Hawaii - Jeff Campbell [205]
Jacaranda Inn (885-8813; www.jacarandainn.com; 65-1444 Kawaihae Rd; r $160, ste $180-200) The eight romantic rooms here are indulgent, antique-filled visions, a mix of four-poster beds, opulent tiled baths, carved furniture, Jacuzzi tubs and oriental rugs over hardwood floors. No two are alike. Call ahead; the property is for sale, but promises to continue as an inn.
Aaah, the Views B&B (885-3455; www.aaahtheviews.com; 66-1773 Alaneo St; d incl breakfast $150-195; ) This funky, supremely cozy B&B certainly earns its name – it’S a memorable combination of aaah-some mountain views, romantic indulgence and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Of the two view rooms, the Dream Room is a favorite, adding a tasty outdoor shower and luscious bath, while Treetop has two sleeping lofts (great for families) and a private deck. The equally nice Garden Room lacks a view, but it does have an in-room sauna. The affable, eco-conscious owners make sure everyone is ready for their day with large breakfasts and banter on the view-licious common porch.
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EATING
Waimea restaurants serve some of the Big Island’S best eats.
Waimea Coffee Company (885-8915; www.waimeacoffeecompany.com; Parker Sq, Kawaihe Rd; sandwiches $7-8.50; 7am-5:30pm Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm Sat, 10am-3pm Sun; ) This upscale coffee shop has a devoted following for its espresso drinks and panini.
Tako Taco (887-1717; 64-1066 Mamalahoa Hwy; dishes $3-11; 11am-8:30pm Mon-Sat, noon-8pm Sun) Good taquerias are a salve to the soul, and this brightly decorated choice serves burritos, quesadillas and fish tacos that put you right. For that warm yet eye-watering kick, request the habanero salsa. A full selection of beers and occasional live music.
Lilikoi Cafe (887-1400; Parker Ranch Center, 67-1185 Mamalahoa Hwy; mains $5-11.50; 7:30am-4pm Mon-Sat) For healthy and delicious fresh juices, tons of creative salads and an eclectic range of hot food (lasagna, meatloaf, crepes) seek out this hidden café. It’S great for takeout (it uses compostable tableware).
Hawaiian Style Cafe (885-4295; Hayashi Bldg, 64-1290 Kawaihae Rd; dishes $6-9; 7am-1:30pm Mon-Sat, to noon Sun) The screen door, its springs shot, slams constantly as locals gather around the horseshoe-shaped counter. This favorite island-style greasy spoon plates generous portions of loco moco, pancakes, laulau, poi, fried rice, burgers and much more. Heed the sign: ‘Come early. When food is pau…there is no more!’
Yong’S Kal-Bi (885-8440; Waimea Center, Mamalahoa Hwy; mains $9-12; 10am-9pm Mon-Sat) This busy Korean cafeteria whips up delicious tender BBQ and rich soups. Yong’S is appetizing, efficient and well-priced – a great combo.
Pau (885-6325; http://paupizza.com; Opelo Plaza, 65-1227 Opelo Rd; sandwiches & pizza $9-24; 11am-8pm Mon-Sat) ‘Casual gourmet’ sums up the almost off-hand deliciousness of this stylish, low-key newcomer. Fresh soups, grilled fish sandwiches, perfect thin-crust pizza – nothing disappoints, and local ingredients grace everything. Even the side salads are crisp and well made.
Huli Sue’S (885-6268; www.hulisues.com; 64-957 Mamalahoa Hwy; mains $12-24, BBQ $15-19; 11:30am-8:30pm Mon-Sat, noon-8pm Sun) Huli Sue’S kiawe-smoked BBQ is sweet (not hot) and can be greasy. However, the sides – like corn pudding, onion rings and garlic mashed potatoes – are rave-worthy and the salad bar is awesome. Weekly specials can see curry and other Indian food added to the menu.
Waimea Ranch House (885-2088; Waimea Center, 65-1144 Mamalahoa Hwy; mains $15-33; 11am-1:30pm & 5-8:30pm Wed-Mon) When you need a flawlessly grilled rib-eye steak, come here. All the locals do. There’S a down-home bar and a more formal dining room, but steak prepared without fuss and as rare as you dare is the only meal to order. Yes, it does other things, and quite well, we’re told; but maybe next time.
Daniel Thiebaut (887-2200; www.danielthiebaut.com; 65-1259 Kawaihae Rd; mains lunch $11-14, dinner $21-45; 11am-1:30pm Mon-Fri, 10am-1:30pm