When you think of food in Hawaii, a few iconic dishes come to mind - including saimin, loco moco, malasadas, spam musubi, and, of course, poke. What doesn’t come to mind? Pancakes. But believe it or not, the Hawaiian Islands are home to some of the world’s best pancakes. Just ask the Japanese tourists who flock to the islands to enjoy our mouthwatering pancakes - and perhaps the breathtaking scenery. From melt-in-your-mouth macadamia nut pancakes and guava-infused pancakes to traditional pancakes filled with bananas or slathered in coconut syrup, these 13 restaurants serve the best pancakes in Hawaii.
1. Cinnamon’s, Kailua
Guava chiffon pancakes, cinnamon buns, banana cream cheese French toast, Hawaiian omelets and eggs benedict, oh my! This charming eatery located in the heart of Kailua town is an island favorite, and they serve some amazing breakfast foods. Did we mention that the guava chiffon pancakes are award-winning?315 Uluniu St, Kailua, HI 96734
2. Slappy Cakes, Lahaina
This laid-back breakfast spot in Lahaina is only open from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., but features one thing you aren’t soon to find anywhere else in Hawaii: make your own pancakes! Though Slappy Cakes was founded in Portland, Oregon, the pancake eatery focuses on using Hawaii ingredients and flavors in both their pancake mixes and toppings.3350 Honoapiilani Road Suite 701, Lahaina, HI 96761
3. Ken’s House Of Pancakes, Hilo
This casual breakfast joint featuring 1970s-style decor is open 24/7, making it the perfect place for a late night - or early morning - stack of macadamia nut pancakes, as well as variety of egg dishes, burgers, and stews. 1730 Kamehameha Ave, Hilo, HI 96720
4. My Cafe, Kapolei
Serving breakfast all day, this café is wildly popular, and you should definitely call ahead for a reservation. Coffee is served in mismatched mugs, traditional breakfast favorites are cooked fresh and made to order. If you’re into pancakes, you’ve got to try the "Flight of Pancakes" with flavors like cookie butter and lilikoi, with syrups to complement the flavors.563 Farrington Hwy, Kapolei, HI 96707
5. Anuenue Cafe, Koloa
This cozy eatery serves up hearty American breakfast food in a casual - but tny - environment with plenty of outdoor seating. My mouth is watering just looking at these incredible banana macadamia nut pancakes...2360 Kiahuna Plantation Drive, Koloa, HI 96756
6. Kihei Caffe, Kihei
Open everyday at 5 a.m., it’s always breakfast time at Kihei Caffe. From traditional bacon and eggs dishes, omelets, and fresh baked pastries, to fried rice and other local flavors, this local spot has got it all. Oh, and we can’t forget about the delicious pancakes.1945 S Kihei Road, Kihei, HI 96753
7. Liliha Bakery, Honolulu
A full-service bakery, coffee shop and diner located in Honolulu, Liliha Bakery has been a community staple since its doors were opened in 1950. In addition to their famous coco puffs, the Coffee Shop serves up traditional Hawaiian breakfast favorites, including scrumptious pancakes.515 N Kuakini St, Honolulu, HI 96817
8. Island Lava Java, Kailua-Kona
With 100 percent Kona Coffee, oceanside dining, and a bakery on site, could you think of a better breakfast experience than Island Lava Java? Oh, yeah, you could order one any of their decadent pancakes. There’s no beating the macadamia nut banana pancakes with coconut syrup.75-5799 Alii Drive Suite A1, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
9. Kountry Style Kitchen Restaurant, Kapa’a
This casual and cozy eatery on Kauai serves up island-style breakfasts and American classics - with hearty portions, of course. If you’re looking for pancakes, which you obviously are, you can’t go wrong with the banana pancakes slathered in coconut syrup. Arrive when they open at 6 a.m. for stellar sunrise views.4-1485 Kuhio Highway, Kapaa, HI 96746
10. Rise & Shine Cafe, Mililani #1
Located in an unassuming shopping area in Mililani is this killer breakfast spot, serving up the best banana pancakes I've ever tried as well as other breakfast and lunch standards and homemade desserts.95-1057 Ainamakua Drive, Suite F-6, Mililani, HI 96789
11. Gazebo Restaurant, Lahaina #1
This busy breakfast spot is located right on the beach at the Napili shores condo complex. Don’t allow the hour long line to discourage you, Gazebo Restaurant serves the best breakfast food for miles – you’ve got to try their famous macadamia nut pancakes. Pro tip: if you arrive and the line is too long for your liking, walk around the corner and order your food to go – you can then take your breakfast and eat on the beach, with the same view! 5315 Lower Honoapiilani Road, Lahaina, HI 96761
12. Hawaiian Style Cafe, Waimea
This quaint diner, located in Waimea, features a mix of Hawaiian dishes and American home cooking for breakfast and lunch. In addition to their massive pancakes, this hole in the wall breakfast joint serves up everything from kalua pork hash to lighter or vegetarian options.65-1290 Kawaihae Road, Waimea, HI 96743
13. Moke’s Bread & Breakfast, Kailua
This laid-back Kailua eatery with a beachy vibe and outdoor seating is known for their awesome breakfast foods with island-inspired flavors. Their fluffy lilikoi pancakes are simply to-die-for.27 Hoolai St, Kailua, HI 96734
Who knew Hawaii had such mouth-watering pancakes? There’s no denying the fact the Hawaiian Islands are also home to the world’s best poke, loco moco, and acai bowls.
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