G. Garvin's Oahu Travel Tips

By: G. Garvin

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There’s so much more to Oahu than just Honolulu. It’s the most populous of the Hawaiian Islands and is home to Diamond Head and the North Shore, which are great for surfing. When you get off that plane, don’t be afraid to explore beyond Waikiki Beach, because you’ll find amazing food spots beyond the strip.

Dat Cajun Guy

I loved finding a taste of the South in Oahu. Jordan and Ashley Romano (see photo) take Louisiana cooking and dish it out of a food truck in an amazing location. Haleiwa is right along the North Shore, so make sure you stop by this part of the island if you’re a fan of surfing. Be sure to order the Gumbolaya!

Hughley’s Southern Cuisine

Ken and his family make some incredible soul food for the local military. The ribs, the fried peach cobbler, the catfish — all of his dishes take me back to Georgia. Sneak over to Aiea on your trip if you’re feeling homesick for the South.

Monkeypod Kitchen

Monkeypod Kitchen is the creation of Chef Pete Merriman, one of the founders of Hawaiian Regional Cuisine. They’re all about using local ingredients to make an approachable menu. I loved working with Chef Todd in the kitchen and getting a taste of those incredible drinks. That barbecue pork sandwich can’t be beat!

Town

Chef Ed Kenney is Hawaiian-born and –bred, and is regarded as one of the best chefs in the state. He loves the simple pleasures of Hawaii, like surfing and bonfire cookouts. Town reflects Chef Ed’s principles by using local ingredients whenever possible. The menu’s constantly changing for the seasons, but you can bet you’ll find Hawaiian pork, mahi mahi and delicious greens.

Hog Island

When you think of Hawaii you don’t think of Southern barbecue, but you will after you visit Hog Island and taste their amazing meats and comfort sides. Make sure you try one or two, or just go hog wild with three of their favorite meats with Southern dirty rice, coleslaw, and their Guinness beer and molasses barbecue sauce.

Sweet E’s Café

This is a great spot in Honolulu for breakfast classics. Ethel Kim offers a unique menu that has dishes like blueberry-cream-stuffed French toast and Kailua omelet with Kailua pork, as well as the corned beef hash Benedict. It’s the perfect spot to grab some hearty food before a busy day exploring.

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