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January 14, 2025

Redfish Poke Bar Waikiki

Thank you to our sponsor for this complimentary meal. All reviews and opinions are my own.


Redfish Poke Bar by Foodland, tucked away in a quieter corner of Waikiki, is a hidden gem that offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of the main streets. The location, off the beaten path, makes it easily accessible by car and provides a more laid-back vibe, perfect for those seeking a relaxed, open-aired dining experience.





What sets Redfish apart is its innovative approach to poke. The menu features a creative array of poke varieties, available in unique flavor combinations that are sure to satisfy any craving. Whether you're a traditionalist or looking to try something new, there's something for everyone. In addition to their poke, Redfish offers a selection of "small bites" — perfect for appetizers — and "medium bites," which are ideal for sharing family-style.

For families, the keiki menu is a great option, and for those looking to unwind, the happy hour (2 PM - 5:30 PM daily) is not to be missed. The beverage menu is just as diverse, featuring both boozy and non-boozy drinks that complement the fresh, flavorful dishes.

We had the pleasure of trying a few dishes during our visit, and we were impressed by the bold flavors and fresh ingredients. 



Okonomiyaki Fries








Crispy Chicken Wings


Poke Flight


Hamachi (Ginger Scallion +$3)

Salmon (Hawaiian)

Ahi (Hawaiian)


Short Rib Loco Moco





Shrimp & Garlic Noodles








Malasada Bites



Chocolate Haupia Sundae

The highlight of the meal was definitely the Poke Trio. The poke was incredibly fresh and packed with flavor. The Okonomiyaki Fries would delicious but it would have been even better if the fries were served hot. The malasada bites were our favorite dessert of the two desserts we tried. 

A big thank you to our sponsors for inviting us to experience one of Waikiki's best spots for local favorites and poke!



Hours:
Sunday - Thursday, 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Friday & Saturday, 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Located in the Wayfinder Waikiki
2375 Ala Wai Blvd.
Honolulu. 96815

(808) 921-3220

Validated Parking: $6 for 3 hours (valet only)

Kama'aina Discount: 10% off with Hawaii I.D.




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Naʻau: Cultural Influences - A Chronolgy

This month's tasting menu at NaÊ»au is a chronological progression of just a few of the cultural influences on HawaiÊ»i's culinary scene.  Click here to book tickets.
Iʻa Pūpū

Local Fish + Black Bean and Lup Cheong Sauce

"PBS" Pasta 

Nishime

Venison Pastele Stew

Kalbi & Kim Chee Fried Rice 

Halo Halo

 

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January 13, 2025

Visit Salt Lake City: Arcade Galactic

One of my kids often requests to go to an arcade when we travel, so we went to check out Arcade Galactic.

Located in the Valley Fair Mall, the arcade is on the small side, but they have new and old games, pinball machines, and other fun distractions.
It's a quarter per token, and each game takes on average 2-4 tokens. 



The smaller size of the arcade meant it wasn't as crowded as the bigger arcades.

You can't win any tickets to redeem for prizes, but that was totally okay with the kids.
They each found fun games to play and had a lot of fun.

Arcade Galactic was a nice way to spend a few hours.

Arcade Galactic
Valley Fair Mall, 3601 S 2700 W G114
West Valley City, UT 84119

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January 10, 2025

Brunch at Straits Honolulu

Laksa Noodle Soup

Last weekend, we celebrated a birthday with brunch at Straits Honolulu. Straits is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and serves weekend brunch from 10am to 2pm. I love the upscale jungle vibe that Straits has going on and I was really happy with how our tables were set up in the back of the restaurant for our large group of 17. 

Right off the bat, our server warned us that staff was low and they were out of a few entrees. As to be expected, the food came out pretty slow. One friend's noodle dish didn't make it out of the kitchen before we all finished our meals so she asked for it to be packed up to go. The staff was very apologetic and tried to accommodate us as best as they could. If you can be patient, the food is great. I really liked my Hainan Chicken and my friends raved about the Laksa as well as the Straits Burger.


Beet Salad

Cobb Salad

Loco Moco

Hainan Chicken

Straits Honolulu
1060 Auahi St. #4
Honolulu, HI 96814


   

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Visit Salt Lake City: Blacksmith Ice Cream

Our ice cream stop in Utah to make the state "officially" count in our 50-state adventure was Blacksmith Ice Cream

Peppermint Stick + Dough 'N Cookies

Fudge Brownie & Cinnamon Roll

Campfire S'mores + Dough 'N Cookies

Chewy Gooey Buttercake + Milk & Honey
We've been to over 200 ice cream shops around the world, and Blacksmith Ice Cream is one of the best we've been to.  

These small batch, artisan-crafted ice creams were so rich and creamy, and the flavors of the ingredients really shone through.  

I had the Chewy Gooey Buttercake, which had pieces of buttercake throughout, and the Milk & Honey, which was my favorite of the two.  The bits of honey gave the ice cream more dimension. 

Everyone raved about the flavors they chose!


Blacksmith Ice Cream
1295 Miller Ave #5
Millcreek, UT 84106


 

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January 9, 2025

Better-For-You Beef Sticks

Protein is important (I have been trying to eat more protein myself), and my kids enjoy snacking on beef sticks from time to time.  We've tried several brands and varieties over the past several months, and here are our faves: 


Chomps Grass-Fed and Finished Beef Jerky Snack Sticks - Original

My kids love these Chomps.  I bought a box of 10 and they were all gone in just a few days.  I don't eat much beef myself, but I don't shy away from beef jerky / chips.

These beef jerky sticks have 10g protein per stick, are tasty, and perfect for on-the-go!  We can't wait to try other flavors!

Note: Also available at Costco!







Like Chomps, these beef sticks are made with grass-fed and -finished beef, and have no added nitrates or nitrates.



Country Archer Grass-Fed Beef Minis - Beef Taco
These were an initial Costco find.  They are mini sticks, so perfect for a snack or to tote along with lunch.  They contain no added nitrates or nitrates, and no artificial flavors.  
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January 8, 2025

Visit Salt Lake City: The Pie Pizzeria

We tend to order pizza often when traveling.  It's easy, convenient, cost-effective, and delicious!  The Pie Pizzeria was one of several pizza shops we ordered from while in Utah.  
Pizza-Pull-A-Part
These "breadsticks on a pan" were so delish!  They were covered in garlicky goodness. 
Mountain of Meat
The Mountain of Meat was piled high with pepperoni, ham salami, sausage, and ground beef.  If you are a meat lover, this pizza is for you!
Chicken Ranch

If you love ranch on your pizza, you'll love the Chicken Ranch, which was also topped with bacon, tomatoes, and onions.

Both pizzas were cheesy with a nice, toothsome crust.  They did not skimp on toppings, and we enjoyed everything we ordered.

The Pie Pizzeria
3321 S 200 E
South Salt Lake, UT 84115
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