On Food Network's Rachael's Vacation, Rachael Ray visits Lifefood Gourmet in Miami, FL, for a vegan and raw food menu from chef John Schott.
Epic Hotel's eco-friendly reputation began in 1985 and continues with its 16th floor restaurant, Area 31. Area 31 gets its name from the sustainable fishing area in Florida where Rachael witnessed a sea-to-table meal firsthand. Today's menu includes everything from shrimp ceviche to swordfish crudo.
Cinnamon’s is a local favorite, with wholesome dishes that hit the spot. Much to Rachael’s delight, breakfast is served all day, so stop in for the eggs Benedict or the guava chiffon pancakes. If you drop by for lunch, chef and co-owner Carsie Green Jr. recommends the curried chicken salad sandwich.
Curtis Stone's Maui-style fish tacos at Paia Fish Market in Hawaii were not only satisfying, but they also became his favorite lunchtime snack. Everything on the tortilla was super fresh, from the salsa to the just-caught fish. For an even fresher dish, Paia also features blackened sashimi.
Right across from the beach, this mom-and-pop joint has been a local favorite for decades. Stop by the deli counter to order a tasty bite from the affordable menu. Rachael’s pick is the Kailua Beach Pizza, with its flavorful mix of mozzarella, bacon, pineapple, red onions, Parmesan and BBQ sauce.
Kalapawai Cafe & Deli is a bistro-style dining room that serves up a little bit of everything, with an ever-changing menu and ingredients that are always fresh. Rachael ordered the charred ahi tuna topped with kona crab and the Kahuku corn ceviche salad. In the evenings, stop by for a glass of wine.
The philosophy behind Paradise Farms gives farm-to-table new meaning, as diners can enjoy the "Brunch in Paradise" feast right at the farm. As Bobby learned on FoodNation, it's the perfect outing for vegetable lovers; everything here -- from the micro greens to the mangoes -- is grown with care.
When looking for a great dining atmosphere, head to Rum Fire. With fire pits indoors and out, and an entire wall lined with rum, this hot spot definitely sets the mood for a fun night out. Rachael feasted on the fish tacos, which come with mahi mahi, cabbage slaw and three different mixers to add.
Rachael headed to Ono Hawaiian Foods to try some authentic home-style Hawaiian cooking. The specialty here is laulau, which is pork and salted butterfish wrapped in taro and tea leaves, then steamed for more than four hours. The result is an “authentic Hawaiian masterpiece,” Rachael says.
While in Honolulu, Rachael stopped by this “hidden treasure” of a cafe for some R&R. It boasts an eclectic menu of smoothies, salads and specialty wraps. For something a bit different, try the traditional Polynesian drink awa. Rachael says its “bitter and earthy taste will totally relax you.”
Located in the Halekulani Hotel, this alluring hot spot is known for its ocean views and fresh dishes made with local ingredients. Follow Rachael’s lead and pair a refreshing cocktail with a scrumptious appetizer. She raved about the seafood spring rolls wrapped in a “light, crazy breading.”
On Food Network's Rachael's Vacation, Rachael Ray cools off with shaved ice made from homemade syrups at Aoki's Shave Ice in Haleiwa, HI.
When in Haleiwa, Rachael favors the Coffee Gallery for a caffeine fix. Here you can savor a fresh cup of java (or refreshing concoctions like the Mudslide) while watching local beans get the treatment in an 8-foot-tall roaster. Save room for the carrot cake that Rachael calls “pure yumminess.”
Grass Skirt Grill specializes in fish burgers that forgo the beef but are still packed with “great grill flavor,” Rachael says. Her pick is the Hebi Burger made with lean white fish and served with a side of sesame mayo. Also try the fresh catch of the day or a crisp salad with papaya seed dressing.
On Food Network's Rachael's Vacation, Rachael crosses the Pacific Ocean and discovers Paradise Found Cafe in Haleiwa, HI.
Make restaurant favorites at home with copycat recipes from FN Magazine.
Let Guy take you on a coast-to-coast tour Friday at 9|8c.