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With easy parking, a nice place to dine in or outside and the true Aloha and service! We have been there twice now and cannot wait to go back for another poke bowl and I want to try their rolls! If you're wanting to experience and support local while having authentic food come here! You will not want to miss this stop along your way to your beach day on the west side best side! Don't forget to sign your name or take a picture this place will make you feel like 'Ohana! You are not supporting corporation but a true family that hustles and is giving you their best! We want them to come big Island puna side but if you're on Oahu this is a must support, try and share spot! Put down your mushubi and run don't walk to get your spam tacos for a crunch and texture that just different and a nice spin on a local delicacy!
I've been wanting to try this spot for the past 2 years but never made it out to Waianae. Today was finally the day -- and it did not disappoint. I ordered their infamous sushi tacos: Cali and spicy ahi. I know, basic choices... but trust me, the flavors were anything but basic. The crunch from the nori/taco shell was incredible. You get 3 sushi tacos for $17 -- not exactly cheap, but not outrageous either for the quality. Service was quick and the guys working were super kind. I do wish they offered a mix-and-match option for the sushi tacos because I'd love to sample every flavor on the menu. They also have poke and nigiri, which I haven't tried yet -- but that's a reason to come back. Definitely worth the drive. Plus, it's right by the beach, so you can enjoy your food with a bonus ocean view. (;
Unfortunately the flavor and quality is not the same as my first experience. We ordered spicy ahi tacos, salmon tacos, and a roll. I was surprise the spicy ahi was mushed (like it was not just ahi but another fish mixed with it) and lacked a lot of flavor. I was disappointed that the rice just tasted like plain rice, I was hoping for sushi rice. The roll was overwhelming, too much rice, the first roll I ever had that had more rice than filling. The salmon taco was the redeeming part of the experience. The flavor of the salmon with ponzu sauce was delicious. For $66 I was not satisfied at all.
Fish tacos were good, sushi taco was one of those in the combo which is popular and tasted good. Three tacos were in the combo which. Spicy Ahi Poke bowl was good but no wow factor. I could get the same at Foodland with a larger portion. Friendly staff, would try again if in the area.
Went again recently since our first experience was amazing! So disappointing! Fish had no flavor and for $17 for 3 small tacos, it wasn't worth it. Love supporting small local businesses, but with the cost, and tasteless fish...I'll have to pass the next time around.
Stopped here yesterday for an early dinner after hiking nearby. I usually go with their poke tacos (which are always amazing), but opted for the spicy ahi bombs. Service was friendly. Seemed like it was just the one guy working yesterday, but he was quick and efficient! There's seating indoors with AC, and a few seats outside with fresh air. Parking is free in the lot outside just off the highway. Rice was soft and moist, seasoned well. Maybe not the most generous with the fish atop, but nevertheless it was delicious and the fish tasted fresh. Also should note that they were not that spicy (which was fine with me as I have a low spice tolerance)! Will be back again!
Came back for another poke fix and they updated their menu options. I tried the lechon poke bowls and this is my newest fave!! I would always get the sushi Tacos at events but I've missed a few events and decided to head to their store in Maili. I decided to dine in and man it was alot of food. The fish was nice and fresh with lots of flavor. Now for the lechon poke bowl it was a very nice twist of poke with crispy pork. It was alot of food that I had to get a to-go container and finish the rest at home.
Bomb, innovative sushi. Sauce is super tasty. I got the west side special tacos and my husband got the spicy poke bowl. He said it was the best poke he'd ever had. The rice was nice and fluffy - delicious, and the fish was perfectly seasoned, fresh, and tender. I loved the taco shells. Inside is small, but we were helped super quickly at the counter.
This place has such innovative twists on sushi! I tried the Salmon Trio sushi tacos and the Spicy-Tuna-San sushi sandwiches, and both were delicious. Salmon Trio Sushi Tacos: These came with 3 pieces for $16. The tacos had a super crispy nori-rice paper shell and were loaded with sauces (garlic aioli, ponzu caramel) and a bunch of toppings. The flavors meshed perfectly--I was literally salivating after the first crunch. Spicy-Tuna-San Sushi Sandwiches: These came with 4 pieces for $16. Like the sushi tacos, they were packed with toppings and sauces, making them incredibly flavorful, fresh, and delicious. They weren't that spicy though; I would've liked a bit more heat. They also had a light dusting of Hot Cheetos, which was a fun, unique touch, but the Cheeto flavor didn't really stand out. That said, I'm just being picky--the dishes were amazing overall! It's definitely on the pricier side, but considering the creative take on sushi, I think it's worth giving a shot. Takes some time for the food to be prepared, but service was friendly. As for the location, it's a small and cozy spot with limited seating. There are about 6 counter seats inside by the window (with AC) and a few outdoor seats as well. It's more of a quick-eats kind of place than a sit-down restaurant. I've heard they're known for their T8ste Bombs, which I still haven't tried. I'm looking forward to coming back one day to give them a shot, especially if I'm ever on the west side again!
T8ste Buds is an amazing fix if you're ever craving sushi on the Westside. Their sushi tacos are so tasty and the crunch? Yes ma'am. The sushi sans (sandwiches) are very filling and the Cali-san is my personal favorite. The spicy ahi taco...need I say more? The best part, putting your leftovers in the fridge and leaving it to sit for a few hours and letting all the flavors meld into each other is the chefs kiss!
Seriously can't say enough good about this place, everything was SO good! You can really taste the quality and care in the food. Fresh fish, flavors on point, and everything was super filling! My personal favorite was the Cali Bowl and Shenron roll, but everyone NEEDS to try all the sushi tacos! The vibe is nice, all the chefs and staff are amazing people. Super well rounded spot, 10/10 recommend definitely coming back!
One of the best poke bowls I've had in Oahu. They are known for their tacos so I tried the ahi, crab and salmon. I would most definitely get again but the bowl is much easier to eat. My wife got the ahi bowl and added cucumbers for a crunch. The sauces are a perfect addition and we've already been back once. Will be a go to quick bite. Service was good and the staff was helpful during our first time when we weren't sure what to get. The inside has enough for 4-5 to eat at a high top bar and the same amount of outside but never too busy to have a quick bite. read more
19 days ago
It is very small inside. There is counter seating around the wall area and some outside seating. The guy taking our order was pretty friendly and answered our questions politely. The food was ok, it is a spin on your typical poke or sushi for that. The portions are smaller for some local braddahs, like my husband but it was perfect for me. read more
With easy parking, a nice place to dine in or outside and the true Aloha and service! We have been there twice now and cannot wait to go back for another poke bowl and I want to try their rolls! If you're wanting to experience and support local while having authentic food come here! You will not want to miss this stop along your way to your beach day on the west side best side! Don't forget to sign your name or take a picture this place will make you feel like 'Ohana! You are not supporting corporation but a true family that hustles and is giving you their best! We want them to come big Island puna side but if you're on Oahu this is a must support, try and share spot! Put down your mushubi and run don't walk to get your spam tacos for a crunch and texture that just different and a nice spin on a local delicacy! read more
I've been wanting to try this spot for the past 2 years but never made it out to Waianae. Today was finally the day -- and it did not disappoint. I ordered their infamous sushi tacos: Cali and spicy ahi. I know, basic choices... but trust me, the flavors were anything but basic. The crunch from the nori/taco shell was incredible. You get 3 sushi tacos for $17 -- not exactly cheap, but not outrageous either for the quality. Service was quick and the guys working were super kind. I do wish they offered a mix-and-match option for the sushi tacos because I'd love to sample every flavor on the menu. They also have poke and nigiri, which I haven't tried yet -- but that's a reason to come back. Definitely worth the drive. Plus, it's right by the beach, so you can enjoy your food with a bonus ocean view. (; read more
8 months ago
Unfortunately the flavor and quality is not the same as my first experience. We ordered spicy ahi tacos, salmon tacos, and a roll. I was surprise the spicy ahi was mushed (like it was not just ahi but another fish mixed with it) and lacked a lot of flavor. I was disappointed that the rice just tasted like plain rice, I was hoping for sushi rice. The roll was overwhelming, too much rice, the first roll I ever had that had more rice than filling. The salmon taco was the redeeming part of the experience. The flavor of the salmon with ponzu sauce was delicious. For $66 I was not satisfied at all. read more
Fish tacos were good, sushi taco was one of those in the combo which is popular and tasted good. Three tacos were in the combo which. Spicy Ahi Poke bowl was good but no wow factor. I could get the same at Foodland with a larger portion. Friendly staff, would try again if in the area. read more
Went again recently since our first experience was amazing! So disappointing! Fish had no flavor and for $17 for 3 small tacos, it wasn't worth it. Love supporting small local businesses, but with the cost, and tasteless fish...I'll have to pass the next time around. read more
Stopped here yesterday for an early dinner after hiking nearby. I usually go with their poke tacos (which are always amazing), but opted for the spicy ahi bombs. Service was friendly. Seemed like it was just the one guy working yesterday, but he was quick and efficient! There's seating indoors with AC, and a few seats outside with fresh air. Parking is free in the lot outside just off the highway. Rice was soft and moist, seasoned well. Maybe not the most generous with the fish atop, but nevertheless it was delicious and the fish tasted fresh. Also should note that they were not that spicy (which was fine with me as I have a low spice tolerance)! Will be back again! read more
Came back for another poke fix and they updated their menu options. I tried the lechon poke bowls and this is my newest fave!! I would always get the sushi Tacos at events but I've missed a few events and decided to head to their store in Maili. I decided to dine in and man it was alot of food. The fish was nice and fresh with lots of flavor. Now for the lechon poke bowl it was a very nice twist of poke with crispy pork. It was alot of food that I had to get a to-go container and finish the rest at home. read more
3 months ago
The poke bowl is $18 for more than 1/2 of the container being rice. Very little fish and barely any crab. Maybe less rice and more fish and crab for the price read more
Bomb, innovative sushi. Sauce is super tasty. I got the west side special tacos and my husband got the spicy poke bowl. He said it was the best poke he'd ever had. The rice was nice and fluffy - delicious, and the fish was perfectly seasoned, fresh, and tender. I loved the taco shells. Inside is small, but we were helped super quickly at the counter. read more
This place has such innovative twists on sushi! I tried the Salmon Trio sushi tacos and the Spicy-Tuna-San sushi sandwiches, and both were delicious. Salmon Trio Sushi Tacos: These came with 3 pieces for $16. The tacos had a super crispy nori-rice paper shell and were loaded with sauces (garlic aioli, ponzu caramel) and a bunch of toppings. The flavors meshed perfectly--I was literally salivating after the first crunch. Spicy-Tuna-San Sushi Sandwiches: These came with 4 pieces for $16. Like the sushi tacos, they were packed with toppings and sauces, making them incredibly flavorful, fresh, and delicious. They weren't that spicy though; I would've liked a bit more heat. They also had a light dusting of Hot Cheetos, which was a fun, unique touch, but the Cheeto flavor didn't really stand out. That said, I'm just being picky--the dishes were amazing overall! It's definitely on the pricier side, but considering the creative take on sushi, I think it's worth giving a shot. Takes some time for the food to be prepared, but service was friendly. As for the location, it's a small and cozy spot with limited seating. There are about 6 counter seats inside by the window (with AC) and a few outdoor seats as well. It's more of a quick-eats kind of place than a sit-down restaurant. I've heard they're known for their T8ste Bombs, which I still haven't tried. I'm looking forward to coming back one day to give them a shot, especially if I'm ever on the west side again! read more
6 months ago
8 months ago
T8ste Buds is an amazing fix if you're ever craving sushi on the Westside. Their sushi tacos are so tasty and the crunch? Yes ma'am. The sushi sans (sandwiches) are very filling and the Cali-san is my personal favorite. The spicy ahi taco...need I say more? The best part, putting your leftovers in the fridge and leaving it to sit for a few hours and letting all the flavors meld into each other is the chefs kiss! read more
8 months ago
Seriously can't say enough good about this place, everything was SO good! You can really taste the quality and care in the food. Fresh fish, flavors on point, and everything was super filling! My personal favorite was the Cali Bowl and Shenron roll, but everyone NEEDS to try all the sushi tacos! The vibe is nice, all the chefs and staff are amazing people. Super well rounded spot, 10/10 recommend definitely coming back! read more
5 months ago
Check your receipt before leaving, the cashier tends to tip themselves without you knowing. I ordered food and it was delicious. But the cashier just went ahead and added the tip to my tab. I hope the tip did not go to her but to the cooks. read more
Business owner information
Angelo M.
Aloha, thank you for your feedback. We take all billing concerns…
1 year ago
Just a heads-up--the spicy ahi sushi tacos and Shenron roll (and probably several other items) use a thick, blended seafood paste instead of actual chunks of ahi. Some people might like it, but I thought it was pretty gross. read more
Business owner information
Angelo M.
Aloha Amanda,…
This place is a must-go whenever you come to the west side! It's more of a grab-and-go type of place but they do have limited seating inside and outside of the storefront if you wanted to sit down and enjoy your food. There is a decent amount of parking so it shouldn't be an issue. I always receive friendly service whenever I come! I always get their salmon trio sushi tacos and they're so yummy! The fish quality seems good and I love how they make their sushi tacos with the fried nori and rice paper. I'm sure all the items on their menu are good and they have large variety of items so there's plenty to choose from. I definitely recommend coming to T8ste Buds if you're ever in Waianae! read more
This place blew me away. The shells on the poke tacos was so crispy & good. Poke was so yummy & fresh. Got the spicy ahi & salmon trio poke tacos. Both soooo good & flavorful, I can't decide which one I like better. Hamachi nigiri was also so delicious as well. Fish quality was superb. Ordered online & food was ready when it said it would be, which is always appreciated! Didn't get to eat inside since we were headed to the beach but cute little place! read more
My T8tste Buds was feeling magical... Lucky enough to find them at the Magical Boo Bash in Pearlridge SC though I came at the last moment to avoid the crowd many menu items has sold out though they did have a few item like this Kim Chee Tofu which is a sushi taco...omg! I've know about their Waianae location though haven't had the change to drive out for a bite so you know I was excited to find them here. Besides that they had the Spam Tacobi and T8ste Bombs but just the thought of a Kim Chee Tofu Sushi Taco already had me and it sure didn't disappoint. This loaded creation was that and the nori fried with rice paper have it the strength to hold it all while retaining the massive crunch it gives and love everything it's loaded with...tofu with Kim chee sauce, edamame, micro greens, topped with avocado mousse and arare. It's quite a hot mess to handle once they topple over but what a great bite with a slight heat and that nori shell crunch is so yummy. Since it was my first time the guys was polite having to repeat themselves thought the music made it hard to hear. Your rates buds are sure gonna love you with these bougie bites. Thank you! read more
So, we went to the Magical Boo Bash at Pearlridge this past weekend and came across the T8ste Buds food tent. Sushi Tacos? Hmmm.. definitely different and caught our attention. So we had to check it out. We ordered the Spicy Tuna Tacos and also got the Kim Chee Tofu & Cali Crab to try. Let me get serious here for a little bit guys. Please believe me when I say, I was immediately transformed at the very first bite. Talk about sushi taco heaven. First off, the presentation was absolutely pleasing to the eye. As you take your first bite, the crunch of the taco, which consists of deep fried rice paper & nori, was just....perfection. The sushi filling itself, sends you on a flight straight to flavor town. Pure Genius if you ask me. The kim chee tofu taco is a great choice for all you Vegans. I would order that again just for the flavor alone. The spicy tuna had the perfect yummy amount of spice that I like. And the Cali Crab...yup..scrumptious and loaded with crab. These culinary masterminds at T8ste Buds know exactly what they're doing! Great service and our hats go off to them. Go check them out you guys! They are always at the various food truck festivals and markets that are going on every month. Follow them on IG to find out where they'll be. You're Welcome! read more
2 years ago
Have been wanting to try this place for a bit and wow it did not disappoint! The sushi tacos are just as good as I expected and heard about. They were crunchy, flavorful, and fresh. The variety of choices is solid as well, and there is a tofu option for those who don't eat fish. I got the spicy ahi, cali crab, and the salmon trio. All were delicious! Service was quick, I went on a weekday after opening and there were a few other customers there but not crazy busy, and the ambiance is casual with indoor and outdoor seating. Kalo bombs is right next door too if people want a sweet treat after! read more
1 year ago
Poke taco! If I could describe this place.... It would be "poke tacos" Trust me..... just take the drive out here and eat their poke taco and you'll be hooked! It had the perfect consistency, perfect texture, perfect mixture of flavors. My friend and stopped here after a beach day in Makaha. What a perfect meal to have after spending a day in the sun. This place has a small takeout counter and window table to eat your meal. It's not a sit down big party gathering type of place. However, this place has the best poke tacos I've ever had in my entire life. PARKING: right off of the highway... small free parking stalls in front. SERVICE: the guys here are so friendly...ready to serve you as soon as you walk in. FOOD: poke taco! Nuff said! Trust me.... Just pay a visit and try it out. It's like no where I've ever tried. Definitely worth the drive to the west side read more
8 months ago
First time going there and I really enjoyed myself. The employees were extremely warm, kind, and welcoming. Definitely felt as if i was visiting family. The food was DELICIOUS!!! as if the visual wasn't enough to persuade you, the taste definitely sealed the deal. If you are ever on the West Side of Oahu and are looking for some Ono Poke Bowls, Sushi Sandwiches, or Sushi Tacos? Better hit up T8stebuds HI. YOU'RE WELCOME!!! read more
8 months ago
Absolutely delish! Tacos had an awesome crunch and the wasabi marinated ahi bowl was amazing. Very fresh seafood at this spot. All the staff were great with recommendations and super friendly. read more
1 year ago
1 year ago
So I found T8ste Buds thanks to Bretman Rock's TikTok with the crunchy poke tacos. So do yourself a favor and check them out because the poke tacos really do have that crunch and are sooooo packed with flavor and just delicious. They offer other poke delicacies as well but for me the poke tacos and the bombs have my heart. The actual store front in Waianae is tiny but I have seen them pop up at a few farmers markets as well so you don't have to drive so far. But either way it's worth the drive. These poke tacos are truly worth all the hype! read more
Working out on the west side just got a whole lot better! I can get my sushi fix anytime the craving hits! Order through the site is easy. Just browse the menu, add it to your cart, pay and go pick it up! If you prefer dine in they have a little eat in table or go across the street to the beach! Today I ordered the spicy cali poke bowl and the seared salmon. Believe me I wanted to try everything. Took my goodies back to the office and was so happy with the presentation of the food. It was well packaged. The bowl was flavorful and portion generous. The rice was well cooked and the poke ratio was perfect. It had just the right amount of spice to keep wanting more. The Salmon was melt in your mouth delicious! Hint of that seared goodness makes you want more. Service friendly and my order was ready when I arrived. Definitely will be back and I'll try more things next week! LOL read more
If you're heading to Waianae, you gotta stop and check out this place. They're located just before Waianae Comprehensive. They have many tasty and unique sushi options. We had the spicy ahi tacos, hawaiian style tacos, and the una-tama-san ($15 each). The staff was friendly. Support a local business. Happy eating. Aloooooooooha read more
Okay fellow Yelpers - I love supporting local businesses - and love them more when the food is yummers! Located in the old Sugar Hut spot in Waianae, their menu is comprised of different styles of poke, sushi, veggies and more - and made into sushi tacos, sandwiches, bowls and nigiris. We decided to try the Hawaiian style ahi tacos, spicy ahi tacos, and the una-tama-san. I gotta say that I was in a sushi bliss from the first bite! I absolutely loved the crunchiness of the "taco" shell that I could have made an ASMR. The flavors of the sushi was winna winna sushi dinna! Although I miss Sugar Hut, this eatery will be one of my go-to places when visiting the Waianae area! read more
2 years ago
This place is quite a drive to get to, but if you're ever on the west side then give it a try! They share a parking lot with kalo bombs and country side cafe so it can be a little hard to get a spot if it's busy. It's a pretty small place with 4-5 counter seats and a bench outside. They have a pretty good poke menu in taco, sandwich, nigiri, and bowl form. I tried the spicy ahi tacos and the fish was fresh, toppings were good, and the deep fried nori was still crispy by the time I got to the beach. A little pricey for three pieces, but it was worth a try and makes a great snack! If I'm ever in the area again, then I would like to try their poke bowls and sushi rolls :) read more
2 years ago
We ordered, the spicy ahi and the salmon bowls, food quality and taste is excellent!!!! Highly recommend it. read more
Family and I were on the Westside. Looked up places to grind, and this place showed up. It's located off of Farrington hwy across from Maili Beach just before waianae comprehensive. It's a small shop that packs a punch with their menu. The food was so ono, and the service was excellent. I'm definitely coming back again when I'm on the Westside. read more
2 years ago
Customer service is paramount to explaining the menu and what is suggested!! The stools are a little challenging for someone who has disabilities. I just came back from Japan and would say that the fish is compatible to Japan's nigiri! On suggestion, I did order the Hamachi Nigiri and a combo fish taco. Done right!! read more
A west side gem!! We loved the sushi tacos-- super crunchy and well balanced. The sushi sandwich had lots of rice so it really fills you up. Kinda reminded me of a poke bowl but smushed together to hold. The sushi tacos on the other hand, were the right amount for me (maybe get an appetizer with it too though). Overall great service, food came out in under 10min after ordering, and we had our cravings satisfied! Lots of parking spots available, kinda small inside with just a bar counter but there's also outside seating! read more
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More info about T8ste Buds
87-070 Farrington Hwy
Ste 103
Waianae, HI 96792
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(808) 347-8818
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https://www.t8stebuds808.com
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