Tropic`aina Bar and Grill

While driving along the picturesque far windward coast, one is limited on the places to grind (eat). One place to make a sure stop is the Tropic`aina Bar and Grill located in the historic town of Punalu`u. Punalu`u is believed to be the birthplace of the demi-god Kamapua`a, who was a handsome chief and a brutal monster. It is said that he traveled island to island in a canoe that became a small shell that he would tuck into his loin cloth. He was also a lover of Pele (fire goddess). There are so many interesting stories written on Kamapua`as life that it is difficult to choose one.

Punalu’u is also home to the Menehune (pronounced meh-neh-HOO-neh), Hawaii’s legendary,mystical and shy forest dwellers. Menehune are small in size, at about two feet high, although some are only 6 inches high,and capable of fitting in one’s palm. According to legend they are industrious builders with great strength,capable of building structures overnight.Most Menehune’s are night owls,and perform their kolohe (rascal) tricks, or building at night. So although you may seldom see the Menehune during the day, Tropic`aina Bar and Grill offers the best viewing seats for Menehune watching.After leaving Tropic`aina be sure to see the fishing pond built by the Menehune in Kahana Bay.

When we entered the restaurant we were greeted by the friendly server Natasha.We sat near the back of the restaurant, in case any Menehune appeared we would have the best viewing seats. As we waited for our food we wondered around to visit with the tropical birds and miniature horse,which we soon found out were not on the friendly side.

We ordered many different items:

• Fried Calamari and Jalapeno poppers:came to our table fresh from the fryer,nice and hot.
• Fish and Chips:good balance of crispy outside and moist inside
• Taro Battered Fried Chicken:secret recipe of garlic marinated chicken fried in a taro flour batter,Ono’liscious (ono=good)
• Shrimp N’ Turf plate: steak was a little salty,with a choice of Garlic,sweet chili,coconut or fried shrimp.I upgraded to 8 more shrimp for $5. With the upgrade I was able to sample 4 of each of the flavors.It was hard to pick a favorite.
• Mango smoothie: needed more ice; was more like a sorbet in a glass.
• Desserts: we didn’t have room to try the desserts,but they offer desserts from Ted’s Bakery-local bakery located in Sunset Beach on the north shore. You can never go wrong with a Ted’s Bakery Dessert that’s for sure. I would recommend trying it.

There is no alcohol served at this restaurant,but like most of the local grind places, it’s BYOB. There are many stops along the way to pick up your beer or wine, before stopping. If you are coming from the La`ie direction, be sure to stop at Tamura’s Market in Hau`ula for your BYOB. Coming from Kane`ohe there are many stops along the way, 7-11 in Ka`a`awa is only 3 minutes away.

We would recommend this stop to anyone traveling through looking for ono’liscious local kine grinds.

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