Sampling the Pineapple Pairing Menu at Islands
When I was young I couldn’t wait for holidays because it meant I would get to see all my cousins. We’d play together for hours and have the grandest time. Sadly, as we grew up we grew apart and, now, I only have one I regularly keep in touch with. For the past decade she lived on the other side of the country and we’d only see each other a few times a year. That is until about a month ago. She recently moved back to the area and we’re both excited that we get to spend a lot more time together. So, when Islands invited me to visit one of their restaurants to sample the new Pineapple Pairing Menu I knew exactly who I’d invite to join me.
On a recent evening we met up at the Orange location and, though we hadn’t seen each other in months, we picked up right where we left off. Having grown up together we’re almost like sisters and when I mentioned we’d be sampling from the Pineapple Pairing Menu she was eager to try it out. Available through the end of the month it pairs some of Islands most popular pineapple based food and drink.
I decided to stay traditional and ordered my favorite burger, the Hawaiian and paired it with the Big Island Iced Tea. My cousin decided to try something new and went for the Hoisin Bowl and Mai Tai.
Our drinks arrived first and we were eager to sample them. She’s got three kids so an evening out was a thing to celebrate and she fully enjoyed her Mai Tai. Though I love a good cocktail I’d actually never before indulged in a Long Island Iced Tea. The Big Island version has the usual array of liquors (vodka, gin, tequila and rum) and pairs them with pineapple and strawberry juice. Boy does it have a kick! And the added fruit juice makes it go down nice and easy. I loved it but one was enough for this evening.
Whenever I’m at Islands I either get the Hawaiian Burger or Toucan Sandwich which are two sides of the same coin – cheese, pineapple, teriyaki and either a burger patty or chicken breast. It really is the perfect combination of flavors and tonight the burger didn’t disappoint. Paired with freshly cooked fries it was a tasty, filling meal.
My cousin was eager to sample something new so she ordered the Grilled Fish Hoisin Bowl which features a generous serving of rice, veggies, pineapple and fish topped with hoisin sauce. Overall she found it to be a hearty, filling dish though she wished it had a bit more sauce.
We couldn’t leave without enjoying dessert and we opted for the signature Kona Pie. This chocolate coffee delight was the perfect end to the meal.
I’m so happy my cousin is back in the area and am looking forward to many future adventures with her. Judging by our Islands outing we’re going to have lots of fun!