Traveling to Roanoke

Aloha from the Mainland! Traveling to Roanoke to visit my mom is always fun. I found a few cool things and places along the way.

Image: Traveling to Roanoke Road sign driving 9 hours to Roanoke, shaka tea found at a gas station along the way, Sun Noodles I brought for my mom from Whole Foods in Albany, NY

During my journey from Albany, NY to Roanoke, VA, I stumbled upon a taste of Hawaii delightful surprise: Hawaiian Mamaki Tea from the renowned Hilo company, Shaka Tea. As I made a pit stop at a couple of gas stations along the way, my eyes were drawn to the vibrant packaging adorned with tropical imagery and the unmistakable logo of Shaka Tea. Intrigued, I decided to give it a try. With the first sip, I was transported to the lush landscapes of Hawaii. The distinct flavor of Mamaki, a native Hawaiian plant, filled my senses with its earthy notes and subtle sweetness. Savoring each sip, I couldn’t help but appreciate the harmonious blend of tradition and innovation that Shaka Tea brings to the mainland. This unexpected encounter with Hawaiian Mamaki Tea was a delightful reminder that the essence of Hawaii can be found in unexpected places, adding a touch of aloha to my cross-country journey.

During my time exploring Roanoke and its surrounding areas, I embarked on a quest to find poke bowl restaurants that could satisfy my cravings for this Hawaiian delicacy. While the experience didn’t quite reach the heights of the poke bowls found in Hawaii, I was pleased to discover a couple of establishments that offered their own interpretation of this beloved dish. These local eateries infused their poke creations with a fusion of flavors, incorporating elements of the region’s culinary traditions. Though the authenticity of the ingredients and the vibrant taste of the ocean might not have rivaled those found in Hawaii, the poke bowls I enjoyed in Roanoke were still able to satiate my longing for this delectable dish. The experience served as a reminder that even though the poke in Roanoke might not be on par with its Hawaiian counterpart, it provided a unique and satisfying culinary experience in its own right, offering a glimpse into the local flavors and creativity of the area.

At the end of my stay, I stumbled upon a charming little place called Hang 10 Hawaiian Ice and Cream. Intrigued by its name and the promise of Hawaiian-style shaved ice, I decided to delve deeper into this hidden gem. As I walked through the doors, I was greeted by a cheerful and vibrant atmosphere, instantly transporting me to the shores of the Hawaiian islands. The menu was a delightful array of flavors, featuring an impressive selection of shaved ice creations that ranged from classic tropical flavors to unique combinations. The Dole Whip was the start of the show! From the moment I took my first spoonful, I was captivated by the refreshing flavors on the islands. The team at Hang 10 Hawaiian Ice and Cream had certainly mastered the art of crafting these great treats. I couldn’t resist capturing my experience on video for my YouTube channel (video below), as I wanted to share this hidden gem with my audience. Hang 10 Hawaiian Ice and Cream proved to be a delightful haven for anyone seeking a taste of Hawaii in the heart of Roanoke, Virginia.

Traveling to Roanoke was so fun because I love to see that parts of the Hawaiian culture is found everywhere!