Late-Night Eats Kalihi: Three Places for Low-Key Comfort

Waikīkī may be the late-night hub of Honolulu, but don’t overlook the tasty hood just ‘ewa of Chinatown. Midnight and early-morning eateries are sprinkled across a darkened landscape after hours in Kalihi. Underdogs, Mitsuba Delicatessen and Siam Paradise are only the beginning of the list. At that hour, though, I’m all about plate lunches and dessert, so here are my late-night Kalihi picks.

Photo: Vanessa Hathaway

Upscale Hawai‘i

Driving up to Upscale during the wee hours feels eerie because the surrounding buildings on a normally busy stretch of King Street are void of life. But I know I can never go wrong with hearty protein, two scoops rice and some classic mac salad. Upscale serves typical local fare such as Chicken Katsu Curry ($13.25) and assorted Bento Boxes ($12.50). When I’m craving something a little fancier, I go for the Grilled Lobster Tail with Herb Butter ($15.95).

A ball of butter sits on top of a decent-size tail, melting into the meaty crevices. The char-grilled flavor complements the warmth of the butter and a side of grilled asparagus, which ups the luxe. All my lobster needs is a quick squeeze of lemon, and we’re both golden.

Open 24/7, 1333 N. King St., (808) 842-0344, upscalehi.com, @upscalehawaii

Photo: Vanessa Hathaway

Kamehameha Bakery

If all I need is a little late-night (or early morning) treat, I’m heading to Kamehameha Bakery. Around me in the bright lights against a darkened City Square Shopping Center are people grabbing a quick bite and coffee on their way to work, and twenty-somethings like me who haven’t gone to sleep yet.

The bakery smells incredible. The assortment in the glass cases includes sweet bread, banana bread, pan de coco and so many danishes. I go for the famous Poi Haupia ($1.40)—a taro bun filled with coconut pudding. The fluffy bun makes a perfect capsule for the creamy pudding, with a slight chewiness that prevents excessive sogginess. Poi Haupia is one of my ole reliables because just one makes the perfect handheld treat to satiate that sweet craving.

Open Monday to Friday from 2 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday to Sunday from 3 a.m. to 4 p.m., 1284 Kalani St. #D106, (808) 845-5831, @kamehamehabakeryhawaii

SEE ALSO: A College Student’s Favorite Spots for Late-Night Grinds

Photo: Vanessa Hathaway

Holoholo Bistro Express

Sometimes after a long day, grabbing a quick takeout meal sounds so much more pleasurable than sitting in a restaurant. Holoholo Bistro’s Kalihi window was opened with this in mind. The weekend-only spot serves premade dishes ranging from a classic loco moco ($12) to Fried Noodles ($6) and a Pastele Stew Plate ($12). You can eat at tables inside, but on a chilly night, my boyfriend and I retreat to the comfort of our car’s heater and cushy seats.

My favorite is one of the weekend specials, Kim Chee Fried Rice with an egg over-easy ($10). The creamy yolk and spicy-sour kim chee add smoothness and dimension to a dish that leaves me abundantly full. Washing it all down with Holoholo’s Liliko‘i Shaken Iced Tea is a nice complement; however, if you’re looking for something sweeter, don’t expect it from this drink.

Open Monday to Friday 6 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday and Saturday 8 p.m. to 2 a.m., 743 Waiakamilo Road, holoholobistro.com, @holohologrilluh