Visit Hawai`i Island: Pele's Kitchen

Eager to try a new-to-me breakfast spot, we headed to Pahoa to try Pele's Kitchen.

The restaurant is definitely reflective of the Pahoa / Puna vibe, with colorful and nature-focused paintings and murals.  Even the tables and chairs are decked out in celestial designs. 

The breakfast menu is quite extensive, but I was surprised that not many of the options had bacon in it. 

Cajun Scramble

I had the Cajun Scramble, which came with spinach, green onions, cheddar, and spicy Portuguese sausage.  The Portuguese sausage was not spicy at all, and I was surprised they added salsa to the scramble.  Although I think the scramble would've been better without the salsa, I thought overall the dish was tasty and satisfying.  I opted for Hash Browns vs Rice.  

Country-Fried Steak N Eggs

My friend got the Country-Fried Steak N Eggs, which he really enjoyed.  He said the steak was good, and the gravy was great too (I was wishing the gravy was on the scramble instead of the salsa!).

Each dish was served with a medley of local fruits.

Service was good, and although the prices were pretty high for breakfast, Pele's Kitchen was a nice spot for breakfast.

Pele's Kitchen
152923 Pahoa Village Rd
Pāhoa, HI 96778

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Visit Hawai`i Island: Pahoa Lava Zone Museum

Since we were in the area, we decided to check out the Pahoa Lava Zone Museum.

I honestly was not expecting much, but this tiny, free museum run by volunteers houses very interesting exhibits from the 2018 Kilauea eruption, as well as ones that were once displayed at the Jaggar Museum at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which shut down after earthquakes damaged the structure.   

There were all sorts of lava rocks on displays in various formations and colors, along with explanations of how the different types of rocks were formed.

There are also many photos depicting the before and after of images of various lava flows.

The images were incredible and heartbreaking at the same time - seeing how homes and businesses were covered in lava, or how so many were just mere inches from being destroyed - the photos were amazing.

It was an informative and educational visit explaining the various lava flows and how it has created the current, ever-evolving landscape, and it was a glimpse into the power of Pele.

Pahoa Lava Zone Museum
15-2959 Pahoa Village Rd

Pāhoa, HI 96778
 

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Visit Hawai`i Island: Bananarama Bakery

While in the Pahoa area, I Google-mapped “desserts near me” and found Bananarama Bakery.

They offer all sorts of treats made with bananas, as well as non-banana treats.

I picked up some Banana Bread and Cookies.

The cookies, which were on the chewier side, had a distinct banana flavor, and they were yummy.  Even the kids loved them!

Bananarama Bakery is such a cute shop to get some sweet treats! 

Bananarama Bakery

15-2929 Pahoa Village Rd

Pāhoa, HI 96778
(808) 464-0840

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Visit Hawai`i Island: `Awapuhi Labyrinth

After seeing an article in a magazine about the Rhythm Circle `Awapuhi Labyrinth, I went to check it out one morning before leaving Hilo.  

Located about 20 minutes from Hilo, you'll know you're there when you come across one of those "free library" posts where people leave a book and take a book for free.

There is a single stall at the `Awapuhi Labyrinth, so you'll have to risk parking along the street if a vehicle already occupies the stall. 

A plant-lined path adorned with trinkets and surprises will take you to the labyrinth, which is full of even more plants and trinkets.  

Many of the gifts were left behind by visitors, who sometimes find a new gift to take with them.  

You eventually reach the labyrinth, which has a single path leading to the center.

Once you reach the center of the laybrinth, you'll find some seats, where you can take a moment to absorb all that is around you.

There is a lot of symbolism reflected in the labyrinth, which is used for meditation and healing.

Even if you don't believe any of the stories behind labyrinths, you can't deny the peacefulness walking to and through the `Awapuhi Labyrinth.

Along the path there is a little tent area where they host coloring days, where people can get together for some art and fellowship.

The `Awapuhi Labyrinth was a tranquil oasis just outside of Hilo!

`Awapuhi Labyrinth
15 1601 4th Ave

Keaau, HI 96749
 

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Visit Island of Hawai`i: Luquin's Cantina - Pahoa

Someone told me Luquin's Cantina in Pahoa is one of her favorite restaurants, so despite Luquin's 454 opening up in Hilo, I just had to check out the Pahoa location, where Luquin's originated (the original Pahoa restaurant was burned down in a fire, and they relocated into an old fast food spot in Pahoa). 

Complimentary Chips & Salsa

Your first basket of chips and salsa is free.  The chips were crispy with just enough salt, and the salsa had some nice heat to it!

Steak Flauta

I usually eat Chimichangas when at Mexican restaurants (I know, it's not authentically Mexican), so I got the next closest thing - a Flauta!  In an effort to try and eat more protein, I decided to get it stuffed with steak.  I wish I stuck with my usual chicken, because a lot of the pieces of beef were chewy throughout - too chewy for my preference, but overall the flavor was delicious, and I just loved how golden and crispy the flauta was.  The accompanying refried beans, Mexican rice, salsa, and guacamole made for a very filling meal.

Carnitas Enchiladas

My friend ordered the Carnitas Enchiladas, which he felt were lacking spices.  He ended up requesting more salsa to pour onto the enchiladas, and that made a lot of difference.

Service was excellent and prices were reasonable.

Despite a few misses, we were overall satisfied with our meals, and I'm eager to check out the new Luquin's in Hilo, and will be sure to order chicken next time in my Flauta!

Luquin's Cantina
151448 Kahakai Blvd

Pāhoa, HI 96778

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Visit Big Island: Tin Shack Bakery

I have a huge sweet tooth, and it led me to Tin Shack Bakery in Pahoa while I was on the Big Island recently.

Lilikoi Cheesecake

Pastrami Sandwich

Turkey Club with Bacon

The Lilikoi Cheesecake was amazing. It was creamy, rich, and dense - just the way I like my cheesecakes!

The Turkey Club with Bacon was yummy and satisfying.  Made with their housemade Okinawan sweet potato bread, the sandwich was also stuffed with lots of veggies (I didn't care for the sprouts, so I took them off).

Whether you're craving something sweet or savory, Tin Shack Bakery is a great option!

Tin Shack Bakery

Akeakamai Loop

Pāhoa, HI 96778
(808) 965-9659

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