Bringing the East Coast to the Heart of Honolulu: The Story of EARL - Kakaako
In the bustling streets of Kakaako, a neighborhood known for its vibrant culture and artsy vibe in Honolulu, Hawaii, a piece of the East Coast thrives through the flavors of EARL. Founded by Justin Parvizimotlagh, a Baltimore native, EARL has become a hotspot for sandwich enthusiasts looking for a taste of the East Coast right in the heart of the Pacific.
The Origin Story
Justin Parvizimotlagh's journey from the East Coast to the islands of Hawaii is one of passion and perseverance. Originally from Baltimore, Maryland, Justin moved to Hawaii to attend Hawaii Pacific University. After graduation, he spent some time working as a line cook, honing his skills and deepening his love for culinary arts. However, he soon realized a piece of his hometown was missing in the local food scene—authentic East Coast subs. Driven by nostalgia and a deep-rooted passion for sandwiches, Justin decided to fill this void by first opening EARL Kaimuki then - Kakaako.
What Makes EARL Special?
EARL specializes in an array of sub sandwiches that carry a taste of the East Coast. Among their famed offerings is the EARL Cheesesteak, which brings the beloved Philadelphia classic to the islands with meticulous attention to detail and flavors. There's also the Chicken Po Boy, a nod to the Southern staple with a touch of Baltimore charm, and the Turkey Club, a perfect blend of freshness and savory satisfaction.
But EARL doesn't stop at subs; it’s also home to some of the best fried chicken sandwiches in Honolulu. The Hot Honey and Firebird sandwiches have become fan favorites, known for their perfect blend of heat and sweet, coupled with crispy, succulent chicken. They also have traditional fried chicken baskets with waffle fries.
More Than Just Sandwiches
What sets EARL apart isn’t just its menu but its commitment to quality and execution. Justin often describes himself as a "sandwich nerd," a title that reflects his dedication to perfecting every detail of his creations. This commitment to quality means that every sandwich isn’t just made but crafted with precision to deliver maximum banger taste.
A Community Favorite
EARL’s popularity is evident, with lines out the door every weekend. These are not just regular lines; they’re crowds of locals and tourists alike, eager to taste EARL’s weekend specials. These specials are limited-time recipes, often invented by Justin himself, offering a unique twist to already beloved flavors. It’s this innovative approach to traditional recipes that keeps the community coming back for more.
New Location
EARL is more than just a sandwich shop; it's a testament to the power of food to transport us across miles and memories. For Honolulu, it’s a piece of the East Coast right at their doorstep, offering a delicious escape, one sandwich at a time. EARL is soon planning to launch a new location at at the Ka Makana Aliʻi in Kapolei on Oahu.
Whether you’re a local, a tourist, or just a curious foodie, EARL’s doors are open, inviting you to take a bite out of the East Coast in the heart of Hawaii.
