Delicious fare with Pacific flair is just a stroll away from the Hawaii Convention Center, the state’s largest convention and exhibition facility. The HCC, which is LEED Gold-certified and was recently recognized with a Venue Excellence Award by the International Association of Venue Managers, offers nearly 205,000 square feet of exhibit space and 47 meeting rooms. Following are four outstanding dining spots within walking distance from the venue that are sure to please attendees’ palates.
- 1585 Kapiolani Boulevard (808-941-3701)
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Distance from the convention center, 0.3 miles
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Shokudo's famous honey toast Photo Credit: yelp.comThis Japanese outpost is a popular spot with both locals and delegates, who venture here for a civilized meal of fresh sashimi, sushi and more. Be sure to try the signature decadent dessert: thick Japanese toast drizzled with honey and topped with vanilla ice cream. Shokudo has a private event room; contact the restaurant for details. A full array of enticing dishes can be found on the menu here.
- 1726 Kapiolani Boulevard (808-941-6678)
- Distance from the convention center, 240 feet
Right across the street from the HCC, this Korean dining spot serves up scrumptious barbecue and yakiniku, bite-sized pieces of meat cooked on a grill or griddle. The eatery as won a number of culinary accolades, including several Honolulu Magazine Hale Aina Gold awards. Private events are accommodated; contact Sura for details. Check out the menu here.
- 1680 Kapiolani Boulevard (808-955-6555)
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Distance from the convention center, 0.2 mile
Fresh Japanese fare at Odori-KoOdori-ko, owned by the same family for four generations, offers delicious traditional and contemporary Japanese cuisine in a sophisticated atmosphere. Among dishes to try are the macadamia tofu, wafu (Japanese-style) steak and miso-marinated butterfish. Odori-ko can host events for up to 100 guests; for small groups, a semiprivate dining room accommodates 10 guests. Check out more palate-pleasing fare on Odori-ko's menu.
- 1538 Kapiolani Boulevard, Suite 107 (808-955-6505)
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Distance from the convention center, 0.4 miles
MW Restaurant, the namesake of husband-and-wife chef team Michelle Karr-Ueoka and Wade Ueoka, offers Hawaiian comfort food favorites with a contemporary twist. Be sure to sample their interpretation of "loco moco": homestyle meatloaf, egg and fried rice. The eatery — which accommodates private dining for up to 107 guests — recently nominated for a James Beard Foundation Award for Best New Restaurant. View the dinner menu here.