This Mysterious Vessel

Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto is a happy hideaway on the shores of paradise. At least, that’s the word from the watering hole’s manager, Skip, and I don’t think too many of us would disagree with that assertion. While the Grog Grotto’s grand opening was in April of 2015, the establishment first opened its doors on March 28, 2015 for a soft opening. The libations concocted by Trader Sam, not to mention his collection of artifacts from around the seven seas, are the true reasons to pull up a stool, but that doesn’t mean you should ignore the tasty morsels. In honor of the anniversary we’re going to bite into one of these menu items, the Kalua Pork Tacos.

One of the things you’ll notice about the menu at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto is that the drinks are given prime space and some raucous descriptions. The appetizers, however, aren’t given that same touch. In the case of the tacos, the entire entry is listed as: Kalua Pork Tacos with Cabbage and Pickled Vegetables. That’s all Skip wrote but that certainly isn’t where the story ends on these tacos!

The tacos are served as a trio with lime on the side for those who want that hint of citrus. Kalua doesn’t mean that the pork has been marinated in spirits, but rather it is a traditional form of Hawaiian preparation where the meat is cooked in an underground oven. It is fall apart tender, a sure sign it has been cooked low and slow. The vegetables are piled high and include shredded cabbage, onions, and peppers. The thinly sliced peppers include their seeds and bring a nice heat to the collaboration, while the astringent flavors of the pickles tickle the taste buds in the back corners of your mouth. The shell is crunchy, but it is also a bit chewy. It is more in the vein of a wonton or chalupa than a typical taco shell. Every bite is a taste adventure, which is exactly what you’re looking for in a place like Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto.

The next time you stop by Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto, and you’re sitting back chatting with Skip, sipping on your favorite concoction, remember man does not subsist on rum alone! When you’re looking for something to sink your teeth into that’s a lot that can go right with Trader Sam’s menu, but I would recommend giving the Kalua Pork Tacos a try. And that’s no whale of a tale!