Forget the mainland version; Hawaiian ube pancakes are a completely different experience. We’re talking fluffy stacks of vibrant purple goodness that taste like a tropical dream. From local diners to upscale brunch spots, the quest for the perfect ube pancake in Hawaii is a delicious adventure you absolutely have to embark on.
The Ube Pancake Phenomenon: More Than Just a Pretty Face
Ube, pronounced “oo-beh,” is a purple yam originally from the Philippines. It’s not just about the striking color; ube has a unique, subtly sweet flavor that’s often described as a cross between vanilla and pistachio. When added to pancake batter, it imparts a gorgeous lavender hue and a delicate sweetness that elevates the humble breakfast staple to something truly special. Think of it as the island’s secret weapon for pancake perfection.
What sets Hawaiian ube pancakes apart from versions you might find elsewhere? It’s the combination of the ube itself, the quality of the ingredients, and the local know-how. Many restaurants use fresh, locally sourced ube and incorporate it in a way that highlights its natural flavor. The result? Pancakes that are light, airy, and bursting with tropical essence.
Oahu: The Ube Pancake Hotspot
Oahu, the heart of Hawaii, is arguably the epicenter of the ube pancake craze. Here are a few standout locations that consistently deliver exceptional ube pancake experiences:
Aloha Kitchen: A Waikiki Staple
Aloha Kitchen in Waikiki is a crowd-pleaser, and for good reason. Their ube pancakes are generously sized, beautifully presented, and taste incredible. The pancakes themselves are incredibly fluffy, and they often come with a creamy ube drizzle and a sprinkle of toasted coconut. The portion sizes are substantial, so consider sharing if you’re not a super hungry.
Address: 432 Ena Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815
Cost: Around $15 – $20 for a stack of ube pancakes.
Pro Tip: Aloha Kitchen can get busy, especially during peak breakfast hours. Try going early or during the mid-morning lull to avoid a long wait. If you do have to wait, Waikiki Beach is just a short walk away, so you can enjoy some ocean views while you’re building up your appetite.
Boots & Kimo’s Homestyle Kitchen: A Windward Side Gem
While famous for their macadamia nut sauce pancakes, Boots & Kimo’s also offer some amazing Ube pancakes. This place is a local institution, known for its hearty portions and friendly service. However, be warned, their pancakes are HUGE! Two pancakes can easily feed two people.
Address: 131 Hekili St #101, Kailua, HI 96734
Cost: Around $12-$18 for a plate of pancakes.
Directions: Boots & Kimo’s is located in Kailua, on the windward side of Oahu. It’s about a 30-45 minute drive from Waikiki, depending on traffic.
Local Tip: They are known for their Macadamia Nut Sauce Pancakes, so consider getting a side of it to try with your Ube pancakes!
Wait times: Waits have reduced significantly since reopening due to the rise of other breakfast spots. Used to wait over 2 hours, but you should expect no more than 45 minutes.
Cinnamon’s at the ‘Ilikai: Breakfast with a View
For a more upscale ube pancake experience, head to Cinnamon’s at the ‘Ilikai hotel. The ‘Ilikai is a very popular hotel, so expect it to be busy. Cinnamon’s offers a sophisticated menu with beautifully plated dishes. Their ube pancakes are often topped with fresh berries and a delicate ube cream. The restaurant also boasts stunning views of the Ala Wai Harbor, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely brunch.
Address: 1777 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96815 (inside the ‘Ilikai hotel)
Cost: Around $20 – $25 for ube pancakes.
Reservation: Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend brunch.
Island Vintage Coffee: Unexpected Ube Delight
While primarily known for its Kona coffee and acai bowls, Island Vintage Coffee also has some surprisingly fantastic Ube pancakes. Check out both the Ala Moana Center and Ko Olina locations.
Address (Ala Moana): 1450 Ala Moana Blvd Ste 1024, Honolulu, HI 96814
Address (Ko Olina): 92-1048 Olani St #1-104, Kapolei, HI 96707
Cost: Around $15-$18 for a stack.
Pro Tip: Order your coffee strong to balance out the sweetness of the pancakes!
Beyond Oahu: Ube Pancakes on Other Islands
Oahu may be the ube pancake capital, but you can find these delicious treats on other Hawaiian islands as well. Here are a couple of options:
Kihei Caffe (Maui): A Casual Breakfast Stop
Kihei Caffe is a popular breakfast spot in Kihei, Maui, known for its generous portions and reasonable prices. While they don’t always have ube pancakes on the menu, it’s worth checking if they’re offering them as a daily special. Their pancakes are consistently delicious, and the ube version is no exception.
Address: 1945 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753
Cost: Around $10 – $15 for a stack of pancakes.
Important consideration: Kihei Caffe is incredibly popular, so be prepared for a wait, especially in the mornings.
Ken’s House of Pancakes (Big Island): Ube Pancakes Served 24/7
Ken’s House of Pancakes is a Big Island institution, famous for its 24/7 service and extensive menu. They offer several pancake variations, including a rotating selection of specialty flavors. It is recommended that you check if they have ube as a daily special.
Address: 1730 Kamehameha Ave, Hilo, HI 96720
Making the Most of Your Ube Pancake Experience
Here are some tips to ensure you have the best possible ube pancake experience in Hawaii:
Check the Specials: Many restaurants offer ube pancakes as a daily or weekly special. Be sure to check their website or social media pages to see if they’re available during your visit.
Consider Sharing: Hawaiian portions are often generous, especially when it comes to pancakes. Consider sharing a stack with a friend or family member, especially if you want to try other dishes on the menu.
Embrace the Toppings: Ube pancakes are delicious on their own, but don’t be afraid to experiment with toppings. Fresh berries, macadamia nuts, coconut flakes, and whipped cream all complement the ube flavor beautifully.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask: If you have any dietary restrictions or preferences, don’t hesitate to ask the restaurant about their ingredients and preparation methods. Most places are happy to accommodate special requests.
Go Early or During Off-Peak Hours: Popular breakfast spots in Hawaii can get crowded, especially on weekends. To avoid long waits, try going early in the morning or during the mid-morning or mid-afternoon lull.
Beyond Breakfast: Ube in Hawaiian Cuisine
While ube pancakes are undoubtedly a star, ube’s influence extends far beyond breakfast in Hawaiian cuisine. You’ll find ube in everything from pies and cheesecakes to ice cream and even cocktails. It’s a versatile ingredient that adds a touch of uniquely Hawaiian flavor to a wide range of dishes.
Don’t just limit yourself to pancakes! Ube is increasingly popular in other delights. Try Ube flavored ice cream and cakes in the area.
Some grocery stores, like Foodland, offer delicious ube haupia pies. Check some in the bakery for ube infused treats.
The Cost of Ube Pancake Paradise
The cost of ube pancakes in Hawaii can vary depending on the restaurant and location. In general, expect to pay anywhere from $10 to $25 for a stack of pancakes. Upscale brunch spots and restaurants with ocean views tend to be on the higher end of the price range, while more casual diners offer more affordable options. While the price tag might seem a bit steep compared to mainland pancakes, the unique flavor and experience are well worth the splurge.
Finding Hidden Gems: Exploring Local Eateries
While the aforementioned restaurants are well-known and consistently deliver delicious ube pancakes, don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and explore local eateries. You might stumble upon a hidden gem that serves up some of the best ube pancakes you’ve ever tasted. Ask locals for recommendations, browse online reviews, and be open to trying new places.
Ube Pancake Pairings: Complementing Your Breakfast
To complete your ube pancake experience, consider pairing them with other Hawaiian breakfast staples. A cup of Kona coffee is the perfect accompaniment, its rich, bold flavor balancing out the sweetness of the pancakes. Fresh tropical fruit, such as pineapple, papaya, and mango, also makes a delightful addition to your plate.
A Sustainable Choice: Supporting Local Farmers
Whenever possible, choose restaurants that source their ube from local farmers. This supports the local economy and ensures that you’re getting the freshest, most flavorful ube possible. Many restaurants proudly advertise their use of locally sourced ingredients, so keep an eye out for these establishments.
Ube Pancake Photography: Capturing the Moment
Let’s be honest, ube pancakes are incredibly Instagrammable. Their vibrant purple hue and artful presentation make them a photographer’s dream. Be sure to snap some photos of your pancakes before you dig in, and share them with your friends and followers. Use relevant hashtags like #ubepancakes, #hawaiianbreakfast, and #mauifood to spread the ube pancake love.
Travel Tips for the Foodie Adventurer
When planning your Hawaiian food adventure, consider these travel tips to ensure a smooth and delicious experience:
Rent a Car: Having a car gives you the freedom to explore different parts of the island and discover hidden culinary gems.
Pack Sunscreen: Don’t forget to protect your skin from the sun, especially if you’re dining outdoors.
Learn Some Basic Hawaiian Phrases: A few simple phrases like “Aloha” and “Mahalo” can go a long way.
Be Respectful of Local Culture: Hawaii has a rich and unique culture. Be sure to be respectful of local customs and traditions.
Bring Your Appetite: Most importantly, come prepared to indulge in the delicious flavors of Hawaii!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about ube pancakes in Hawaii:
What does ube taste like?
Ube has a subtly sweet flavor that’s often described as a cross between vanilla and pistachio. It’s not overly sweet, which makes it a versatile ingredient that pairs well with a variety of toppings and flavors.
Are ube pancakes gluten-free?
Most ube pancakes are not gluten-free because they’re made with traditional wheat flour. However, some restaurants may offer gluten-free options. Be sure to inquire about the ingredients and preparation methods if you have a gluten intolerance.
Can I make ube pancakes at home?
Yes, you can definitely make ube pancakes at home! Although the goal is to try it locally in Hawaii, you can find ube extract, and ube powder in many Asian grocery stores. You can use these components to add color and flavor to your favorite pancake batter. It may not be exactly the same as the Hawaiian version, but it’s a fun way to enjoy the ube flavor at home.
Where can I find ube in Hawaii?
Ube is readily available in many grocery stores and farmers markets in Hawaii. You can find it in various forms, including fresh yams, frozen puree, ube extract, and ube powder. However, it’s not usually as common or well-stocked as other produce. If you are looking for it, it is best to call ahead to see if your local farmers market or grocery store carries Ube.
Are there any vegan ube pancake options in Hawaii?
Yes, some restaurants in Hawaii offer vegan ube pancake options. Look for establishments that use plant-based milk and egg substitutes in their pancake batter. Be sure to confirm that the toppings are also vegan-friendly.
References
Hawaii Magazine Website
Aloha Kitchen Website
Boots and Kimos Yelp Reviews
Ready to dive into the fluffy, purple paradise of ube pancakes? Plan your trip to Hawaii, research local breakfast spots, and prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable culinary adventure. The ube pancakes are calling your name, and trust me, you don’t want to miss out on this unique and delicious Hawaiian experience. Book that flight, pack your bags, and get ready to discover the magic of ube! Aloha!
