By Misty I.

Merriman’s Happy Hour is on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 2-5 p.m.

My family and I went to the Cherry Blossom Festival this past weekend in Waimea. We decided on Merriman’s for a late lunch. It was packed and we had to wait about 20 minutes for a table. Happy Hour is held outdoors in the Merriman’s garden and many families were there with their children. It reminded me of Cronies in Hilo…very family friendly. They also had live entertainment.

We ordered the kalua pig & sweet onion quesadilla, mahi mahi taco, cheeseburger, ahi poke, and Peter’s original Caesar salad. I enjoyed everything, but these are my top three picks:

#3 Cheeseburger: it was cooked to order and yummy! The homemade kimchee was an unexpected and delicious flavor boost.

#2 Kalua Pig & Sweet Onion Quesadilla: I knew I’d like this because I love kalua. It was served with a mango chili dipping sauce. I enjoyed this flavor combo very much.

#1 Peter’s Original Caesar Salad with Fried Green Tomato Croutons: the salad was good with chunks of fresh parmesan, but the best part was the fried green tomato croutons. I wish I could order an entire plate of these ‘ono discs of perfection! The crispy cornmeal crust was lightly seasoned with a tender tomato center. The salad comes with two fried green tomatoes, I had already gobbled one up before taking the close up.

To my surprise, our server asked if we wanted dessert. I immediately asked if the “Chocolate Purse” was available, he smiled and said yes! That was a perfect end to a picture-perfect day. Only in Waimea, Merriman’s Happy Hour!