All the major cuisines are represented in Hawai'i, though, of course, Asian and Southeast Asian restaurants are the most common. Here, we've selected a representative sample. (More Asian and Southeast Asian restaurants can be found in the chapters on dim sum, noodles, sushi bars, izakaya, takeout and yakiniku.)

BA-LE SANDWICH SHOPS

Thanh Quoc Lam's Ba-Le (Vietnamese for Paris), introduced Honolulu to Vietnamese-style sandwiches — baguettes with crisp, crumbly crusts and pillowy insides, filled with pressed meats and crunchy julienned vegetables. Now there more than 20 shops (many franchised) plus a wholesale bakery. Menus vary; Vietnames dishes, including cold noodles and rice paper wraps are offered.

Various locations. Hours vary, but most open from 8 a.m.-9 p.m. www.ba-le.com. No reservations. No credit cards. Checks accepted. $.