Surf's Up at Islands

You could stand on a corner and look around until a restaurant sign draws you in. But we've got a better idea. Each week, Agoura Hills Patch picks a great restaurant either in a town or nearby that is worth checking out.

Here's this week's choice:

Overview: When I have trouble deciding what I want for dinner, one of my favorite "go-to" places is Islands. They have a friendly staff, quick service, delicious food and a fun atmosphere.  The restaurant is family-friendly, making it a great spot to take the kids. You can sit at the the bar, at the tall table tops or relax in a booth. Personally, I love to grab a seat at the bar, enjoy a cold brew and dine on their wings.

Drinks: Besides a full bar with great beers on tap, Islands has some fun non-alcoholic treats that are a must-try. I love the Cola Lime Ice which is a mixture of coke and lime juice. Their Islands Shakes (chocolate is my favorite) are thick and delicious with sprinkles on top. And who doesn't love a Rootbeer Float? The best part about ordering a beverage here, especially a beer, is that the mugs are always frosty, keeping your drink nice a chilled.

Appetixers: When I think wings, I come here. Their Buffalo Wings come in teriyaki or buffalo and are simply delicious. They have a lot of meat and are packed with flavor. The Cheddar Fries feature Islands' famous fries with melted cheese on top. If you are dining with a group, I recommend the Nachos with jalapenos, Spinach & Artichoke Dip or their battered and seasoned Onion Rings. Another personal favorite is the Beachside Sliders which is four mini burgers topped with caramelized onions.  

Salads/Soups: They are big, fresh, crisp and delicious. That's the best way I can describe the salads at Islands. The Kaanapali Cobb is my favorite with grilled chicken breast, avocado, blue cheese and bacon. On a hot day, there is nothing more refreshing that their China Coast salad with mandarin oranges and fried noodles. Other popular items are Wiqui Wiqui BBQ Chicken Salad and the Greek Salad. If you are craving soup, their Tortilla Soup is delicious with avocado, tortilla strips and jack cheese.

Burgers: All their burgers now come with their seasoned fries. Before you had to order them as a side, so I don't know if this is a good or bad thing during bikini season. My two favorite burgers are the Hawaiian with pineapple and the Bleunami, a juciy burger topped with blue cheese dressing. A customer favorite is the Kilauea with jalapenos, jack cheese and a chipotle aioli sauce. You can't go wrong with a classic burger or cheeseburger by ordering the Big Wave. If you like In-N-Out's dressing, try the Longboarder as it is very similar. My other favorite burger is the Maui with guacamole and Swiss cheese. Any of your favorite burgers can be make with a turkey or veggie patty.

Sandwiches & More: If you're not feeling like having a burger, Islands offers some great sandwiches. Since I love pineapple, the Toucan is my favorite chicken sandwich with a sweet teriyaki. If you like tuna salad, try the Moa Kai. The Pesto Paradiso with grilled chicken and different cheeses is delicious, and so is their Chicken Club Wrap. Craving tacos? Try the Island Fish tacos with a chipotle-white sauce, the Northshore tacos with spicy chicken or even the Cabo Loco tacos with seasoned pulled pork.

Desserts: No trip to Islands is complete without trying the Chocolate Lava–a fudge brownie topped with ice cream, chocolate syrup, whipped cream, toasted almonds and, of course, a cherry. If you like coffee, try the Kona Pie with mocha almond fudge ice cream and cookie crust.