Stop at These Restaurants in Haleiwa, Oahu
The north shore of Oahu is a big touristy area especially around Haleiwa where I work and live near. The heart of the town has tons of places to eat at but I’m going to try to compile a list of my favorites to narrow it down for you.
1. Haleiwa Bowls
This cute little hut-style stand is my fave for acai bowls and smoothies. They are completely plastic free, using bowls and spoons made from plants and paper straws which is a huge step for our environment and will hopefully become more common everywhere. I love this place because their food always tastes so fresh. I’ve never had such juicy, flavorful berries before in my life. Some of my favorite toppings to add on are kiwi, peanut butter, and sliced almonds. They also serve coffee, tea, and kombucha which I haven’t tried but I often see other people ordering them. I pick this place over other health food restaurants / juice bars because their prices tend to be lower and I genuinely just think the quality of food here is better.
2. Farm to Barn
Definitely one of my favorite options on the island. As you enter the property you can see the farm where they grow their products surrounding the barn. They have a big yard with picnic tables and blankets you can borrow to have a picnic in the grass. There is also a little bar looking out to the yard where you can sit on stools to eat. A lot of the options here are plant-based so there's plenty to choose from. They also have brightly colored juices that are fresh-pressed and a filtered water station that you can fill your water bottle at for free. This company is just so admirable between being ocean friendly and all their support to other local small businesses. Definitely stop by the barn and fill up on a delicious, healthy meal while enjoying the community feel the environment here gives off!
3. Teddy’s Bigger Burgers
Best (veggie) burger place on the island. This may be the only place I’ve been able to find a veggie burger on the north shore but they do not disappoint. They have a delicious veggie burger - the sauce contains dairy so ask for no sauce if this applies to you. They also have an impossible burger which is completely vegan but tastes remarkably like a hamburger (which is why I prefer the veggie burger). The impossible burger has beet juice in it which makes it have a red tint to it, just like cow meat would. Both are great alternatives to hamburgers. You can enjoy your plant-based burger on their back deck or the front porch - outdoor seating always increases my chances of trying out a new restaurant. Grab a veggie burger and sit outside on the deck to enjoy some sun. If you’re craving a burger, definitely swing by this joint.
4. Thai Bo Food Truck
Thai Bo is one of the many food trucks in the Haleiwa area but it has had the most vegetarian / vegan options that I’ve come across so far. I’ve tried 4 or 5 different meals here and they were all delicious as well as more affordable than many other restaurant options around. They have a cute little patio out front with picnic tables, umbrellas, and string lights that give it those summer night vibes that everyone loves. Most of their dishes have meat options that can be substituted for tofu or veggies. This place is my fave for a quick but filling meal.
5. Sprout Sandwich Shop
Outside of the heart of Haleiwa, this sandwich shop has some great vegetarian options. Their veggies are so fresh and the bread is fluffy and soft. I got the Sproutwich - a vegan patty loaded with nutritious toppings. They have a bunch of skate boards and penny boards on the walls here which I thought was a nice touch to add to the island vibes. Though they may be a little pricier than some of the other options I have listed, the sandwiches are huge and very filling. Perfect place to grab a sandwich on your way to the beach!
