Wonderful ‘WingZ’ that soar above the rest

WINGZ BY ZIPPY’S
• Plates ($12.15, fast-food; $13.95, restaurant) include six wings of one flavor, rice and mac salad (fast-food).
• A la carte (10 pieces, 15.75; 20 pieces, $29.50; 30 pieces, $41.95) is only offered at the fast-food counter. Choose one flavor per 10 pieces.

For more than half a century, Zippy’s has been the preferred stop for local eats. Much of that success — besides the ono food coming in at No.1 — is due to the ability to adapt and change to suit customers’ needs, no matter the season or circumstance. Such is the case for its WingZ by Zippy’s, which initially came about as a ghost kitchen concept while its dining room was reduced to 50 percent capacity.

“We were looking for ways to utilize our capacity in our kitchen,” explains marketing manager Jeanine Mamiya-Kalahiki.

Those looking for lighter-fare dining options at Zippy’s — that embody the same great taste regulars have come to love — will enjoy fried tofu dishes that are accompanied by the local restaurant’s one-of-a-kind Korean sauce. (Pictured is the plate option.)

At the time, with no brick-and-mortar location, WingZ by Zippy’s was available through Bite Squad and Uber Eats.

“The customer response was very favorable, and they have been requesting to have it on Zippy’s regular menu,” adds Mamiya-Kalahiki.

Now, fans can get their wing fix at all Zippy’s locations (fast-food and dine-in), as well as online at zippys.com and through the eatery’s app.

So, what exactly sets these WingZ apart? Chalk it all up to fantastic flavors that represent Hawaii and its people: Aloha Shoyu Pineapple Guava Teriyaki, Lava Kim Chee, 5 Spice BBQ, Korean Sauce, and plain. (Check the breakout box for prices.)

LILIKOI BAR ($2.50)
Enjoy the flavor of the islands in Zippy’s luscious lilikoi bars. A play on the classic lemon bar, these squares pack tart and tangy tones that pair well with the powdered sugar on top.
DREAM CAKE ($16.50, 6 INCHES)
Take home this heavenly dessert that the whole family will love. Covered in chocolate shavings, this Zippy’s favorite is a longtime crowd and palate-pleaser.
CINNAMON COFFEE CAKE SQUARE ($2.25)
Start the morning with this sweet treat that’s every bit as moist as it is rich and flavorful. Though named for the a.m. hours, this indulgence can be enjoyed any time of the day or night, or until it sells out, so make sure to get yours ASAP!

“The 5 Spice BBQ is a taste of Chinatown flavors, and the Lava Kim Chee is the spiciest of flavors and some say it packs a wallop,” says Mamiya-Kalahiki.

Zippy’s has extended its hours on Fridays and Saturdays. Now, its fast-food side will serve customers until midnight, and the restaurant will be open until 11 p.m. Finally, note that neighbor island prices are slightly higher for all items listed here.

Palate Pleasers

National Pancake Day is March 4, and fans of the flapjacks who want to dine in at their favorite Zippy’s location can look forward to 40 percent off a short stack with any purchase.

Then, March 14, celebrate National Pi Day with 50 cents off any slice of pie — available through fast-food, dine-in or bakery. Expect favorites like pumpkin, apple, banana cream and custard pies, all of which are up for grabs while supplies last. It’s the perfect reason to add a slice of pie to your order!