Today Satoshi and I took my Grandma riding to the North Shore. On the way, my grandma mentioned that her friend had told her that the sakura (cherry blossom) were in bloom in Wahiawa. So, we got off the freeway and drove around Wahiawa town. Apparently, this part of Oahu is at a higher elevation so trees like these from Okinawa are able to thrive.
We happened upon a tree in someone's front yard, so we pulled over to take some snaps. The cherry blossom season is supposed to start next week for Osaka, so hopefully I'll be able to enjoy some of it when I return in two weeks.
After our cherry blossom viewing, we got back onto Kamehameha Highway and headed towards Haleiwa--this is Satoshi's "must visit" area every time he comes home. Another "must visit" is Kua'aina. This place has been making burgers since the late 70's. A specialty is their avocado burger (Satoshi's fav)--a half of an avocado is placed onto a 1/3 lb. or a 1/2 lb. burger with tomato, lettuce and a grilled onion. My favorite is the BLT & Avocado--a half of an avocado added to a BLT (bacon-lettuce-tomato) sandwich....sigh, good crispy bacon is so hard to find in Japan!
Check out the size of the ketchup! Plus, each table has a roll of paper towels, this should give you an idea that these sandwiches are NOT made to be eaten while driving in your car!On our way back, we checked out the high surf at Sunset Beach. It was a nice drive and we had a nice lunch with my Grandma.
The blooms are popping all over the place here in Oakland! But I do miss seeing the blooms in Hawaii, especially since they are accompanied by a warmer, tropically scented wind.
ReplyDeleteI just came over to check your site after doing a burger post of sorts, only to find a burger with avocado too. Similar tastes, no? I just love seeing your stuff....
The North Shore is my favorite place on Oahu. Did you stop by Kahuku for shrimp and corn? I just love all your foodie finds. Take care!
ReplyDeleteI can understand why Satoshi loves those burgers! Sounds delightful!
ReplyDeleteSounded like a great day for everyone! And those burgers...oh man. But you'll be leaving in 2 weeks??!! :-( I better enjoy as much of your Hawaii Eats posts while I can!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Burgers with avocado rock, D-man!
ReplyDeleteNope, didn't get out to Kahuku this time, Laura, definitely have it on my list to try though. Maybe next year.
Thanks Ellie and Rowena!
Take care everyone.
Kat
Remember me talking about American bacon on my BLT post? Love it! Nothing can beat thin, crispy bacon!
ReplyDeleteI remember your post about the BLT, Nate! Arrgh, I wish Japan had better bacon!
ReplyDeleteTake care.
Kat
p.s. is it getting warmer yet there?
I'll send you a supply of bacon when you get back to Osaka.
ReplyDelete59 degrees right now. Got to the 70s during the day this past week but the cold has come back.
Thanks for the thought Nate, but I may be bacon-ed out by the time I get back to Japan.
ReplyDeleteWeird weather and temps in Japan.
Take care.
Kat
Come this summer it'll be nice to have in your freezer! When you get the cravings again! Hee hee! I'll send then.
ReplyDeleteWe're still undecided as to where to vacation this summer, Nate. But, if we come to Okinawa I'll definitely take home some bacon with me :)
ReplyDeleteTake care.
Kat
Meant I'll send you a goodie package this summer.
ReplyDeleteThanks Nate!
ReplyDeleteTake care.
Kat