What would paradise on Earth be without some good food to go along with it?
Mention the islands of Hawaii and what comes to mind are white sand beaches, palm trees and grass skirts. People normally do not associate Hawaii with top-notch restaurants. But there are several fine restaurants within walking distance of the world-famous Waikiki beach on the island of Oahu.
Keo's
Considered one of the best Thai restaurants in the state, Keo's is frequented by locals and tourists alike, and has seen more than a few celebrities pass through its doors. The ingredients are always fresh, and many of the menu items reflect the tropical surroundings, often including easily-obtained Hawaiian delicacies in place of more traditional oriental fare. Keo's signature dish, the "Evil Jungle Prince," is a chicken dish that includes coconut milk, hot peppers, basil, and lemon grass, and is reportedly the finest meal the restaurant serves.
Lulu's
A more traditional venue than Keo's, Lulu's is a 24-hour bar/restaurant directly across from Waikiki beach that creates a 50s-type atmosphere. Much of the menu is traditional fare such as hamburgers, hot dogs, and similar entrees. But there are a few oddities, such as the Loco Mocco--eggs served atop a hamburger patty on a bed of rice and covered in gravy. While the food is excellent, the true draw of Lulu's is the ambiance. Diners can eat their meal and enjoy an unobstructed view of Waikiki beach, or simply take in the retro look of the bar itself. The walls are papered with 50s-era posters and pinups, surfing memorabilia, and even a large Tiki-Elvis head in one corner of the bar.
La Mer
Billed as a "neo-French cuisine" restaurant, La Mer is one of Honolulu's classier establishments. Jackets or long-sleeved shirts are required for men, and the prices are what you would expect of a high-end restaurant. But in this case, you get what you pay for. The service is excellent, the food is exquisite, and the wine list is expansive. As the only AAA five-diamond establishment in the state, La Mer is quite successful in its attempts to create a unique and memorable dining experience. The ambiance is soft and romantic, the ingredients are always fresh and the choicest available, and the view from the second-floor open-walled level is absolutely stunning. One should simply not miss out on this superb Hawaiian restaurant; just don't be surprised by the size of the check at the end of the meal.
Tags: Waikiki beach, always fresh, ingredients always, ingredients always fresh, more traditional