Ube pancakes might look like a dessert, but in Hawaii, they’re a legitimate breakfast order. At YogurStory in Honolulu, the ube pancake stack is one of the most popular dishes on the menu. The vibrant purple pancakes come topped with a smooth, creamy ube sauce, and the portion is large enough to share. This article covers what makes these pancakes special, how to order them, and what else you should try while you’re there.
Ube pancakes are made with ube (purple yam) and topped with a smooth, creamy ube sauce.
YogurStory’s ube pancakes are worth the trip for their visual appeal and balanced sweetness, but arrive early on weekdays to avoid the long line. The portion is generous enough for two, so sharing is smart.
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| Spot | Known For | Price Range | Best Time | Key Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| YogurStory | Ube Pancake Stack | Around $20–25 | Weekday mornings | Share the stack — it’s plenty for two |
YogurStory: The Ube Pancake Star
Located at 745 Ke’eaumoku Street in Honolulu, YogurStory started as a yogurt shop and evolved into a hearty brunch café that draws locals and visitors alike. The ube pancake stack is the clear star of the menu, but the kitchen also turns out savory plates like the Prime Rib Loco Moco and Short Ribs Loco Moco.
Arrive on weekdays before 9 a.m. to avoid the brunch rush. The on-site parking lot fills quickly, so consider a rideshare if you’re staying in Waikīkī.
Portions are large — ordering one dish per person can lead to waste. Share a pancake stack and add a savory plate to round out the meal.
Beyond the ube pancakes, YogurStory’s menu includes a Prime Rib Loco Moco and Short Ribs Loco Moco, both of which are hearty and filling. The Kimchi Omurice is another option if you’re craving something savory with a Korean twist. The restaurant’s bright interior and spaced-out tables make it comfortable for families.
Choosing Your Ube Pancake Spot on Oahu
YogurStory is a top pick, but Oahu has several other pancake spots worth knowing about. The table below compares a few popular options to help you decide where to go based on your cravings and location.
| Spot | Known For | Price Range | Location | Key Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| YogurStory | Ube Pancake Stack | Around $20–25 | Honolulu (near Ala Moana) | Arrive early; parking is tight |
| Lulu’s Waikiki | Ube Mochi Pancakes | Around $24 | Waikiki (2586 Kalākaua Ave) | Chewy mochi texture; popular with Asian visitors |
| Boots & Kimo’s | Macadamia Nut Sauce Pancakes | Around $20.99 for 2 | Kailua (1020 Keolu Dr) | Sweet-savory balance; go early or on weekdays |
If you’re staying in Waikiki and want to be close to multiple brunch spots, this interactive map of Oahu hotels and rentals can help you pick a location near the best pancake options. Lulu’s is right on Kalākaua Avenue, while YogurStory is a short drive or bus ride from Waikiki.
Reservations and Wait Times
YogurStory does not take reservations, so showing up early is your best bet. The restaurant is open from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily, and the line builds around 9 a.m. on weekends. Lulu’s Waikiki also runs on a first-come, first-served basis. Boots & Kimo’s in Kailua is popular with locals, so expect a wait on Saturday mornings.
Dietary Options
Ube pancakes are naturally vegetarian, but they contain dairy and eggs. If you’re looking for vegan options, some spots offer ube French toast or pancakes with plant-based milk — check with the restaurant before ordering. YogurStory’s menu includes a few salads and lighter options, but the focus is on hearty comfort food.
Pricing Reality
Pancake prices on Oahu range from $12 to $24 for a stack. YogurStory’s ube pancake stack is on the higher end, but the portion size justifies the cost. If you’re on a budget, consider heading to Sweet E’s Café in Kapahulu, where buttermilk pancakes start at $10.50. For a splurge, the ube mochi pancakes at Lulu’s are a unique twist worth trying.
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Before You Go: Ube Pancake Questions Answered
Are ube pancakes vegan?
Most ube pancakes contain eggs and dairy. At YogurStory, the pancakes are made with a standard batter, so they’re not vegan. Some cafes in Kailua offer plant-based versions — call ahead to confirm.
How big is the ube pancake stack at YogurStory?
The stack comes with three large pancakes, each about the size of a dinner plate. It’s easily enough for two people, and many diners split it alongside a savory dish.
What’s the best time to go to avoid lines?
Weekday mornings before 9 a.m. are the quietest. YogurStory opens at 7 a.m., so arriving then gives you a comfortable seat and quick service. Sundays are the busiest.
Is parking difficult?
Yes — the on-site lot at YogurStory has limited spaces. Street parking is available but fills quickly. A rideshare from Waikiki costs about $10–15 and saves the hassle.
Can I get ube pancakes anywhere else on Oahu?
Yes — Lulu’s Waikiki serves ube mochi pancakes, and Cinnamon’s in Kailua offers guava chiffon pancakes. For a classic Hawaiian pancake experience, Boots & Kimo’s macadamia nut sauce pancakes are a local favorite.
More Than a Purple Plate
Ube pancakes capture the creative spirit of Hawaii’s brunch scene — bold colors, local ingredients, and generous portions meant for sharing. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler, the ube pancake stack at YogurStory is a memorable stop that sums up the island’s approach to comfort food. If you’re planning a food-focused trip, our guide to unique food experiences in Hawaii pairs well with this breakfast stop.
References
Dailywise. “We Found the Dreamiest Purple Ube Pancakes You’ll Ever Taste Right Here in Hawaii.” 2024. ↗
GoToDestinations. “Locals Loved Brunch: Ube Pancakes in Honolulu, HI.” 2024. ↗
HonoluluCoupon. “The Ultimate Pancake Guide to Oahu: 18 Must-Try Spots from Classic to Trending.” 2026. ↗
For more Hawaiian dining inspiration, check out our guides to hidden plate lunch spots, ulu fries, and mastering the Hawaiian plate lunch.
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