Food — December 26, 2009 2:00 — View Comments Written by: Jan

Hawaii Eats: Wailana Coffeehouse

HawaiiEats

Much of the Hawaii I knew growing up is now gone, replaced by shiny new eateries and shops. While these new additions to Hawaii’s landscape offer much in the way of practical convenience and what some would call retail diversity, sometimes I still long for the Hawaii that was when I was just a kid back in the 1970’s. Wailana Coffeehouse in Waikiki is one of those rare old places—they haven’t renovated to look retro cool—they simply are retro cool.

Opened back in 1970, Wailana Coffeehouse has maintained it’s old-school style from its décor down to its menu offerings. Well known for their breakfasts (served 24/7), the all-you-can-eat pancakes are an island favorite, and at just $5.75, you’ll see why. So strong is the entire Wailana old-school diner experience, one bite of the butter slathered, coconut syrup drenched full-stack and you’ll be transported back to the 1970’s. Wailana is also known for their muesli cold cereal, a unique (and very rich) blend of oats, apples, macadamia nuts and raisins, drizzled with half-and-half cream and served with a packet of honey to sweeten it all up. Just a small bowl of this not-to-be-found delicacy will sit in your stomach for hours.

Two other factors that keep islanders and visitors coming back again and again are the loco moco (the portion is generous) and the 24-hour, 7 day a week service, making Wailana Coffeehouse a fun, casual, reasonably priced choice for late night snacking. After all, what’s better than breakfast at 2am after a late night out with friends?

Mostly though, I think what keeps the regulars coming back year after year to Wailana Coffeehouse is being able to re-live just a little bit of the Hawaii from yesterday. While the food is ono (the Hawaiian word for delicious), people who enjoy Wailana come for the entire experience, not jus the eats. Nostalgic? Absolutely. So the next time you want to eat somewhere that still serves 70’s Hawaii diner food, sans the shiny new fake retro-stylings, go to Wailana Coffeehouse. It’s a Hawaii Tradition.

Wailana Coffee House
1860 Ala Moana Boulevard
Telephone: 808.955.1764

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