Hawaiʻi is known for it’s unique local food and fresh island favorites. Whether you are visiting the islands or call them home, there are lots of great eats when it comes to grinding (eating) on Oahu’s east side. From delicious shrimp to savory pancakes, we have come up with a list of some of the best places to eat on Oahu’s windward side, so you never have to go hungry on your way to and from Kualoa!
Boots & Kimo’s Homestyle Kitchen
Kailua, HI
Distance from Kualoa: 15.5 miles, ~30 minutes
Open for breakfast and lunch, Boots & Kimo’s is famous for its macadamia nut pancakes. A perfect way to start off your day, Boots & Kimo’s also offers local favorites such as Portuguese sausage, corned beef hash and fried rice. Be aware if you go you might have to wait, but by all accounts we think it’s worth it. Whether you’re looking for some savory pancakes or delicious omelets Boots & Kimo’s is a necessary food stop on the Windward side.
Pakele’s Hawaiian Food
Kahaluʻu, HI
Distance from Kualoa: 7.4 miles, ~13 minutes
Located in the Ko’olau Shopping Center, Pakele’s offers customers traditional Hawaiian-style food. If you want a taste of the islands, you can try the Pakele special. It includes local favorites laulau, chicken long rice, squid luau and poi. A favorite of locals and visitors, Pakele’s has mastered the secret Hawaiian ingredient—Aloha.
Aunty Pat’s Café
Kaʻaʻawa, HI
Distance from Kualoa: 0 miles, ~ 0 minutes
Located on Kualoa Ranch, you don’t have to go far to find some great local food. Aunty Pat’s is open for breakfast and lunch and features local specials of honey-dipped chicken and kalbi ribs. Aunty Pat’s offers fresh homemade cooking, which includes local-raised, grass-fed Kualoa beef in its burgers and homemade ice cream. From the perfect burger to bacon fried rice, Aunty Pat’s has it all!
Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck
Kahuku, HI
Distance from Kualoa: 15.5 miles, ~25 minutes
Shrimp, shrimp and more shrimp! Giovanni’s is a necessary stop on the North Shore for any shrimp lover. Whether you’re driving to Waimea Bay or cruising through Haleiwa town, Giovanni’s has made a name for itself serving up some ono shrimp. It offers three specialty shrimp dishes, but for those of you who aren’t fond of the shellfish, they offer a jumbo garlic hot dog. Don’t forget to sign your name on the truck before you leave!
