food

Dining Outside the Home: Eating House 1849 in Poipu, Kauai 

Dining Outside the Home: Eating House 1849 in Poipu, Kauai. Paying homage to one of the first restaurants on the island in the mid 19th century was easy. Hawaii’s abundant blend of local flavor came from neighboring farmers, fishermen, and ranchers. And it’s still true today. If you build it, they will come. Word of mouth sent us on a quest for the Hapa Burger. Never heard of it? Me either. It’s a combination of grilled lean beef, wild boar, and Portuguese sausage. The robust burger is built with a mountain of condiments that require two skewers to contain it for that first juicy bite. You may appreciate a swig of Moscow Mule served in a frosted copper mug to wash things down. The seasoned edamame snackers provided a salty crunch before dinner arrived. A respectable nod goes to Peter Fernandez, one of the original culinary chefs from 1849. His inspirational quote is painted on the wall. It says, “Esposa feliz, vida feliz”, which means “Happy wife, happy life.” Truer words were never spoken. 

Dining Outside the Home: The Dolphin Restaurant, Fish Market and Sushi Lounge in Poipu, Kauai

Dining Outside the Home: The Dolphin Restaurant, Fish Market and Sushi Lounge in Poipu, Kauai. We accidentally found a pleasant diversion on Kauai’s South Shore one afternoon while waiting for another restaurant to open their doors for dinner. The sunny lanai at The Dolphin Restaurant offered outdoor seating for a magnificent sunset and nostalgic ambience where people mingled in relaxed conversation. Fragrant tropical flowers soften the nautical theme splashed throughout. We wet our whistles on a tasty Ginger Rita infused with Grand Marnier. The shrimp appetizer, from local waters, was served with a homemade cocktail sauce to spice things up a bit. This place definitely deserves a double-take. 

Dining Outside the Home: Kalaheo Café and Coffee Company in Kalaheo, Kauai 

Dining Outside the Home: Kalaheo Café and Coffee Company in Kalaheo, Kauai. “Aloha. Please pick up a menu, choose a table where you wish to dine, and then come up to the counter to place your order. You’re in coffee country now”, chirped an energetic waitress in corked platform heels. From the ship-lapped walls to the peak of the cathedral ceiling, this upcountry café featured oodles of local art. And the aromas kick-started my taste buds for a hearty breakfast. The House Specialty boasted the “Bagel Benny” in a single or double serving. My heartstrings were pulling me toward the bakery items where the griddle wafted the essence of vanilla buttermilk pancakes. Add fresh fruit and two slices of meat. Yes, please!

Dining Outside the Home: Merriman’s Gourmet Pizza and Burgers in Poipu, Kauai 

Dining Outside the Home: Merriman’s Gourmet Pizza and Burgers in Poipu, Kauai. Sitting at a table for two on the porch of an old Hawaiian plantation sets the tone for regional “farm to table” dining. The expectation of fresh, locally grown ingredients raises the bar even higher. One look at the menu tells you this is going to be an unique dining experience. Although casual, the portion was generous in the mile-high B.K.E. Burger. The beef was medium, as requested, with shredded Kalua pork on top, layered with caramelized onions and house-made Kim Chee for a kick of spice, and lastly, crowned with an egg over easy. Oh, did I mention aged cheddar cheese and romaine lettuce? I had to walk around the shopping center afterwards just to let my stomach settle. (I finished the entire artisan gourmet burger, then wiped my mouth with the blue-striped cotton napkin.) Oink-a-doodle-moo!

Dining Outside the Home: Sam’s Ocean View in Kapaa, Kauai 

Dining Outside the Home: Sam’s Ocean View in Kapaa, Kauai. Places come and places go, but the location remains the same. Because no building on Kauai can be taller than a coconut palm tree, when one type of business moves away, another is quick to grab that valued and often historical site. That’s exactly what happened with Sam’s Ocean View Restaurant and Bar. Last year’s restaurant is old news. The current owner, Samantha, continues the ambience with her own sense of style and most importantly, the freshest island food. Old school bartenders blend the perfect cocktail to match the stunning view. Cool sea breezes encourage relaxation and conversation while frolicking whales on the horizon make the entire visit truly memorable. 

Dining Outside the Home: Bobby V’s Italian Restaurant Pizzeria in Kapaa, Kauai 

Dining Outside the Home: Bobby V’s Italian Restaurant Pizzeria in Kapaa, Kauai. Buongiòrno from the verdant green Italian countryside to the coconut palms of Kauai. The secret recipes may be worthy of the family fortune, but word travels fast when authentic Italian cuisine is served on a tropical island. From marinara pastas to cheesy pizzas to meaty calzones, the tour of Sicily never ends. Enjoy every savory burst of sweet basil, aromatic oregano, nutritious garlic, roasted fennel, and caramelized onion in the regional favorites and finest Italian foods. Dine alfresco in the outdoor garden or the front porch for the ultimate experience. 

Put the Chips Away, SPAM SNACKS are Here!

Move over Beef Jerky and Slim Jim, you’ve got competition. There’s a new sheriff in town and his name is SPAM SNACKS! You may recall a recent post of mine entitled: “The Mystery of Spam”.* While visiting the island of Kauai, I discovered the Hawaiian obsession with the popular canned meat, Spam. I was so intrigued by it that I had to learn more. Islanders shared it’s versatility in recipes, it’s multitude of flavors, it’s gluten-free health benefits, and it’s prevalence as a household staple. Needless to say, I indulged. Yesterday I received a small package in the mail, postmarked Hawaii, from my dear friend, Noreen. Inside was the biggest surprise of all, a packet SPAM SNACKS! She discovered this new on-the-go snack item at the local convenience store there and immediately thought of me. (I hope you popped open a bag for yourself, Noreen!). Without further delay, Gerald and I tore into the bag and reveled in the chewy taste of real bacon. The bite-sized portions are a delicious alternative to devouring a bag of potato chips. Trust me. Now if only Hormel Foods could just figure out how to incorporate the salty taste of Spam into a snack that would satisfy a sweet tooth as well. Hmmmm. What’s next, Chocolate-Covered Spam Snacks?!
*Follow the link for “The Mystery of Spam”.

http://Snapshotsincursive.com/2016/02/06

Dining Outside the Home: Mediterranean Gourmet in Ha’ena, Kauai 

Dining Outside the Home: Mediterranean Gourmet in Ha’ena, Kauai. This spectacular restaurant, with an endless view of the ocean, sits on Kauai’s North Shore. It’s claim-to-fame, and current property owner, is none other than the 1970s Latin Bombshell known by only one name: Charo. You may remember her younger days by her curvy body and seductive laugh every time she shook her shoulders and purred, “Cuchi-cuchi!” Charo was a gifted singer, exotic dancer, and talented guitarist who appeared on Johnny Carson countless times as well as “Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-In”. She also guest-starred on the “Love Boat” series. Although her signature restaurant is no longer operating, The Mediterranean Gourmet has now become a hotspot where Charo’s tradition of Hula Dance performances continue weekly. The menu specializes in Lebanese entrées, the ambience remains, and the fact that Charo lives near enough to stop by keeps the charisma alive. 

Dining Outside the Home: Unko’s Kitchen in Hanapepe, Kauai 

Dining Outside the Home: Unko’s Kitchen in Hanapepe, Kauai. “Ohana”, in Hawaiian, translates to “Family”. And Unko’s Kitchen is the epitome of family. From the time-honored recipes to the helpful wait staff, everyone serves according to their talents and gifts. After all, this is their legacy. Open weekends only at mealtimes, means you make a date and don’t be late. The Kalua Taco Salad is a heaping plate of Hawaiian-seasoned slow-cooked pork served in a crunchy flour tortilla bowl filled with fresh greens, spicy salsa, shredded cheese, black olives, and sour cream. The menu features catering favorites in generous portions for carry out and “Ohana” gatherings. Life is Good.