Honolulu: A Local's Tour

Chef Hideaki “Santa” Miyoshi runs Tokkuri Tei, one of Honolulu’s oldest izakaya bars. Shimabukuro always orders the spicy tuna on tempura-fried nori seaweed chips—“and the negi roll with miso sauce is outstanding.” 449 Kapahulu Ave., suite 201; 808/732-6480; dinner for two $85.

Owned by Shimabukuro’s brother Bruce, the Ukebox specializes in quality ukuleles whose exquisite wood graining and sweet tone distinguish them from the plastic souvenir models sold on every street corner in downtown Waikiki. Free ukulele lessons daily. 2490 Kalakaua Ave.; 808/922-7823.

Shimabukuro has five ukuleles made by Kamaka Hawaii, a local family of luthiers who have been crafting world-class instruments since 1916. “They embossed the initial J on my tenor uke.” 550 South St.; 808/531-3165.

The Dragon Upstairs, a tiny Chinatown jazz lounge, is housed in a former tattoo parlor and has a fiery red-and-gold mural of a dragon snaking up the staircase. 1038 Nuuanu Ave.; 808/526-1411; drinks for two $12.

Designer Kei Kinoshita of To Kei Boutique creates tropical dresses and Shimabukuro’s custom shirts—button-downs in eye-catching colors rather than old-school aloha florals. 619 Kapahulu Ave.; 808/735-9827.

The 453-room Halekulani is a Waikiki Beach classic. Shimabukuro knows all the musicians at its open-air lounge, House Without a Key; watching him jam with them is a rare treat. Doubles from $435; drinks for two $24.

On a hill behind the Kaimuki fire station, Puuo Kaimuki Mini Park is a small green oasis. “It’s a steep trek on the back side of Diamond Head, with great views of the city. I’ve written songs up there.” 951 Koko Head Ave.

Known in Japan as kakigori, shave ice was originally introduced to Hawaii by pineapple-plantation workers. Shimabukuro loves the house-made syrups and toppings at Ailana Shave Ice. “My favorite is the uji kintoki, or green tea with adzuki beans.” 1430 Kona St., suite 102; 808/955-8881; shave ice for two $5.