Piece of (pan)cake

(From left) IHOP Pearl City’s crew chief Holly Sumida, general manager Chasity Brede and crew chief Liane Hernandez

The first International House of Pancakes restaurant opened in 1958 in Los Angeles suburb Toluca Lake, California, and now has restaurants in all 50 states and around the world.

In June 2006, IHOP Hawaii first started in Waikiki Malia hotel. The restaurant chain continues to serve its world-famous pancakes, as well as provide a wide variety of breakfast choices at all times of the day. However, there are also lunch and dinner options like burgers to steaks. IHOP has also brought back an all-time favorite: biscuits, including the popular Chicken Biscuit Sandwich ($16.29).

The Classic with Bacon Burger ($16.89)

IHOP’s area director Darlene Balcita chats with Dining Out about IHOP in Hawaii.

DO: How would you describe the cuisine and environment of IHOP?

DB: An American multinational pancake house restaurant chain that specializes in American breakfast foods. The environment is welcoming. As soon as you walk in the doors, a smell of home hits you. Pancake is in the air with bacon cooking and the sizzling of eggs — it brings you back to your childhood.

Chicken Biscuit Sandwich ($16.29)

DO: What are some bestselling dishes?

DB: Wow! This is a hard one because everything is a bestseller. Pancakes are always a staple. There’s also the French Toast (price varies), Waffles (price varies), Big Steak Omelette ($22.99), Spinach & Mushroom Omelette ($22.59), Bacon Cheeseburger (price varies) and Classic Sausage Burrito (price varies) — just to name a few.

IHOP Pearl City interior

DO: Are there menu items only offered at IHOP Hawaii locations?

DB: We have our tasty Loco Moco (call for cost) that can be served on a bed of white rice or fried rice. We also serve a Hawaiian Fried Rice (call for cost) with either Spam or Portuguese sausage, or a little of both.

Fresh Strawberry and Cream Biscuit Combo ($18.99)

DO: What is your favorite item on the menu?

DB: Oh, gosh! It’s hard just to pick one! I’ve fallen in love with the Blueberry Pancakes ($10.29, short stack) with pecan syrup, deliciousness in every bite.

Big Steak Omelette ($22.99)

I also enjoy me some Chicken Tenders and Waffles (call for cost) with honey mustard and old-fashioned pancake syrup and, of course, the meal is not complete without an Oreo Milkshake (call for cost).

DO: What does IHOP hope to provide Hawaii?

DB: We want every guest to feel like family. Your home away from home — a place you can enjoy a meal and talk story.