BlockAvenue Submissions

Eat your heart out in Kaimuki
November 4, 2012
Waialae Avenue is Honolulu's real "restaurant row," and this busy block is the heart of the neighborhood's bustling dining scene. Near the top of the hill in Kaimuki, you'll find every size and style of eatery. Happy Days (Chinese), Big City Diner (American), Kim Chee II (Korean)... and that's just one building. Mixed in and walkable nearby are dozens of quirky stores, from toys and games to arts and crafts, even a cozy movie museum. Parking is ample but sometimes tight, but the trip is worth it.

Find everything at Mililani Town Center
November 4, 2012
The largest shopping center in Hawaii's largest planned community, Mililani Town Center still manages to offer some personality while fulfilling its retail destiny. There's a good mix of national brands and independent mom-and-pops, several restaurants, a large movie theater, and of course grocery and department stores. There's a "centerstage" where music and other performances take place, and frequent activities for kids and families. Compared to what passes for a "shopping center" in other neighborhoods, you could do a lot worse than this large yet friendly complex.

Can't miss the Capitol District
November 4, 2012
The heart of both Honolulu's history and future can be found on this block. From 'Iolani Palace, the last home of the Hawaiian monarchy and the only royal palace on now-U.S. soil, to the Hawaii State Capitol. Across the street in every direction you'll find something worth studying, from Kawaihao Church, to Honolulu Hale (our City Hall), to Aliiolani Hale (where the famous statue of King Kamehameha stands) to the historic YWCA on Richards Street. At lunch, try a food truck along nearby Mililani Street. And almost every Friday, you can enjoy a live performance of the Royal Hawaiian Band.

A colorful hub in Haleiwa
November 4, 2012
Here you'll find two of the titans in shave ice, the famous Matsumoto's, and the spirited Aoki's. In either directions, colorful shops selling clothes and art, and across the street, a historic church. Kamehameha Highway often backs up along this stretch of road, but it's worth getting out and taking a walk.

A creative hub in a transforming urban neighborhood
November 4, 2012
This block is the hub of some great things happening in Kakaako. There's the Greenhouse Innovation Hub, a coworking spot with talented media makers, and next door, Interisland Terminal's R&D, a creative space, coffeehouse and gallery. Around one corner, Hank's Haute Dogs, gourmet sensibilities in hot dog form, and around the other, the Whole Ox Deli, a classic butcher shop and deli that crowdfunded its kitchen on Kickstarter. With the makai-facing apartments fully renovated, this block is a promising sign of what's hopefully to come in the neighborhood.