Aloha Spirit

Just got back to the mainland, and I am already dreaming about returning to Hawai'i to wake up to the energizing, sweet, and fresh smell of tropical flowers, the cool summer breeze, and breathtaking beauty that defines Hawai'i.

In true grubhunting fashion, my Hawaiian escape was filled with food and fun. But before I chronicle this week of gluttony... did you know that Aloha is more than a greeting, or farewell, or salution? Accordingly, Aloha means mutual regard and affection and extends warmth in caring with no obligation in return. It is the essence of relationships in which each person is important to every other person for cellective existence. Simply put, Aloha means to hear what is not said, to see what cannot be seen and to know the unknowable.

Neat yeah? Just thought I might throw in some trivia in there for you... Trivia aside, I am here to tell you about my grub hunting adventure in paradise! Though I did not receive a nickname (jjh's ocean wahine) during my travels; two t-shirts, several hundred pictures, and many thousands of calories later makes me more kama aina (local) than you could imagine.

I'll begin my chronicles by first telling you that I swear I thought I was in Asia!!

Byodo In Temple, Valley of the Temples

Shishimai, Young Okinawans of Hawii

Ewa Fukushima Bon Dance Club, Moiliili

Hawaii Plantation Village, Waipahu Garden Park

Kimchi Urns, HPV

Do you see what I mean? This is not the idyllic Hawai'i I had in mind! This was Asia! As they say, when in Asia have some Asian food, or to be more exact, Asia inspired food!

One of our first stops was for some Poke from Tanioka's.

Tanioka's, Waipahu

Poke selection

Spicy Mussel Poke

Sesame Tako Poke

Ahi with Limu Poke

Spicy Ahi on Sushi Rice

Tako on Sushi Rice

Clearly, no food stop would be complete without some fried stuff.... :D

Fish Patty, Fried Chicken, Fried Spicy Ahi Roll, and Fried Rice

I was floored by this fantastic meal. Fried stuff aside, this was one of the healthiest meals that I had on my entire trip! As a side note, don't be fooled by other Poke places... I am told that Tanioka's is often imitated but never EVER duplicated!

Tanioka's 4/5