When locals think of Wailana Coffee House, oftentimes they reminisce about growing up indulging in all of the Island comforts offered at the welcoming diner. For tourists, the restaurant offers peace of mind thanks to its convenient location, tasty food and reasonable prices. All around, Wailana aims to please, and it has done so since it first opened more than 40 years ago.
It’s only fitting that the family-friendly diner is run by a locally rooted ohana. General manager Kenton Tom gives credit to his father, Francis, for starting the venture back in 1951, as well as everyone who’s helped Wailana to succeed ever since. “The restaurant would not be successful without the hard work and dedication of our employees, many of whom have been here for more than 20 years,” says Tom. “And, of course, the help of my brother Malcolm Tom, sister Joanna Leong and wife Angelica Tom.
“We serve local-style comfort food with consistency, value and service that keeps our customers coming back — some on a daily basis!” he adds.
Currently, the restaurant is offering weekend steak specials. Every Friday to Sunday, diners can choose from 7-ounce Choice Top Sirloin Steak ($16.95), Teriyaki Steak ($16.95) or 8-ounce New York Strip Steak ($16.95). Each is served with the hot vegetable of the day, your choice of starch and the fresh, all-youcan-eat salad bar.
“The Teriyaki Steak is cut from U.S. Choice tender-loins, and marinated overnight with shoyu, sugar, ginger and onion,”shares Tom, “while the New York Strip is seasoned with garlic butter, salt and pepper.”
Another great thing about Wailana Coffee House is that its guests can eat breakfast any time of the day. Eggs Benedict Royal is definitely a meal you mustn’t overlook. Priced at $12.50, this mouth-watering entree is served traditionally with toasted English muffin halves topped with smoked ham, turkey breast and poached eggs. Last, but definitely not least, it’s smothered in hollandaise sauce and accompanied by hash browns. (Eggs Benedict is served with peaches only on holiday menus.)
For the sweetest ending to your meal at Wailana, order a slice of Ted’s Bakery Cream Pies for $4.75, a recent addition to the menu. Tom also reminds Dining Out readers to be on the lookout for Kamehameha Day (June 10) and Father’s Day (June 18) specials.
Wailana Coffee House
1860 Ala Moana Blvd., Waikiki
955-1764
Open 24 hours a day, except from 10 p.m. Tuesday to 6 a.m. Wednesday
Honolulu, HI 96815
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