21 Degrees North

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Contributor

Joined 10 years ago

Upscale hotel chain pampers business and leisure travelers with plentiful amenities and many of the comforts of home.. In Short
The first Hilton opened its doors back in 1919 in Cisco, Texas. Known for its commitment to hospitality, the popular luxury hotel has expanded to more than 500 locations worldwide. Standard room amenities include high-speed Internet access, work desks, coffeemaker, iron and ironing board, and more. Guests who want to stick to their exercise regime can enjoy a fitness room, pool and even a personal trainer.

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Clartikus

Joined 8 years ago

Average food at best, beautiful atmosphere. On our first night at Turtle Bay, we decided to dine at Ola, as it was only steps from the hotel. We walked along the beach to get there, and arrived 15 minutes prior to our reservation. We were seated (promptly despite our early appearance) right on the beach while the sun was setting. It was breathtaking--tiki torches burned in the background and the ocean breezes were amazing. Our waiter (Ray) was very friendly and knowledgeable - he recommended a few different dishes, and we ended up with a sampler appetizer to start that included "Nachos" (fried wanton with goat cheese, Kalua pork, "hawaiian" sour cream, etc.) and two other items: Ahi cakes and fried soft-shelled crab. The Nachos were great, the Ahi cakes were overly salty and dull, while the soft-shelled crab was good but not great (it was served on top of vegetables that were somewhat flavorless, and you can't get too creative with tempura).

We ordered Pina Coladas and Daquiries, and enjoyed those thoroughly. Finally, I had their petite filet served with garlic mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables, while my fiancee had vegetarian risotto. They were both good, but not great (I ordered medium well, it came out very unevenly cooked and rare in some areas: her risotto was... well, kind of boring).

I would give this place another shot, as it is a beautiful location, and the setting alone is worth the relatively cheap price (just over $100 for two people with appetizer, entrees, and drinks).

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Eric Grossman

Joined 10 years ago

North Shore restaurant combines a stunning ocean view with fresh locally-inspired cuisine.. In Short
Located right on the beach and open to the ocean breezes, Ola draws diners from neighboring Turtle Bay Resort as well as locals and tourists from around the island. Whether observing beachgoers in the surf during the day or enjoying an evening sunset surrounded by tiki torches, the atmosphere is "alive," as Ola's name suggests. The menu is filled with creative interpretations of Hawaiian cuisine using only the freshest of local ingredients. Standouts include ahi and lobster poke served with a wonton spoon; slow-poached togarashi salmon with a sweet, sugar-cane crust (served with Okinawan sweet potato and locally grown corn); and a kiawe-smoked beef tenderloin. Sip a signature spiked iced tea or mixed drink and enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of Oahu's North Shore.