Rainbow Drive-In

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If you have ever been on Kapahulu Ave in the 96815, you may have passed the legendary Rainbow Drive-In. Well-preserved for over 50 years, it serves up all the local favorites daily. While they are known for their Loco Moco and mix plate lunches, my favorite has to be the cheeseburger, fries and a float. It is my ideal comfort meal. In addition to their good eats, part of the Rainbow charm is the authentic vintage vibe. Enjoying my simplistic meal, I like to think about what the 96815 was like when this restaurant first opened many years ago. The atmosphere, music, people, and style from a different time are all coming together to paint a nostalgic picture in my mind. I find myself on the last sips of my float and it's time to wake up from my 1960's daydream. I awaken happy and full. Reality is still pretty dreamy at this classic neighborhood spot. 

Rainbow Drive-In, Open Daily 7am to 9pm, 3308 Kanaina Ave, the 96815

James After Beach Club

I was doing my usual Saturday afternoon ritual, a walk around the neighborhood, and an acai bowl from Bogart's, when I noticed a new shop opening up in the 96815. James After Beach Club, now open for business on Monsarrat Ave, is a collection of all things surf-related. Custom made surfboards, comfy tees, beautifully constructed clothing, unique accessories and one-of-a-kind vintage items can all be found in their shop. The clothes mostly consist of their two brands, Delicious and Studio Oribe, which are both made in a family operated factory in Japan. James and Co, as the store locations are known in Japan, has spent many years perfecting the fit and feel of their clothing and it shows. Utilitarian and classic, it's my perfect match. Clothes that pair beautifully with a vintage aloha find or one of my favorite pieces of the moment, they stand alone and withstand the test of time. I will never feel out of style throwing on my functional and comfortable striped tee or perfectly made pair of pants. I didn't want to take them off while I spent hours browsing the cubbies that were filled with interesting products and apparel. I feel like I could stop in at anytime and find something totally new and rare. And I'll be stopping by again soon to see my new friends that I made that day. Jun, the store manager, is friendly and kind. He made me a smooth cup of coffee from their very own special brew and fed me dessert while I learned all about the shop and their brand philosophy. I have to agree with the James and Co logo, "Delicious Life."  It most certainly is a delicious life in the 96815 and in this lovely shop.

The 96815 Tip: Stop by to do some holiday shopping! Your loved ones will be sure to love anything and everything from James After Beach Club. 

James After Beach Club, 3045 Monsarrat Ave, the 96815, Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 6pm.

Aloha Sunday

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Over the weekend, we were feeling like some fun in the sun was in order. When our friends from Koa Beach Service invited us to spend a day on Waikiki Beach, I was already thinking an enthusiastic "yes!" before the invite was complete. All weekend, I was dreaming up our Sunday by the sea. I often pass Koa Beach Service on morning walks and think how charmed these sunny days must be spent under their signature green umbrellas gazing at the picturesque white clouds hovering over the crystal blue water below. Some days it looks too good to be true; as if it's a painting I have found my way into and that I never want to leave.

At the beach, we set up shop, read a few magazines, play a game or two of backgammon and, well, just relax. After a quick cat nap, we were ready for some action. Koa Beach Service rents just about every beach toy you could possibly imagine. Surfboards, standup paddle boards, kayaks, snorkels, bodyboards, umbrellas, chairs and the list goes on. If you have enough people, you can even get a volleyball game going on their sand court right off the beach.  My personal favorite has to be the bright green aqua bikes. I don't know what it is, but something about the bikes just makes me smile.  I wish I could trade in my car for one of these and cruise along Waikiki Beach making stops at all my favorite places. Maybe someday. In addition to having the best spot on the water in the 96815, and all the right beach day accessories, the crew at Koa Beach is one of a kind. Friendly service with aloha. I'm sure there have been many vacation days spent here described as "perfect." Our Aloha Sunday was just that.

The 96815 Tip: Want to learn how to surf? Koa Beach Service has got you covered; give them a call and schedule a lesson! 

Koa Beach Service, 2055 Kalia Road, the 96815, 808.944.1962
 

Photography by Craig Ellenwood

Thank you

It has been a busy week for us in the 96815. We are so excited to announce that our little online shop is open for business! If you haven't had a chance already, please pop over and take a peek.

As The 96815 nears its 6 month anniversary, we would like to say "Thank You" to everyone who has supported us along the way. Without some very special contributors and enthusiastic fans, The 96815 would not be possible. We are truly grateful and delighted to be able to share our piece of paradise with you!

XOX,

The 96815

Special thanks to Craig Ellenwood, Lauren Easley, Dominica Rizzo, Pearl Love Jewelry, Shaggy Gardener, Jessica Tronoski and Alex Peach.