GREAT EATS HAWAII: ELENA'S FILIPINO FOODS

ELENA'S FILIPINO FOODS
94-866 MOLOALO STREET #D4A
WAIPAHU, HI 96797
808-676-8005
HOURS: Daily 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
www.elenasrestaurant.com
www.yelp.com/biz/elenas-home-of-finest-filipino-foods-waipahu-3
www.facebook.com/elenasrestaurant/

Elena's is somewhat of an institution in Waipahu and now is an even bigger hit after being featured on the Food Network's Diners Drive Inn's and Dives. Heck I even saw tables of Japanese tourists here with IPhones out taking pictures. When Japanese tourists start finding their way to Waipahu, you know you are a hit. We entered Elena's around noon and the place was packed with a line almost to the door. There is table service but many patrons line up at the counter for takeout. We were seated by a sweet waitress who brought us menus and then water. Started with the Beef and Vegetable Lumpia ($5) served with vinegar. I liked the vegetables and green peas inside the Lumpia. The taste was light and fresh with a hint of beef. I liked the vegetables best. The Sari Sari ($9.50) is Elena's Signature Dish and it is served up with a huge scoop of White Rice. The dish contains tons of vegetables, shrimp and pork. It is like a hearty stew and one portion is more than enough for two people. The dish featured on Diners Drive Inn's and Dives is called Triple D ($9.99). Pork Adobo Fried Rice with Lechon. Lechon is deep fried pork and Elena's tops it with a Tomato and Onion Salsa. The table includes a container of vinegar and I recommend you put a nice pour of vinegar over the Lechon and Salsa. Adds a lot of flavor and makes this dish pretty delicious. I am not a huge lover of Filipino food but Elena's does it up right and I would definitely return. Our server was all smiles and friendly and that made our visit even better.