The One Crucial Tip Before Visiting Liliha Bakery Waikiki
Every time the Hawaiian breeze graces my skin, my mind wanders to a landscape of flavors. The sweet scent of pancakes, the savory aroma of garlic shrimp, and the rich gravy of a loco moco. Among these countless culinary memories, Liliha Bakery has always held a special, high-ranking spot on my list.
It’s a legendary establishment, a dining and bakery spot deeply cherished by locals. The name alone is enough to make any traveler’s heart flutter. However, before you read any further, there is something I absolutely must tell you—a critical lesson I learned the hard way. Please, remember this.
If you are going to Liliha Bakery, make sure you go to the International Market Place location, not the one inside Macy’s at Ala Moana Center.
Why am I so insistent? Because the experience offered at these two locations is astonishingly different. As CityNomix, my creed is to provide honest, firsthand information, which is why I must lead with this fact. Last year in Hawaii, I visited Liliha Bakery twice. My first stop was the Ala Moana branch. To be frank, the food was just average. There was no wow factor. I remember feeling a bit let down, thinking, “Is this it?”
Nevertheless, something didn’t feel right. So, during the same trip, I visited the International Market Place location. One bite of their fried chicken completely changed my perspective. It was so good I audibly exclaimed, “This is amazing!” And this year, I made the same mistake again. It seems a year is long enough to conveniently fade a bitter memory. My first visit was to Ala Moana, where I was once again disappointed. My second was to the International Market Place. Indeed, the food there was exceptional. The service was better, too.
Therefore, this article is dedicated to the place that recaptured that sense of wonder: the International Market Place branch of Liliha Bakery Waikiki. I will share every detail of its charm. If my repeated mistakes can help make your dining experience in Hawaii the best it can be, then nothing would make me happier.
An In-Depth Review of the Authentic Liliha Bakery Waikiki (International Market Place)
Now, let’s turn our attention to the heart of the matter: Liliha Bakery at the International Market Place, casting its warm glow in the center of Waikiki. This is the place where I found the “real deal” I had been searching for.
Ambiance and First Impressions: Finding the Neon Glow in Waikiki
In the evening, the International Market Place buzzes with energy. Among its many shops, Liliha Bakery’s neon sign shines warmly. The red “Liliha” and green “Bakery” letters feel both nostalgic and appetizing. Its location is superb, just off Kalakaua Avenue, Waikiki’s main thoroughfare. It’s the perfect spot to drop in during a shopping break or for dinner.
A menu with photos is conveniently posted outside the entrance. This is a thoughtful touch. It allows you to peruse the offerings and discuss options with your companions before even stepping inside. The sheer variety on the menu only builds anticipation for the meal to come.
Don’t Miss the Takeout: A Guide to Liliha Bakery Waikiki’s Famous Coco Puffs
You cannot talk about Liliha Bakery without mentioning its iconic Coco Puffs. Even if you don’t have time for a sit-down meal, you must get these for takeout. Inside, the bakery corner features a refrigerated display case filled with sweets that look like jewels.
The section dedicated to Coco Puffs is particularly impressive. It’s a simple dessert: choux pastry filled with cream. Yet, the happiness that one bite brings is immeasurable. It has a gentle, nostalgic sweetness that resonates deeply, even if you’re not from Hawaii. This is why I buy them every single time I visit. It’s an unforgettable taste of aloha.
Of course, there are plenty of other tempting pastries, from donuts to cakes. Just looking at the selection is a joyful experience. This bakery counter is truly the heart and soul of Liliha Bakery.
Our Liliha Bakery Waikiki Dinner Recommendations: A Menu Review
The dining experience is another major draw at Liliha Bakery. The menu is diverse, focusing on Hawaiian comfort food. Here are the dishes I personally tried and loved at the International Market Place location.
A Soul-Warming Bowl: Oxtail Soup
I was first struck by the incredible quality of the Oxtail Soup. The oxtail was simmered to perfection, so tender it fell right off the bone. Its rich flavor infused the savory, nourishing broth, which felt like a remedy for travel fatigue. Hawaii has another famous spot for oxtail soup, Asahi Grill, but I honestly feel this version is just as good, if not better.
Moreover, you can add Chinese-style noodles (ramen) as an option. Slurping the noodles soaked in that delicious broth is a moment of pure bliss. A generous topping of chopped green onions and cilantro adds a fresh, aromatic kick.
The Essence of Local Food: Saimin
Saimin, Hawaii’s local noodle soup, is another must-try. It’s known for its light yet flavorful dashi-based broth. Liliha Bakery’s version is visually impressive, featuring large, grilled shrimp. The smoky flavor of the shrimp beautifully complements the soup. Classic toppings like narutomaki (fish cake), egg, and green onions add color and texture to this heartwarming dish.
A Classic Done Right: The Cheeseburger
When in Hawaii, a hearty burger often calls your name. The cheeseburger at Liliha Bakery does not disappoint. It features a thick, juicy patty, melted cheese, and savory bacon, all held together by a fluffy brioche bun. The sides—perfectly roasted potatoes and a fresh salad—are executed with care, making for a well-rounded and satisfying meal. It’s a classic, and it’s undeniably delicious.
The Legendary Dish I Forgot to Photograph: Amazing Fried Chicken
And now, for the dish that convinced me this place was the real deal: the fried chicken. Coated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, the chicken was crispy on the outside and incredibly juicy on the inside. In fact, it was so delicious that I completely forgot to take a picture, lost in the moment. It was a world apart from the fried chicken at the Ala Moana branch—so different that I questioned if they were even the same menu item. I can say with certainty that it’s worth visiting again just for this chicken.
For Context: Dishes from the Ala Moana Location
Incidentally, the photos here of the Loco Moco and the Grilled Butter Rolls were taken at the Ala Moana location. The rolls were served warm with a tasty red jelly. The Loco Moco also looked classic and appealing. However, in my honest opinion, they lacked the ‘wow’ factor that the dishes at the International Market Place location delivered.
Exploring the Full Liliha Bakery Waikiki Menu: From Breakfast to Dinner
Part of Liliha Bakery’s charm is its extensive menu. From breakfast classics like pancakes and loco moco to lunch favorites like sandwiches and saimin, and finally to the robust dinner options I enjoyed, it truly serves every occasion. You’ll also find unique local dishes, like Kimchi Fried Rice with a side of Spam. No matter when you visit, you’re sure to find something that tempts you.
Essential Info for Your Visit: Reservations and Takeout at Liliha Bakery Waikiki
Finally, here is some practical information to help you plan your visit. For a popular spot like this, knowing about reservations and takeout options can make your trip much smoother.
Do You Need a Reservation for Liliha Bakery Waikiki?
Liliha Bakery is extremely popular with both locals and tourists. Consequently, it can get crowded, especially during peak dinner hours. If a reservation is possible through their official website, I highly recommend booking a table in advance. The restaurant was bustling when I visited. If you want to avoid a long wait and enjoy your meal without stress, planning ahead is a wise move.
Liliha Bakery Waikiki Takeout: The Easiest Way to Enjoy Local Flavors
If you don’t have time for a full sit-down meal, don’t despair. As mentioned, the bakery counter is perfect for takeout. Imagine grabbing a few Coco Puffs and enjoying them on your hotel lanai, feeling the Waikiki breeze. That’s a perfect Hawaiian moment right there. Many of the dining menu items may also be available for takeout, so it’s always worth asking the staff.
Final Verdict: Why We Highly Recommend Liliha Bakery Waikiki (International Market Place)
In an era of a strong dollar and rising prices in Hawaii, Liliha Bakery Waikiki‘s International Market Place location stands out as a place offering excellent value and authentic local food. Its prime location in the heart of Waikiki makes it incredibly convenient. From breakfast to dinner, and of course, for its heavenly Coco Puffs, it meets every need.
This article began with my own tale of trial and error, but the conclusion I reached is simple. If you are looking for a memorable meal in Hawaii, head straight to the International Market Place branch of Liliha Bakery Waikiki. You will quickly discover why it has remained a beloved local institution for so many years.
Store Information
Liliha Bakery – International Market Place
Address: 2330 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 (Level 3, International Market Place)
Official Website: http://lilihabakery.com/
Google Map:
