Taro and Sweet Potato Chips at the Hawaiian Chip Company

I confess. I am an addict. I got hooked on taro chips when I was in college when I’d grab a bag at the store, hop in my beat up Datsun (yes, I said Datsun) and head to the North Shore to watch the winter waves. Over the years, I weaned myself off the tasty treat—or perhaps it’s just that I haven’t been to the beach as often. But about a month ago I rediscovered food heaven: Hawaiian Chip Company.

At the Hawaiian Chip Company factory store, the flecked taro chips, dark purple Okinawan sweet potatoes and orange sweet potatoes are as fresh as they come. Piping out of the fryer, they’re tasty naked or with your own choice of flavorings. Personally, I prefer nothing more than a light sprinkle of sea salt to let the delicate taro flavor shine through.These tasty tubers are homegrown on the Big Island, Molokai and Oahu and processed right there in Kalihi.

On weekends, they feature tasty sliders featuring specialties from other nearby businesses: the classic purple colored taro bread from Ani’s Bakery, kalua pork (slow roasted Hawaiian style) from Bob’s Barbecue and coleslaw made with island-grown cabbage and Hawaii’s Special Salad Dressing.

They also make a zesty barbecue sauce. If the small bottles don’t cut it for you, it’s also available in the gallon size (coveted by Hawaii expatriates in Las Vegas) :: Get your own at hawaiianchipcompany.com.