’Tis The Season To Make Mochi

Wednesday - December 27, 2006
By Susan Sunderland

We celebrate New Year’s in a big way in the Islands. Besides fireworks, there are ethnic traditions that add color and festivity to the occasion. Preparing mochi - pounded rice cake - is ceremonial and symbolic.

The Friendly Flavors Of Wahiawa

Wednesday - May 17, 2006
By Susan Sunderland

Wahiawa is a special place. Two generations of my family have roots there and fond memories of life in pineapple suburbia. Wahiawa has been around for more than 100 years and is the oldest settled area in Central Oahu. The name means “noisy place,” referring to the rough seas said to be heard there at one time.

Honolulu’s Best Signature Dishes

Wednesday - February 15, 2006
By Susan Sunderland

“Geez, I no see da Zigzag anymore. U pau, or wat?” a reader asks.

“Jus lazy,” I reply.

Welcome to the column that happens w’en evahs.

A Vegetarian Voyage Around Town

Wednesday - November 30, 2005
By Susan Sunderland

If you invited Richard Gere, Penelope Cruz and Cameron Diaz to lunch, where would you bring them? They’re all vegetarians.

There are tasty and meatless dishes on most menus these days, thanks to a healthier eating trend. But it’s likely that veggie dishes are the exception, rather than the rule.

Natural, all-vegetarian establishments are rare. They are still considered off-beat places that cater to hippies or strange cults.

Frankly, that’s a silly, outmoded notion.

Cruising For Meals On Wheels

Wednesday - November 09, 2005
By Susan Sunderland

Wherever you find surfers, construction workers or hungry office workers, you’ll find lunch wagons. These are meals on wheels at a great price. No frills, no fuss. One simply walks up, checks out the menu board, and carries away Hawaii’s state meal, da plate lunch.