CHEAP GRINDS (FOOD)



Good news...you don't have to spend a fortune to eat in Hawaii - you can, but you don't HAVE to. In Hawaii, even laying on the beach can build an appetite. There are several inexpensive places that you can satisfy that grumbling stomach.



FAST FOOD


Despite the fact that some people refer to the mainland as the U.S., Hawaii IS a state, and has most of the familiar fast food places we all know and love (McDonalds, Jack in the Box, Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, etc). Water is free at these places. All of these places allow casual wear (shirt, shorts, slippers). I refuse to go to any place that I have to put long pants and shoes on, just to get something to eat (or drink). Places that do require such accoutrements are the fancy schmancy, hotzie totzie places you should avoid, unless your trying (on purpose) to spend a hundred dollars for a meal.

BEST BET: JACK IN THE BOX - they have always have a 99 cent special of some kind. The Jumbo Jack has been on sale forever (99 cents), and at various times the double cheeseburger or chicken sandwhich are also 99 cents. In addition the have a $1.99 special of 3 monster tacos, or breakfast secials around $2. You can get a hamburger anytime, even before 10:30 (unlike Mickey D's). Even if not advertised, ask if the 99 cent Jumbo Jack is still going (has been for some time now). Kalakaua dining room has nice street level ocean view, or take it to go, and walk across the street to the beach. Kalakaua location is open 24 hours. Other locations on Kuhio and Kapahulu.

Mickey D's (McDONALDS) also has periodic specials, some as low as 99 cents. As I write this a MacTeri (teriyaki hambuger) is 99 cents. As with the Kalakaua Jack in the Box, at the Kalakaua McDonalds, you can walk accross the street and eat your meal at a table on the beach, or sit up front with a nice view of the ocean and tourists. One other Waikiki location on Kalia Rd, over by Ft DeRussy.

For a new experience have a personal pan pizza and a taco or burrito at the basement (below street level) combinatio PIZZA HUT/TACO BELL at the Waikiki Shopping Plaza. Prices are more expensive than on the mainland (true of most things in Hawaii), but is a nice break from the hamburger habit.

PIZZA HUT has 2 locations (Kuhio Mall and Waikiki Shopping Plaza). Kuhio shop delivers to Waikiki (926-5025). Unless fanatic about Pizza Hut, always check DOMINO'S also (737-0888) to find best value. Although Domino's is not located in Waikiki, they do deliver here. Ask both places for specials. Don't be too surprised at price, but should be able to get 2 medium 2 topping pizzas for ~$20 or less.

Also in Waikiki: BURGER KING - 3 Waikiki locations (King's Village, Waikiki Trade Center, and corner of Kalakaua and Lewers). No specials, ever. Forget about a 99 cent whopper - it doesn't happen in Waikiki. Kings Village BK is open 24 hours though.



ALL YOU CAN GRIND


PERRY'S SMORGY RESTAURANTS has 2 Waikiki locations (one on Kuhio and another on Lewers) and is an all-you-can-eat, buffet type resturaunt. Breakfast is $4.99, lunch $5.99, and supper $7.99.

SPAGHETTI SPAGHETTI! is located on the 3rd floor of the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center in the building that borders Lewers Street. Lunch is $8.99 and dinner is $9.99 for a buffet (all-you-can-eat, of course) which includes four types of pasta, four different sauces, and a full salad bar. There are also other menu items, but the buffet is the best bet. There is also a BAR, which has a nice aquarium.

DUKES at the Outrigger Waikiki, offers an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet ($7.95 for the cold buffet, $9.95 for the hot buffet). One of the more resonably priced breakfast buffets. Lovely ground level ocean view dining. Cold buffet includes fruits, vegetables, toast, muffins, etc, white hot buffet includes an omlette station, pancakes, french toast, potatoes, etc. Good grinds!



EARLY BIRD SPECIALS


Several places offer an "early bird" special during breakfast or dinner, or both. An early bird special is usually a discounted entree offered at a less busy period of time. Some of these specials are the same entree you'll pay $3-$5 more for an hour later, and most of the evening meals (at least the ones I frequent), also include a salad bar - such a deal!!

My favorite, because of my fondness for Mahi-Mahi, is BUZZ'S STEAK AND LOBSTER on Saratoga Road. Mahi is a FISH, sometimes called the dolphin FISH (because of it's shape), and also known as Dorado, but it is a FISH. You are not eating Flipper, a MAMMAL, so relax and enjoy. I always get the mahi, but there are usually a couple of other choices along with the mahi. If you get the mahi ask for it broiled. It comes with fries and a small (but all you can eat) salad bar. Early bird is good from 5:30 - 6:30pm.

PIECES OF EIGHT - 250 Lewers St. Affiliated with Buzz's, they also offer an early bird special and all-you-can-eat salad bar. Decor reminds you of a pirate ship, and also offers a large bar.

CHUCK'S ORIGINAL STEAKHOUSE is located in the Edgewater Hotel, in between Lewers and Beachwalk. Several choices for entrees, and the proverbial all-you-can-eat sald bar. The baked beans are delicious, but for the sake of your loved ones - go easy on 'em. Unless, of course, you are traveling alone, then go for it. Adult beverages are available.



DENNYS


DENNYS - despite the jokes, everyone knows what to expect at Dennys. There are 3 Waikiki Dennys (Kuhio, Lewers, and the corner of Kalakaua and Kapahulu). The Kalakaua location offers a million dollar view of Waikiki Beach. The open air, 2nd level view is worth the price of the meal alone. Hard to find a better view for a more reasonable price.



"NESE" FOOD


Sorry, but I am not a big fan of "nese" food. You know, Chinese, Japanese, Viet Namese - that kind of food. I do have friends who are though, and I have sent them out to sample the nese grinds. As they report back, I will update this section.




MORE WILL BE ADDED LATER


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