Traveling as a teen with his father during the 1940s, A.J. Parker experienced culinary treats from different parts of the world — so the story goes. A.J. loved to cook, more than he loved to eat.
His early years in the southern states fired his passion for smoky barbecue sandwiches, hamburgers and crisp, kettle-cooked fish. A.J. learned to make perfectly crisp “Chicken Katsu” and flavorful Asian-style salads while in the Far East, while a little time spent in Mexico stirred his passion for spicy sauces. The end of the war brought A.J. to Hawaii, where he found himself pondering about his future along the Kona Coast.
It was along this beautiful coast, where A.J. Parker’s life was spent running a small restaurant with delectable barbecue sandwiches, hamburgers, crispy Kettle fries, fresh salads and shakes. With a little practice and island influence, “Big Island BBQ” and “The Kona Crisp” were born. While no one is sure where he is today, it is understood that he’s quite certainly serving up “Big Island BBQ” in a place a lot like The Kona Crisp.
Now we can experience a little bit of Vintage Hawaii here in Santa Clarita. Located on Magic Mountain Parkway in Santa Clarita, The Kona Crisp specializes in fast-casual barbecue, burgers, salads and catering. “Our barbecue is authentic,” states owners Jeff Dollinger and Randy Bivins. “We smoke choice meats in the restaurant including brisket and tri-tip, pork (ribs and shoulders) and half-chickens. We are dedicated to providing freshly made food from quality ingredients served in a warm, inviting setting with excellent service.”
Try their pork and brisket, smoked for 14 hours, prepared with a special homemade rub prior to smoking and served with gourmet barbecue sauce, classic or spicy. Enjoy a salad, made fresh to order. If it’s a burger you’re craving, try an island-inspired one, such as their teriyaki-avocado or the homemade island pineapple chutney.
At Kona Crisp, the fresh rolls are baked daily, and burgers are 100 percent chuck and never frozen. The food is fresh and it’s delicious.
For mouth-watering food and great service, visit The Kona Crisp. They are open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. The Kona Crisp also offers catering services.
For more information, call 661-287-3123 or visit www.thekonacrisp.com .