The Hawaiian Isles is the most beautiful chain of islands across the vast Pacific island. It is one of the most popular travel destinations, and it’s easy to understand why. The fresh atmosphere, the crystal blue ocean, the fauna, and importantly the food can make (almost) anyone drop their normal, mainland lives to be apart of that life. Anyone who comes to visit for just a short amount of time usually wishes that they could return.
And I am one of them. I lived on the island of Oahu for several years and had the lucky chance to discover and experience the culture and life on the islands. It opened me up to new experiences that I would have never received on the mainland and helped me grow mentally and spiritually as a person. I lived on the North Shore which is the far more “country” side of Oahu. Over there, life and food was a mix of culture and tourism. In the food, it showed a combination of different cultures, while the atmosphere still gives out that ‘Aloha’ vibe. Here are some of the best eats perfect for any date night on Oahu’s North Shore:
IL Gelato Cafe
This is not your average ice cream place. All of their gelato are handmade and come in over 10 different daily flavors. Some more unique flavors you wouldn’t usually think to try like Olive Oil are also on the menu! Not only this, but they also serve crepes, gelato “spaghetti”, and handcrafted sodas. The atmosphere of the restaurant is cute and cozy with warm colors, wooden structures, and outside sitting area. If you are looking for something a little on the healthier side, I suggest getting the acai bowls from them as they are delicious!
Once you get your yummy treat, you can easily swing by the beach to relax by the waves!
Spaghettini
This interesting little gem might be a little easy to miss, but it’s located right next to Malama Market. The green building offers 9 fresh New York Pizza options, and a variety of pasta options, salads, and sandwiches to choose from! Everything is handmade at the location, and the customer service is always on par with the Aloha vibes. If you have a date (or yourself) who is a picky eater, this is a safe option to choose from. Not only that, but this is one of the affordable places to eat out in Hawaii for a quick bite to eat. The location has an outside sitting area you can enjoy your food in, or you can take your food to go!
Uncle Bo’s Pupu Bar & Grill
Looking for somewhere that caters a little more to the night life? This is the right place for you! Perfect for couples who just want to have a laid back night, the food here ranges from bar to fine dining food with, of course, wine and beer. It’s cozy space has an outdoor eating area that I suggest sitting out on during the cooler nights. However if you are not a fan of the bar setting, no worries! They also have a nice, more semi-casual dining area perfect for a romantic dinner.
Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck
In Hawaii there are many different little food trucks to try out, but if you are looking for a huge gem this would be it. Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck is open all week, but be prepared to wait – since it’s a local tourist location, many people visiting flock here. This is not a place to fine dine as this is an outdoor location. It is covered in graffiti and skater stickers. For those who want a chilled atmosphere with great shrimp food options, this is a definite try-out for you foodies out there.
Last but not least… Haleiwa Joe’s
This restaurant serves mostly surf and turf with cocktails in a restaurant filled with beach-themed decor. The atmosphere is casual, but is perfect for a date night. It is located right next to the North Shore, and has seating both inside and outside. It is located on the edge of the night-life on North Shore which still allows you to get some access of the beach after eating.
Although this place has amazing and fresh food, this is the most expensive eat on the list, but it is definitely worth the experience by the ocean.