The Veranda at the Kahala

Best for: Unwinding
Location: Kahala Hotel

Come to the Veranda to unwind in the stunning lobby of the Kahala Hotel. Don't, however, come to eat. I've been here a couple of times for dessert and have always been slightly disappointed, perhaps because I just expect too much from the Kahala, or perhaps because I forget that people aren't here to have an intensive dining experience; they are here to enjoy the high ceilings, live entertainment, impeccable service, and those famous Italian glass chandeliers.

fancy sugar stick for her latte

In the afternoon, the Veranda offers afternoon tea service, which I haven't tried because I've heard the afternoon tea at Halekulani and the Moana are slightly better. In the evening, the Veranda uses the same drink, pupu, and dessert menu as Plumeria, one of my favorite restaurants, located just downstairs. However, Plumeria is a favorite due to its breakfast buffet and happy hour cocktails. The drinks, pupus, and desserts are not impressive - at Plumeria or the Veranda.

ice cream trio

In conclusion, for those of you who have seen the lobby of the Kahala - perhaps the most beautiful lobby in Hawaii? - you can probably understand why some would venture out here just to relax and take in the ambience; I've done it [and attempted to read War and Peace here a few times]. However, for desserts and drinks, I'd much rather go to Lewers, Nobu, Salt, or the Beachhouse at the Moana.

Lewers Lounge

Best for: Dessert
Location: Halekulani

I can no longer leave Waikiki without ending the night with dessert at Lewers Lounge. This place is magical. I always take out-of-town guests here because it epitomizes Hawaii (oddly enough, without a view of the beach) - well, at least a certain part of Hawaii. I usually sit outside, at a setting that makes this space so special.

Halekulani is one of only two 4-star hotels on Oahu. That's pretty pathetic, considering how many hotels we have here, but that's besides the point. Since this restaurant is part of Halekulani, you know everything will be impeccable. The hotel is a white, elegant, low-rising complex with open halls that allow the soft island breezes to brush by. Sitting at one of the six tables at night, in the heart of Waikiki yet miles away from the hustle and bustle, staring into the clear sky... no wonder this is my favorite place in Waikiki.

When you arrive, you are greeted with cashews and pecans. Service here is top-notch, and by now the waitresses recognize me, as I am always finding excuses to dine here. I always order the Chocolate All the Way, which is a trio of chocolate cheesecake, vanilla ice cream, and chocolate brownie. It's not the most innovative, but it always tastes delicious, and you can't ask for a better setting. Each dessert is about $9. Their dessert cocktails are pretty good too, but I think I prefer the ones at Kahala.