Primo Popcorn takes the treat to another level

I’ve been smitten with Primo Popcorn ever since a sampling at the recent Hono­lulu Festival that featured flavors such as Wild Wings (a spicy buffalo wing-flavored blend), li hing pineapple and Lemon Dream (a chocolate-covered concoction that tastes like lemon meringue pie). Yet that was only a small selection of what’s available at the popcorn lovers’ nirvana that is the Primo Popcorn retail store near Sand Island, where there are more than 50 flavors, from savory to sweet, ranging from $3.50 to $10 a bag. Can’t decide? Just get the colorful Kalakoa bag for $5.50, with its assortment of fruity flavors. Primo Popcorn is at 120 Sand Island Access Road, just past the old Kilgo’s. Call 729-7322 or visit www.primopopcorn.com. — Jason S. Yadao

Animal lamps save energy, too

Some people really know how to light up a room. The buyers at the Hono­lulu Museum of Art Shop are stepping up on their offering of unique design items for the home, and among their recent additions are luminescent Zzzoo­Lights from Italy. Whether dressing up children’s rooms to send them off to pleasant dreams, or delighting animal lovers, these lamps bring a warm and friendly glow to any room in the house. The lamps come with low-energy LED lights to please the eco-conscious as well. Large lamps, about a foot tall, are $95 and come in the form of a cat, hedgehog, fish, bear, elephant, snail and penguin. Minilamps, about 6 inches tall, are $85 and change color with a double clap. The museum is at 900 S. Beretania St.; 532-8703. — Nadine Kam

Marble wok brings joy to cooking

I don’t know much about cooking, but I know enough to listen to my mother, who’s an excellent cook. She came across the Joycook Marble Series wok and was so impressed she brought me one from the mainland. The lightweight construction makes it easy to handle, and the marble surface is fast-cooking and easy to clean. I also discovered the Korean-made cookware at Palama Supermarket for an affordable price, $25 for a 10-inch skillet. Store locations are in Kalihi, Aiea and on Maka­loa Street. — Steven Mark

Heart-shaped dish is lovely

The spring wedding season is upon us, and this sweet heart-shaped ceramic dish, emblazoned with the phrase "To have and to hold" is the perfect gift for a bride-to-be. She can place her shiny new engagement ring in the dish at bedside. It’s $14 at Red Pineapple at Ward Centre. — Donica Kaneshiro

Grill perfect meat from afar

When I barbecue meat and deliver something burned, too dry or undercooked, I can’t help but feel embarrassed. Grilling meat shouldn’t be that hard — and for the most part it isn’t. But I found a secret weapon that makes it even easier to grill those extra-challenging entrees: a wireless remote digital thermometer from Brookstone that clips onto your pocket. It has a range of 300 feet, and a voice prompt alerts you when the meat is "almost ready" and "ready." When I tried it for the first time, I produced a succulent, perfectly grilled pork loin. The coals were hot — and off to one side, of course — and while I did come back to turn the loin, I was able to monitor the meat temperature while sipping a cold beer (or two) in the kitchen. Pick one up for $69.99 at the Ward Centre store (593-3232) or order online at www.brookstone.com. — Mike Gordon