Ep 8. Polynesian Paradise

In this episode of Unique Eats, viewers are taken on a culinary journey to experience the unique and delicious flavors of Polynesian cuisine. Host Tamara Reynolds travels to a variety of restaurants and eateries across the United States to explore the diverse range of Polynesian dishes and drinks available.

The episode kicks off at Pineapple and Pearls in Washington, D.C. Here, viewers are introduced to the restaurant's take on Hawaiian-style poke. This beloved dish traditionally consists of raw fish marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and other flavorful ingredients. At Pineapple and Pearls, the poke is served atop a bed of crispy rice and garnished with avocado and edamame.

Next, the show heads to San Francisco to visit Liholiho Yacht Club. Despite having "yacht club" in its name, this popular restaurant is anything but stuffy – it's known for its eclectic, energetic vibe and creative takes on classic Polynesian fare. Reynolds tries the beef tongue bao, an unusual dish that combines tender, flavorful beef tongue with a soft, pillowy bao bun.

In Los Angeles, Reynolds visits the tiki-inspired tiki bar and restaurant, Lono. Here, she learns about the role of rum in Polynesian cocktails and samples a few of Lono's signature tropical concoctions. She also tries an unexpected take on a classic Polynesian dish: Spam musubi. This dish typically consists of a slice of Spam atop a block of rice, wrapped in seaweed. At Lono, the dish is given a modern twist with the addition of crispy fried wontons and wasabi aioli.

Back in San Francisco, the show heads to Pagan Idol, a beloved tiki bar that's known for its immersive decor and elaborate cocktails. Reynolds meets with head mixologist Matty Eggleston to learn about the bar's unique take on the iconic Mai Tai cocktail. She also gets to sample a few of Pagan Idol's many tiki-inspired dishes, including kalua pork sliders and Lomi Lomi salmon.

The final stop on Reynolds' Polynesian paradise tour is Tiki Ti, a legendary tiki bar in Hollywood that's been serving up tropical drinks since the 1960s. Reynolds chats with owner and head bartender Mike Buhen to learn about the bar's rich history and sample a few of its famous potent libations. She also tries Tiki Ti's signature dish, the chili dog – a dish that's beloved by both locals and tourists alike.

Overall, Polynesian Paradise is a mouth-watering exploration of the many flavors and styles that make up Polynesian cuisine. From Hawaiian-style poke to inventive Spam musubi to classic tiki cocktails, this episode of Unique Eats is sure to leave viewers feeling hungry for a taste of the islands.