Occasionally I want to ditch the utensils and plates and enjoy my meal all in one hand.
Snug Sandwich Haven
A menu that’s handwritten on florescent-colored paper is one of the many reasons Andy’s Sandwiches (2904 E. Manoa Road) is so special. It’s known for its sandwiches, like my favorite, the ahi melt ($9.35), which features a monumental scoop of smoked ahi spread, tomatoes, lettuce, mayonnaise, gooey cheese and sprouts. Other popular choices include the fresh-roasted turkey tomato and cheese ($8.50), as well as the avocado, tomato and cucumber ($8.50).
Visit andyssandwiches.com Opens in a new tab or call 808-988-6161.
Comfort Food Reborn
I will admit, I’m always wary of “Instagram famous” food trends, but Honolulu Bistro (1450 Ala Moana Blvd. Ste. 1069) lives up to the expectations. Da Aloha ($18) is its version of the viral rainbow grilled cheese sandwich. It’s filled with colorful mozzarella and finished with a garlic butter glaze on top. When you’re ready to move on to dessert, try the biz’s sweet and gooey Nutella fluff, ($13) which is marshmallow fluff and Nutella between two slices of white bread and dusted with powdered sugar.
Visit honolulubistro.com Opens in a new tab or follow the business on Instagram (@honolulubistro).
Old-School Sandwich Bliss
My brother-in-law is from Philadelphia, and he swears EARL Kaimuki’s (multiple locations) Philly cheesesteak ($16.95) is the closest he’s had to feeling at home. According to him, Cheez Whiz is what makes the sandwich authentic, and EARL does a superb job pouring it generously over USDA Prime Top Sirloin, mayonaise, grilled onion and white American cheese. During the chicken sandwich craze, the biz’s country-style chicken sandwich ($10) was widely considered one of the best, thanks to its crispy fried chicken, herb mayo and pickles.
Visit earlhawaii.com Opens in a new tab or follow the business on Instagram (@earlhawaii).
Becky Mits’ column showcases her favorite spots and the scoop on the island’s best dining establishments.
Follow Becky on social media (@beckymits)
