Octie Appetie: Makai Food Court at Ala Moana Center, Honolulu

26 September 2025

Makai Food Court at Ala Moana Center, Honolulu

Previously:

Kona Coffee Purveyors at International Marketplace

When people think of Hawaii, they often picture postcard-perfect beaches and maybe a poke bowl or two. But one of our favourites - and slightly underrated - experiences from our trip? Food court hopping. Yep. You heard that right.

We found ourselves loving the humble food court, especially the one inside Ala Moana Shopping Center. It became a kind of ritual, whenever we were out exploring or just cooling off from the tropical heat, we'd gravitate toward a food court to refuel. Here's why.

- Options Galore

Everyone's mood and appetite change by the hour when you're on vacation. One minute you're craving fried chicken, the next minute it's ramen or something sweet and icy. Food courts give you options without arguments. Everyone gets what they want and no one has to settle. In Makai food court at Ala Moana, the variety is next level. Whether you're into fast food, BBQ, plate lunch, bubble tea, or crepes, there's something for every taste and craving.

- No tip? No Guilt

One of the lesser talked about perks of food courts is no tipping required. After days of sit-down dining with minimum 15% tips added to every bill, it felt refreshingly simple to just pay, eat and go. (And yes, the locals do it too - this isn't just a tourist hack)

- Affordable and delicious

Let's face it, Hawaii can get pricey, especially when eating out three times a day. But food courts? Total lifesavers. Most meals were under $20 and the quality? Surprisingly solid. Some even... outstanding.

Food courts are also fun because they turn into a mini adventure. Each of us has their go-to. My husband obsessed with Jolibee. There's something about that crispy chicken joy. For me, the hands-down winner was the brisket from L.A. Brisket. Smoky, juicy and tender meat. Our son, every single time we're here, it was the Oreo shake from Jack In The Box. No matter what he ate, that drink was non-negotiable.

So, if you're heading to Hawaii anytime soon, don't overlook the food courts - especially at places like Ala Moana. They're convenient, budget-friendly and full of local flavour.