bills

 
bill's Waikiki
bill's waikiki
bill's Waikiki
bill's Waikiki
Bill's Waikiki
bill's Waikiki
bill's Waikiki
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bill's Waikiki
Bill's Waikiki
bill's Sydney
bill's Waikiki

I have been frequenting bills since they opened just about a year ago and I almost can't believe I haven't shared my love for this place on The 96815 sooner. Bills was brought to the islands from the Aussie culinary celebrity, Bill Granger, who has several international outposts in Japan, London, Seoul and Australia. The Hawaii locale is by far one of my favorite additions to Waikiki in recent years. Don't get me wrong, there are plenty of amazing places to eat in the 96815, but not one quite like bills. Stylish, friendly staff effortlessly work the cheerful mid century modern digs, while travelers and locals feast on delectable Australian fare. I have been to bills for breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner - all are equally wonderful. So, on this bright, sunny Waikiki Saturday as I made my way to the restaurant on Beach Walk, I already had an idea of what I was in the mood for - ricotta hotcakes. Let's be honest, I am always in the mood for the ricotta stuffed hotcakes, layered with fresh bananas and topped with creamy honeycomb butter. My version of heaven most definitely includes an eternal supply of this magnificent dish. If you aren't in the mood for something perfectly sweet, there are many other gorgeous items to choose from on the menu. Our brunch on the upstairs lanai overlooking a bustling Kalakaua Ave. included the renowned scrambled eggs and the perfectly crisp corn fritters, all topped off with bellinis, mimosas and the Honolulu Blossom. Granger says his restaurants reflect the spirit we like to think of as "Australian" - sunny, easygoing and generous. This not only describes our brunch at bills, but most days living in the 96815. Life here is pretty delicious. 

The 96815 Tip: bills has a fantastic Happy Hour! Beginning at 2pm daily, enjoy $5 libations and pizza and snacks, ranging from $3 to $13, in the delightful sidewalk level dining area.  

bills, Monday to Sunday, 7am to 10pm, ph. 808-922-1500, 280 Beachwalk Ave, the 96815

Photography by Jessica Tronoski

 

Blue Marlin

 
Japanese food waikiki
drinks waikiki
waikiki sushi
photo 2.JPG

As the Hawaiian sky changes from crystal blue to vibrant orange, it's time for one last dip in the cool Pacific before heading to dinner. Sunbaked and famished, we are excited to dine at Blue Marlin, a new culinary experience located in the heart of the 96815.  Mostly drawn from our ocean waters, Blue Marlin’s dishes are influenced by the multicultural flavors of the islands.  Few can nail the whole fusion thing on its head, but Blue Marlin proves to have done its research, effortlessly blending and accenting thoughtful pairings on the plate. We decide to go casual with sushi and tropical libations at the bar. The decor is delightfully nautical and reminiscent of summers spent in the fishing village of Montauk, NY. One drink leads to another and we find ourselves hungry again; ready for one of the visually impressive entrees that have been making their way into the al fresco dining area. We try the Kakiage Tempura and the Garlic Shrimp Paella. The tempura arrives at the table in the shape of the leaning tower of Pisa. We quickly devour the tower, before moving on to the crispy deliciousness of the paella. Dear Blue Marlin, we are in love and will be back for more!

The 96815 Tip: fresh sushi, island inspired cocktails and $5 tapas at the bar make for the perfect ending to a Waikiki beach day.  Pull up a stool; we'll be there unwinding with a Kalakaua Blues and a Shrimp Dragon Roll after a day of sun, sand and waves.

364 Seaside Ave 96815, 5pm - 11pm. Lunch is served next door at HI Tide Poke, a Blue Marlin production serving fresh fish daily.