Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in Kailua

As you eat a meal at Merriman's, you can tell that each ingredient is selected with care. Sure enough, when I asked I found out the food is locally sourced from farms that the owners and Chef know and trust. Many items are hand selected by the box, not the truck load. Since the Chef from Maui transferred over to Merriman's Oʻahu, our entrees have been especially ono. At lunch today I planned to take home one of my two fish (ahi) tacos. No way! I couldn't stop finishing both. Last night my husband and I walked into Merriman's without reservations and sat at the bar. Who cares if we didn't get a table? The gregarious host, Cody Merriman, stopped by to share a laugh or two and answer our questions about the menu. My husband ordered their chicken entree for dinner and said it was the best chicken he'd ever had. And my taro falafel was also delicious. We can't resist their Waialua Chocolate Purse for dessert. I felt a little decadent afterward, but what the heck? There are lots of restaurants in our neighborhood, but for five years now we keep coming back to Merriman's which seems to be even better the last six months. Could it be the addition of the Maui Chef? We like the vibe. Energetic without being so loud you cannot carry on a conversation. We both think their Hawaiian music playlist is the best in the City. Wish I could think of something negative to say to make this review real. But having just come back from a great lunch with memories of a wonderful dinner there last night, I am only happy and satisfied.

Our server, Bailey, was attentive and friendly. Great experience!

The waiter was exceptional and on top of everything for our table.

Absolutely amazing sunset dining experience. Food was delicious, ambiance was lovely, service was outstanding.

Another fabulous dinner at Kalapawai Cafe in Kailua. Last night was a birthday celebration and we ordered more than we normally do. We started with the fig and the crab artichoke appetizer. Both selections were ridiculously delish. From the dinner selections, we all ordered the fresh ahi layered on top of Bok choy and creamy, perfectly cooked, lemongrass risotto. Amazing! For dessert, an order of fruit crisp and lilikoi cheesecake. Heaven! Kudos to the Chef and staff!