Now for the savory stuff…

A trip to Hawaii is not complete without the at least one plate lunch. A plate lunch normally consists of 2 scoops rice, 1 scoop macaroni salad and your protein of choice. I know – CARB OVERLOAD. Way too much rice, if you ask me.

We drove to the North Shore specifically to get some shrimp. Our initial plan was to hit all (okay maybe not all, but most) of the shrimp trucks and do a taste comparison between the many shrimp trucks and stands. But due to time constraints, we ended up just eating at my favorite shirmp shack - Romy’s.

Fortunately, by the time we got there, the usual lunch line had subsided, and we were able to order within 10 minutes. Waiting for our food to be cooked was a bit longer, but well worth the wait. Their plates are prepared upon order and usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes to prepare. Each plate gets a super generous helping of steamed rice with one pound of shrimp or prawns (when available). The shrimp and prawns are farm raised in aqua-culture beds located behind the shack, so you know that what you’re getting is fresh and local. There’s also a semi-covered picnic table seating area to the right and left of the shack so that you can enjoy your meal right there. There are workers that wipe down the tables after each party leaves to eliminate pesky ants from ruining your shrimp feast. They even have a sink area where you can wash your hands – how thoughtful.

Romy’s #1 – Garlic and Butter Shrimp -served with way too much rice

Romy’s #2 - Sweet and Spicy Shrimp – served with way too much rice

Back in Honolulu, we stopped by Sugoi at City Center in Kalihi, to enjoy some of their plate lunch offerings. Ever since they closed Mitsuken on School Street due to some inappropriate activity, I had to find a place to get garlic chicken (not that I can’t make it myself, but it’s always better served in a styrofoam box). Sugoi’s came to my rescue. Here are a few of the plates that we ordered. Notice… every plate has the sought after garlic chicken – LOL!

Garlic Chicken Plate

The garlic chicken at Sugoi’s was okay. It’s basically boneless chicken thighs that are dipped into a light batter then deep fried. The chicken pieces are then tossed with their own recipe of garlic sauce which is soy based with other seasonings and spices. A bit too sweet and not as crispy as I would have wanted it. But it satisfied my craving.

Chow Fun with Garlic Chicken Plate

I have a weak spot for chow fun. It’s by far my favorite Chinese noodle dish – flat Chinese noodles cooked with an array of seasonings and garnishes. And if done right, it will leave a smile on my face all day. Sugoi did this right. Perfectly cooked so that the noodles were not mushy, perfectly seasoned so it wasn’t too salty or too bland and with just a touch of sesame seed oil for flavor. The sesame seeds could have been left out, but thankfully, there wasn’t too much of it to have to make a fuss over.

Kalbi (Korean BBQ Short ribs) with Garlic Chicken Mix Plate

Just the way I would have ordered it too – all rice and no mac salad. The kalbi was grilled to perfection, with just enough fat to keep the meat moist.

The wedding reception was another food fest in itself. The Chef John Hightower and his staff for the Ainahau Showroom at the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani really know how to put together a feast - Prime Rib, Baked Chicken with Garlic Butter Sauce, Pan Fried Noodles, Beef Curry, Steamed Fish (Chinese Style), Sushi, Veggies and BOTTOMLESS MAI TAIS. I really needed to let out my dress at the end of the night.

*****

Romy’s Kahuku Shrimp

Kamehameha Highway on the North Shore
South of Kahuku Sugar Mill
North Shore, HI 96734

Sugoi Bento and Catering
City Square Bldg.
1286 Kalani St. #B-106
Honolulu, HI 96817
(808) 841-7984

*****

Sheraton Princess Kaiulani

120 Kaiulani Avenue
Honolulu, HI 96815
(808) 922-5811