How to Stay Cool in Waikīkī: The Ultimate Treat Guide
Looking for a sweet treat to cool down after a day at Waikīkī beach or long walks down the strip? Waikiki Shopping Plaza houses an array of restaurants to satisfy your cravings. Check out this guide and read our other blogs for more food recommendations!
North Shore Shave Ice in the Heart of Waikīkī
Located on the lower level, Haleiwa Town Shave Ice offers a taste of the North Shore with their hand-crafted shave ice. Owners Chris and Tomoko have spent nearly three decades perfecting the art of this refreshing dessert. With over 20 flavors, there’s an option that fits everyone’s taste! The widely popular lilikoi syrup is made in house with a tropical taste that tourists and locals love. Top your shave ice with a range of toppings including condensed milk, azuki beans, and Dave’s Hawaiian Ice Cream. Experience the North Shore atmosphere in Haleiwa Town Shave Ice’s new Waikīkī location!
Local Tip: Haleiwa Town Shave Ice also carries the best Hawaiʻi souvenirs! Commemorate your trip to the islands with handmade koa wood items, including jewelry and keepsakes.
A Sweet Treat without the Guilt
Located in STIX Asia next to Nana’s Green Tea, Ao Gelato serves a collection of refreshing gelatos and sorbets. Crafted from tropical fruits and teas, Ao Gelato brings the classic flavors and silky texture without the overwhelming sugar. Enjoy their rotating collection of 20+ flavors ranging from matcha and coffee gelato to lilikoʻi and hibiscus sorbets. The mango sorbet provides the perfect refreshing taste after a day out on the strip or a hot bowl of noodles. Choosing between multiple flavors? Ao Gelato allows you to sample before you choose! You can even take a pint home if you find a flavor that’s irresistible.
Local Tip: Ao Gelato offers convenient card-only service to simplify the checkout process.
Coffee with a Hint of Local Flavor
For an unrivaled coffee experience, head to Kai Coffee Hawaiʻi! Husband and wife founders Sam and Natalie Suiter use their 25+ years of industry experience to deliver the finest locally sourced coffee. Their mission is to deliver Aloha In Every Cup® where every customer feels like a part of the family.
Kai Coffee Hawaiʻi offers a modern take on the traditional espresso menu. Its signature Kai Latte adds subtle hints of macadamia nut sweetness that appeals to tourists and locals alike. In addition to coffee, try a variety of breakfast items, sandwiches, and their popular açai bowls. With their high-quality brews, quick service, and knowledgeable baristas, Kai Coffee Hawaiʻi creates the standard for café experiences.
Waffles, Berries, and Drinks Oh My!
Waffle and Berry is a locally owned and operated shop specializing in all things waffles, berries, and desserts. Included with the purchase of their widely popular açai bowl are toppings from the superfood mini bar, so you can top your açai bowl with goodies like granola, honey, chia seeds, coconut, and cacao nibs. The waffles are made to order, with options such as berries and cream and chocolate or you can craft your own! Pair your dessert with their freshly made drink menu, including fruit-flavored mocktail mojitos, lemonades, and iced teas.
Local Tip: Combine your warm waffle with a cold and refreshing açai bowl to create a combination of tastes and textures that is sure to satisfy your cravings.
From shave ice to gelato to waffles, Waikiki Shopping Plaza has so many sweet treats to offer under one roof. Which place tops your must-try list?