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We've compiled the best of the best in USA - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
The community-minded sons and the next generation of a Samoan-Californian couple run this casual eatery across from Shark’s Cove, as well as other locations such as Kahuku and Haleiwa. Surfers and sightseers flock here for burgers, salads, fries, and, in some locations, seafood dishes; this location has outdoor seating.
Perched above a shopping center with sweeping panoramic views, this open-air restaurant has lots to offer besides spectacular views from every table in the house. The slow-roasted rack of ribs is the star of the show, and the locally sourced fish-and-chips is a close second. Be sure to try the famous Key lime pie or Mighty Dozen doughnut holes with some 100% Kona coffee. Their fun tropical cocktails such as the Lava Flow are best imbibed with an epic green-flash sunset happening and tiki torches flickering.
One of the North Shore’s liveliest eateries is set in a casual, contemporary space. It serves Hawaiian-style fare including pupus—from poke bowls and fresh wild-caught moonfish to nachos with ham and kalua pig on wonton chips—as well as pasta dishes, pizza, soups, and salads.
Verna's is tried-and-true among locals, who come for the juicy house-made burgers and filling plate lunches; and the price is right with a burger combo that includes fries and a drink. If you're hungry for more, try the traditional Hawaiian plate with either laulau, beef stew, chicken long rice, or lomi lomi salmon (salted salmon "salsa" made with tomatoes and onions). Whatever you choose, you won't leave hungry. Outdoor seating is available.
Fashioning itself after Hawaii's iconic shrimp trucks, this little place in the Queens' MarketPlace food court specializes in island-style fare, including garlic shrimp, teriyaki chicken, and kalua pig and cabbage. They are one of the few quick bites open in the food court and can get quite busy, but everything is made to order, so come with patience.
Longtime local favorite Waiola Shave Ice, known for its super-soft and powdery shave ice (or snow cone) and wide variety of flavors, became nationally known through regular appearances on the reboot of the Hawaii Five-0 TV show. It's a fast-moving line, so know your order when you get to the window. Customize your cone with add-ons, such as ice cream, sweetened condensed milk, mochi, and adzuki beans (sweet red beans). The original location on Waiola Street in the McCully neighborhood has even more of an old-school feel.
