Final Tourist vs. Local Rec Review! ULTIMATE POKE SHOWDOWN! Day 3 Oahu Hawai'i vlog

We tried delicious Japanese and Asian food with help from local recommendations, and also not so good tourist trap POKE recommendations. Watch to find out how we rank our experience!

Thank you for following us in our adventure eating through Hawai’i. We are so lucky to get local recommendations and if you have suggestions for us we’d love to hear it. We plan to go back just to eat again.

MUST TRY SPOTS 📍: (if you need a sample itinerary)
1. Han no daidokoro: Japanese yakiniku- super tender beef and is a good price if you go during lunch or happy hour (~$50 for 2 people)
2. Waiola Shaved Ice: great for a hot and humid day. Refreshing and their flan is yummy. But it is basic shaved ice.
3. Korea Garden: Amazing traditional Korean dishes. The sides are refillable so ask for more and take them home!
4. Ho'omaluhia botanical garden: Beautiful drive in but bring bug spray if you decide to walk
5. Waimanalo Country Farms: Beautiful sunflower farm with amazing corn bread. Actually, best corn bread ever and family owned. ($12)
6. Tonkatsu Tamafuji: Recommend getting the mixed set with fried oyster. So yummy. Make a reservation as they are busy.
7. Off the Hook: by far the best POKE we had in Hawaii. Sushi rice and all the toppings all came together wonderfully
8. Yokohama Bay (For swimming): Mildly deep water, good for snorkeling and not very crowded.
9. The Alley: Go bowling and eat at the restaurant. Fantastic Ox tail soup- comforting. Get the dessert.
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Things we didn’t love:
1. Waiahole poi factory: food was very bland that day. They also messed up our order. An acquired taste. Dessert was good though.

POKE review:
Results📍:
#1: Off the Hook: 10/10, very fresh and flavorful. Sushi rice addition was amazing and all the toppings add to the experience
#2: Foodland Poke: 8/10, stopped here many times and it tasted fresh every time. Did not disappoint with the hot rice and variety of Poke.
#3: Ono seafood: 7/10, good but flavor wise, it was not our favorite compared to Foodland. Lacks seasoning in some parts
#4: Haleiwa no 7/No7 Poke N’ Roll: 5/10, nothing special and it was too salty. The spicy garlic ahi was the best out of what we tried, but not worth the search

Stay tuned for where we go next!
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From Malasadas to Shave Ice: Discover the Irresistible World of Hawaiian Desserts

Have you ever tasted a dessert that instantly transports you to a tropical paradise? Hawaiian desserts offer just that—a delightful escape into flavors that are as vibrant and diverse as the islands themselves. Whether you're a local or a visitor, indulging in these sweet treats is a must. Let’s dive into the irresistible world of Hawaiian desserts and explore what makes each one uniquely delicious.

Malasadas: The Perfect Portuguese Treat with a Hawaiian Twist

Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, fluffy donut, freshly fried and coated in sugar. That's a Malasada for you. Brought to Hawaii by Portuguese immigrants, Malasadas have become a beloved staple on the islands. Unlike typical donuts, Malasadas are fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside, often enjoyed plain or filled with luscious fillings like haupia or lilikoi. Don't wait—grab a Malasada today and taste a piece of Hawaiian history!

Haupia: A Creamy Coconut Delight

If you crave something smooth and creamy, Haupia is your go-to dessert. This traditional Hawaiian coconut pudding is made from coconut milk, sugar, and starch, resulting in a silky texture that's both refreshing and satisfying. Often served chilled, Haupia is perfect for hot Hawaiian days. Have you ever paired Haupia with your favorite Hawaiian dessert? It’s a match made in heaven!

Lilikoi: The Tangy Tropical Passionfruit

Lilikoi, or passionfruit, adds a tangy twist to many Hawaiian desserts. Its vibrant flavor brightens up cakes, pies, and even ice creams. The sweet and tart taste of Lilikoi complements the rich creaminess of desserts, creating a balanced and refreshing experience. Are you ready to try a Lilikoi-infused dessert that will awaken your taste buds?

Macadamia: The Crunchy Nutty Indulgence

Macadamia nuts are synonymous with luxury and indulgence. These rich, buttery nuts are a common ingredient in Hawaiian cookies, pastries, and ice creams. Their crunchy texture and subtle sweetness elevate any dessert, making every bite a delightful experience. Don't miss out on the chance to savor a Macadamia-infused treat—you deserve it!

Kulolo: A Sweet Banana Coconut Treat

Kulolo is a traditional Hawaiian dessert that combines ripe bananas with coconut milk and sugar, creating a moist and flavorful cake-like dessert. Steam-cooked to perfection, Kulolo is often enjoyed during special occasions and gatherings. Have you ever tasted the comforting flavors of Kulolo? It’s a dessert that brings people together.

Shave Ice: The Ultimate Hawaiian Refreshment

When the Hawaiian sun beats down, nothing beats a towering pile of Shave Ice. This iconic dessert features finely shaved ice topped with vibrant syrups in a variety of flavors, including classic favorites like lilikoi and innovative mixes like macadamia. Shave Ice is not just a treat; it's an experience. Ready to cool down with the ultimate Hawaiian refreshment?

Hawaiian desserts are more than just sweet treats—they're a celebration of the islands' rich cultural heritage and diverse flavors. From the delectable Malasadas to the refreshing Shave Ice, each dessert offers a unique taste of Hawaii that’s sure to delight your senses. Don’t wait any longer—explore these irresistible Hawaiian desserts and indulge in a culinary adventure like no other!