BREAD + BUTTER Grand Opening

Last night Hawaii Mom Blog was invited to the Grand Opening of BREAD + BUTTER, a new self-service venue by Hide Sakurai, the restaurateur behind Shokudo Restaurant and Buho Cantina y Cocina.

BREAD + BUTTER offers a variety of menu items, including pizzas, pastas, sandwiches, salad, and soups. 

At the Grand Opening hundreds of guests sampled a variety of small bites:

Beef Short Rib Loco Moco

Smoked Ahi Salad Sandwich

Smoked Salmon + Dill Cream

Chicken Liver Pate

Prosciutto + Fig Pizza

Charcuterie Apps

My favorite dish was the loco moco - the beef was so tender, and there was so much flavor in each bite!

The clean, crisp decor and large windows at BREAD + BUTTER make for a very inviting space that welcomes customers to a variety of seating areas (couches, bar seating, tables and chairs), as well as a Pinot Bar and Coffee Bar. 

Espresso Art

BREAD + BUTTER's concept makes it easy for someone to grab a quick coffee and breakfast before work, meet colleagues over lunch, and have dinner and drinks with friends.

I definitely hope to go back soon for a nice, leisurely meal!


BREAD + BUTTER
1585 Kapiolani Blvd
Honolulu, HI 96814
(808) 949-3430

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Golden OREO-Stuffed Blondies Recipe

I love Golden OREOs.  They are my favorite type of OREO.

So one day I figured stuffing Blondies with Golden OREOs would be just as good as stuffing brownies with regular OREOs

To make them, just take any Blondie Recipe (I used this recipe from the Food Network Kitchen), place OREOs in the middle of the batter, and bake.

YUM!

Golden OREO-Stuffed Blondies (recipe adapted from the Food Network Kitchen)

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 c firmly packed brown sugar
• 1 c unsalted butter, melted
• 2 1/4 c flour
• 3/4 t baking soda
• 1/2 t fine salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 t vanilla extract
• 20 Golden OREOs

Directions

• Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. 
• Mix together the melted butter and brown sugar in a small bowl.
• In a separate medium bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt.
• Beat the eggs and vanilla into the sugar mixture. 
• Add the flour mixture to the sugar mixture and stir until a smooth.
• Spread half the batter in a prepared 9x13 prepared baking dish.
• Place Golden OREOs on top of the batter.
• Pour remaining batter over OREOs.
• Bake approximately 20 to 25 minutes.

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Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

 

I love chocolate and oatmeal so I'm always looking for a reason to make some delicious chocolate chip oatmeal cookies. I had some extra time on a Friday night so I decided to look through a cookbook Gem gifted me called Sally's Baking Addiction for some inspiration.  I found a recipe called oatmeal scotchies that looked like it could be easily adjusted.  I simply replaced the butterscotch chips with chocolate chips.

First, you'll whisk together the dry ingredients: 1 3/4 cups flour, 1 1/4 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1 tsp ground cinnamon.  In another bowl, cream 1 cup softened butter.  Add 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 3/4 cup dark brown sugar (I used light brown sugar with no issues) to the mixture and beat until fluffy.  Mix in 2 eggs and 2 tsp of vanilla extract.  

Gradually add in the dry ingredients.  I usually do this in thirds.  Mix in 3 cups of QUICK cooking oats and fold in 1 1/4 cup of chocolate chips.  The dough needs to be chilled for half an hour in the refrigerator and then wait for it to warm up at room temperature for about 10 minutes. 

I used a cookie dough scooper and made my cookies approximately 2 tablespoons.  The recipe says to bake for 8-10 minutes at 350 degrees and the cookies will look under baked.  Let the cookies rest on the cookie sheet for 10 more minutes before transferring to a wire rack.  However, my daughter and I felt the completely cool cookies were a little too soft for our tastes so we baked about 5 minutes longer in the oven.  We got a browner cookie and a better texture that was more to our liking.  It's important to follow recipes, but oven temperatures vary so always allow some room for adjustments.    

Happy Baking!

Love to make giant oatmeal chocolate chip cookies!

 

Delicious with a tall glass of milk!

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Beach Eats from Malama Market

When we plan to hit the beach on the North Shore, we often stop at Malama Market to pick up some beach eats.

They have all kinds of things to keep you satisfied once hunger strikes - sandwiches, salads, hot entrees, poke, and lots of snacks and desserts.

Sub Sandwich

Salad

Assorted baked goods

They are one of the few places in Haleiwa that opens early (before 8am), so you can pick up breakfast as well as lunch.

Since they are a grocer they also have any other last-minute beach needs - drinks, ice, coolers, etc.

Prices are pretty reasonable, and they definitely offer a lot of variety!

Malama Market
66-190 Kamehameha Hwy
Haleiwa, HI 96712
(808) 637-4520

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Rocksbox - Get Your First Month Free!

Complimentary subscription was provided for review purposes.

I received another set of jewelry and I must say, I love it! I received the Kendra Scott Rayne Necklace in White Mother of Pearl, the Gorjana Gisele Midi Ring and the Sophie Harper Large Pave Dagger Studs. They go quite nice all together. Rocksbox is perfect for those who love jewelry but don't necessarily have time to accessorize their outfit. The stylist does it for you, which makes it convenient and keeps you looking fashionable. What's even more great is that you can create a wish list and the stylist will pick a piece from your list and create the perfect accessories to match any outfit. Check out my original post on how to get started. 

http://www.hawaiimomblog.com/2015/06/rocksbox.html?m=1

Don't forget to use code hawaiimomblogxoxo to get your first month FREE!

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Family Roots Cafe in Kalihi

Family Roots Cafe is a small cafe located in the corner of the Belt Collins Center in Kalihi near Subway.  They are known for their acai bowls and smoothies.  I've only been here once, but I am already a huge fan of their acai bowls!  I got the mini ($6.95) and it was huge!  The acai is mixed with strawberries, blueberries, bananas, and guava and is topped with more strawberries, blueberries, bananas and organic granola with your choice of honey or agave nectar syrup. I love the honey and the acai is a great texture.

They also offer paninis, spinach wraps, sandwiches, and salads.  Next time I need an acai fix, I'll be sure to return here. 

Family Roots Café
2153 North King Street Suite 102A
808-848-2771
Monday-Friday 9am-4pm

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Islands Fine Burgers and Drinks - A Family Fave

Just a few weeks ago our family dined at Islands Fine Burgers and Drinks for lunch.  It's one of our favorite restaurants in Ala Moana Center, and we were excited to be invited back for another great meal.

Mixed Berry Cooler

Gremmie Menu

Jr. Macaroni & Cheese with French Fries

Li'l Hot Dogger with Pineapple

Hana Hou Burger

Kaanapali Kobb

Kona Pie

The summer season introduced two new cocktails to Islands' lineup - the Mixed Berry Cooler and Marga'Veza.

I opted for the Mixed Berry Cooler since I prefer fruity drinks, and this cocktail was perfect for the hot weather we've been having.  Made with berries, sweet & sour, Tito's Vodka, and a splash of soda, the drink was refreshing and the vodka was strong, but not overpowering.

Also introduced this summer and available for a limited time is the Hana Hou Burger - topped with Pepper Jack Cheese, Machete Aioli, and Grilled Borracho Onions cooked in Beer & Spices.  My husband ordered this burger with Bacon, and he enjoyed it!

I ordered one of my favorite menu items at Islands - the Kaanapali Kobb salad.  The salad had bacon, bleu cheese, avocado, eggs, and grilled chicken, and once again I could only eat half the salad - it's quite a large portion!

The gremmie (kids) menus are divided into two categories - for "surfers" 6 and under, and for "surfers" 7-12, and the menu itself is full of activities to keep the keiki busy while waiting for the food to arrive.  Meals include a side and drink for a very reasonable price.

And the perfect ending to a great meal - the Kona Pie, which consisted of Mocha Almond Fudge Ice Cream atop a Cookie Crust, and topped with Chocolate Fudge.  Delicious!

Service was once again excellent, and the food was once again great.

Islands Fine Burgers and Drinks is an ideal place for pau hana drinks and pupus, family lunches, or dinner with friends!

Islands Fine Burgers and Drinks
1450 Ala Moana Boulevard
Honolulu, HI 96814-4604
(808) 943-6670

Thank you to Islands Restaurants for hosting our meal.  Gratuity was paid on my own.

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bodycology Velvet Plum Moisturizing Body Cream Review

Disclosure: Complimentary product was received for review purposes.

About bodycology Velvet Plum Moisturizing Body Cream (SRP $3.99)
The lush blend of violet leaf, plum blossom and sweet jasmine petals is as smooth as velvet. Smooth bodycology Velvet Plum Moisturizing Body Cream over skin, giving special care to dry or rough areas to enjoy long-lasting hydration. Formulated with a rich butter complex containing shea, cocoa and jojoba butters, this luxurious cream penetrates skin to leave it feeling soft for hours. Beneficial Ingredients: Shea, cocoa and jojoba butters, vitamin E and aloe vera.

I was fortunate to receive a sample of bodycology Velvet Plum Moisturizing Body Cream.

Normally I use a fragrance-free body cream because past experience with scented body creams often resulted in headaches from the scent being too overpowering.

However, I really enjoyed the fruity and floral scent, especially since it wasn't too strong.

The rich Body Cream went on easily, and a little went a long way.

I've been using the cream primarily on my hands and legs, and my skin really does feel soft and smooth every time I use it, and I love that the scent lingers throughout the day. 

 

The bodycology Velvet Plum line also offers a Moisturizing Body Wash (SRP $3.99) and Fragrance Mist (SRP $3.99).

bodycology can be found at Walmart or Target.

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Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail: Great Hike for Families

The Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail is a great family-friendly hike and perfect for newbie hikers like me.  There is a small parking lot that opens at 7am which fills up fast.  We arrived at 7:45am on a Saturday and already had to park alongside the road.   

The trail is paved with a slight incline so it’s very popular.  It never felt overcrowded with the exception of the small lookout area that’s perfect for group pictures.  The top lookout point was closed due to construction. 

I thought the 1.5 miles round trip hike was perfect in length.  Although, my eight year old daughter would argue it was too long as she complained most of the way.  Still, this was a great introductory hike for her.  The only downside is there isn’t any shade and there are no public restrooms.  But the exercise, fresh air, and views more than make up for it.

And we are off!

 

Beautiful views!

Rabbit Island

 

When you need to rest, just sit in the middle of the trail!  No, don't do that. 

Our group was all smiles (kind of) at the top!

This was a really fun hike with amazing views! 

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Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden

On a recent Sunday we had the afternoon free and didn't want to drive into town, so we decided to check out Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden. Little did we know how big and picturesque this park is.

The park has many programs for people of all ages. One of the most popular programs is Family Fishing. Fishing hours are on Saturdays and Sundays, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm.  This catch and release program is fun for everyone. Bring walking shoes, insect repellant, rain gear, fishing supplies, barb-less hooks, and fresh white bread for bait.    They also offer guided tours on weekends. Campsites are available too!

The Garden is open 7 days a week from 9am to 4pm, and is closed on Christmas Day and New Year's Day. Admission is free.

Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden
45-680 Luluku Road
Kaneohe, Hawaii 96744
(808) 233-7323
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Hoomaluhia-Botanical-Garden/151214791563537
See what they're saying on Yelp: http://www.yelp.com/biz/hoomaluhia-botanical-gardens-kaneohe

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My Eco 4-in-1 Bag Set Review + Discount

Ever since the plastic bag ban has been in effect on Oahu, I've been having a really hard time remembering to bring my reusable bags to the grocery store.  I'll either forget them at home or if I do remember, I'll only have one bag to squeeze a cart full of groceries into.  

The My Eco 4-in-1 bag set has proven to be the answer to my problem!  It is very useful and convenient at the same time.  The Eco 4-in-1 bag set includes 4 oversized bags in one and has the capacity of 30 disposable plastic bags.  They are made of recyled yogurt containers and feel similar to Ikea bags.  I absolutely love the extra wide handles, square bottoms, and the fact the bags are easy to clean and dishwasher safe.

The set includes 4 bags:  a small bag designed to hold glass bottles and jars complete with fabric bands to keep the glass in place (13x8x15); a medium bag designed with an insulated liner to pack chilled and frozen foods that can be zipped to keep temperature cool (14x9x15); a large bag designed for fruits and veggies with an antibacterial liner (17x10x17); and an extra large bag to hold all other groceries and is perfect for oversized items (18x11x17).  

 

The 4 bags can be zipped away into one easy to carry bag.

These four oversized reusable shopping bags are super convenient and have the capacity of 30 disposable plastic bags! 

I love that the glass and jar bag has fabric bands to keep the glass from banging into each other.

The My Eco bag set has made grocery shopping a breeze.  I also take it to warehouses like Costco to hold smaller items.  I like that each bag has a specific use, but doesn't have to be used just for hauling groceries.  I plan to pack my family's lunch in the insulated bag the next time we hit the beach and the extra large bag was very useful in toting everything we needed to a birthday party as well as bringing the kids' goodie bags home.  This will definitely be the only reusable bag set you will ever need.

 

You can purchase your very own set at www.thereusesolution.com 

Use coupon code "Hawaii" for 30% off each bag!   

Disclosure: This product was received complimentary for review purposes.  All opinions are entire my own.

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MW Restaurant Tea and Baker Faire

Too beautiful to eat! MW Restaurant's Kayleigh Strawberry Macaron Cheesecake

I had been to a Baker Faire held last year in August and all I remembered was standing in a very looooong line and then discovering that all of Christopher Sy's (of The Breadshop) croissants were sold out.  With that horrifying memory in mind, I made it a point to show up early to yesterday's event, the Tea and Baker Faire (a benefit for Les Dames d'Escoffier), held at the MW Restaurant.  

So early that my daughter and I were the very first in line.  Once we bought our scrips, we made a beeline to Christopher Sy's table and purchased a few croissants and brioche.  His taegu, spinach, and cheese croissant is simply the best.  Out of all the items I gorged on at the faire, it was my most favorite.  The next stop was the long line to Michelle Karr-Ueoka's goodies.  My daughter selected a decadent slice of chocolate cake while I picked the most visually pleasing, the Kayleigh Strawberry Macaron Cheesecake.  I also picked up a couple of scones.  Having gone to the restaurant's Afternoon Tea every month for about half the year, I knew they would be delicious.

The restaurant was crowded and the lines were long which made for a very unhappy 8 year old companion so I had to make some crucial decisions and was disappointed I wasn't able to visit every table.  Even so, the event was well organized and seemed to run very smoothly.  Proceeds from the bake sale will assist the Les Dames d'Escoffier in providing scholarships to females in the culinary industry.  How cool is that?    

Not only was it wonderful to see local chefs being showcased in an event for such a great cause, but it was a delight to see their creations.  If you are a fan of baked goods, this is definitely an event for you!  

.    

Variety of delicious croissants by Christopher Sy of The Breadshop.

The Breadshop's focaccia and brioche. 

Look at the size of this amazing cookie by the Pili Group.

More bakery goodness from Kelly Pittman & Eddie Lopez from the Pili Group.

Michelle Karr-Ueoka of MW Restaurant packing up my scones.  The pineapple-coconut was my favorite!

MW Restaurant's Lilikoi Tart

MW Restaurant's Carrot Cake

Koko Head Cafe's Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies

The spread at Jonathan Mizukami and Berkley Spivy

Jackie Lau's items included a strawberry balsamic crostada

Byron Goo of the Tea Chest serving up delicious creations.

Absolutely loved my Ocha-ta Bubble Tea!

The collab cupcakes!  The lemon meringue pie by Cakeworks was my favorite!  

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