Weekend eats

A busy weekend of catching up with friends calls for gathering around a table with good food. Here are some spots perfect for reconnecting.

Perfect Picnic Bite

Thanks to its easy online-ordering system, Sprout Sandwich Shop (1154 Koko Head Ave.) makes it a breeze to pick up food for a picnic. My friend and I got The Duke (bacon, turkey, lettuce, tomato, pickled red onion and house mayo). Another favorite is The Fonz, filled with prosciutto, pastrami, salami, house olive tapenade, lettuce, pickled red onion and mayo. Since the sandwiches are large enough to share, order a few to split. Visit sproutsandwichshop.com to see its full menu.

Friday Evening Catch Up

I’m charmed by Lady Elaine (2756 Woodlawn Drive Ste. 102) and will find any excuse to visit. This time, the “excuse” was a friend who wanted pasta. The blistered tomato rigatoni is a must-order, and be sure to get a side of Bolognese meatballs. I was excited to try the chermoula shrimp couscous, as it’s something I enjoy cooking at home. Perfectly balanced with cilantro, garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, it was light and packed with flavor. Drink lovers will be excited to see mixologists Dave Newman and Kyle Reutner behind the bar until Oct. 24. Visit loversxfighters.com to see more.

Ode to a Kaimuki Fave

I couldn’t show up empty handed to a friend’s baby shower and Little Vessels Donut Co. (3458 Waialae Ave.) saved the day with plant-based doughnuts that scream Halloween — Matcha Monster with googly eyes, the cute-yet-spooky ube Oreo and Vanilla Sprinkles with orange, purple and white sprinkles. The biz will be closing for good next year, so grab your treats while you can.