This week we visit McCully-Moiliili as part of a recurring series on stuff you have got to do, see, hear, wear, use or eat in Oahu neighborhoods. Note that featured products may be in short supply and may not be available at all store locations; prices may vary. Coming up: Aina Haina-Niu Valley, Kapolei and Kalihi. Send suggestionsto features@staradvertiser.com.
Ice cream fondue hits the spot in summer
As the weather heats up, I’m heading to The Tea Farm Cafe for ice cream fondue. The $25 dessert comprises 15 heart-shaped servings of vanilla, chocolate and green tea ice cream, six brownie bites, four marshmallows, and, of course, a dipping dish of rich melted chocolate. With optional add-ons of strawberries, bananas and bacon ($5 each), this is not an endeavor to take on alone. But friends aren’t hard to find when you’re offering ice cream fondue. The cafe also serves s’mores ($20), three-cheese fondue ($17.50), sandwiches, salads and more than 80 varieties of tea. Check out the selection at theteafarm.com/cafe or visit the charming shop at 2600 S. King St.; 945-2679.
—Donica Kaneshiro
Bollywood films offered for rent at India Market
In 2004, I watched my first Bollywood film, "Kal Ho Naa Ho," at the Hawaii International Film Festival. I was hooked. I loved the emotional roller coaster, the singing and dancing, and the mixing of Western and Indian cultures. Every year I seek out the Bollywood films at HIFF, but the months between festivals had me in withdrawal. Then I found India Market, located at the corner of Isenberg and Beretania streets, where you can rent Bollywood films for $2 a night. The market is also a trove of exotic spices, preserves and other items not found in typical grocery stores. I love browsing, hoping one day to make the delicious-looking dishes I’ve seen in the movies. India Market is at 2357 S. Beretania St.; 888-2277.
—Michelle Ramos
Boutique delivers the goods with old-school, hip-hop vibe
Find urban clothes with a hip-hop feel at About The Goods, located at 930 McCully St., Suite 203, above Camellia Buffet. For a perfect workout bra that doubles as a crop-top undershirt, buy the Hellz Bellz Smokin’ sports bra ($23). Or pay homage to the late Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes of TLC with earrings by Miss Wax ($12). Guys should check out Barney Cools jogger pants ($100). If digging for hip-hop beats on vinyl is your thing, About The Goods sells old-school records (prices vary) and you just might find a local DJ scratching away in store. Call 949-9492.
—Jermel-Lynn Quillopo, honolulupulse.com blogger
Bike lights brighten path during night rides
May is Bike to Work month, and the King Street bike lane has added a dividing line allowing commuters to safely bicycle in both directions. Pedaling home from work, sometimes in the dark, I realized I needed better lights. At McCully Bicycle & Sporting Goods, which sits beside the bike path, staffer Ryan Takayesu introduced me to much brighter, battery-free, Blackburn Micro-USB rechargeable LED bike lights that plug into a cellphone charger or any USB port. A two-pack of front and rear lights costs $64. I’m stoked to save battery bucks, reduce waste and ride safer. McCully Bicycle will install them for you on the spot. The store is located at 2124 S. King St.; 955-6329.
—Mindy Pennybacker
Stylish comfort reigns over sky-high heels
I’d love to be the spiked-heel girl, all sleek, sexy and sassy. But alas, my body never cooperates. If this is you, visit Uyeda Shoe Store, where supportive footwear isn’t just comfortable, it’s stylish. The family has been in the shoe business for close to a century and all that experience shows in their unbeatable service. Hold up a shoe you like and they’ll bring out box after box of options. They’ll even stretch it out to fit your foot. Find such brands as Mephisto and Born (pictured, $285 and $110, respectively), Naot, Vibram Five Fingers, Merrell and much more. There’s nary a spiked heel in sight — and by the time you leave, it won’t matter. Uyeda’s is at 2615 S. King St; 941-1331.
—Joleen Oshiro
