One of the best parts of exploring the food scene in Southern Oregon is rediscovering places that may have slipped off your regular rotation. That was exactly the case during a recent stop at 808 Ohana Grindz, a spot that quietly continues to deliver the kind of comfort food that keeps people coming back.
It had been a couple of years since my last visit. After hearing the name come up more frequently again in local conversations, I decided it was time to return and see how things were holding up.
During my visit, I had the opportunity to speak with the owner, and one detail stood out immediately. A significant portion of the menu is made from scratch. The teriyaki sauce is prepared in house, desserts are baked fresh, and even the lumpia is handcrafted using a blend of beef, pork, and shrimp. That level of attention is not something you find everywhere, and it shows in the final product.
For lunch, I ordered the teriyaki chicken plate, which came with rice and macaroni salad. To round things out, I added a slice of pineapple upside down cake for dessert. The owner also kindly offered an order of lumpia to sample.
The teriyaki chicken delivered exactly what you hope for in a Hawaiian plate lunch. The sauce carried that signature sticky sweetness, balanced with a subtle hint of pineapple that gave it a fresh, slightly tangy edge. The chicken thighs were tender, juicy, and clearly well marinated, allowing the flavor to come through in every bite. The rice was cooked properly and absorbed the sauce nicely, while the macaroni salad provided a creamy, well balanced contrast that tied the entire plate together.
The lumpia was another highlight. Each piece was crisp on the outside with a flavorful, well seasoned filling inside. Paired with a sweet chili dipping sauce, it added a satisfying texture and a bit of contrast to the meal.
To finish, the pineapple upside down cake proved to be more than just an afterthought. It was fresh, moist, and carried just the right level of sweetness without becoming overwhelming. It served as a fitting end to a well rounded meal.
Experiences like this serve as a reminder of just how many strong, locally owned dining options exist throughout Southern Oregon. It is easy to overlook places over time, but revisiting them often brings a renewed appreciation for what they offer.
For anyone who enjoys Hawaiian style plate lunches or is simply looking to try something a little different in Grants Pass, 808 Ohana Grindz remains a worthwhile stop.
As always, getting out and supporting local businesses is one of the simplest ways to keep the community thriving, and sometimes it leads you right back to a place you are glad you never forgot.
