Another early morning in Waikiki brought me to the legendary Cinnamon’s Ilikai for a filling breakfast.
I was able to grab some free parking near the Hilton Hawaiian Village lagoon around 7 am so if you are in the area early be sure to check before paying at the metered stalls along the harbor.
What I ordered at Cinnamon’s Ilikai Waikiki
So of course, I had the loco moco.
The waiter informed me early on that this was a big local meal and indeed it was. He asked how I wanted my eggs which was nice as I had them easy over at Momosan just the week before.
This was a big serving, the plate was large and had a bowl-shaped center for even more volume, impressive.
One thing that was unique about this loco moco was the mac salad that came with it. Now if you haven’t had mac salad with some gravy you are missing out. Do you see how it’s touching in the picture? Don’t freak out, this is a good thing.
The gravy was good and the rice was cooked perfectly, 2 critical components of any good loco moco breakfast. Add in the cold mac salad and this was an excellent meal.
Service
Like most breakfast places a friendly staff that clearly had their caffeine for the morning. Quick with the coffee and water and when I asked for their signature breakfast items they were quick with a recommendation.
They had just opened up when I arrived and the staff was really moving quickly to get things set up for the day.
Ambiance
The view from all the outer seating areas was of the harbor and ocean beyond. I started my breakfast in the early morning haze and by the time I left, it was sunny and bright.
This place gets busy so not a spot to enjoy a quiet cup of coffee, even in the early morning hours as they play music to get the blood flowing. If you want to get energized and enjoy a great meal then this is the place for you.
Parking
If you are staying at the Ilikai Hotel, Hilton Hawaiian Village, or Prince Waikiki you are all set. For those coming in they open at 7am and get busy fast so come early and you might grab a free parking spot as I did.
On the ocean side of the Ilikai Hotel is the Ala Wai Harbor and there is metered parking. Just off to the left, when facing the ocean, is the Hilton Hawaiian Village lagoon, the parking along that fence and just beyond is free. Good Luck!
Location & Contact Information
Final Thoughts
I will post the pictures of the menu below so you can see just how extensive the menu is at Cinnamon’s Ilikai in Waikiki. Great place to start your day, good for large groups as they had ample space, and of course the view out over the harbor was serene.
Will gladly bring friends and family here on future trips, put it on your list of breakfast places when visiting Waikiki.
Have you been here? What was your experience?
