Hawaiian infusion is the name of the game. I love to try home-cooked meals that collaborate with gourmet techniques. I can only think of one place that delivers that unique mix of New Mexican and Hawaiian food. When I want
Hawaiian infusion is the name of the game. I love to try home-cooked meals that collaborate with gourmet techniques. I can only think of one place that delivers that unique mix of New Mexican and Hawaiian food. When I want to step up my taste buds, I find myself craving the seared ahi tacos or the garlic shrimp tacos that can only be found at Verdé in Kapa‘a. I love their colorful presentation and quality dishes that they serve. The staff is always friendly and punctual when it comes to getting your order in a timely matter. As soon as you walk in, you’re greeted with a smile and the oversized menu found on the wall. With so many choices, you just don’t know where to start. I just followed my craving for ahi and shrimp then trusted waitress Nicole Stewart’s recommendation.
This New Mexican restaurant serves dishes that felt like regular Mexican food that got a makeover. The flavors from the dishes were powerful yet delicate; it played with your mind. How Verdé can make you feel like you are at an upscale restaurant and at home at the same time, I can only wonder. The answer is that Chef/owner Joshua Steven and his wife Maris Steven (Creator of Wooden Spoon) are a cultured culinary husband and wife team that have a passion for food. And did I mention that Joshua is from Albuquerque, NM? So he knows how to bring that chile heat found in their yummy salsas. They also have a macaroon business (Wooden Spoon) that is a unique dessert/snack business that is booming. You can find Verdé next to Kapa‘a Big Save or research their website at www.verdehawaii.com.
If you love New Mexican food dressed in class, head on over to Verdé. They open from 11 a.m.- 9 p.m. Monday through Sunday, but close on Tuesday. They serve vegetarian and gluten-free dishes, so don’t be afraid to ask for what you desire. You can choose from a wide selection of dishes for starters: salad and tostadas then try their tacos: seared ahi, fresh catch, al pastor pork, chicken, carne, vegan and garlic shrimp. After that explore their sopaipillas, burritos, and special signature dishes that salsa their way to your tummy.
The prices are affordable and dishes are generously proportionate. But if you bring your kids and you don’t want to share for whatever reasons, don’t feel guilty; they have a Keiki menu to order from. The kids will enjoy the bean and cheese burrito, or the cheese quesadillas. A relaxing environment makes you feel like home, with TVs to watch your favorite sports team. So how can I not bring my kids or friends to this new chill spot? It’s the stop after shopping, or the start of a fun day. I always find a way to Kapa‘a and bring my appetite to Verdé because I know I’m in for a treat.
If you are hosting an event or baby party, don’t forget they cater too. Just call them at (808) 821-1400. Or you could just stop by on Mondays and order in person, but you might find regulars like me hanging out with a cool three dollar margarita in my hand. If you don’t mind experiencing something new, hang out at Verdé, a place where you can dare to be different and free to infuse your pallet with their distinctive meals. Once you get one bite of their dishes, you’ll be hooked and craving for it all week long.
