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Known for its abundance in beauty, warmth and hospitality, Hawaii offers a variety of rich experiences, especially when it comes to food. Hawaii is made up of over 100 islands ready to be explored, but fear not, here are the most delicious dishes and drinks to discover on the main islands.

Big Island

Food: Brown’s Beach House offers a contemporary take on local eats. Known for its ambiance and excellent dinning experience, Brown’s has been awarded the Certificate of Excellence every year since 2015.

Drink: Kona Brewing Co. is everything you could want from a Hawaiian brewery – “Liquid Aloha.” You’ll find yourself in a relaxed environment with a large variety of refreshing brews and your favorite pub foods.

Maui

Food: South Maui Fish Company, distinguished for being the “Little Red Food Truck” serves up freshly caught fish in all forms of deliciousness. Poke and fish tacos should be at the top of your list to try, but no matter what you order make sure to try to the coconut milk coleslaw!  If you prefer a more luxurious view, the West Maui mountains near Roy’s Kaanapali offers a scenic backdrop to the delicious combinations of Asian, Hawaiian and European cuisines.  Be sure to try the seafood.

Drink: Bumbye Beach Bar makes for a great day at the pool. Food and cocktails are served from 11am-5pm so you can feel free to sink into the perfect atmosphere for embracing “island time.”  For something delicious and unique, try the foam topped Mai Tais at the Monkey Pod. Open from 11am-11pm everyday, and with live music twice a day, you’ll find the Monkey Pod truly a place of merrymaking!

Oahu

Food: Hawaiian Crown is a local favorite, known for being the best of the best in producing pineapples. As a symbol of hospitality, pineapples are a perfect representation of Hawaiian culture and are a must have while visiting. Hawaiian Crown also produces chocolate and a variety of other snacks to stock up on before you leave the tropical paradise of Oahu.

Drink: Hideout at the LayLow is one more great place to stop for drinks.  A poolside bar, a coffee bar and complimentary valet parking are just a few reasons to check it out. Open from 7am-10pm the Hideout offers a great space for meetings.  Of course, there’s also the Royal Hawaiian, also known as the Pink Palace.  It’s located just off Waikiki Beach and is the perfect destination for its legendary Mai Tais, tropical music, appetizers, and watching beautiful sunsets.

Kauai

Food: Duke’s holds tradition in their name, as Duke Kahanamoku loved to surf Kalapaki Beach. Conveniently close to the Lihue Airport, Dukes invites you to enjoy their large dinner menu and bar. Be sure to dive your fork into their famous Hula Pie made from locally made ice cream!

Drink: Tahiti Nui is a great place to mingle, dance and enjoy local music on the typically quiet island of Kauai. The bar hosts Wednesday Night Luau’s which include Tahiti Nui’s world-famous Mai Tais and fire dancing! It may not be the most traditional, but a Luau is a must when visiting the islands.

Molokai

Food: Paddlers Restaurant and Bar is another great spot for dancing and live music. Serving local, American and Asian food, there is something for everyone.

Drink: Paddlers is going to double up for the beautifully quaint island of Molokai. With less than 8,000 residents the locals like to keep things simple. Paddlers offers great drinks along with their flavor packed menu and insures you’ll find it to be the perfect one stop shop.

Lanai

Food: Blue Ginger Café is a local favorite and has been in operation since August 1991 and has consistently been open every day. Although it is just a little “Mom and Pop shop” it is known for its delicious bakery items and homemade buns for their gourmet burgers. The Blue Ginger is bound to impress.

Drink: Lana’i City Bar & Grille is located in charming rustic setting of the historic Hotel Lana’i. The bar’s mixologist, Jacob Baltero who is born and raised in Lana’i, uses an array of techniques and has developed a large selection of cocktails to add to the bars well rounded wine list.

There’s no doubt that a visit to the beautiful islands of Hawaii will be filled with a melting pot of flavors in both food and drink options.  Hawaii is truly a paradise for both the eyes and the palate.

Planning a corporate meeting or travel incentive to Hawaii?  Contact Gavel International to learn more about our outsourced programs.

Michael Richardson
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