By Erin Kain By Erin Kain | May 18, 2021 | Food & Drink, Feature,
Hawai‘i is magical in spring and summer, and there's nothing better than enjoying a meal or drink outside. Here are the 9 best spots for a picnic or a patio lunch to enjoy the warm weather.
Merriman’s
Chef Peter Merriman helped found the Hawai‘i regional cuisine movement in 1988 when he opened his flagship restaurant, Merriman’s. Its farm-fresh, Asian-inflected menu remains popular today with foodies. Discerning palates will appreciate the farmer- and fisherman-inspired menu in the dining room overlooking Kapalua Bay on the west side, along with its Point Lounge, an oceanfront outdoor deck where local musicians play at happy hour, 3 to 5PM daily. 1 Bay Club Place, Maui, 808.669.6400, merrimanshawaii.com
Lehua Lounge
Named after the delicate blossom, this posh outdoor lounge at the swanky Andaz Resort draws locals from all over Maui to enjoy music and live entertainment at sunset. This poolside setting is coupled with beautiful views of Mokapu Beach and vibrant scenery nestled among crystal clear waterfalls. Once the sun goes down, score a seat by the fire pit and order the Kona Squall, a breezy combination of rye whiskey, aged rum, and orgeat and mole bitters. 3550 Wailea Alanui Drive, Maui, 808.573.1234, maui.andaz.hyatt.com
Magic Island
“Magic Island” is not actually an island, but rather a man-made peninsula created in 1964 at Ala Moana Beach Park. Intended as the site of a later-scrapped resort complex, it is now used for outdoor recreation. Located in the heart of Honolulu, this is prime real estate for hosting an outdoor BBQ. Complete with sunny skies and picture-perfect views, the Magic Island lagoon is the perfect spot to lay out a picnic basket and rest easy. 1201 Ala Moana Blvd., O’ahu, 808.592.2288, honolulu.gov/parks
Momosan by Morimoto
Conceived by the internationally acclaimed Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto, this Waikiki hot spot provides a more casual dining experience and an outdoor, tropically landscaped beer garden. This fun and relaxed ramen experience also offers small plates such as pork gyoza, yakitori, classic izakaya-style rice dishes and the chef’s unique take on island fave garlic shrimp. Enjoy a signature sake and an extensive selection of local and craft beer at one of the outdoor communal tables, an ideal location for taking in the stunning Honolulu sunset. 2490 Kalakaua Ave., Waikiki, 808.922.0011, momosanwaikiki.com
Noe
West O‘ahu’s culinary scene has reached transcendent levels with Four Seasons Resort O‘ahu’s premier eatery, thanks to the mastery of chef Ryo Takatsuka. The creative concept here is Hawai‘i meets Capri, so expect southern Italian dishes prepared with island seafood, handmade pastas and more. The reimagined contemporary setting impresses as well with most tables outside looking at the ocean and neighboring Lanikuhonua. 92-1001 Olani St., O‘ahu, 808.679.0079, fourseasons.com
Princeville Ranch Stables
This private ranch on 2,500 acres is one of the oldest continually working cattle ranches in the nation. Enjoy a wide-open pasture ride with your choice of three unique tours—one of which includes a scenic waterfall hike that makes the stop for a quick snack or a full picnic lunch. You’ll also enjoy breathtaking views of the Makaleha Mountains, most famously featured in the Jurassic Park movies. Kapaka Road off Kuhio Highway, Princeville, Kaua‘i, 808.826.7669, princevilleranch.com
The Tchin Tchin! Bar
While many are enamored by the retro interior at Jesse Cruz and Dusty Grable’s bar, we love the open-air rooftop lanai in the back. The hip wine bar also offers a full bar with artisan cocktails, a selection of beers and a menu of delectable small plates. It’s the perfect place to assemble in trendy Chinatown when night falls. 39 N. Hotel St., Chinatown, 808.528.1888, thetchintchinbar.com
Waiakea Fishpond
Also known as the Royal Pond (it served as a fishpond for three generations of Kamehameha’s), this point of tranquility is surrounded by a lawn and a variety of tall, shade-providing trees. Picnic tables are scattered throughout the park and are perfect for a quick bite or a full spread. Snap a pic with the 14-foot statue of King Kamehameha overlooking the pond from the shore. Wailoa River State Park, 799 Piilani St., 808.961.9540, dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks
SKY Waikiki
Hit the open-air rooftop lounge on the 19th floor for moonlight drinks and dancing, fresh seafood and stunning panoramic views. Look out on Diamond Head, Waikiki Beach and the twinkling city lights as you grind and groove. Be sure to check out upcoming signature events such as Taco Tuesdays and Champagne Sundays. 2270 Kalakaua Ave., Waikiki, 808.979.7590, skywaikiki.com
Photography by: By Josh Berendes/Unsplash; By Sixteen Miles Out/Unsplash; By Brands&People;/Unsplash
