Chef Adam Tabura isn’t from Wahiawa, but he understands community pride. So when he was asked to participate in 2nd’s at Leilehua, a gathering of food trucks and vendors that benefits the high school, he knew what he wanted to do.
2ND’S AT LEILEHUA
Where: Leilehua High School, 1515 California Ave.
When: 4 to 8 p.m. Friday; takes place every second Friday monthly when school is in session
Info: facebook.com/2ndsatleilehua
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Tabura asked locals to introduce him to food producers in the town with the intention of spotlighting their products in special dishes for the event on Friday. Turns out he had plenty to show off, since Wahiawa is not just home to Honda Tofu and egg producer Petersons’ Upland Farm, but Leilehua’s stellar agriculture program produces a bounty of fruits and vegetables.
His lineup includes egg fu young and loco moco using Petersons’ eggs; a seared fish dish featuring Honda tofu; various dishes that include Leilehua’s various "choys" (bok choy, kai choy, etc.), broccoli and carrots; and a pineapple poi parfait comprising Kula strawberries, lehua honey, haupia cream, poi and raspberries.
"On the plate, I try to talk about mom-and-pop places. I want to show the community that these family businesses are still here and show how versatile their products can be," he said. "It’s hard because their children don’t want to continue to do the business — it’s too much work. But as a chef, I need these people to stay in business. This Leilehua event is an opportunity to reach out to the community and say, ‘Embrace the mom-and-pop places, get involved.’"
Tabura, of course, won the fourth season of Food Network’s "Great Food Truck Race" with his brother, Lanai, and buddy Shawn Felipe. Their now-famous Aloha Plate truck will sit alongside some 20 other trucks and food vendors.
Leilehua teachers William Ganiko and Justin Shiroma organized 2nd’s. Ganiko says Principal Jason Nakamoto welcomed an event that would bring Wahiawa residents together on campus.
"What better way to achieve that than with food?" said Ganiko.
The educators tried to sign on popular food trucks since many residents never get out to town to where most of them operate, and enlisted vendors with Wahiawa ties as well.
The lineup this month includes popular trucks such as Kiawe Pizza, Elena’s, Kau Kau Grill, Paul’s Poppers and vendors with Wahiawa roots such as Homegrown Brew, Shige’s Saimin Stand and Ala Serenity, run by Leilehua’s culinary program.
The first event, held in December, was a pleasant surprise for everyone.
"It was a good turnout," said Ganiko. "We’re happy to organize something that the community can be proud of."
