Zippy's Switches to Local Beef

Zippy’s Restaurants has made a new commitment to supporting our local farmers and ranchers by switching their beef products to quality Hawaii grown and raised cattle. 

Now, all 25 Zippy’s locations are using local beef patties in their Hamburger Steak, Prime patties and Hamburger patties.

Local or “Hawaii Grown” beef is beef from cattle born and raised entirely in Hawaii, and sold in Hawaii. Local beef is grass fed, grown and raised in Hawaii. There are no antibiotics or growth-stimulating hormones and has high levels in beta carotene, vitamin E, Cla AND Omega 3 fatty acids. Over a year ago, Zippy’s R&D Chef, Wayne Komamura, was in search of improving the quality and taste of the hamburger steak patty and making it similar to a prior patty that was made daily from fresh ground beef. “I was looking for that Old Fashioned handmade, home taste,” said Komamura.

The mushroom prime burger (top) and loco moco. Photos: courtesy of Zippy’s.

In the process of his research, Komamura was introduced to Michelle Galimba, president of the Hawaii’s Cattlemen’s Association. Michelle educated Wayne on the benefits of local beef and had him sample the local beef taste.

Wayne worked closely with Wong’s Meat Market to develop hamburger patties using Zippy’s recipe and worked with the producers to ensure a steady supply of beef.  Zippy’s Restaurants made the change as an opportunity to utilize excellent locally produced beef, develop a delicious patty with “good old days” appeal and serve a fresher, locally made product to their customers.

The change also supports Zippy’s vision of being committed to the community,  helping local ranchers and businesses thrive while creating a more sustainable, secure local food system.

 “It will be a tremendous boost for the Hawaii Cattle Industry when a trusted brand like Zippy’s serves local beef at all their restaurants,” says Galimba.

In addition to beef, Zippy’s also features other local products on the menu, such as Nalo greens, Island fresh eggs, cucumbers, tomatoes, papayas, saimin noodles, wun tun, uzumaki, ice cream, tofu, soda crackers and shoyu.

For more information on supporting local farmers visit www.4aghawaii.org

To find a Zippy’s location closest to you, visit www.zippys.com.