Hawaii boasts many different eats not to be missed from Indonesian Sio Pao, to Spam Musubi.  Every time I go to Oahu I’ve got a couple places that are at the top of my list. This isn’t a sponsored post, I’m just spreading the good word of good food.

Uahi Island Grill

Uahi Island Grill is THE place for both lunch and dinner.  It’s island flare food with a touch of Asian, and a dash of American.  The food network show, Diners Drive Ins and Dives, agrees.  The Red Curry Grilled Fish, the one featured on the show, is a combination of spicy, sweet, and savory.  The type of fish varies by what is fresh that day (awesome!). It’s served over their green papaya salad made of shredded papaya, carrots, cilantro, Bell pepper, tomatoes, lemon fish sauce and topped with a house made Thai red coconut curry.  I am not a fan of green papaya, but this salad is amazing.  The crunch of the salad pairs beautifully with the tender juicy fish.  In a word, it’s amazing.

.On my last visit I wanted to try something else on the menu. The Garlic Ahi with brown rice and garlic teriyaki butter sauce (although not as complex as the curry) did not disappoint.  It was cooked to perfection, juicy, and packed with flavor. It came with a side of Korean slaw (bean sprouts, water cress, lightly stemmed with sesame oil and salt) which was good, but I’m sticking with the papaya salad next time.  It paired beautifully with the locally made Coconut Porter from Maui Brewing Company, which might be my new favorite beer.

(photo courtesy of http://www.prideofmaui.com)

Morning Brew

Another must visit on Oahu, Morning Brew,  is my favorite coffee house on the planet (outside of European coffee, of course).  It is everything you want in a coffee house.  It’s usually packed with locals studying, grabbing a bite, or just hanging out.  The music is great, the staff is friendly, and the coffee is unparalleled.  I recommend the Cafe Vienna. Hot or iced are equally yummy. It’s reminiscent of a dirty chai with nutmeg and cinnamon but sweetened with honey so you can request half sweet if you, like me, prefer your coffee on the not so sweet side.

Both places are located in Kailua, where I try to stay while on Oahu.  If you ever find yourself in that area, stop in and check them out.  You’ll be glad you did.