Hawai'i, like the rest of the United States, is one huge melting pot of cultures. And in that pot are the wonderful tastes of Japanese Sushi, Korean Kimchi, Hawaiian Poi, Vietnamese Pho, and many other great dishes from around the world. This is all thanks to the American exploitation of the Native Hawaiians. Shortly after Captain Cook “discovered” the Hawaiian Islands, an American immigration wave engulfed the lands. American style plantations were established and the need for field hands to farm the fruit and sugar plantations encouraged many Japanese, Chinese, Filipino and Portuguese workers to resettle on the islands. Naturally the immigrants brought with them their culture, ideologies, language and unique food dishes. Throughout the years the very different cultures fused their languages to create Hawai’ian Pigeon and their food to create lip smacking, Ono (delicious) dishes. Now I’m not saying that what has transpired in Hawai’i’s history was right, but I definitely did enjoy the food created from the union of these cultures.
During my 5 year stint in Hawai’i I tried many great restaurants, enjoyed homemade dishes made by Native Hawaiians, and basically pigged out on a regular basis. Luckily the weather encouraged lots of outdoor activity and the need to stay fit, otherwise I would have looked like a beached whale in a bikini.
During my 5 year stint in Hawai’i I tried many great restaurants, enjoyed homemade dishes made by Native Hawaiians, and basically pigged out on a regular basis. Luckily the weather encouraged lots of outdoor activity and the need to stay fit, otherwise I would have looked like a beached whale in a bikini.
Because of the popularity of Honolulu, Hawai’i as a tourist a hot spot, there were restaurants everywhere. Although the food was usually more expensive than the mainland (continental US), it was for the most part really good. Restaurants didn’t survive long if the food was subpar and expensive. Although, the Hawaiian islands are all but over fished, there were many sushi restaurants. I tried many of these restaurants, but there are three that really stick out in my mind as having the freshest fish, and a fun atmosphere. Mario’s Sushi Bistro, was a bit pricey but it’s BYOB (bring your own booze) and the small room gave it a family feel. Mario is also hilarious. I definitely recommend this place but be forewarned reservations are a must, and often booked out. Another great place for Sushi, but maybe not service is Aki-no-No. The sushi was fresh and the fatty Tuna was to die for! The last Sushi place is really a locals joint Kona Kai Sushi. It may have moved since I was last on the Islands, but it got its start as a hole in the wall attached to Rock bottom Bar and grill. At the time of the opening I worked at the bar and became friends with the owner. He would test new fishes and different dishes on the servers. I was pretty spoiled because not only did I get a lot of food for free but it was amazingly good. Sadly the termination of my job was also the termination of the friendship but I will never forget that delicious fish.
My favorite local place was this hidden gem of a sandwich shop Andy’s. I worked back in the Moana shopping center, only a walk away, and once a week I would make my way to Andy’s and get a smoked Ahi Tuna sandwich. The Family owned shop was very warm and welcoming. They always greeted me with the warmest of smiles, and knew my order by heart. They made me, and I’m sure every customer, feel like family. There was always a long line out the door around lunchtime, but no one was aggressive or annoyed. The atmosphere was always very relaxed and respectful, just like at grandma’s.
The feeling of Ohana (family) is one of the things I truly miss about Hawai’i.
The feeling of Ohana (family) is one of the things I truly miss about Hawai’i.