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PHOTO COURTESY RAWBERRY DESSERTS
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PHOTO COURTESY HOLO HOLO EXPRESS
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PHOTO COURTESY ALOHA FARMLOVERS
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Last year, it became more important than ever to support local. But who knew that shopping and eating local could be this tasty? There are a few vendors that you can only find at area farmers markets, and their treats give the phrase “from farm to table” an entirely different meaning. Case in point: a few of these snacks barely made it out of the parking lot and didn’t survive my commute home.
Keeping things raw
Rawberry Desserts, located at Aloha FarmLovers Kakaako farmers market, is known for its raw, vegan and gluten-free treats. Business owner Inga Kaplan’s mission is to make healthy and nutritious desserts for the Oahu community using natural and organic ingredients. The biz is known for its cake boxes ($20), which include three pieces in flavors like Kona coffee brownie, lilikoi and salted caramel. Energy boxes ($14) with granola bites and “Reese’s cups” are also popular. Learn more about Rawberry Desserts on Instagram (@rawberrydesserts) or at rawberrydesserts.com.
Let’s holo holo
BLT breakfast sandwiches, kalbi carne asada nachos and spicy pork belly banh mis. These are just a few of the delicious dishes you’ll find at Holo Holo Express at Aloha FarmLovers Pearlridge farmers market. The menu features grain-based bowls and salads, along with fries, sandwiches and plates. Kalbi carne asada nachos ($15) — comprising wok-seared kalbi marinated tri-tip, kimchi, banchan, housemade cheese sauce, cilantro jalapeno aioli, sour cream and pickled jalapenos — are a customer favorite. Follow Holo Holo Express on Instagram (@holoholoexpress) and check out its sister company’s website (chickenandbrisket.com).
Toast to that
Avocado toast is still trendy, and you can find a delicious option at Haawi Toast & Tea at Aloha FarmLovers Kakaako farmers market. This breakfast staple ($7) features a toasted country loaf topped with fresh-pressed avocado and local, sweet Ewa corn salsa. The business currently has a seasonal mango toast ($7) loaded with fresh mango, mascarpone, cream cheese and mint. Pineapple toast ($6) will replace this fruity option in the next few weeks. Follow Haawi Toast & Tea on Instagram (@haawitoastandtea) for more info.
Kelli Shiroma Braiotta’s column features a variety of tips and insider knowledge about Oahu’s dining scene. Follow Kelli on Instagram (@kellishiromabraiotta).