Hawaii Inside Out Magazine January-February 2017 by Morris Media Network

InsideOu

THE RESOURCE GUIDE TO OUR ISLAND

OAHU

JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2017

Decadent Dining Grand Lānai restaurants offer an epicurean experience

LIGHTEN UP LADIES

Advice on how to get and keep in shape

PEACEFUL WARRIORS

Yoga enthusiasts practice poses and breathing

CRAFT BREWERIES

Learn what’s on tap at local gastropubs

Contents D E PA RT M E N TS I SL AN D L I F E

8 Lighten Up Ladies! A new strategy to keep in shape by discovering your own personal bliss.

10 Will-o’-the-Wisp New Diamond Head restaurant at Lotus lights the way for its guests. 12 Food Spotting Find out what’s trending among chefs and restaurants in the new year.

20 MA U K A T O MA K A I

16 Invincible Hawai‘i Women in Filmmaking mentor the next generation.

30 Dash of Aloha The Great Aloha Run returns for its 32nd year, attracting once again a legion of runners.

OU T A N D A BO U T

INS AND OUTS

20 Events and Celebrations Mark your calendars for the 18th Annual Sony Open at the Waialae Country Club and ‘Ukulele Picnic.

32 Not to Miss Battle those post-holiday blues and check out the Punahou Carnival and the belly-splitting comedy, “The Fox on the Fairway.”

MUSINGS

26 F E AT U R E S 22 Dine Around The re-imagined International Market Place includes the third floor Grand Lānai where several restaurants have already opened ... and more to come. by Simplicio Paragas 26 Peaceful Warriors The art and discipline of yoga builds strength and mental focus. Enthusiasts are also “enlightened” by its innate ability to create a family-oriented community. by Kristen Nemoto 4

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(CLOCKWISE, FROM TOP LEFT) PHOTO BY ERIC WARD FOR WANDERLUST FESTIVAL; COURTESY RAIATEA HELM; COURTESY GREAT ALOHA RUN

M OR S EL S

FEBRUARY is GREAT ALOHA

SPORTS, HEALTH FITNESS month Governor David Ige has proclaimed February

GREAT ALOHA SPORTS, HEALTH & FITNESS MONTH. Join in on the fun activities and events. Let’s celebrate a Healthy Hawaii together!

WEEKEND

FITNESS FUN

Whether you’re a health enthusiast, fitness buff, runner or avid shopper, there’s something for everyone at the Kaiser Permanente Great Aloha Sports, Health & Fitness Expo.

KAISER PERMANENTE GREAT ALOHA SPORTS, HEALTH & FITNESS EXPO EXHIBITS • EVENTS • ENTERTAINMENT PRESIDENTS’ DAY WEEKEND

2017

NEAL BLAISDELL CENTER EXHIBITION HALL FRIDAY, February 17 SATURDAY, February 18 SUNDAY, February 19

4 – 9 PM 9 AM – 7 PM 9 AM – 5 PM

SCORINGLIVE FREE THROW CHAMPIONSHIP PRESENTED BY TACO BELL HAWAII

FRIDAY, February 17 • 5 PM

Still time to enter the

GREAT ALOHA RUN

PRESIDENTS’ DAY 2017 | MONDAY, FEB. 20 The 33rd annual run is an 8.15-mile route starting at Aloha Tower, proceeding along Nimitz Highway, and finishes at the Aloha Stadium. Entertainment along the way makes this Hawaii’s favorite run.

TO REGISTER greataloharun.com (through Feb. 5, 2017) or at the Great Aloha Sports, Health & Fitness Expo

Girl teams and boy teams pre-qualify through the Scoringlive.com high school Basketball Challenge. Cheer on your favorite high school! GREAT ALOHA FARMERS MARKET PRESENTED BY NALO FARMS

ALL 3 DAYS

Fresh produce straight from Dean Okimoto’s Nalo Farms.

&more!

SPECIALTY BOOTHS FOR GOODIES,

ALL 3 DAYS

GIFTS

For more information about the Great Aloha Run and the Sports, Health & Fitness Expo, visit greataloharun.com. Proceeds from the events support over 60 non-profit organizations in Hawaii. Thank you to our sponsors. Title Sponsor

Benefactor Sponsor

Legacy Sponsor

Kama‘aina Sponsors Eddie Onouye, Inc.

MVP | HAWAI‘I | ADVERTISING & CIRCULATION Buddy Moore HAWAI‘I DIRECTOR

buddy.moore@morris.com Glenn Kobayashi ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

glenn.kobayashi@morris.com Courtney Fuhrmann REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES

Bob Kowal, Donna Kowalczyk ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

955.2378 Alice Gustave SALES COORDINATOR

alice.gustave@morris.com Sidney Louie CIRCULATION & MARKETING DIRECTOR

sidney@insideouthawaii.com

MVP | EDITORIAL Simplicio Paragas SENIOR EDITOR

simplicio@insideouthawaii.com Kristen Nemoto EDITOR

kristen@insideouthawaii.com

SUSHI... THEN SOME. Enjoy new wave sushi and such signature dishes as King Crab Ramen, Panko-Crusted Ahi Sashimi and our Foie-Gras Nigiri Sushi Call for reservations and dining specials.

Rizza Cosio EDITOR-AT-LARGE

rizza@insideouthawaii.com

MVP | CREATIVE Haines Wilkerson CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER

Teri A. Samuels ART DIRECTOR

teri@insideouthawaii.com Cher Wheeler PUBLICATIONS MANAGER

MVP | EXECUTIVE Donna W. Kessler PRESIDENT

MORRIS COMMUNICATIONS William S. Morris III CHAIRMAN

William S. Morris IV CEO AND PRESIDENT

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InsideOut Magazine (ISSN 2158-494X) is produced by Morris Visitor Publications (MVP), a division of Morris Communications Co., LLC, 725 Broad St. Augusta, GA 30901. Annual subscription rate is $18 or $32 for two years. To subscribe, email: miao@insideouthawaii.com. Copyright 2017. All rights reserved. Reproduction of the whole or any part of content prohibited without written permission. InsideOut Hawaii will not accept responsibility for submitted materials that are lost or stolen.

ED ITOR’S L ETTER

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Let the New Year Begin

©GREAT ALOHA RUN

The new year brings hope and promise. And for many, it means another round of resolutions. In “Lighten Up Ladies,” Gina Bailey offers some light-hearted suggestions for women looking to get in shape — and, more importantly, the ability to maintain and stick to it. Her first piece of advice: Ditch the term resolution and “find your bliss.” Physically and meditatively, yoga seems to satisfy many people, as our editor, Kristen Nemoto, can personally attest. A yoga enthusiast, Kristen says “the art and practice of yoga is alive, open and ready to challenge your most vital asset — you.” Carole Kai Onouye has faced more than her fair share of challenges. The founder of the Great Aloha Run works tirelessly and unselfishly to raise money for local nonprofit organizations. And she does it all with a big smile. Another nonprofit organization is committed to achieving gender equality

Now in its 32nd year, the Great Aloha Run has raised more than $11 million for local nonprofit groups. Runners dress in ‘aloha’ wear for the 8.15-mile foot race.

in filmmaking and other creative media arts, all the while mentoring the next generation of female media makers. For the older generation who remembers the maze of kiosks at the International Market Place, the new reimagined space is the antipode of what it used to be. In addition to 75 retailers, the third floor Grand Lānai is home to several restaurants that are now open. Speaking of openings, Wisp Restaurant & Lounge has taken over the spot once occupied by Park and Diamond Head Grill. Meanwhile, we got the inside scoop on what epicurean trends are expected for 2017. Expect more big-name chefs to open fast-casual eateries and the incorporation of more ethnic spices.

ON THE COVER End your dinner at Stripsteak Waikīkī on a sweet note with the macadamia nut semifredo. ©David Murphey

Simplicio Paragas SENIOR EDITOR JANU ARY+ FE B R U ARY 2 0 1 7

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IS LA ND L I F E

Lighten Up Ladies “Follow your bliss” and you’ll discover that staying true to your New Year’s resolution can be much easier than you thought. by Gina Bailey or dread over the possibility of ‘failing’ to meet our own expectations. Fear not, I suggest another approach to resolutions, which work — for women anyways. Data from a Nielsen

Oh, discomfort and joy! It’s that time when we begin to ponder this year’s ‘resolutions.’ Even the thought can conjure both euphoria, as we imagine what ‘could be’ and anxiety 8

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survey highlight how “staying fit and healthy” is our top resolution, coming in at 37 percent, followed closely by “lose weight” (32 percent). And based on the survey results, just a

handful of us are throwing in the towel and not making any resolutions at all (16 percent). In another study out of the United Kingdom, researchers tracked the New Year’s resolutions of 3,000 men and women. Among the findings were that while men succeeded with the incentive of specific rewards, women were more success-

©ANTON PETRUS/123RF STOCK PHOTO

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©DAMIR KHABIROV/SHUTTERSTOCK

This year, let’s sleigh ride into a more cooperative and peaceful relationship with ourselves. “Follow your bliss” and become the “unbearable lightness of being” come to mind.

ful at keeping their resolutions when they had a support system behind them. Ah, and herein we find the wormhole through which to shift our male-oriented perceptions of competition to a more female-oriented notion of cooperation. Given that language is an organ of perception, let’s ditch all the competitive and potentially self-de-

basing words and phrases (with self and others), such as ‘be realistic,’ ‘achievable goals,’ ‘plan a schedule,’ ‘prepare for setbacks’ and most specifically, the word ‘resolution’ — which, of course, means resolute, absolute and unwavering; in other words, inflexible. Inflexibility is equivalent to no growth. And to me this sounds a lot like an inner ear authoritarian regime with sugar-coated ‘shoulds’ and ‘should nots’ dancing in my head. Nope, this new year, let’s sleigh ride into a more cooperative and peaceful relationship with ourselves. “Follow your bliss” and become the “unbearable lightness of being” come to mind. This is not ‘fluff,’ as research, in multiple fields, continues to support these premises.

tried and had enough belly laughs for core work to last a year during my many new fitness classes on O‘ahu with my women friends. I drag them to mat and reformer pilates classes. In return, they drag me to hot yoga, pure barre and barre method classes, to name but a few. Then, there are the water sports and dance. Ever try Zumba or stand-up paddling? If not, go with a friend to at least one class. After much exploration, I have found the feel-good combo that works for me. I discovered that tennis is something I can continually pursue since it is social and challenging, not to mention the lovely on-court apparel. For my more meditative and reflective times, I hike Makapu‘u alone with ankle weights and 3 pounds of free weights. Recently I discovered

Fitbit, which nurtures the travel bug in me. What, you ask? Yes, just try to walk five miles a day and not discover people and places you have never met nor experienced on our small island. Fitbitting can be done socially or solo — and, no, this is not virtual Pokemon. Hint: If female, you may not want to walk with a male, as he will tend to stop every 50 yards or so to monitor progress. Instead, simply enjoy the mini-travel experience and look at your wrist when you arrive home after a local adventure. UPSHOT

Have fun, cultivate relationships, try new activities and laugh at yourself while participating, and ‘break-up’ with those pesky ‘shoulds’ and lighten your heart — the scales will naturally lighten as well. I promise! ✽

ADVICE

Experiment with what feels right for your body to stay healthy and fit. I have JANU ARY+ FE B R U ARY 2 0 1 7

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M O R SE L S

Will-o’-the-Wisp

New Diamond Head restaurant lights the way for guests. by Simplicio Paragas

ON THE MENU (This page, from left) A parfait-like dessert with layers of white cake cubes, fresh berries, matcha cream and lemon curd. Kataifiwrapped opah. (Opposite page, from left) Ram-lette served with an egg over easy. Kusshi oyster with tobiko and fresh sashimi.

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©SIMPLICIO PARAGAS

The room has been quiet since 2014 when Park closed its doors and Lotus Honolulu at Diamond Head guests were stranded with no in-house dining options. But the cobwebs have now been dusted and Wisp owners, Jon Ishimi, Lani Nakamura and Jason Kainuma, look to succeed where others have not. Wisp Restaurant and Lounge’s success will largely hinge on Kainuma’s menu. Unlike his predecessors, Kainuma isn’t touting “seasonal,” nor is he pretending to be experimental, which is wise. His cuisine is approachable yet still creative. One of the appetizers that is certain to draw attention is the ram-lette, a fluffy omelet that’s folded with noodles, Spam, fishcake and scallions, then placed atop a pool of ramen sauce. It works well and other chefs will probably soon — if

not already — follow with their own iteration. Other worthy starters include the Kaua‘i shrimp cocktail served with a zesty lomi tomato; brine-kissed Kusshi oysters from the Pacific Northwest; and the sashimi omakase, which will include a tasting of four different types of fresh fish. For a leafy beginning, try the Nalo Farms mixed green salad drizzled with a red vinaigrette. “This is such a great restaurant with a storied history among locals who live nearby,” says Ishimi, who also co-owns the popular Kissaten. “Nothing has really opened on this side of Waikīkī so residents and hotel guests now have another option.” Entrée selections range from $15 for a Kulana Beef cheeseburger to $39 for a herb-roasted rack of lamb. Priced in between is the Garlic Lover’s Steak ($24), which is comple-

we can,” Nakamura says. “We want to support our local farmers whenever possible.” To end on a sweet note, two must-tries: a parfait like dessert layered with white cake cubes, fresh berries, lemon curd and matcha cream; and the mochurro bites, a hybrid between fried mochi and churro served with chocolate coffee sauce or lilikoi curd. “We offer some craft cocktails, too,” Nakamura points out. “And our happy hour will run from 4 to 7 p.m., offering $3 house reds and whites, well cocktails and draft beer, and certain pupu.” Open daily for breakfast and dinner. Lotus Honolulu at Diamond Head, second floor, 2885 Kalakaua Ave., 791.5163, wisphawaii.com ✽

mented with a bold port wine reduction, and accompanied by a choice of white rice or garlic mashed potatoes. For $5 more, the 10-ounce Harris Ranch prime rib is panseared and served with a horseradish mousse. “The menu was a collaborative effort; it’s classic American cuisine with Hawaiian and Asian influences,” Nakamura explains. “I love to eat good food and this definitely meets my approval.” The coconut curry opah or moonfish deserves high marks for flavor and presentation. Wrapped in kataifi, the firm, flaky flesh holds up to the sweet coconut curry while the Okinawan sweet potato cubes and Ho Farms grape tomatoes add visual pop to the plate. “We’re trying to source local products as much as JANU ARY+ FE B R U ARY 2 0 1 7

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M O R SE L S

Food Spotting: 2017 Trends Expect more fast-casual restaurants to open in the new year. by Simplicio Paragas

It’s already starting to happen: Big-name chefs are opening fast-casual food establishments. It’s a national trend and it’s coming to Hawai‘i. Chef D.K. Kodama recently threw his apron in the ring when he took over the Stella Blues Café in Kīhei’s Azeka Shopping Center. “It’s called Shearwater Tavern and it’s an urban gastropub,” Kodama says. “It’s a good family kind of place where you can eat everything, from burgers

WHAT’S HOT Incorporating ethnic spices and flavors into recipes will be among the top trends in 2017.

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and pizzas to fresh pastas and ramen. It’s going to be simple but good.” Michael Mina is putting down roots for a second restaurant at the International Market Place. And he’s dubbing it a “Social House.” Few details have been released except that THE STREET will be a “multi-concept gourmet food hall, which will feature diverse food and beverage offerings, from Japanese ramen and classic American barbecue to specialty handcrafted cocktails and curated ‘omiyage’ culinary souvenirs.” While predicted last year in the National Restaurant Association’s “What’s Hot in 2016” survey, chef-driven fast-casual food will continue to trend in 2017. And so will the use of locally-

sourced and estate-branded meats, sustainable seafood and new cuts of protein (think Denver cut, culotte/ sirloin cap and pork T-Bone chop, to name but a few). “Chefs and restaurateurs are in tune with over-arching consumer trends when it comes to menu planning,” says National Restaurant Association’s senior vice president Hudson Riehle of research in a released statement. “No one has a better view into the window of the future of food trends than the culinary professionals who lead our industry.” Other top trends to look for are natural ingredients/minimally processed food; hyper-local sourcing (restaurant gardens); environmental sustainability; fresh house-made sausages; artisan butchery; food waste reduction/management; authentic ethnic cuisine; ethnic condiments (e.g. harissa and peri peri); and ethnic-inspired breakfast items. In the ‘liquid kitchen,’ the top 10 drink menu trends for 2017 include culinary cocktails (think savory, fresh ingredients); edible cocktails; locally produced beer/wine/spirits; beer-based cocktails; and food-liquor/ cocktail pairings. It appears as if we have a lot to look forward to in 2017. Bon Appétit! ✽

©JACEK NOWAK/123 RF STOCK PHOTO

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A TA ST EF UL CL A SSIC.

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LIQUI D A SSE T S

Guilt-Free Cocktails

Better-for-you imbibing both shaken and stirred. | By Alison Kent

• Keep the amount of alcohol to 1 ½ ozs per drink or less, and choose clear liquors, such as vodka, gin

or tequila, instead of dark. Serve drinks over plenty of ice (where applicable) in lowball or slender Collins-style glasses. • More often than not, choose club soda, sparkling or other carbonated water over other sodas and soft drinks. This includes avoiding or limiting tonic water intake, too. • For recipes that call for simple syrup, control the sugar by making your own slightly less sweet version. Simply dissolve honey or agave syrup in water at a ratio of 1:1.5, or 1 tbsp honey to 1 ½ tbsps water. • Sip vitamins and nutrients while imbibing, by juicing or purchasing fresh-squeezed 100 percent vegetable or fruit juices, like beet, cucumber, grapefruit or pineapple. Experiment to create your own favorite flavor combinations, then serve over ice with a splash of vodka, if desired. Or, stir up the following drink for a delectable — not to mention guilt-free — balance of tart-sweet and garden-fresh flavors.✽

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Foragin’ Fresh Makes: 1 cocktail This cocktail provides the perfect circumstance for which to utilize that dust-gathering juicer in your cupboard. For a lower alcohol version, halve the vodka to 3/4 oz. Juices are best enjoyed fresh or refrigerate for up to one day. You can make a larger quantity of juices to combine and enjoy over ice with or without the vodka — or for a zesty vegetable mocktail, replace apple juice with lower sugar, fresh-squeezed tomato juice and a dash of hot pepper sauce. 1 ½ oz Reyka Vodka (or other favorite vodka) 3 tbsps fresh Granny Smith apple juice 2 tbsps fresh carrot juice 1 tbsp fresh celery juice ½ tbsp fresh lemon juice ¾ tsp fresh ginger juice Combine all ingredients in cocktail shaker with ice; shake and serve in a glass over ice. Garnish with a thinly sliced Granny Smith apple fan. Recipe adapted by Alison Kent.

RECIPE AND PHOTO COURTESY CURICH|WEISS AND REYKA BRAND AMBASSADOR/TREVOR SCHNEIDER

resolutions, including a commitment to consuming more nutritious foods and beverages, all while enjoying the occasional lower alcohol beverage or so. Here’s how:

Alcoholic drinks can be deceptively high in calories, carbs and saturated fat — think soda pops, syrups, heavy cream and cream of coconut. Salt can also be a culprit, as in-spice mix or salt-rimmed glasses of Bloody Marys and margaritas. But fear not, for you can keep those New Year’s

Open daily from 5:00 to 10:00pm.

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MUSI N G S

Invincible

While creating a safe space for females in film and media-makers to connect, Hawai‘i Women in Filmmaking is inspiring young ones to follow and reach for the stars. By Kristen Nemoto fictitious women, are too simple and almost always depicted in their relation to men.” In a 1985 Dykes to Watch For comic strip, cartoonist Alison Bechdel riffed on Woolf ’s premise

In her extended essay, “A Room of One’s Own,” English writer Virginia Woolf succinctly wrote that “all these relationships between women, I thought, rapidly recalling the splendid gallery of 16

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and introduced the not-sosubtle idea of male-dominated movies by criticizing that nearly every storyline, which involved two women in a conversation, would be centered around a man in their lives.

The Bechdel test, as it’s called today, would fail nearly every film, says Vera Zambonelli, founder and executive director of Hawai‘i Women in Filmmaking (HWF). Although there have been improvements from movies 20 years ago, sexism still exists. “There’s the notion of visibility that’s not there,” says Zambonelli, referring to the lack of women filmmakers and storylines that highlight females in a non-stereotypical setting. “It’s all about changing the narrative and focusing on what’s currently working rather than what’s not. Because when you look at the numbers and you look at the statistics, it can be kind of depressing. But you can’t focus on that because what good is that going to do?” Hawai‘i Women in Filmmaking is helping to change the narrative of gender dialogues in the arts by sharing many of their initiatives with the public. Zambonelli can list

©VALERIE NARTE

Hawai‘i Women in Filmmaking is helping to change the narrative in gender dialogues in the arts by sharing many of their initiatives with the public.

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110 Distinctive Stores 30 Unique Dining Destinations One Unforgettable Experience

Open Daily 10am –10pm Kalākaua Avenue and Seaside Waikīkī 808.922.2299 RoyalHawaiianCenter.com FREE WIFI

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many programs that HWF has initiated to help create a meaningful conversation. “We organize monthly gatherings for people to share their experiences and expertise in the film industry,” Zambonelli says. “We also run progress screenings; we just received a grant to host the Women of Wonders Film Festival at the Doris Duke Theatre. We have special guests come to share their work with us when they’re in town. It’s just fantastic.” Although all the initiatives of HWF help challenge the gender role

(Top) Michelle Poppler, right, helps a student set up a scene in HWF’s 2D Animation Camp 2016. (Bottom) Advanced Reel Camp 2016 in action.

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stereotypes of women in the film industry, Zambonelli especially lights up when she talks about teaching future filmmakers. “We organize filmmaking programs for girls,” says Zambonelli with a smile. “We have the Reel Camps, which are oneweek intensive courses of filmmaking. We have an afterschool program called Media that Matters, which helps them talk about social justice and civil engagement and enables them to bring up their own topics to talk about. It’s all really good because they’re

learning and creating skills at the same time.” As the girls gain more experience, they start to critique their work on a professional level and notice things that they can do differently next time. This is something that Zambonelli is proud to point out about her students because they’re able to do so within a safe environment that HWF has created for them. “When I go into the room and I see our girls light up,” Zambonelli beams. “I feel better knowing that this is the next generation to carry on.”✽

©VALERIE NARTE

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OUT A ND A B O U T

Events and Celebrations Combat the post-holiday blues by attending “The Legend of Zelda” or following some of the world’s best golfers at the Waialae Country Club. Here’s a quick glance at events and shows during January and February.

‘Fore’ Charity

January 9-15 More than 140 of the world’s top golfers will compete in the annual Sony Open at the Waialae Country Club. The Open is the largest charity golf event in Hawai‘i and has raised more than $16 million for more than 350 local nonprofit groups since 1999. Children 12 and younger are admitted for free when accompanied by an adult ticket holder. Free admission also extends to all military and dependents with military ID. sonyopeninhawaii.com

Journey back to the land of Hyrule with Master Quest in this global concert tour of “The Legend of Zelda,” with the Reading Pops Orchestra. zeldasymphony.com CHINESE LUNAR NEW YEAR January 20-21

Two days of celebrating the Year of the Rooster. On January 21, a colorful parade is scheduled for 3:30 p.m., starting on Hotel Street. chinesechamber. com

Dance Concert

‘UKULELE CONTEST February 11

February 15-19 University of Hawai‘i— Mānoa dance students will perform their biannual concert themed, “Winter Footholds.” The performance showcases the culmination of years of study and sweat, featuring exemplary undergraduate student choreography, as well as graduating MFA students’ thesis works. Tickets are on sale online at etickethawaii.com and by phone at 944.2697. manoa.hawaii.edu/liveonstage/dance

Strummers will compete at the Royal Hawaiian Center’s Royal Grove Stage. ukulelepicnic hawaii.org/contest

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Stella!

January 27 Andre Previn’s transformation of Tennessee Williams’ “A Streetcar Named Desire.” Hawai‘i Opera Theatre’s production stars Jill Gardner (Tosca 2013) as Blanche DuBois and Ryan McKinny (The Dutchman 2015) as Stanley Kowalski. The conflict between the two unfolds with tragic and violent consequences. hawaiiopera.org

‘Ukulele Picnic February 12 This year’s event will offer two stages with live entertainment, each featuring well-known local and international ‘ukulele performers. ukulelepicnic inhawaii.org

(CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT) COURTESY SONY OPEN; COURTESY HAWAII OPERA THEATRE; COURTESY RAIATEA HELM; ©CHESLEY CANNON

SYMPHONY OF THE GODDESSES January 13

Take the walk D I S C O V E R over 45 one-of-

a-kind boutique shops, weekly activities & live performances and award-winning restaurants.

Open 365 Days, 10amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;10pm Located on Lewers Street between Kalakaua Avenue & Kalia Road +1 808.931.3591 WA I K I K I B E AC H WA L K .c o m

Dine Around International Market Place’s Grand Lānai By Simplicio Paragas

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(OPPOSITE PAGE) ©DAVID MURPHEY; (THIS PAGE, FROM TOP) ©MARIKO REED; COURTESY KONA GRILL; COURTESY FLOUR & BARLEY

here has been a lot of hype and anticipation with the opening of the re-imagined International Market Place (IMP). Once a maze of souvenir stands selling T-shirts and Hawaiiana tchotchkes, the 345,000 square-foot, three-level outdoor shopping center is now the antipode of what it used to be. The only remnant is the 160-yearold banyan tree; otherwise, for many local residents, this contemporary center will be unrecognizable. Yet, once all stores come online, it’s bound to become a “destination” for shopping — and dining. After multiple attempts at opening an outpost in Hawai‘i, restaurateur Michael Mina has finally hung his shingle at IMP’s third-floor, “open-to-the-sky” Grand Lānai. He had always said he was drawn to Hawai‘i and its vibrant culinary scene, and now he is part of it. Stripsteak Waikīkī’s contemporary and elegant setting complements the cuisine, which is, as one would expect from a James Beard award-winning chef, stellar — even if it was just for lunch. For $37.50 per person, the two-course, prix-fixe afternoon menu offers a relatively affordable introduction to Mina’s cuisine. Of the seven available starter options, the “Instant Bacon” was an immediate hit, given my affinity for Kurobuta pork belly, which glimmered with a black-pepper-and-soy glaze. A close second was the yuzu kampachi, which possesses a high fat content that is nicely balanced by the citrus essence. The main selections offer a range of proteins, from mahimahi and ahi to shrimp and black cod to chicken and ground beef. Any time a chef puts his name in front of a dish, it better be good. “Michael’s Ahi Tuna Tartare” is excellent.

Hints of sesame and mint mellow the tartare while an accompanying kale salad with Asian pear and toasted pine nuts add more texture. Those looking for more substance will want to try the Stripsteak burger, which is garnished with caramelized Maui onions and Nueske’s bacon, the smoky essence of which elevates this patty to a gourmet level. For a little whimsy, order a side of the “Tokyo” tots, topped with bonito flakes and a yuzu-infused aioli. Across the way, Kona Grill evokes more of an upscale mainland chain than it speaks to what one would find at a restaurant on Hawai‘i Island. Its extensive menu, however, covers an eclectic range of ethnic cuisines, including Thai, Cuban and Japanese. Ordering might be difficult for an indecisive person since one side of the large 11” x 17” sheet features a laundry list of items from the “Kitchen” while the reverse side presents a lengthy catalog of “Sushi.” The spacious room offers a mix of booths and high-boy tables, while outdoor seating can be configured to accommodate large parties. Seated next to us on the lanai was a staycationing couple who gave their shaka of approval for the miso-sake sea bass fillet and chili-glazed salmon. We were told to try the “Taco Trio,” apparently a favorite appetizer, but only one combination worked well: shrimp enveloped in a soft tortilla and dressed with an Asian slaw and roasted tomatillo salsa. Otherwise, the braised kālua pork lacks a smoky depth and the tempura black cod would have been better served sans taco, which just softened the otherwise crispy exterior of the fish. In addition to starters, the menu offers several flatbreads, soups and some JANU ARY+ FE B R U ARY 2 0 1 7

(Opposite page) Stripsteak’s ahi tuna tartare. (This page, from top) Stripsteak’s lānai dining area. Macadamia-nutcrusted chicken from Kona Grill. Salsicce pizza from Flour &Barley

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eatinghouse1849.com

924.1849

∙ Flour & Barley flourandbarley.com

∙ Goma Tei gomatei.com

∙ Kona Grill konagrill.com

756.9591

∙ Stripsteak stripsteakwaikiki.com

800.3094 Soon to open:

∙ Baku ∙ Herringbone ∙ The Street,

A Michael Mina Food Hall ∙ Yauatcha

hearty salads, including the meal-inone “Kona Chopped,” composed of macadamia nut chicken, applewoodsmoked bacon, hardboiled eggs, tomatoes, avocado and white cheddar. When it comes to choosing an entree, jambalaya, pad Thai noodles and lobster mac-and-cheese are among the many options. A red arrow next to the macadamia nut chicken denotes the dish is a favorite among employees. The same notation is also found in front of the Cuban sandwich. The chicken was moist and accompanied by a heaping mound of homemade mashed potatoes and French green beans. Again, the kālua pork could have used more punch to make this a robust Cuban sandwich. Catty-corner to Kona Grill is Goma Tei, which has established a solid reputation for its spicy tan tan ramen since it first opened 10 years ago. Back then, ramen wasn’t the international superstar that it is today. Made with chicken and pork bones, garlic and carrots, the stock is the key component to the basic tan tan, which comes with char siu and an assortment of vegetables. The soup has got a little kick for the palate sensitive but not mouthburning offensive. For a milder flavor, opt for a bowl of ramen noodles that’s enhanced with shoyu and ginger.

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(OPPOSITE PAGE) COURTESY KONA GRILL; (THIS PAGE) COURTESY FLOUR & BARLEY

RESTAURANTS

∙ Eating House 1849

“Plantation Cuisine” inspired famed chef Roy Yamaguchi to develop his Eating House 1849. Yamaguchi says the “concept pays homage to Hawai‘i’s vibrant culinary heritage and a nod to restaurateurs like Portuguese immigrant Peter Fernandez who, according to lore, opened one of the first restaurants in Hawai‘i, called the Eating House, back in the mid-1800s.” And hence the origin of the restaurant’s name. Modeled off an old plantation design, with ceiling fans and wood floors, the room feels rustic yet modern and comfortable at the same time. The same could be said about the food, which represents the melting pot of cultures in Hawai‘i. Already a signature appetizer, the crispy fried cauliflower and brussel sprouts are sprinkled with toasted pine nuts and raisins then drizzled with balsamic. Given my Filipino heritage, I skew more towards “Lola’s Pork Adobo Lumpia,” which comes with green papaya and sambal tomato. The entrée selections are divided between land and sea. From the ocean comes a Kaua‘i prawn roll, misoyaki butterfish, grilled teriyaki king salmon and blackened island ahi tombo club. The land half presents chicken hekka, vinha d’alhos, Hawai‘i Ranchers beef loco moco, kiawe-smoked ribeye, short rib “lū‘au,” barbecue mixed plate and a savory bowl of ramen garnished with shoyu pork. After vacationing here with his family for many years, restaurateur Billy Richardson finally decided to bring Flour & Barley to Waikīkī. The restaurant is well regarded for its brickoven-baked pizzas and craft beer, some of which will be sourced from local breweries. Company officials say guests can expect such pizzas as the kālua pork and “Aloha Pie,” as well such classics as the Bacon Blue and the Salsicce. ✽

(Opposite page) Kona Grill’s “Picasso Roll.” (This page) Flour & Barley’s vealbeef-and-pork meatballs. JANU ARY+ FE B R U ARY 2 0 1 7

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(OPPOSITE PAGE) PHOTO BY ERIC WARD FOR WANDERLUST FESTIVAL; (THIS PAGE) PHOTO BY ALI KAUKAS FOR WANDERLUST FESTIVAL

Peaceful Warrior More than handstands and hippies, the art and practice of yoga is alive, open and ready to challenge your most vital asset: You. By Kristen Nemoto

here’s no denying the stereotypes that cloud one’s perception of a yogi (aka: a person who practices yoga, not the cartoon bear). The terms “free-spirited,” “hippies,” “tree huggers” or even “aloof ” are often bantered around loosely. But that doesn’t bother Kate Lynn Jaremko too much. In fact, she’s cool with it. “I don’t mind at all,” says Jaremko, manager of CorePower Yoga’s Kailua studio. “Because mostly, people whom I’ve seen do and grow from yoga have one common thing among them and that’s the ability to respond rather than react. The beauty of the yoga practice is that it makes you responsible for yourself rather than things that you cannot control.” With that mindset, says Jaremko, comes peace of mind. Maybe not right away, or every time you do yoga, but the majority of times because it calls for reflection. Jaremko started her own yoga journey as a way to help her physically, as well as emotionally. After being diagnosed with gastroparesis — an extreme stomach condition brought on by stress — Jaremko found her yoga practice as a way to cope with her chronic stomach pain brought on by an intense academic schedule.

“For some, yoga becomes something to do with your friends,” Jaremko points out. “Then it sometimes evolves into something that makes you feel really good; then ultimately to a new way of life. For me, yoga is something to use to deal with the world and sometimes letting go and living your most ultimate life in that time frame. Instead of reacting to things and getting all worked up and stressed out, it’s learning how to respond and then choosing how to act. It really does become a way of life.” JA NUARY+ FE B R U ARY 2 0 1 7

(Opposite page) A yogi catches the sunrise while practicing a pose. (Above) Yogis at O‘ahu’s Wanderlust Festival get ready for a yoga class.

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(Below) An early morning yoga workout on the beach is a refreshing way to start the day. (Opposite page) Meditation is a key facet of yoga. Choose a quiet environment and practice your breathing techniques.

For yogis who live in Hawai‘i, the practice of yoga naturally becomes a daily affirmation. With nearly 365 days a year of summer weather and a powdery beach shoreline within any 20-mile radius, Hawai‘i becomes an ultimate playground for many yoga practitioners and followers. According to the 2016 study by Yoga Journal and Yoga Alliance, 36.7 million of American adults are yoga practitioners compared to 20.4 million in 2012. And more than 20 percent of them (6.8 million) teach along the west coast of the United States, with the Mid-Atlantic in first place for most yoga practitioners and the South-Atlantic coming in second. The study also concluded that an additional 30 million Americans have practiced yoga at least once in their lives. That’s nearly one out of every three people who’ve tried their hand at this ancient practice. The allure for many to begin their yoga practice, either as a teaching career

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JANUARY +FEBRUARY 2017

or a way to control their weight and well-being, is yoga’s dedication to one’s community rather than against each other in a typical sport setting. Jennifer Collotta, who is the teacher training lead for CorePower Yoga Kailua’s studio, says she has seen a transformation in many of her students by observing what’s going on in each of their personal practices. “They go through this journey together,” Collotta says. “It’s a connection that they have with each other in the class. So a person could be holding a pose and have difficulty in it, and they can know and understand that there may be others in the class who are going through the same thing as them.” Collotta was recently reminded of her reason for practicing yoga after a trip to a yoga retreat called Off the Mat, Into the World. What’s striking, she says, is that no matter how “enlightened” or experienced every yogi may seem, the

number one challenge that’s addressed in each scenario is not whether every yogi can help others, but what each can do to help themselves. “That really resonated with me,” Collotta asserts. “Because once we figure out who we are as individuals, we’ll then have a much more compassionate and connective society. We have to look to our own selves and ask, ‘What can I do to help myself first?’ Everyone comes from a different experience, the trick is to see and ask yourself why you react negatively or positively to another person’s experience. Yoga teaches us that — to connect on a deeper level.” Although Jaremko and Collotta agree that yoga can seem passive at times to an outsider — they’re quick to refer to a stereotypical yogi who’s meditating with their eyes closed and a smile on their face — the practice of yoga is also about acknowledging your feelings, no matter what arises. Even if it’s not so happy. “You can be in a pose for a while and feelings of frustration could come up because it’s obviously uncomfortable,” Jaremko says. “What yoga teaches though is to focus more on what we could do to help adjust other muscles to make it less uncomfortable or if our minds are trailing off and whether we can bring it back to our breath.” “It’s a constant tug and pull of mind and body,” Collotta concludes. “It’s strengthening through a pose yet being gentle to yourself and kind if you cannot get through it yet. You can call us peaceful warriors. People who strive to live their own optimal life.” For a comprehensive list of Jaremko’s and Collotta’s classes at the CorePower Yoga Kailua studio, visit www. corepoweryoga.com. ✽

FIND YOUR YOGA BLISS: Here’s a list of various special yoga events to participate in during January and February: Sunrise Yoga CorePower Yoga’s Jennifer Collotta teaches every first and third Sunday of the month at Kailua Beach Park (across from Buzz’s Steakhouse) from 6 to 7 a.m. Vino & Vinyasa at Moana Surfrider Hotel The Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa hosts an evening of free yoga instruction. To complete the evening, yogis are

welcome to enjoy a selection of organic wines from 7 to 8:30 p.m. For updated dates and times, call 808-923-2890. Wanderlust Festival Imagine everything that is good about yoga and its philosophies and you get the annual Wanderlust Festival at Turtle Bay Resort. February 23 – 26. Tickets are now on sale at www.wanderlust. com/festivals/oahu.

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M AUK A T O M A K AI

Dash of Aloha

On the eve of the inaugural Great Aloha Run in 1985, a combination of gusty winds and driving rain forced Carole Kai Onouye and friends to take shelter inside a tent on the Lower Halawa parking lot of Aloha Stadium. Mother Nature was not cooperating, stoking fears of the ruin of thousands of bananas and drenched T-shirts bleeding with tie-dyed patterns,

KEIKI GREAT ALOHA RUN More than 2,200 kids will participate in a 1.5-mile (untimed) fun run around the Neal Blaisdell Center and McKinley High School.

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Simplicio Paragas

JANUARY +FEBRUARY 2017

and threatening the cancellation of the race. “I thought it was going to be a disaster,” recalls Onouye, founder of Carole Kai Charities, Inc., which distributes donations to benefit local nonprofits and local scholarships, as well as the military’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation facility programs. “All this work and it was all going to be washed away because of rain.”

Luckily, Onouye’s prayers — and others, she says — were answered at the break of dawn when the sun rose to greet thousands of runners, many of whom arrived in the early hours of the morning clad in costumes. “The idea to do a run from Aloha Tower to Aloha Stadium came from then-Honolulu Advertiser executive editor Buck Buchwach,” Onouye recalls.

COURTESY GREAT ALOHA RUN

Annual fun run helps local charities. by

“He always wanted to do a run from Aloha Tower to Aloha Stadium and call it ‘The Great Aloha Run.’” Since its inception, the Great Aloha Run has been one of Hawai‘i’s largest participatory races, raising more than $11 million for various nonprofit health and human service organizations and community groups throughout Hawai‘i, as well

as the military’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation facility programs. It has also been recognized nationally as one of the top “100 Great Road Races” to participate in by Runner’s World Magazine. “It’s wonderful to see the military participate because they run in cadence and chant as they move along the route,” Onouye

says. “It’s a chicken-skin moment and gives those watching great pride in our military and our country. “One of our slogans is ‘This is Your Year!’” Onouye asserts. “If this is your first time, or if you used to do it or can’t run anymore, you can walk it. In other words, join us in any way you can. It’s all for a great cause.” ✽

Great Aloha Run February 20 Great Aloha Run Expo February 17-19

COURTESY GREAT ALOHA RUN

Vendors will showcase the latest in wellness, sports, health and fitness products and services, as well as workshops, demonstrations, keiki activities, prize giveaways, food and entertainment. For more information, visit greataloha run.com.

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INS A ND O U T S

Not to Miss

A quick glance at events and celebrations during January and February. Mark your calendars and enjoy an annual carnival, an engaging exhibit, a hilarious farcical production, and the sights and sounds of New Orleans.

COMING SOON PEACE AND HARMONY March 10-12 As it has done for the past 22 years, the Honolulu Festival will promote world harmony by shedding light on various cultures. honolulufestival.com

February 3-4 For two days, hundreds of volunteers will get little rest when they help stage Punahou School’s annual signature fundraising event. A tradition for many, the Punahou Carnival will feature food, rides and a White Elephant sale. punahou.edu

March 25 Some of Hawai’i’s top culinary talents will come together on one special evening to raise funds to help feed our hungry island residents. hawaiifoodbank.org

Educational Journey Through February 26 Island residents still have time to check out “Journeys: Heritage of

Golf and Sex Opens January 27 A hilarious romp, “The Fox on the Fairway” is reminiscent of the old-fashioned British style of farce with an elaborate plot and dizzy characters. The play spins around a golf tournament and pulls the rug out from underneath the stuffy members of a private country club. diamondheadtheatre.com

the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands” at the Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum. Extended through February 26, the exhibit explores the 12,000 miles of small islands, atolls and barely submerged reefs known as the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. bishopmuseum.org/ journeys

WE’RE JAMMIN’ April 29 Join Sir SPAM-a-Lot and other Spammies during the 15th annual SPAM Jam. The evening will feature entertainment and lot of SPAM. spamjamhawaii.com 32

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Fat Tuesday

February 14 Island residents will get a dose of the Big Easy during the 17th annual Mardi Gras Carnaval in Chinatown. The evening will feature live music, N’awlins-inspired food and a colorful costume contest.

Carnival Time

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