Zippy's Makes a Mark in Maui
You’ve seen the ads; you’ve heard the hype — but have you tried it yet for yourself? I’m speaking of Zippy’s, the ubiquitous Hawaiian chain restaurant that opened its first Maui outlet in September, 2008, the same month the stock market crashed and the economy went to hell in a hand basket. This was perfect timing for Zippy’s to come to Kahului since the eatery is beloved for a number of reasons, the greatest of which is excellent dining value.
In Hawaii, there is practically a cult of Zippy’s so it is somewhat embarrassing to admit I was a Zippy’s Virgin until recently. Finding myself famished after an all day shopping excursion in Kahalui, seemed there was no time like the present to change my shameful status finally sample Zippy’s world famous chili, chicken, and bakery items (which are shipped all over the world to homesick fans.
Zippy's Most Famous Dishes
Before I describe the food in detail, here are some important particulars you should know about Zippy’s: Diners can enjoy the ultimate comfort food in ultimate comfort, nestled into one of Zippy’s whopping 47 booths while enjoying attentive waitress service 24-hours a day, or order at the take-out counter and eat at an adjacent table without a waitress, or take-out and eat in the car, I mean at home, the beach or wherever, or you can order ahead and use the drive-through window and never even leave your car.
It’s truly brilliant, the options Zippy offers diners, but the best thing is the truly fantastic food. Forget all you know about fast food chains and think more in terms of classic menu ideally suited to local palates, including mixed plates, saimin, bento boxes, and of course bakery items. That’s Zippy’s.
Zippy's Saimin Supreme
On my initial visit, instinct suggested I try the Portuguese Fried Chicken with was delicious. Delivered still sizzling fresh out of the fryer, the slightly sweet, faintly sticky but mostly crispy, moist and mouth-watering dish is a cult classic with good reason. The deboned chicken is chopped into bite-sized pieces that are chopstick ready and simply scrumptious. Small wonder that Zippy’s pupu platters are such BIG sellers (and you only need to call one hour in advance to get your game and party on via Zippy’s.) Next on the sample tray was a daily special – Beef Curry, served as most things at Zippy’s are, with two scoop rice and mac salad. Tasty and hearty, the dish won a new fan quickly.
Beef Curry
Every day Zippy’s offers two specials as well as mini-zip deals for $4.99. They regularly issue coupons and have a secret shopper program and special program that offers 10% discounts on everything to seniors.
It’s not as though Zippy’s is aching for business; with 25 outlets, Zippy’s sells 150,000 pounds of their famous chili every month, made 8-12 times a day in giant 300 gallon kettles in Oahu. Discounts, deals, promos are Zippy’s was of responding to the community. They also sponsor events and are well-known for not-for-profit fund-raising opportunities.
Zippy's Scrumptious Fried Chicken
Who wouldn’t want a tub of Zippy’s chili? The thick multi-purpose concoction can be ladled over hot dogs, rice, potatoes, pasta or chips for nachos, or enjoyed its own in both bean and meat, bean only, or vegetarian varieties.
Zippy’s also offers an extensive all day breakfast menu, although their famous waffles and pancakes are served only until 11 a.m. Might be best to stop by as you begin your day in Kahului and again for dinner.
