Nadine Eats Hawaii: Chef Chai goes Hawaiian with Waikiki opening of Kalo Hawaiian Food!

#ChefChai #KaloHawaiianFood #Waikikirestaurants
Hi, I'm Nadine, and I'm your foodie guide to some of Hawaii's best restaurants. Join me Mondays for a peek into some of Hawaii's newest restaurants for a look at what's cooking on Oahu.

With the recent Hawaii reopenings, there's been a lot of movement in Oahu's restaurant industry, and the post-COVID surprises keep coming! Chef Chai Chaowasaree, whose initial claim to fame was elevated Thai cuisine at Singha Thai, before moving on to contemporary Hawaii regional cuisine at Chai's Island Bistro and modern American fusion at Chef Chai, has turned his attention to more traditional Hawaiian fare at Kalo Hawaiian Food in Waikiki, serving up such island classics as laulau, kalua pork, poi, lomi salmon and ppipikaula shortribs.

The shortribs are the restaurant's signature item and so good that even tho I was sharing two of Kalo's Hawaiian sampler plates with four others, I ate just about one whole pipikaula portion of six pieces by myself (one came home in a doggie bag I ate the next day)! Garlic noodles were another fave dish, a dry-fried saimin with bacon, green onions and a bit of butter to guarantee universal love.

In addition to classic Hawaiian fare, chef added a handful of his signature dishes to the menu, such as miso Chilean seabass with lobster reduction and pineapple shrimp curry served Vietnamese style with toasted baguette for sopping up the spicy coconut curry. Everything was delicious!

Prices reflect the rising cost of producing Hawaiian food, and the limited supplies of such necessities as poi, taro, luau leaves and ti leaves for wrapping laulau. The sampler, for example, is $45, but you can always go a la carte and cherry pick your favorite items. *Note prices are subject to change over time.
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Kalo Hawaiian Food by Chai is in the Courtyard by Marriott Waikiki Beach, 400 Royal Hawaiian Ave. Call 808.931.6222. Dinner only until July 1, 2021, when breakfast service starts.

Video by Nadine Kam © 2021 Thanks so much for watching and joining me on another restaurant excursion! Please like and subscribe for more foodie adventures from Hawaii. I’m also on Instagram @nadinekam

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From Malasadas to Shave Ice: Discover the Irresistible World of Hawaiian Desserts

Have you ever tasted a dessert that instantly transports you to a tropical paradise? Hawaiian desserts offer just that—a delightful escape into flavors that are as vibrant and diverse as the islands themselves. Whether you're a local or a visitor, indulging in these sweet treats is a must. Let’s dive into the irresistible world of Hawaiian desserts and explore what makes each one uniquely delicious.

Malasadas: The Perfect Portuguese Treat with a Hawaiian Twist

Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, fluffy donut, freshly fried and coated in sugar. That's a Malasada for you. Brought to Hawaii by Portuguese immigrants, Malasadas have become a beloved staple on the islands. Unlike typical donuts, Malasadas are fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside, often enjoyed plain or filled with luscious fillings like haupia or lilikoi. Don't wait—grab a Malasada today and taste a piece of Hawaiian history!

Haupia: A Creamy Coconut Delight

If you crave something smooth and creamy, Haupia is your go-to dessert. This traditional Hawaiian coconut pudding is made from coconut milk, sugar, and starch, resulting in a silky texture that's both refreshing and satisfying. Often served chilled, Haupia is perfect for hot Hawaiian days. Have you ever paired Haupia with your favorite Hawaiian dessert? It’s a match made in heaven!

Lilikoi: The Tangy Tropical Passionfruit

Lilikoi, or passionfruit, adds a tangy twist to many Hawaiian desserts. Its vibrant flavor brightens up cakes, pies, and even ice creams. The sweet and tart taste of Lilikoi complements the rich creaminess of desserts, creating a balanced and refreshing experience. Are you ready to try a Lilikoi-infused dessert that will awaken your taste buds?

Macadamia: The Crunchy Nutty Indulgence

Macadamia nuts are synonymous with luxury and indulgence. These rich, buttery nuts are a common ingredient in Hawaiian cookies, pastries, and ice creams. Their crunchy texture and subtle sweetness elevate any dessert, making every bite a delightful experience. Don't miss out on the chance to savor a Macadamia-infused treat—you deserve it!

Kulolo: A Sweet Banana Coconut Treat

Kulolo is a traditional Hawaiian dessert that combines ripe bananas with coconut milk and sugar, creating a moist and flavorful cake-like dessert. Steam-cooked to perfection, Kulolo is often enjoyed during special occasions and gatherings. Have you ever tasted the comforting flavors of Kulolo? It’s a dessert that brings people together.

Shave Ice: The Ultimate Hawaiian Refreshment

When the Hawaiian sun beats down, nothing beats a towering pile of Shave Ice. This iconic dessert features finely shaved ice topped with vibrant syrups in a variety of flavors, including classic favorites like lilikoi and innovative mixes like macadamia. Shave Ice is not just a treat; it's an experience. Ready to cool down with the ultimate Hawaiian refreshment?

Hawaiian desserts are more than just sweet treats—they're a celebration of the islands' rich cultural heritage and diverse flavors. From the delectable Malasadas to the refreshing Shave Ice, each dessert offers a unique taste of Hawaii that’s sure to delight your senses. Don’t wait any longer—explore these irresistible Hawaiian desserts and indulge in a culinary adventure like no other!