Hawaiian cuisine was rather basic before the arrival of visitors and immigrants to the islands. Today, local dishes are a combination of traditional Hawaiian culture along with influences from China, Korea, Japan, the Philippines and Portugal. New arrivals brought a variety of meats, fruits and vegetables that are now a part of island dishes. When visiting, there are a number of recommended venues serving breakfast to start the day.
Paia Bowls
The beachfront eatery is more likened to a food stand accompanied by tables. The shaded location is protected by a series of palm trees. The venue is ideal for anyone who prefers a lighter breakfast featuring fresh fruits and whole grains. Acai bowls are the specialty and consist of frozen acai topped with bananas, blueberries and strawberries. Additional toppings include granola and coconut flakes along with a drizzle of honey. Other fruits, nuts and seeds are also options. The majority of ingredients are grown and harvested locally.
Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop
The cafe offers more Americanized breakfast meals. The menu features a variety of homemade salads, sandwiches and pies. For breakfast, diners might enjoy a generously filled sandwich of bacon and eggs on fresh-baked whole wheat bread. Coconut French toast and banana pancakes are also available. Other egg-based offerings include frittatas and eggs benedict made with vegetables, ham or tuna. Anyone having a sweet tooth might prefer a cup of coffee with a slice of homemade pie. Options include apple crumb, banana crème and macadamia nut chocolate praline.
Kihei Caffe
The cafe is located in the Kalama Park Village Shopping Center and opens the doors to diners at 5:00 A.M. each morning. The varied breakfast meals are generously portioned and diners have the option of eating indoors or outdoors. Menu favorites include the traditional “loco moco,” which consists of pork fried rice topped with eggs, biscuits and sausage gravy. Some prefer the massive breakfast burritos filled with chorizo sausage. Pancakes here are extremely popular. Diners have a choice between banana and macadamia nut, chocolate-chip or pineapple-coconut.
Grandma’s Coffee House
Grandma became renowned for her coffee in 1899. She handpicked, dried and roasted the beans. The family tradition continues today. The venue offers cappuccinos, drip, espressos or lattes all day long. Breakfast specialties include French toast made with homemade cinnamon raisin bread, Belgian waffles and breakfast bagels.
