Honolulu dining

Mai Tai Bar at the Ala Moana shopping center

• Can you fathom a better way to take a break from shopping? I can't. So if you find yourself parched while trying on clothes at Ala Moana, make a detour here!

The Shell Bar at the Hilton Hawaiian Village

• Delicious "Blue Hawaiian" frozen cocktail at The Shell Bar

Here's a piece of priceless Hawaiian trivia for you: Did you know that the famous "Blue Hawaiian" drink was invented at The Shell Bar at the Hilton Hawaiian Village in 1957?

The Golden Dragon: Delicious modern Chinese cuisine served in a gorgeous atmosphere overlooking a clear-water lagoon. Come hungry...these family-style dishes won't underwhelm!

Bali by the Sea: French cuisine made with the freshest local Hawaiian ingredients

Hatsuhana (Japanese/sushi)

Lappert's (ice cream, coffee, desserts)

Kailua dining/Where's Wally Amos? 12/27/07

Having lived in New York for almost four years, I must admit that I've subconsciously become a food snob. Am I so spoiled by convenience, cuisines and options in New York that I can't help but turn my nose up to every other city? I remember when I didn't live here and I used to dream about my fantasy life in Manhattan: having a pint of Haagen Daaz delivered to my front door...just because; walking down almost any block in the city and being able to grab the most amazing slice of pizza; introducing friends to Ethiopian cuisine for the first time. Writing a post about all of the small things that I adore about New York would take me too much time tonight, and for the first time, I want to discuss the dining scene elsewhere.

I've been on holiday with my family in a small town on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. We've grilled and cooked at home on most evenings, but have been lucky enough to experience some truly delicious restaurants and snack shops on others. I've put my New York snobbery aside and have really been able to enjoy some righteously fantastic eats.

Since I have about one more week in the tropics, I've compiled an ongoing list of places that have really stood out to me. So, if you ever find yourself in gorgeous Kailua, HI...make sure to check out the following:

• Buzz's Steakhouse
• Island Snow
• Bob's (Boston Style) Pizzeria
• Chip & Cookie: Here's the answer to my question above, "Where's Wally Amos?" He's right here in Kailua at his newest cookie concept shop, folks!
• Brent's Restaurant & Deli: I couldn't tell you much about the deli and frankly, being from the deli capital of the world, I certainly don't intend to. However, Brent's does make a totally awesome breakfast. I recommend the Coconut/Macadamia nut pancakes. Check out my plate below!
• Lucy's Grill 'N Bar