite!

The sweets.

The savories.

Tea times are 2pm, 2:15pm, and 2:30pm and is an afternoon well spent on good vibes and food. Cost of the tea is $55 per person and reservations can be made on Open Table. The room holds a max capacity of 24 making it a great venue to hold a shower or group gathering. It's valet parking only at the hotel at a $10 fee.

Wholesale Unlimited

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 28 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Wholesale Unlimited is one of my favorite spots to pick up omiyage.

With several locations around the island, you're not far from being able to pick up some goodies for a trip, graduation, a birthday, or just because.

I usually go to the Waipahu location, and my go-tos are li hing gummy bears, chocolate gummy bears, Betty's Best cookies, rice crackers, and whatever is on the "What's New" section.

On my most recent visit, in addition to my standard picks, I also got the Wasabi Shirayuki and the Strawberry Shortcake Crunch.

With such a huge selection, I always leave with something new-to-me each time.

Lunch at Formaggio Grill

noreply@blogger.com (Nat) — Mon, 27 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Dropping the boys off at Scout camp for a week is always a mix of emotions. I'm excited for the adventures they'll have away from home (and us parents), but the house is definitely quieter once they leave! So after saying our goodbyes, one of the other Scout moms and I decided to celebrate our "kid-free" week with lunch at Formaggio in Kailua.

Since neither of us was in a rush, we decided to order a few dishes to share. Our server recommended starting with the bruschetta, explaining that the focaccia is made fresh in-house. That recommendation did not disappoint. The house-made focaccia was the perfect base for the fresh toppings and was one of my favorite parts of the meal.

Next came the veggie pizza, which featured a thin, crispy crust. It was light, flavorful, and perfect for sharing.

We also ordered the salmon Caesar salad, and I was especially impressed with the salmon. The skin was crisp while the fish itself remained seared and moist. Combined with the fresh Caesar salad, it rounded out our well-balanced lunch.

Spending a relaxing afternoon catching up with a fellow Scout mom after camp drop-off was exactly what we both needed before a week of enjoying a little extra peace and quiet at home.

FORMAGGIO GRILL

305 Hahani Street

Kailua, HI

808-263-2633

Visit Anchorage: Taco King

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 27 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000

We like to try local / regional fast food spots whenever we travel, just to see what kind of specialties they offer. One that I saw mentioned in Reddit was Taco King.

Grilled Chicken King Burrito

King Fries

Fries were loaded with refried beans, carne asada, cheese, chipotle ranch dressing, and guacamole.

Grilled Quesadilla

Bunuelos

Churros

The family liked the churros, but I loved the bunuelos. They were so crispy, dusted with cinnamon and sugar, and drizzled with honey.

Taco King was a great spot for tasty, quick eats!