Hanapepe Cafe

Description:

• The couple who used to own this delectable, wholesome vegetarian cafe with a casual, winning ambience sold it to Andrea Pisciotta, a former waitress in the restaurant who loved the place and wanted to continue the tradition. Pisciotta upgraded the facilities, painted the walls, put in new artwork, introduced fish to the menu, added dinners on Friday nights with live entertainment, and added a bakery open Monday through Friday with wonderful baked goods and quiche. It's packed at lunchtime, when people come for the several varieties of garden burger. They have elevated this modest staple to gourmet status: You can top yours with sautéed mushrooms, grilled onions, pesto, fresh-grated Parmesan, and other choices. Other lunch notables: fresh red-skinned home fries, a heroic grilled vegetable sandwich, and whole roasted garlic heads. Friday night's dinner menu changes every week, but Italian and fresh seafood specialties shine: fresh spinach salad; lasagna quattro formaggio with spinach, mushrooms, and four cheeses; crepes; and the nightly special with the cafe's famous marinara sauce -- terrific choices all. There's no liquor license, so if you want wine, bring your own.

• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

Honolulu Advertiser

•  says Best Restaurant 2008

Frommer's

•  Highly Recommended 2010