Best Japanese/Local Food in Hawaii

[BruddahMichael]

Personally in my most honest opinon the best food doesnt come from a resturant but from a bon dance (buddhist celebration to honor the dead). Bon dance food comes in 2 categories. The first being what is sold to the public and then what is served to the people that dance (sometimes this is the public who dance and sometimes church members and entertainers - it varies from church to church).

Public Food
The main staples are: spam musubis, saimin, teri beef sticks, shave ice. Dont be fooled not all churches are the same. Honpa has one of the best beef stews (usually this booth is runned by the boy scouts -- who have been doing this for so many years). While Aiea (depending who is working the booth) has one of the best if not the best andagis.

Second Category (for lack of a better name)
If you are ever invited to the later, you have to go. Some churches now cater, but the ones that still prepare the food themselves you will think you died and had gone to heaven. Nothing beats grandmothers in the kitchens. They spend the day before and that day just cooking old fashioned recipes. I have tasted tsukemono that put $$$$ restaurants to shame.

[Pikko]

I reminded Mr. Pikko that it's obon season and he let out a big groan. Yay for another summer of dragging him around to all of em!!

[BruddahMichael]

I know what you mean I told the wife last night what bon dances I want to go to. Even teased her that I thought about rejoining some of the clubs that I use to perform with so that I can get reserved parking. LoLz.

[Pikko]

I wouldn't mind finally going to the Honpa one, I've still never been to it!