Pearl City Grinds: Your Labor Day Weekend Food Guide

Labor Day Weekend is here, and in Pearl City, that means it's time to gather with friends and family for some ono grinds.

 

With busy schedules, finding the perfect dish to bring to the cookout can be a challenge.

 

To make it easier, we've compiled a list of easy-to-get local favorites that are sure to please.

 

Local-Style Mains and Proteins

 

Poke by the Pound: Ahi shoyu, spicy ahi, limu, or even tako poke from local spots like Foodland, Tamura’s, or your neighborhood fish market.

 

Fried Chicken Buckets: Zippy’s chicken, Mitsu-Ken garlic chicken, or even Costco’s roast chicken for easy sharing.

 

Kalua Pork: Many local supermarkets sell pre-cooked trays; just reheat and serve with cabbage or sliders.

 

Teriyaki Beef/Chicken Skewers: Pre-marinated packs from Costco or Marukai are grill-ready.

 

Sides and Potluck Staples

 

Mac Salad: A local favorite, available fresh-made from Foodland or Zippy’s.

 

Potato Mac Salad Combo: Perfect Hawaiʻi comfort food, chilled and ready-to-serve.

 

Poi or Lomi Salmon: Sold at Hawaiian food counters or even frozen versions at local stores.

 

Namasu or Pickled Veggies: A tangy, refreshing side to balance the heaviness of BBQ meats.

 

Quick Snacks and Pupu

 

Spam Musubi: 7-Eleven, Foodland, or local okazuya always have them stocked.

 

Chips + Dips with Local Flavor: Taro chips, shrimp chips, or tortilla chips with guacamole, kimchi dip, or poke as a dip.

 

Sushi Platters and Sushi Bakes: Pre-made rolls or cone sushi, as well as sushi-inspired baked casseroles from Don Quijote, Marukai, or Foodland.

 

Edamame with Hawaiian Salt: A quick, salty snack that travels well.

 

Sweets and Desserts

 

Liliha Bakery Coco Puffs: Always a crowd favorite, but go early before they sell out.

 

Haupia or Haupia Pie: Easy grab from local bakeries or Foodland.

 

Butter Mochi Squares: Available at most supermarkets or farmer’s markets.

 

Shave Ice Kits: If you’re hosting, you can grab syrups and ice to make a DIY shave ice station.

 

Fresh Fruit Platter: Pineapple, mango, lychee, or papaya are light and refreshing.

 

Drinks

 

Hawaiian Sun and Aloha Maid Cans: Quick tropical flavors like Pass-O-Guava, Lilikoi, and Green River are always a hit.

 

Local Cold Brews or Teas: Kona coffee cold brew, mango iced tea, or plantation iced tea.

 

Li Hing Mui Lemonade: You can find mixes or ready-to-drink versions at farmer’s markets and some stores.

 

Bubble Tea Grab-and-Go: Places like Teapresso or local boba shops offer gallon jugs for parties.

 

Whatever you decide to grab, it'll be a big hit since sharing food is always the best way to bond and enjoy life together.

 

Enjoy your Labor Day Weekend!