122312 DO Opt

AN EDITION OF

DEC. 23-29 2012

eels in khot r vorites. g n a u ity fa r JJ L Owne h of Crab C c a cat

’Tis the season to head over to Crab City, a seafood lover’s paradise where eating with your hands is always messy and highly encouraged.

See Page 4 | Leah Friel photo

ALSO: Ready, set, sushi! | 8

Doing it veggie-style at The Fat Greek | 9 Tropical Tribe has acai like no other | 12

ono,youknow Good to Grill

Kit n Kitchen

Hee Hing Restaurant

Happy Holidays with a

Twist on

By Alana Folen | Photos by Leah Friel

an, oh man, time is flying by at a blink of an eye. Tomorrow is Christmas Eve and Christmas Day will be here before we know it (ahem, my favorite holiday ever)! Lots of little ones will be hitting the hay early tomorrow night anticipating a visit from Santa and his reindeer. To tell you the truth, it was always difficult for me to fall asleep as a child on Christmas Eve because I was beyond excited to wake up with my family to fun-filled gifts under the tree.

Now, fast forward 20 years or so later, and the feeling is almost the same. The

M

excitement is still there, however, I can’t wait to fall asleep tomorrow night so that I can wake up and eat a huge Christmas breakfast! Breakfast is the perfect meal, but sadly a lot of times I don’t have the time or energy to experience it in all its glory. But alas, now that the holidays are here, breakfast is even more of a big deal — it’s a feast! Everything is a little more extravagant this time of year, isn’t it?

So, this week, Ono readers, it’s time to put a twist on Christmas breakfast and devour tasty delights that are out of the ordinary. Although breakfast may not be served on Christmas Day at the following

Ono, You Know establishments, it’s Christmas every day as far as my tummy is concerned when it comes to these dishes. Happy Holidays, everyone!

– See page 18

Above: The editor loves to get a healthy start to the day with Good to Grill’s Tofu, Veggies and Egg Whites Omelette ($7.99).

Far Left: Kit n Kitchen’s Omurice ($10.95) Left: Kit n Kitchen owners May and Kit Yiu with Omurice

Dining Out Dining Out is a weekly advertising supplement published by the Honolulu Star-Advertiser.

EDITOR Alana Folen Phone: 529.4854 diningout@staradvertiser.com

SALES MANAGER Sandi Sakaguchi Phone: 342.8802 SSakaguchi@staradvertiser.com

SPECIAL SECTIONS EDITOR Bill Mossman Phone: 529.4863 diningout@staradvertiser.com

Visit us at dining.staradvertiser.com

2 | DINING OUT | DEC. 23-29, 2012

OPEN EVERY EVE & DAY Server Nicky Wong with Ribeye Beef Set A (File photos)

With cooler days and nights in full swing, it's the perfect time to warm up to Shabu Shabu House. Renowned for its melt-in-your-mouth hot pot dining, Shabu Shabu House opened its doors eight years ago, and since then has gained a multitude of loyal patrons addicted to the restaurant’s delicious shabu shabu and sukiyaki fare. It’s fun for the entire family as the eatery offers a hands-on dining experience where you can cook everything to your liking.

Shabu Shabu House is located at 1221 Kapiolani Blvd. #108.

For hours of operation, call 597.1655.

Beef Shabu Shabu Set and Seafood Shabu Shabu Set

Shop and dine 10am to 10pm Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Dine even later.

FREE GIFT WRAPPING Thursday, December 20 to Monday, December 24 Noon to 10pm FREE FIRST HOUR PARKING, then $1 per hour up to three additional hours with validation

Like us on

@RoyalHwnCtr

DINING OUT | DEC. 23-29, 2012 | 3

Crab City owner JJ Luangkhot

hoy, matey! There’s plenty of fish in the sea, but Crab City throws down the anchor when it comes to offering a Southern-style seafood boil right here in the Islands. Owner JJ Luangkhot, who also owns JJ Bistro & French Pastry, opened the doors to this seafood establishment on Waialae Avenue this past summer, and has been reeling in the masses ever since.

Dining Out recently paid a visit to Crab City to “sea” what all the hype is about, and boy, were we impressed. As soon as we set foot into the eatery, we were greeted by the irresistible aroma of fresh seafood seasoned to perfection amid a welcoming atmosphere decked out in washed up fishing nets and surfboards. Luangkhot welcomed us with a feast, and we dove right in to take in all that is Crab City. One thing’s for certain: Utensils are a no-go — no plates, knives or forks. Just grab a seafood cracker, prepare to get your hands dirty and get down to business.

Combo No. 2 ($48)

3441 Waialae Ave., Honolulu 780.3115 open Daily, 11 a.m.-midnight

4 | DINING OUT | DEC. 23-29, 2012 •

DO: Tell us about the Crab City dining experience? What does it offer its customers?

Luangkhot: Here at Crab City we offer a picnic under the sea. It’s a family-style seafood dining experience. It’s always a lot of fun when you’re here, and we encourage people to get messy and use their hands. It’s not your average restaurant and it’s definitely not fine-dining. For example, sheets of paper take the place of table cloths, bibs are provided to avoid a mess on your clothing, your meal comes in a large plastic bag loaded with your seafood favorites soaked in your preferred sauce, and seafood remnants go into buckets.

Salt and Pepper Shrimp ($9.99)

Combo No. 1 ($48) DO: It seems like seafood hot spots are popping up across town. What sets Crab City apart from other restaurants like this?

Luangkhot: Our sauces really stand out and they are less oily than our competitors. We like to use real butter, so it really absorbs into the seafood, and the taste is fantastic!

DO: Give us a glimpse of the menu.

What are some best-selling items?

Luangkhot: There’s a lot of seafood to choose from, including lobster, Dungeness crab, king crab, snow crab, blue crab, crawfish, shrimp and more.

Many people like to order Crab City Special Combos. There’s three combo options to select from: No. 1 has lobster, crawfish, mussel, shrimp and clam ($48); No. 2, the most popular, includes Dungeness crab, crawfish, mussel, shrimp and clam ($48); and No. 3 features snow crab, crawfish, shrimp, mussel and clam ($38).

DO: Second to the sumptuous seafood is a myriad of savory sauces. What types of sauces are available?

Luangkhot: Yes, our sauces are the best! We have Cajun Style, Lemon Garlic Butter and Garlic Butter sauces.

Customers also can choose their level of spice, whether they want it mild, medium or volcanic.

Lemon Garlic Butter is the most mild of the sauces, and if you prefer a spicy sauce, Cajun Style is the way to go. All

Crab City Hot Wings ($8.99) people like to stay home with their families. Also as a holiday gift, when patrons dine at Crab City they will receive 10 percent off desserts from JJ Bistro & French Pastry. In addition, we will welcome 2013 by offering 15 percent off on any visit to the restaurant in January. So, Chocolate Pyramid (ranges from $25-$85 if customers come to dine this month, depending on size) | Leah Friel photo they will receive a discount to be taken advantage of in January. Lastly, diners can receive $5 off the famous Chocolate great flavor of Crab City’s cuisine?

Pyramid from JJ Bistro & French Pastry Luangkhot: First of all, our seafood is Sweet Potato Fries ($5.99), fresh. Secondly, our sauces are very when they dine at Crab City. Chocolate Rolls ($1.50 each), Cajun Fries ($4.99) good. When you combine those two, it’s Pyramid ranges from $25 to $85 depending on size. of these sauces are our very own, and always a success. we’ve worked hard to perfect them.

DO: What is Crab City looking forDO: Do customers need to make dinward to in the new year?

DO: The seafood is succulent and very ing reservations?

Luangkhot: We’re working on impleLuangkhot: I recommend reservafresh. Where does Crab City obtain its tions be made for large groups. For menting more specials in 2013 to keep seafood? our loyal customers happy and to draw in Luangkhot: Currently, all of our smaller groups, walk-ins are fine. first-timers. We also might include a seafood is imported from Portland and DO: Is Crab City offering anything variety of new sauces on the menu. Right Seattle, and it is shipped here twice a now, I feel that the variety of sauces that week. The freshness of our seafood is top special for the holidays?

Luangkhot: With the holidays here, we have is too limited. priority for us. we are giving our patrons special deals, DO: Crab City has been doing well DO: Besides the combos and other such as the combo special available now entree items, there is a plethora of sides to Dec. 31. When customers order and is always bustling with hungry dinto complete your dining adventure. Yes? Combo No. 1 or Combo No. 2, they can ers. What is the best time to dine to avoid Luangkhot: Exactly. Customers also get a side order of seafood for half-price, a wait?

Luangkhot: To avoid a wait, the best can order seafood on the side, as well as including king crab, snow crab, Crab City hot wings, sweet corn, Cajun Dungeness crab or Maine lobster. time to come is between 3 and 5 p.m. fries, sausage, rice, edamame and more. Patrons can even take advantage of this People love seafood, and this style of special when ordering meals to go dining is unique. It’s always bound to be DO: What is the secret behind the because a lot of times during the holidays a good time here at Crab City.

DINING OUT | DEC. 23-29, 2012 | 5

Festive buffets for the holidays

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elebrate Christmas and New Year’s Day dim sum style at The Mandalay in downtown Honolulu.

Known for its fresh, cooked-to-order Hong Kongstyle dim sum, the familyfriendly restaurant offers a special Dim Sum Brunch Buffet on Christmas and New Year’s Day with sittings at 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Price is $21.99 for adults, $17.99 for seniors age 60 and over, $13.99 for children age 4 to 12, and free for children 3 and under.

There are 17 classic dim sum dishes such as Pork Hash and Beef Balls; seven stir-fried entrees such as Char Siu Chow Funn and Salt and Pepper Shrimp; four salads; Egg Flower Soup; and eight different desserts, including Red Bean Gin Dui, Egg Custard Tarts and Almond Tofu.

It’s the perfect meal for

THE MANDALAY WHERE 1055 Alakea St., Honolulu CALL 525.8585 HOURS 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m. daily WEBSITE themandalayhawaii.com

GRAND OPENING

Authentic Korean Cuisine

10% OFF

OurMustWhole Menu! present coupon.

BYOB

Exp 12/31/12

anybody who loves dim sum.

For dinner, the restaurant has created a Christmas Day and New Year’s Day Dinner Buffet Menu with sittings at 5 and 7:30 p.m. Cost is $28.99 for adults, $24.99 for seniors age 60 and over, $17.99 for children age 4 to 12, and free 1 3

1 Sauteed Mix Seafood in Taro Basket ($19.95 small, $38 large) 2 Assortment of dim sum (part of the buffet) 3 Owners Linda and Larry Chan 4 Peking Duck (part of the buffet) Nathalie Walker photos

Special Economy Holiday Menu

$138 for 10 people

Chicken with Corn Soup Fried Crispy Whole Chicken Walnut Shrimp Salt & Pepper Pork Chop w/ Tofu Steamed Fish Filet w/ Ginger Onion Shanghai Cabbage w/ Meat Sauce Beef Noodle w/ Veggies Steamed Rice Dine-in/Take-out available.

Cannot combine with other discounts or specials

with purchase over $10

(reg $18.00) *with 1 reg. priced entree. Dine-In Only.

Cannot combine with other discounts or specials

YAKINIKU

after 2pm on Mon - Fri Chicken, Carnitas, or Steak

MILLION

EXPIRES 12/31/12

SPICY FRIED SMALL

Octopus

366-8226

only

15

$

95

• Million Naeng Myun Cold Buckwheat Noodle topped with Kalbi & Meat Jun

• Book A Kook

• Sul Lung Tang Beef & Tendon Soup

• Bi Bim Bap

(behind Walmart)

SUN-THUR 11AM-MIDNIGHT/ FRI-SAT 11AM-2AM

50% OFF

DINE-IN

$ 95

5

with coupon

TAKE-OUT

Mixed Rice with Veggies & Beef

626 SHERIDAN ST.

Buy 1 Plate, Get the 2nd

for Lunch 11am-2pm

Dried Pollock Soup

Diamond Head Plaza 3045 MONSARRAT AVE

(Across from Pan Am Bldg.)

www.tropical-tribe.com

Serving Hawaii Since 1989

Christmas Special

456-5345

Open Daily 8am - 6:30pm 1637 Kapiolani Blvd.

Lungfunghawaii.com • Open Daily 11am-9pm 5724 Kalanianaole Hwy • Niu Valley Shopping Ctr. LOTS OF FREE PARKING | Dine-in/Take-out available daily.

744-3440

EXPIRES 12/31/12

Chips & Salsa

Coupon Required.

Exp: 12/27/12.

Whole Lobster $12.95

377-5555 or 377-5566

CHOGAJIB KOREAN RESTAURANT 825 Keeaumoku St. #111 Open Daily 10am - 4am

2

2nd entree of equal or lesser value.

Cannot combine w/ other discounts/offers.

Exp. 12/27/12.

$6.95

596-0799

1006 Kapahulu Ave. Open Daily 7am-10pm • 688-8891

(Corner of Kaimuki Ave/Kapahulu Ave)

4

for children 3 and under).

The dinner buffet menu features Roasted Pig, Snow Crab Legs, Peking Duck with Bun, Prime Rib and Shrimp Cocktail; plus Egg Flower Soup; four types of salads such as Chinese Chicken Salad and Tofu with Watercress Salad; 10 stir-fried entrees; and seven desserts.

For both lunch and dinner, customers also can choose to order from the regular menu instead of the buffet, and there will be specials such as Sauteed Mix Seafood in a Taro Basket ($19.95 small, feeds four to six people, $38 large, feeds 10 to 12 people).

Seating for the brunch and dinner buffet is limited, call for reservations. Public parking is available at neighboring Alii Place. If you’re dining after 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, or anytime on Saturday and Sunday, validated parking is available at Bishop Square (across the street).

T R AT T O R I A & W I N E B A R

Tuesday, December 25, 2012

Complete Dinners Served 11 A.M. - Midnight

1695 1395 Hibachi Chicken $ 50 & Shrimp Kabobs 14 $

Prime Rib Roast Holiday Turkey $ w/ Smoked Ham

Dinners Include: Salad Bar, Corn on the Cob, Bread Pudding, Beverage and More!

Breakfast Special: Egg Benedict Royal

1050

$

BREAKFAST • LUNCH • HAPPY HOUR DINNER • DESSERT • LATE NIGHT

955-1764 Open 24 Hours 1860 Ala Moana Blvd. Validated Parking

ROYAL HAWAIIAN CENTER • VALIDATED PARKING WWW.ILLUPINO.COM • 808.922.3400 DINING OUT | DEC. 23-29, 2012 | 7

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KOZO SUSHI 4

MOILIILI 951.5696 Monday-Thursday, 9:30 a.m.7 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m.8 p.m.; Sunday, 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m.

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KAHALA MALL 738.5696 Kahala Mall. Monday-Thursday, 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sunday, 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m.

PEARLRIDGE 483.6805 Monday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m.9 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

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It’s no party without sushi

KAPAHULU 739.2785 Daily, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

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he seemingly endless holiday season is typified by slow-moving traffic, long lines, crowded stores and an overall sense of dread knowing the repeat is just 330 days away. Thankfully, the holidays also mean get-togethers and the necessity for portable food that is tasty and varied. In other words, pupus, but the platter.

Kozo Sushi’s most popular holiday bring-along is Deluxe Maki Set ($25.99). No wonder.

It has nearly everything a party guest could want. The platter

PEARL CITY 455.6805 Daily, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

KEEAUMOKU 946.5696 Monday-Thursday, 9:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m.8 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

1 Sukeroku plate ($19.50) 2 Deluxe Maki Set ($25.99) 3 Family set ($25.99) 4 Aloha Set ($25.99) 5 Junior Set ($16.99) 6 Cashier Annie Liu with Deluxe Maki Set

includes 24 pieces of maki sushi split among ume, pickled radish, cucumber and kampyo.

In addition, there are 24 pieces of hosomaki and four inari.

Not exactly what you’re looking for? Sukeroku Plate ($19.50) offers 12 pieces of inari sushi, 24 pieces of futomaki made with tofu, egg and cucumber, and kampyo.

Need to fulfill a wish for fish?

No problem. Aloha Set ($25.99) has 25 pieces of nigiri featuring ahi, ika, egg, shrimp and salmon. You also get 18 por-

tions of hosomaki.

Not sure what to get? Family Set ($25.99) is a large combination of just about everything Kozo offers including nigiri, inari, makisushi and hosomaki.

Has the office party slowly devolved from a raucus night time wine and food fest into a minor get together?

Junior Set ($16.99) may just be what you need. Thirty portions

of sushi has enough nigiri and hosomaki to satisfy your cubicle mate and any other wandering cohort or two.

Nathalie Walker photos

GRAND OPENING SPECIAL

✁

% 10 OFF Entire Menu

• Pepperoni or Cheese Pizza • Small Salad • (2) Soft Drinks

Lunch Dinner

Reg. $19 *Offer not valid with other offers/ discounts. Expires 12/27/12

Daily 11am-3pm Daily 5pm-10pm

14

$

Ward Center

375-1200 Tues-Sun 11am-9pm • Closed Mondays

(next to Ryan’s Grill)

www.infernospizzahawaii.com

8 | DINING OUT | DEC. 23-29, 2012

95

24

$

95

with coupon

All-You-Can-Eat Buffet includes hot entree bar.

Senior/Military Discounts Available Mon.-Thurs.

Cannot be combined with other offers. Exp. 12/27/12.

BYOB

Stadium Mall 4510 Salt Lake Blvd. 486-3311

at, drink and be merry! What a great sentiment, and one many of us embrace with enthusiasm this time of year.

Of course, overindulgence does have its drawbacks in packing on those post-holiday pounds.

Well, you can party hearty, veggie lovers. We have the skinny on a savory special to celebrate five years of success at The Fat Greek's Kaimuki location — and there’s no meat or fish involved, so without all that … well, fat, it’s kinder to the waistline.

This is no Trojan horse (come on, get out your

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VO

history books).

Owner Francois Provenza has a great big birthday gift for all The Fat Greek’s customers — and especially all you Dining Out readers who really love to veg out. He’s created a special vegetarian platter overflowing with a variety of

Terri Hefner

RSVP Today!

Dim Sum $ 98

Served 7am Daily

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Take-out Orders Welcomed

✃

The Fat Greek WHERE 3040 Waialae Ave., Honolulu

NOTES Also in Ala Moana (949.2120), Waikiki (941.3444) and Kailua (230.2300).

Greek specialties: falafel, dolmades (grape leaves stuffed with spiced rice), spanokopita (spinach and feta filo pie), feta cheese, Greek fries, babaganoush (baked eggplant dip), hummus, pita bread, Greek salad (lettuce, tomatoes, olives, feta, onions) — all for $20.

Can’t beat that price for a

111 N. King St. near Maunakea

No Credit Cards accepted for Special Menus

HOURS Open daily, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Nathalie Walker photos

Best “Japanese Style” Shabu Shabu in Hawaii

veg’with nout

CALL 734.0404

Above Holiday special vegetarian platter ($20) Left Chef Sekou Camara

Chinese Chicken Salad Ham & Scallop Soup • Peking Duck Walnut Shrimp • Crispy Skin Chicken Ginger & Onion Steamed Sea Bass Boneless Chicken Cake Noodle • Rice Shredded Duck In Taro Basket Chef’s Dessert of Day

taste trip to the sunny isles of Greece.

"I want to thank customers for their support the past five years with this holiday special," says Provenza, who adds that you also can create your own platter, picking and choosing your favorites from The Fat Greek’s menu. Ask your server for details.

Beware of Greeks bearing gifts?

Bah, humbug! The Fat Greek is just as jolly as … you know who.

Merry Christmas.

Contact Terri Hefner at diningout@staradvertiser.com

15% OFF

Dine In, Take Out or Catering for the Month of December.

Private Party Menu Available for All Groups

with this ad

735.1122

1137 11th ave

Belly Dancing (1st & 3rd Sunday)

Hilton For The Holidays Leave the cooking behind and treat your family to world-class service as you dine beachfront at one of the fabulous Hilton Hawaiian Village restaurants this holiday season.

Choose from a wide variety of sumptuous holiday menu options New Year’s Eve, December 31, 2012. With settings from casual to grand, you’ll find tempting choices for your holiday celebration.

BALI STEAK & SEAFOOD ____________________ FOUR COURSE DINNER

First Seating, 6:00 pm – $160.00 Second Seating, 8:15 pm – $190.00 Featuring entrées such as Filet Mignon and Lobster Ravioli, Prime New York Strip, Seared Diver Scallops or Baked Lobster Tail TROPICS BAR & GRILL ____________________ FOUR COURSE DINNER

5:00 pm - 10:00 pm Adult $70.00 / Child $35.00 (12 years and under) Entrée choice of Old Lahaina Rum & Brown Sugar Pan Seared Salmon Steak or Parsley Crusted Rack of Lamb RA I N BO W L A N A I ____________________ DINNER BUFFET

5:00 pm - 9:30 pm Adult $59.00 / Child $29.00 (12 years and under) Decadent buffet featuring a Prime Rib carving station, Island Fish, Roast Tom Turkey, Steamed Snow Crab Legs, a pasta station, assorted dim sum and an array of desserts

Open Christmas Day December 25th

Call In Your Orders Today!

Shabu Shabu or any Sukiyaki Set featuring our special sukiyaki sauce. Exp. 12/27/12

Mon-Sat 11am-2pm (last call 1:30pm) Dinner Nightly 5pm-10pm (last call 9:30pm) Validated Parking • 1221 Kapiolani Blvd. • 597-1655

Pearlridge Pearlridge(Phase 83-6805 . . . . . . .II) . .........4 483-6805 Moiliili ............................................9951-5696 51-5696 (KOZO) Kahala Mall .........................7738-5696 38-5696 (KOZO) Pearl City by Wal-Mart ..........4455-6805 55-6805

Call today for reservations

949-4321 ext.39 To view a complete menu, visit www.hiltonhawaiianvillage.com/dining

WWW.KOZOSUSHIHAWAII.NET

DINING OUT | DEC. 23-29, 2012 | 9

Okinawan • Japanese Steak • Seafood Local Favorites Buy One Entrée Get the second

50% OFF*

*Some exclusions may apply. Exp. 12/31/12

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veryone feels like a VIP when walking through the doors of Japengo at Hyatt Regency, as each area of the restaurant has a different feel from the rest, making each dining experience intimate.

There are separate rooms adorned with modern light fixtures, as well as traditional dining tables that sit within tall glass windows, which open up diners to the beautiful Waikiki sky.

To match the modern beauty Japengo has to offer, chef de cuisine

Michael Imada and the rest of the culinary staff have created a dessert menu that satisfies all tastebuds.

Japengo Coconut Crème Brulee ($10) is the restaurant’s signature dish, and it’s not hard to see why.

The coconut-flavored custard sits atop a bed of

shredded coconut within the coconut shell and pairs well with the chocolate toffee garnish delicately placed alongside it.

Molokai Sweet Potato Cheesecake ($10) is topped with azuki beans, acai berry syrup and little chunks of Okinawan sweet

Top right Molokai Sweet Potato Cheesecake ($10) Right Japengo Coconut Creme Brulee ($10) Below Banana Lumpia ($10) Nathalie Walker photos

10 | DINING OUT | DEC. 23-29, 2012

JAPENGO WHERE Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa Ewa Tower, third floor CALL 237.6140 HOURS Open nightly for dinner, 6-10 p.m.

Sushi bar and lounge open at 5:30 p.m.

potato, and tuile (made from egg whites and powdered sugar) is added for an extra visual effect.

Sliced apple bananas and macapuno coconut fill the caramel-topped Banana Lumpia ($10), and nothing goes better with banana lumpia than a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

“It’s normally just served straight, as it is,” Imada explains.

“But the vanilla ice cream is complementary, the flavors go well together.”

He also says that the macapuno adds a unique texture, flavor and concept to the dish.

And it’s good to know that a lot of the food on Japengo’s menu is locally sourced, or thoughtfully sourced as Imada says, such as Molokai sweet potato and locally grown apple bananas.

Despite the fantastic desserts that embellish Japengo’s locally inspired menu, Imada says that his staff is his pride and joy.

“Our menu has a lot of staff contribution to it,” he says. “I’m very proud of them.”

Violet’s Special

Holiday Special Menu Dec. 21-25 and Dec 28-Jan 1

Seafood Winter Melon Soup Shrimp Avocado Salad w/Soy ginger dressing Mu Shu Duck Roll Award Winning Honey Walnut Shrimp Mahi fillet over Baby Bok Choy Crispy Skin Roasted Duck Ever Popular Orange Chicken Chef Special Fried Rice Holiday Desserts $238 table of 10 $108 table of 4 Ilima Award Winner

Mahalo for your Generous Support

Sun-Thu 10:30am-10:30pm; Fri/Sat 10:30am-Midnite 1113 Smith St.

545-3008

Free Parking

KITCHEN INSIDER lways wonder what goes on behind the scenes at your favorite restaurant? Well, much credit goes to the many chefs, owners and managers who work diligently day in and day out to make sure Hawaii’s diners have a top-notch dining experience.

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Who or what inspires you as a chef/manager/owner? As a manager, it gives me a sense of pride when people recognize, trust and are loyal to our brand. It’s also inspiring that, we, being a franchise-owned store, can fulfill or even exceed customers’expectations, especially those who have known Max’s from the Philippines.

This week, Dining Out gets the inside scoops from Waipahu Max’s of Manila's branch manager Kate del Callar, who gives us a little taste of Max’s and shares just what fuels her culinary drive.

Photo courtesy of Max’s of Manila

What is the biggest compliment you’ve ever received as a chef/manager/owner? More than anything else, a sincere “thank you” or “you’ve been very helpful” are the best compliments you can get from a customer. It’s a nice feeling being able to solve their problems and/or satisfy their needs.

I especially love seeing repeat customers who come back for the experience.

What is your favorite dish on the menu? Why? Max’s Fried Chicken.

It’s my comfort food. I can associate a lot of good memories with our fried chicken, such as family gatherings, special occasions, etc.

What is your favorite ingredient to work with? Why? Vegetables that are natively grown in the Philippines, but are locally available here. It makes a Filipino dish more authentic.

Is there a dish that you create that's not on your menu, but available upon request? Every now and then we come up with different specials, those that are only available here at our Hawaii stores.

We also have vegetarian options for customers, Filipinos and nonsome of our dishes.

Filipinos. We want to know more what customers think and feel about What are your culinary goals? our products and services, and from What do you hope to improve on? their suggestions, comments and We are hoping to reach out to more feedback, find ways to improve.

Name Kate del Callar Title Branch Manager of Max's of Manila Waipahu Training/education Bachelor's Degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management

Max's of Manila

801 Dillingham Blvd., Honolulu | Daily, 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

94-300 Farrington Hwy., Waipahu | Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

951.MAXS (6297)

LIVE JAZZ Featuring Jazz pianist, vocalist and composer Maggie Herron. Her previous experience includes songwriting and performing for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios, extensive performances throughout the West Coast, Pacific Northwest and Hawaii.

MAGGIE HERRON & ROCKY HOLMES Tuesday-Saturday NOLY PAA Sunday-Monday ENTERTAINMENT TIMES: Sun-Thu 8:30pm – 12 midnight Fri & Sat 8:30pm – 12:30am

www.halekulani.com

LOUNGE OPENS AT 7:30PM NIGHTLY DINING OUT | DEC. 23-29, 2012 | 11

TROPICAL TRIBE WHERE 1637 Kapiolani Blvd., Honolulu (across from 24-hour fitness) CALL 366.8226 HOURS Monday-Thursday and Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Fridays, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Closed Sundays

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E

ven though you probably already have a favorite spot for acai bowls, you have to trust me when I say that you’ve never had one like the bowls offered at Tropical Tribe, one of the latest food trucks to hit Honolulu’s streets. With a

WEBSITE Tropical-Tribe.com 1 Owner Andre Alves de Moraes with Tropical Tribe Bowl ($8 regular, $9.50 large) Leah Friel file photos 2 Classic Tribe Bowl ($7 regular, $8.50 large) 3 Tropical Tribe Bowl ($8 regular, $9.50 large) Nathalie Walker photo 4 Strawberry Tribe smoothie ($6)

2

3

12 | DINING OUT | DEC. 23-29, 2012

4

clear mission to introduce Hawaii to an authentic, Brazilian acai experience, owner Andre Alves de Moraes skillfully crafts the purest blend of this “super berry� around. “The first time I came to America, I visited Florida about 10 years ago,� says Alves de Moraes, who is originally from Sao Paulo, Brazil. “I had an acai bowl and realized how different it was from the acai we have in Brazil.�

According to Alves de Moraes, American versions of the popular fruit dish are watered down and clouded with other ingredients that not only mask the taste of pure acai, but also diminish its plenitude of proteins,

vitamins and antioxidants.

After moving to Hawaii in 2010, the owner researched how to offer traditional acai bowls in the Islands, a process that eventually led him to open his food truck on Kapiolani Boulevard this past summer.

Tropical Tribe’s menu presents the most refreshing of smoothies, drinks and bowls made from healthy ingredients imported directly from Brazil.

If there’s one dish you have to try, it’s the acai explosion known as a Tropical Tribe Bowl ($8, regular; $9.50, large).

Based on traditional preparations cultivated in the Amazon region of Brazil, this bowl features a simple fruit base: Slightly bitter acai is mixed with sweet guarana — another Brazilian superfruit — for a perfectly balanced flavor only nature could come up with. “The original recipe is basically just acai and guarana — nothing else. I don’t even mix ice,� explains Alves de Moraes. “It’s a very, very pure blend.�

As a result, each serving is a bona fide feast of acai flavor, mirrored in the unaltered, deep-purple color of the blended berries. Once bedazzled with a harmonious combination of strawberries, blueberries, bananas, honey and locally made granola, this dish is genuinely amazing! “Tropical Tribe is the only place in Hawaii that follows the original recipe,� says Alves de Moraes. “As soon as people started tasting the acai, they fell in love. I have a lot of really loyal customers, and it’s growing.�

Try our Shoyu Ramen with Gyoza!

2080 S. King Street (past McCully St.)

(808) 947-5919

Our Broths are made from scratch with no MSG!

Mon: 5-10pm | Tues-Fri: 11am-2:30pm/5-10pm Sat: 11am-10pm | Sun: 11am-9pm

e a FR EE v i e c Re Certificate t Kobe Gif withfrom the purchase of

10

$

each $50 Gift Certificate.

1841 Ala Moana Blvd.

Between Ilikai & Hilton Hawaiian Village

941-4444

Dinner served from 5:30 nightly • Valet parking available

lighting up and

holidays,

taste buds too.

christmas day brunch buffet december 25, 2012 • 9:00am ~ 1:30pm adult, $ 80 * children, $ 40 * (6-12 years old)

beachhousewaikiki.com • 921-4600 Reservations Recommended • Complimentary valet parking.

Price does not include tax and gratuity.

Prices, hours, and menu items are subject to change.

ethnicfaves

Kobe keeps it deliciously real

By Rachel Breit

E

ven the timid will succumb to Kobe Japanese Steak house’s Sixty-Nine roll ($18), a California roll aptly named for the “position” of a filleted unagi. The rolls — creamy crab and avocado rolled up with crunchy cucumber and topped with the tender baked eel —

KOBE JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE 1841 Ala Moana Blvd.

941.4444 Open daily, Lounge 5-10 p.m.; Dining 5:30-10 p.m.; Happy hour 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Valet Parking $5

need little coaxing from plate to mouth. In fact, their approachability was not an afterthought. The roll’s recipe is a variation of the

10% OFF

Cash Sale Only (With Coupon)

eight rolls come per order; receive a 20 percent discount during happy hour in the lounge from 5:30 to 7:30 nightly on all sushi orders.

Another dish to dive into is Hamachi Kama ($14), the collar meat of the Japanese amberjack or yellowtail, which has a crispy top and buttery flesh.

Simply baked with salt and pepper, and served with lemon and shoyu for Sixty-Nine Roll ($18) optional seasoning, the rusHamachi Kama ($14) tic and traditional dish utiRachel Breit photos lizes the meat from the fish that remains after sashimi is cut. Share the new pupu “rock and roll” style of menu item with friends and sushi that originates from enjoy with hot rice. second-generation Japanese sushi chefs on the West Coast. The cooked, rather than raw, ingredients are SANTA VISITS at 6PM credited for the success of on CHRISTMAS EVE! assimilating sushi into the SPECIAL HOLIDAY MENUS American appetite. Six to ♦

5% OFF

Excludes Set Menus; Roast Pork, Roast Duck, Char Siu & other specials. 5%, 10% and lobster special not to be combined with any other offer/discounts/ specials. Expires 12/31/12. Must present coupon.

12

with purchase of Full Price Entree Valid 5-10:30pm

Liliha Square by Times Supermarket

524-1628

CHRISTMAS DINNER BUFFET

Celebrating 11 Years!

Carving Station - Prime rib, roast pork ♦ Seafood Station ♦ Entrees - Roast turkey with stuffing, Chinese entrees and much more ♦ Seafood Station Alaskan crab legs, seafood black sauce, pepper salt shrimp, and more ♦ Hawaiian Luau Station ♦ Dessert Station ♦ Adults $28.95 Seniors $27.95 Keikis (4 to 12) $14.50

Dim Sum Take Out Special! 8am-11:30am

with purchase of Full Price Entree Valid 5-10:30pm

10% OFF(Charge) • 15% OFF(Cash) Dim Sum & Reg. Menu Dine In Special!

5% OFF(Charge) •10% OFF(Cash)

GIFT CERTIFICATE SPECIAL Purchase $100 gift card and receive $20 dining certificate for use in 2013

Excludes Set Menu; Roast Pork, Roast Duck, Char Siu & other specials.

5%, 10% and lobster special are not to be combined with any other offer/discounts/specials. Expires 12/31/12. Must present coupon.

449 KAPAHULU AVE., STE 101 www.HeeHingHawaii.com

Happy Day Chinese Restaurant 3553 Waialae Avenue

738-8666

Ward Centre (Auahi Streetfront) 1200 Ala Moana Blvd (808) 596-0066 Kailua (Next to Boots & Kimo’s) 151 Hekili St (808) 230-8400

Carving Station: Roast beef, roast pork ♦ Hong Kong Dim Sum Station ♦ Entrees - Roast turkey with stuffing, steamed fish, Chinese entrees, pepper salt shrimp and much more ♦ Salad Station: over 20 international salad ♦ Hawaiian Luau Station ♦ Dessert Station: homemade pies, chiffon cakes, almond float and more! ♦ Adults $23.95 Seniors $22.95 Keikis (4 to 12) $11.95

99

Nice Day Chinese Seafood Restaurant

Lobster $1299

Offer valid thru 12/31/12.

Free $5 gift certificate valid on your next visit until 1/31/13.

CHRISTMAS BRUNCH BUFFET

Lobster $

Receive a FREE $5 gift certificate with the purchase of $50 in gift cards

Chinese Chicken Salad Golden Mushroom Scallop Soup ♦ Hong Kong Crispy Chicken ♦ Maine Lobster with Scallion Ginger ♦ Shanghai Garlic Honey Ribs Beef and Fresh Asparagus ♦ Hunan Tofu Steamed Rice ♦ Almond Float Dessert $239 Table of 10** (reg. $269)

Credit Card Sale Only (With Coupon)

Hong Kong Dim Sum & Regular Menu Items

A little something extra…

735-5544

10.95 per person

$

Ala Moana Center Ho‘okipa Terrace s 808.356.8300

Queens’ MarketPlace Waikoloa Beach Resort

808.443.5515

www.macaronigrill.com

Specials not valid on Holidays. Advance Reservations required, please call 971-1818.$3 self park validation only.

Seafoodvillagehawaii.com Ask about our Kama‘aina Discount

Hyatt Regency Resort& Spa-Street Level•2424 Kalakaua Ave., Ewa Tower

10 person minimum

Chicken Salad w/Oriental Dressing 4 TYPES OF DIM SUM (BBQ Pork, Chive Dumpling, Pork Hash, Seafood Dumpling) Beef & Broccoli Kalua Short Ribs Stir-Fried Assorted Vegetables Minute Chicken Fried Noodle DESSERT: Almond Float • DINING OUT | DEC. 23-29, 2012 | 13

... dining out ...

inside

F E AT U R E ........ ............

Oriental Breakfast ($6.95)

A

s New Violet’s Grill prepares to undergo some long-anticipated renovations, its friendly staff and management make it a point to ensure customers that their favorite meals are here to stay.

Joey Suehisa, who co-owns the Kalihi eatery in Kapalama Shopping Center with her sister Cindy, explains that the shopping center is currently going through a face lift aimed at improving both the parking lot and facades of the buildings. Along with additional changes to the interior of the eatery that are planned for 2013 to coincide with the shopping center remodeling project, Suehisa mentions that the restaurant’s menu also will be improved, including the addition of a kid’s menu as the establishment strives to become more family friendly.

While the eatery has remained a part of the Kalihi community for more than 60 years, the Suehisa family has owned the restaurant for nearly 16 years after taking over the operation and continuing the tradition started by its two previous owners.

“The food has more of a Japanese and Okinawan influence, and the restaurant offers a friendly atmosphere that really makes guests feel like family,” Suehisa says when

14 | DINING OUT | DEC. 23-29, 2012

asked to describe the restaurant’s appeal to generations of loyal customers. “We’re going to fix things up in here,” she adds, when discussing the upcoming renovation that will truly put the “New” in New Violet’s Grill.

“We’re still going to be open even with the renovations going on,” she says, about the shopping center changes that recently got under way. “And, we’re going to make some changes in here to help the restaurant be more family-oriented. Also, my sister Cindy is thinking about eliminating the (handheld) menus and simply putting the different options on each table for customers to look at.”

New Violet’s Grill helps its customers start the day off right with a host of popular breakfast options, including Two Egg Breakfast ($6.95, add $1.50 for fried rice), which includes a choice of two strips of bacon, corned beef, ham, pork sausage, smoked meat or Portuguese sausage served alongside two eggs. The Oriental Breakfast ($6.95) features a breakfast set including rice, tofu, miso soup, an egg, and a choice of grilled ahi, mahi or saba and tsukemono.

Diners also enjoy classic favorites

Kayla Suehisa with Club House ($6.95)

such as Club House Sandwich ($6.95, $6.25 takeout), which includes a hearty portion of fries as well as a choice of tossed or macaroni salad. With the recent trend of windy, rainy weather, New Violet’s Large Saimin ($6.95, add $1.50 for vegetables; $4.95 takeout, add $1.10 for vegetables) is sure to warm up customers.

The Suehisas also recommend Okinawan Miso Soup ($9.95 a la carte, $13.95 complete meal, $10.75 takeout), which is chock-full of pork, tofu, green onions, mustard cabbage, bean

sprouts and an egg. Goya with Chicken ($8.95 a la carte, $13.95 complete meal, $10.55 takeout) is another popular selection, as the stirfried dish, which also includes tofu, dashi and egg, can be ordered with chicken, pork or beef. The complete meals at New Violet’s Grill are accompanied by rice, tsukemono, miso soup or tossed salad, a beverage and a choice of Jell-O, pudding or ice cream for dessert.

In addition to its expansive menu options, New Violet’s Grill also offers a wide array of specials, including Grilled Ahi Belly ($16.95), Ahi Belly Nitsuke ($16.95), Grilled or Steamed Opakapaka ($16.95), Garlic Ahi ($14.95), Grilled Ahi Steak ($13.95), Steamed Saba ($13.95), Korean Fried Chicken ($15.95) and Mochiko Chicken ($15.95).

Through Dec. 24, New Violet’s Grill is offering special discounts to coincide with the holiday season.

Individuals receive 5 percent off all dine-in orders, while couples and groups of three or more receive 10 and 20 percent off their checks, respectively. These special discounts are available all day as a way for New Violet’s Grill to thank its loyal customers as the new year approaches.

Goya with Chicken ($8.95 a la carte, $13.95 complete meal, $10.55 takeout)

... dining out ...

inside

F E AT U R E ....................

Two Egg Breakfast ($6.95, add $1.50 for fried rice)

Large Saimin ($6.95, add $1.50 for vegetables; $4.95 takeout, add $1.10 for vegetables)

Okinawan Miso Soup ($9.95 a la carte, $13.95 complete meal, $10.75 takeout)

DINING OUT | DEC. 23-29, 2012 | 15

Himalayan Kitchen 1137 11th Ave. #205

Suman Basnet pulls Garlic Naan ($3.50) out of the traditional tandoori clay oven at Himalayan Kitchen.

735.1122 Hours Sunday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Tuesday-Friday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 5-10 p.m.

Monday and Saturday, 5-10 p.m.

with Christina O’Connor

THESIDE

ON

W

hen owner and head chef Suman Basnet opened Himalayan Kitchen in 2009, it was a longtime dream come true. Basnet, who is originally from Nepal, has worked in restaurants since he was 17 years old, initially as dishwasher. But he always loved food and started taking culinary classes.

“I just always really loved the industry — and loved the food. I mostly loved the cooking part,” he explains. “And I always wanted

Take a

Journey to the

Hımalayas

to have my own place. Being from Nepal … I wanted to do Nepalese and Indian fusion style food.

“When I started sitting down to make a menu, I started with just typical Nepalese and Indian dishes, and then we started to create our own.”

And that’s not all Basnet and the restaurant have been creating lately. If you haven’t visited the restaurant recently, it has expanded its dining area — adding a tranquil outdoor patio and a second dining room, which can accommodate private parties — an area that Basnet built himself. If you’re still looking for a place to have a holiday get-together, Himalayan Kitchen is open for Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, and the new room is the perfect place for an intimate get-together.

Also coming up for Himalayan Kitchen in the new year will be a new lunch menu, which is scheduled to be unveiled some time in January.

Everest Choeela ($7.95) and Mango Lassi ($5.50) | Rachel Breit photos

T

ucked away on 11th Avenue in Kaimuki, Himalayan Kitchen brings Nepalese and Indian cuisine to the Islands. The restaurant has been here just three-and-a-half years, but in that time, it’s managed to gather a slew of honors, including an Ilima Award.

“It is traditional Nepalese food, plus we are doing Indian-style food in a Nepalese way,” explains owner and head chef Suman Basnet.

The restaurant’s varied menu includes a range of different types of curries and grilled meats. Basnet also

16 | DINING OUT | DEC. 23-29, 2012 •

says that they receive a daily fresh catch of various kinds of local fish, including mahi mahi and ono. In addition, Himalayan Kitchen also has an ever-changing set of daily specials that the chefs create.

To start off your meal at Himalayan Kitchen on the right note, try appetizer treat Everest Choeela ($7.95), which features sliced tandoori grilled chicken marinated with ginger, garlic and jalapeno.

One of the most popular dishes is Mix Tandoori Grill ($17.95), a combination of chicken, lamb, fish and

shrimp. The dish is served with the restaurant’s popular house sauce.

“People love it, and (the sauce) goes with a number of Garlic Naan ($3.50)

entrees,” Basnet says.

Another popular entree is Himalayan Coconut Kadai Curry Sauce with Fish ($16.95), which features onion, tomato, ginger and a coconut-based sauce. The dish also can be served with chicken, lamb or vegetables.

And for vegetarian diners, Aloo Saag ($12.95) is a tasty option. The dish features ground spinach cooked with potatoes — all seasoned perfectly with ginger, garlic and mild spices.

No matter what entree you decide

eatthis

Christmas and New Year’s special for a limited time

Mix Tandoori Grill ($17.95)

By Jaimie Kim

C on, Garlic Naan ($3.50) is a tasty addition to any of them.

Customers also can create their own naan with other seasonings.

Another great complement for any of the dishes is Mango Lassi ($5.50), a sweet, yogurt-based beverage.

To finish off your meal, Himalayan Kitchen offers decadent desserts that include Himalayan Four Spice Chocolate Ice Cream ($6.95) and Kayashree’s Saffron Ice Cream ($6.95).

For all of its dishes, Himalayan Kitchen can cater to each customer’s personal preferences.

“Everything is cooked to order … We want to give you options, and you can kind of consider us your personal chef,” Basnet says.

“You can ask us how you want us to cook (each dish), because Himalayan Coconut Kadai Curry Sauce with Fish ($16.95)

Aloo Saag ($12.95)

there are so many possibilities with all of our items.” He also adds that vegans and vegetarians can substitute any ingredients for diet-friendly items.

Contact Christina O’Connor at diningout@staradvertiser.com

elebrate the end of 2012 with Anytime Cafe’s limited special Christmas and New Year’s four-course prix fixe meal.

For just $25.95 from Dec. 21 to Jan. 1, embark on a journey that will have your taste buds ringing in the new year with pure delight.

Start off with the first course appetizer, Fried Dumpling Salad, before swimming to the next course, Cream of Shrimp Soup.

For the main course, choose from three enticing options. Lobster Pasta features juicy lobster meat in a pink sauce (a medley of alfredo and red sauce) and is topped with a large lobster tail. Lightly battered and panfried, Turkey Breast is served with a marsala sauce. And, if you’re feeling a bit more carnivorous, Lamb Chops are tender and flavorful, served with a peppercorn sauce, pasta and vegetables.

Finally, end on a sweet note with creme brulee for dessert.

Of course, you’re more than welcome to stop in “anytime” and sample something from the regu-

ANYTIME CAFE WHERE Market City Shopping Center 2919 Kapiolani Blvd.

CALL 735.3888 HOURS Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-midnight Saturdays, 8 a.m.-10 p.m.

lar menu. Trust me, there are more than a few delectable options to choose from.

“We are like a cafe with different kinds of food,” shares Cindy Wong, who coowns the restaurant with husband Ken. Trio Shrimp Spaghetti ($15.95) is a favorite that remains popular among customers, and features a special sauce. Tiger shrimp, bay shrimp and a large shrimp with its head in tact and stuffed with crab meat, are served over pasta. The finishing touch is, of course, the sauce — a creamy white truffle sauce that is imported from Italy.

Look forward to a good time and a great meal no matter what time you enter the doors of Anytime Cafe.

Creme Brulee, Turkey Breast, Fried Dumpling Salad and Lobster Pasta Leah Friel photos

DINING OUT | DEC. 23-29, 2012 | 17

ono,youknow – From page 2

Good to Grill Best known for its meaty hits such as braised short ribs, prime rib, kalbi and hibachi chicken, Good to Grill also puts a spin on your go-to hearty breakfast of the usual eggs, sausage, waffles and choice of carbs, and goes the healthy route with its Tofu, Veggies and Egg Whites Omelette ($7.99). With all the splurging going on this time of year, this omelette is the perfect choice — it tastes good and is good for you!

According to restaurant general manager, Jesse Nicholson, Tofu, Veggies and Egg Whites Omelette features a colorful variety of guilt-free ingredients, including red and green bell peppers, onion, tomato, spinach and tofu nestled in a blanket of low-calorie egg whites. And since you can’t get much healthier than this, give yourself a break and indulge in a side of your choice, whether it be white or brown rice, white or wheat toast or hash potatoes (go ahead and opt for fried rice if you wish for $1 more).

“We’re known for our selection of meats cooked on the kiawe wood grill, but we also try to give our customers a non-meat option, and this is it,” Nicholson says. “Vegetarians love it.”

Good to Grill offers Tofu, Veggies and Egg Whites Scramble as well ($7.99).

Breakfast is available Saturday and Sunday only from 8 to 11:30 a.m. So, start your day the right way at Good to Grill, located in Safeway Center Kapahulu.

Good to Grill Safeway Center Kapahulu 888 Kapahulu Ave. 734.7345 gift ever. Island pineapple chicken fried rice is enveloped in a three extra-large egg Kit n Kitchen omelette and bathed in a homemade tomaThe holiday season gets a little brighter to sauce. Your choice of bacon, Spam, (if that’s even possible) with Kit n link sausage, ham or Portuguese sausage Kitchen. This University Avenue eatery, and white or wheat toast accompany this best known for its Eurasian cuisine, began early morning feast. serving the most important meal of the It’s Christmas every day at Kit n day about two years ago, and owner and Kitchen. chef May Yiu takes pride in the restaurant’s New England-style breakfast with a Kit n Kitchen local twist.

1010 University Ave. Breakfast is available Saturday and 942.7622 Sunday from 8 to 11 a.m., and I believe the menu is equivalent to Disneyland as Hee Hing Restaurant there are so many amazing options to It’s always a good time for Chinese choose from. Omelettes, crepes, waffles, fare, and Hee Hing Restaurant on pancakes — Kit n Kitchen has it all. Yet, Kapahulu Avenue is the place to be this if I had to select one breakfast item off the holiday season. This family-run establishmenu to eat for the rest of my life, it ment was founded more than two decades would be Omurice, hands down. Priced at ago, and has claimed its spot as a top $10.95, this omelette is the best Christmas 18 | DINING OUT | DEC. 23-29, 2012 •

Left Good to Grill’s Tofu, Veggies and Egg Whites Omelette ($7.99) Above Hee Hing’s Baked Cream Buns ($2.60 for three pieces) Right Hee Hing manager Sally Delce

choice among locals and visitors alike.

This award-winning restaurant serves up entrees that are definitely rave-worthy, however, it’s the dim sum here that is sure to impress even the most finicky of eaters. Served daily from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., dim sum is readily available for those breakfast and lunch time cravings.

A couple of my favorite dim sum delicacies include Baked Manapua with Char Siu ($2.95 for three pieces) and Baked Cream Buns ($2.60 for three pieces). Both are delicious and must-haves at any gathering. Hee Hing’s Baked Manapua melts in your mouth, and the morsels of meat are just so tender and tasty, while Baked Cream Buns put a little sweet into every meal, as the custard filling is heaven in a bun. What a way to spoil yourself at breakfast, huh? Your day can only get

sweeter after this.

And coming soon to Hee Hing is Shanghai Dumplings, which I was fortunate enough to sneak a peek. Served in a steam basket, these scrumptious little dumplings are plump with pork filling and chicken broth, and I promise you will soon be adding another steady dim sum item to your list in the near future. I can’t wait for these dumplings to hit the menu!

So, sleep in a bit, rub the sleep from your tired eyes and head to Hee Hing Restaurant — breakfast awaits.

Hee Hing Restaurant 449 Kapahulu Ave. Ste. 101 735.5544

tableside

tableside @ Nice Day

Above: Owner Sang Chan and manager Shirley Cheng with Char Siu, Golden Garlic Shrimp and an assortment of fresh dim sum.

Inset: Char Siu ($9.95), Golden Garlic Shrimp ($13.95) and dim sum (prices vary)

N

ice Day Chinese Seafood Restaurant is satisfying appetites with its traditional Hong Kong-style cuisine. The restaurant, located in Liliha Square Shopping Plaza, opened for business four years ago and is renowned for its delicious entrees and fresh dim sum, including Char Siu and Garlic Shrimp. Nice Day Chinese Seafood Restaurant is open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

For more information, call 524.1628.

1 | Nicki and Tyler Mak 2 | Debbie Kitaoka and Prisca Basa 3 | Jon, Stanley, Carolyn and Frank Yim 4 | Michele Egami with Eric, Megan, Joy and Christopher Nagata, and Kenneth Egami

Lawrence Tabudlo photos

2

1

3

4 DINING OUT | DEC. 23-29, 2012 | 19

WHERE TO DINE AMERICAN Atlantis Seafood & Steak

Breakfast

2284 Kalakaua Avenue 922-6868

Lunch

4369 Lawehana St. (across Target in Salt Lake) 422-0059

Eggs n’ Things Saratoga

2752 Woodlawn Dr. Manoa Marketplace 988-4310

Located inside of Zippy’s

La Palme D’or

711 Queen St. 597-8880 1111 Bishop St. #4 536-8363 Ala Moana Center 946-6388 Royal Hawaiian Center 791-2969

343 Saratoga Road 923-EGGS (3447)

Alcohol Served

Panya

Waikiki Beach Eggspress

Online

Monday, December 31 6:00 - 8:00 pm

Ala Moana Center - Mall Level Mountain Side, next to Shirokiya 941-6161

2464 Kalakaua Ave (Aston Waikiki Circle) 926-EGGS (3447)

Catering

New Year’s Eve

Chee Fried Rice or Kim Chee Pancake FREE Kim

BOUNTY Y SEVEN SEAS AS AS of the

With any food purchase. Cannot be combined with other offers.

Limit 1 coupon per party. Expires 12/31/12. MW

Tempura Lobster Scallion Rice

SEAFOOD BUFFET

Soy Sake Glazed Black Cod Bok Choy & Shiitake Mushrooms, Dashi Truffle Nage

Friday & Saturday 5:30 – 9:30 pm

4 PIECES

with purchase of regular plate

739-8760

Raspberry Napoleon Chocolate Filo Sheets, Marscapone Mousse

905 Keeaumoku Street

OPEN Daily 5pm - 2am

(808) 951-1004

LUNCH, DINNER & LATE NITE

WAFU RIB EYE STEAK

FRENCH TOAST

$90

*Closed New Year’s Day *Ala carte menu not available

3660 Waialae Ave. • 737-1177 www.3660.com

AT

THE KAHALA

HOTEL & RESORT www.kahalaresort.com

Dear Hearts, I don’t like the greeting of Happy Holiday season.

I guess I’m old fashioned.

Here’s to each and everyone of you.

A very jolly Merry Christmas from the bottom of my caring heart.

HAPPY HOUR

Kaimuki Shopping Center 734-8232 (Lower Level) Formerly in Aina Haina Shopping Center

ut -O le ke ab Ta vail A

Special HOLIDAY Menu $188

Seafood with Fish Maw Soup ♦ Peking Duck (Whole) Live Lobster with Ginger & Onion ♦ Shrimp Walnuts with Mayonnaise Tenderloin Steak with String Beans ♦ Crispy Garlic Chicken Chinese Broccoli w/ Dried Fish ♦ Young Chow Style Fried Rice ♦ Dessert $99, $239, $288 MENUS ALSO AVAILABLE

OPEN DAILY: 10am — midnight 923 KEEAUMOKU ST.

5-6p & 9pm-midnight

DINNER Tues-Sun 5p-Midnight • Closed Monday LUNCH Tues-Sun 11am-2pm RESTAURANT & PUPU BAR

2 PIECES

with purchase of mini plate

*Cannot be combined with any other offers. Expires 12/31/12.

3008 Waialae Ave. 259-7100

! e day ak M Your ns To io vat ser Re

For Reservations

Fire Roasted Beef Tenderloin Sherry Pepper Demi, Truffle Hollandaise

ON THE RISE

Korean Hibiscus BBQ

FREE MANDOO*

Porcini Seared Ahi Tataki Dry Land Pea Shoots, Yuzu Butter Sauce

Grilled Duck Breast Foie Gras & Lentil Ragout

Napoleon’s Bakery

Fendu Boulangerie

451 Piikoi St 538-EGGS (3447)

After Midnight

Larry’s Bakery

2005 Kalia Road Hilton Hawaiian Village (Ali‘i Tower) 949-4321

BAKERY

Eggs n’ Things Ala Moana

Dinner

Tropics Bar & Grill

✁

Symbol Key

Best Cantonese Cuisine

955-3388

1st Sunday Champagne Brunch!

Ala Moana Center

New Menu Changes Monthly!

Tel: 947-8818

CHRISTMAS DAY BUFFET LUNCH at the Colony Surf

HOLIDAY GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE! Jeff Peterson Grammy-winning Slack Key Guitar, experience the gentle crashing waves, pure ocean breezes and awesome beauty of Hawaii.

…Only at Michel’s

Saimin Havenly Yours,

Shiro Matsuo

Many More Items to Choose From

PLEASE CALL FOR RESERVATIONS WAIMALU

WAIPAHU

EWA BEACH SHOP. CTR.

98-020 Kam Hwy.

94-256 Waipahu Depot St.

91-919 Fort Weaver Rd.

488-8824

676-2088

689-0999

w w w. s h i ro s s a i m i n . c o m 20 | DINING OUT | DEC. 23-29, 2012

ENTERTAINMENT NIGHTLY ~ FREE VALET PARKING

2895 Kalakaua Ave. • 923-6552 www.michelshawaii.com

FOR BANQUETS & PRIVATE PARTIES CALL 728-3463

Adult - $26.95 Child (2-10) & Senior (65 & over) - $21.95 SEATINGS AT 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM & 2:00 PM (w/2 HRS. LIMIT)

WHERE TO DINE BUFFET

Yakiniku Camellia Buffet Stadium Mall 4510 Salt Lake Blvd.

486-3311

Camellia Buffet 930 McCully St. 951-0511 • 951-0611

3553 Waialae Ave. 738-8666

A Catered Experience 94-1068 Ka Uka Blvd.

677-7744

CAFE Five Star International Buffet

Happy Day Chinese Restaurant

CATERERS

Hee Hing Restaurant 449 Kapahulu Ave. 735-5544

CHINESE

Ho Ho Chinese Cuisine

Anytime Cafe

Royal Hawaiian Center, Bldg C, Level 3.

380-9300

Makino Chaya

Canton Seafood Restaurant

Market City Shopping Center 2919 Kapiolani Blvd 735-3888

Jade Dynasty Seafood Restaurant

Golden Palace Seafood Restaurant

Kissaten

98-150 Kaonohi St. 486-5100

88 Piikoi St. 593-1200

Ala Moana Center •1450 Ala Moana Blvd.

4th Floor - Ho’okipa Terrace 947-8818

111 N. King St. 521-8268

HOLIDAY PARTY MENU Serves 10-12

Saturday, January 5, 2013 5-7pm

$

15

$188

per person

for a sampling of authentic Portuguese dishes from our chef Regular menu, beer & cocktails also available Reservations Recommended Sorry, we cannot accept Hot Deals or any other discounts/coupons at this event.

30% OFF

Includes 3 Whole Live Lobsters!

• BBQ Platter • Dried Scallop Soup • Peking Duck w/Buns • Deep Fried Garlic Crispy Chicken

• Stir Fried Seafood • Live Lobster w/Ginger & Green Onion • Stir Fried Fish Fillet • Fried Rice • Dessert

Bring your own wine/liquor.

No corkage fee through December!

Daily Lunch Buffet - $1299 11:30am-2:30pm Open Daily 11:30am - 10pm 1138 Smith St. (corner of Smith/Pauahi) www.adegahi.com

590 Farrington Hwy. 692-9880

923 Keeaumoku St. 955-3388

1380 S. KING ST. 11am - 3am DAILY• Call for Reservations today! 944-8288

WITH RESERVATIONS. DINE IN ONLY.

Lobster & crab not valid with offer. Coupon expires 12/31/12

CALL 946-8833 or 230-6886 1110 McCully St (corner of McCully & Young) OPEN DAILY 10:30AM-9:30PM

WE DELIVER!

$30 minimum purchase.

Up to 4 miles.

www.genkisushiusa.com

13 Locations: OAHU:

ALA MOANA 942-9102 AINA HAINA 373-4033 EWA TOWN CENTER 683-1003 KANEOHE 247-9595 KAPAHULU 735-7700 KAPOLEI 674-4227 WAIAU 485-0227 WAIKELE 678-3180 WARD CENTER 591-5600

2012

“Best Fine Dining Restaurant”

Receive a bonus $10 Gift Certificate when you purchase a $50 Gift Card before 12/24/12.

Mon-Fri: 5:30 - 10:00 pm • Sat, Sun: 5:00 - 10:00 pm Live Entertainment Wed-Sun • Valet Parking

OUTER ISLANDS:

KONA KUKUI GROVE LAHAINA MAUI MALL

GIFT CARD PROMO

(808) 327-6776 (808) 632-2450 (808) 661-0333 (808) 873-7776

Proud recipient of:

FREE $10 Gift Certificate

Proper Attire Required • Reservations Recommended

with purchase of every $100 in gift cards.

Dec. 17-25, 2012

www.hyshawaii.com • 2440 Kuhio Ave 922 5555

SERVING LUNCH & DINNER • TAKE-OUT AVAILABLE

DINING OUT | DEC. 23-29, 2012 | 21

WHERE TO DINE Nice Day Chinese Seafood Restaurant

Little Village Noodle House 1113 Smith St. 545-3008

Big City Diner

Seafood Village Street Level, 2424 Kalakaua Ave., #102 971-1818

Liliha Square, 524-1628

Panda Cuisine

Lung Fung Chinese Restaurant

641 Keeaumoku St. 947-1688

5724 Kalanianaole Hwy. 377-5566

Good To Grill

FAMILY DINING

888 Kapahulu Ave. 734-7345

ON ON At McCully 1055 Alakea St. 525-8585

Royal Garden Chinese Restaurant

Maple Garden

Ala Moana Hotel, 3rd Floor 410 Atkinson Drive 942-7788

909 Isenberg Street 941-6641

Panda Cuisine New Management! New Menu!

Specializing in Fresh Seafood

$

19.99

1 Doz. 641 KEEAUMOKU ST. OPEN DAILY 11AM - 1AM

• Lobster • Dungeness Crab

Asian Mix

Himalayan Kitchen

1234 South Beretania St. 521-1688

1137 11th Ave. 735-1122

2

2850 Paa St. 833-3728

lb.

• Manila Clams • Shrimp • Mussels

947-1688

AT ALA MOANA HOTEL, 3rd Floor 410 ATKINSON DRIVE

Open Christmas Eve & Day

All Day

Includes:

$

Henry Loui’s

Beer

9.99/

LIVE OYSTERS

515 Ward Ave. 593-2800

$

Seafood Special

Limited Time Only

Asahi Grill Ward

1110 McCully St. (Corner of McCully & Young) 946-8833 or 230-8866

Mandalay (The)

Kailua 263-8880 Kaimuki 738-8855 Pearlridge East 487-8188 Waipio 678-8868 Ward Center 591-8891

BENTO $11.95 Reg. $15.95

CHOICE of TWO:

SHRIMP JUMBO SHRIMP SPECIAL SPECIAL $11.95 $9.25

• (2) Big Shrimp & (2) Veg. Tempura Reg. $11.95 • Chicken Katsu or Chicken Kagaage • (3) Big Shrimp • Chicken, Beef or Pork Teriyaki • (4) Veg. Tempura • Miso Butterfish or Grilled Salmon • Tsukemono

• (3) Jumbo

Shrimp • (4) Veg. Tempura • Tsukemono INCLUDES: MISO SOUP, TOFU, GYOZA, SALAD & TEA • Miso Soup • Rice • Miso Soup & Rice $12.95 on 12/24, 25, 31, 1/1 $10.25 on 12/24, 25, 31, 1/1 • Tea $12.95 on 12/24, 25, 31, 1/1 OPEN TUE-SUN LUNCH 11AM-2PM, DINNER 5-8:30PM • Closed Monday Lunch & Dinner

100 N. Beretania Street #113 (Parking inside Chinese Cultural Plaza)

536-3035

942-7788

Season’s Greetings Special Menus $308 + tax $438 + tax 1. Minced Pork Served In Lettuce 1. Royal Garden Roast Meat Combination 2. Fish Maw & Crab Meat Soup or 2. Bird's Nest Soup w/ Chicken or Dried Scallop Soup Steamed Fish Maw, Mushroom & Chicken Soup 3. Shrimps w/ Honey Glazed Walnuts 3. Peking Duck 4. Roast Pea-Par Duck 5. Sizzling Boneless Short Rib w/ Bell 4. Fish Fillet In Fish Bone Basket Pepper, Onion & Black Bean Sauce 5. Lobsters Royal Garden Style 6. Boiled Ranch Chicken In Chicken 6. Baked Rock Salt Ranch Chicken Broth w/ Mustard Cabbage 7. Joke San w/ Shanghai Baby Cabbage 7. Braised Mushroom w/ Cabbage 8. Crab Meat w/ E-mein Noodle 8. House Fried Rice 9. Walnut & Peanut Soup 9. Red Bean Soup w/ Lotus Seed & Lilies w/ Mochi Balls Above menu is limited to 3 tables and cannot combine with any specials and discounts. Please order one day in advance.

HOLIDAY PACKAGES TO-GO!

Since 1944

ORDER NOW for NEW YEAR’S! POI STEW • SQUID LUAU • SHOYU PORK KARAI CHICKEN WINGS & MUCH MORE ONO FOOD!

901 Hausten Street • www.willowshawaii.com (808) 952-9200

KAILUA 263-8880 KAIMUKI 738-8855 PEARLRIDGE EAST 487-8188 WAIPIO 678-8868 WARD CENTER 591-8891 www.bigcitydinerhawaii.com Find us on Facebook & Twitter

Flame-Broiled Boneless Kalbi Fresh Garden Salad Real Korean-Style Kimchee Roasted Sweet Corn & Green Peas Steamed White or Brown Rice Macadamia Nut Bread Pudding (Feeds 8-12 people) Pre-Order Required

Available at our Kam Shopping Center location.

While supplies last. Prices valid thru Jan. 5, 2013

HOLIDAY PRIME RIB WITH AU JUS & HORSERADISH

$199.95

19999 +TAX

5 LBS PRE-SLICED HAM WITH PINEAPPLE RAISIN SAUCE.

+TAX

12 –14 LBS TURKEY, 1 QT. STUFFING & 1 QT. GRAVY

13500

$

+TAX

+TAX +TAX +TAX

• LUNCH $17.95 10:30AM - 2:30PM • DINNER $25.95 2:30PM-10PM

OUR POPULAR CATERING PANS

KAL BI, SIRLOIN, CHICKEN, SPICY PORK, FRESH SHRIMP

• Chinese Chicken Salad • Korean Chicken • Egg-Battered Mahi • Chow Mein Noodles

NOW

129

$

+TAX

3 OFF

*DISCOUNT EXCLUDES ALL BEVERAGES WITH THIS AD. EXP. 12/31/12.

$

EARLY BIRD SPECIALS

Gingerbread Ma Christmas Tree Co n & okies

22 | DINING OUT | DEC. 23-29, 2012

39999

$

FRESHLY ROASTED TURKEY

5599

$

KOREAN CUISINE

Visit V i t stores sto stor st for more mo ore r ite items! ms!

WHOLE

HOLIDAY HAM

December Specials

ke Red Velvet Ca

HALF

$

MONDAY THRU THURSDAY BREAKFAST 6-8AM • DINNER 2-6PM SELECTED ITEMS

930 McCully St. • 951-0511/951-0611

• PRIVATE PARTY ROOM • CONVENIENT PARKING

KAMEHAMEHA SHOPPING CENTER

Call for Ala Carte options

ROYAL HAWAIIAN SHOPPING CENTER

841-0931 Kenny’s Hawn BBQ 922-3333

WHERE TO DINE JJ Bistro & French Pastry

Loco Moco

Sam Choy’s BLC

Tony Roma’s

3447 Waialae Ave.

Moanalua Shopping Center 930 Valkenburgh St., #205 423-8228

580 N. Nimitz Hwy. 545-7979

WAIKIKI 1972 Kalakaua Ave. • 942-2121 AIEA 98-150 Kaonohi St. • 487-9911

739-0993

Kenny’s Restaurant

Shiro’s Saimin Haven

Pagoda

1620 N. School St. 841-0931

1525 Rycroft St. 948-8356

Kenny’s Hawaiian BBQ

Ala Moana Center, Mauka - Mall Level 946-6388

Large shrimp on a bed of pasta with fresh tomato, garlic & feta

230-2300

Thurs-Sun 11am-2pm Daily 5pm-9pm

Holiday Season!

* BYOBAG E 3040 Waialae Ave.

734-0404

Daily 11am-10pm

ALA MOANA CENTER Makai Market

1831 Ala Moana Blvd. #201 Daily 11am-10pm

941-3444

Private Rooms for Private Parties • Gift Certificates available

Fettuccine Tutta Dal Mare

Medley of seafood sautéed with garlic, onions, bell pepper and basil simmered in a white wine, homemade lobster sauce over a bed of fettuccine

Available at all 3 locations

WAIKIKI

Daily 11am-10pm

949-2120

Zippy’s Call the one nearest you

Don't forget to send our Pancake Mix, Coffee, or syrups to loved ones this

TAVERNA SHRIMP PASTA

KAIMUKI*

901 Hausten St. 952-9200

Outrigger Reef on the Beach 922-2887

1131 Nuuanu Ave. 587-7877

Try our newest menu item…

NO CORK

Willows (The)

Restaurant Epic

1010 University Avenue 942-7622

KAILUA*

1860 Ala Moana Blvd.

955-1764

Shore Bird Restaurant

Kit N Kitchen

1020 Keolu Dr.

Wailana Coffee House

WAIPAHU 94-256 Waipahu Depot St. • 676-2088 EWA BEACH SHOPPING CENTER 91-919 Fort Weaver Rd. • 689-0999

Panya Bistro • Bakery • Bar

Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center, 2nd floor 922-3333

WAIMALU 98-020 Kam Hwy. • 488-8824

Ala Moana 451 Piikoi St 538-EGGS

www.eggsnthings.com Eggspress Saratoga 343 Saratoga Ave 2464 Kalakaua Ave 926-EGGS 923-EGGS

Waimalu Plaza 98-1277 Kaahumanu St., #119 • Phone: 485-8883 Lunch 11am to 2pm • Dinner 5pm to 9:30 pm

Manoa Marketplace 2752 Woodlawn Drive • Phone: 988-5923 Lunch 11am to 2pm • Dinner 5pm to 9 pm

Celebrate the New Year at Honolulu’s elegant oceanfront fine dining restaurant

Delight in a front row seat for the city’s breathtaking fireworks display. The night is complete with island tapas style fare, festive cocktails, and upbeat live music to dance the night away.

There’s no better way to ring in 2013!

53 By The Sea December 31, 2012 53 Ahui Street, Honolulu, HI Doors open at 9:00 p.m.

Individual Guest Tickets $250 VIP Tables (6 Guests) $2,500 VIP Private Rooms $10,000 - $15,000 Ultra VIP Room $30,000 Limited Seating Available

For reservations and information, please call 808.294.6911 or email 53NYE2012@gmail.com Cocktail Attire | Valet Parking

DINING OUT | DEC. 23-29, 2012 | 23

WHERE TO DINE FILIPINO

Chai’s Island Bistro

Plumeria Beach House

Aloha Tower Marketplace 585-0011

The Kahala Hotel & Resort, Beach Level 5000 Kahala Ave. 739-8760

Max’s Of Manila 94-300 Farrington Hwy 801 Dillingham Blvd.

951-6297

GREEK The Fat Greek Kaimuki - 3040 Waialae Ave. • 734-0404 Ala Moana - Makai Market • 949-2120 Waikiki - 1831 Ala Moana Blvd • 941-3444 Kailua - 1020 Keolu Dr • 230-2300

Ruth’s Chris Steak House Restaurant Row 599-3860 Waikiki Beach Walk 440-7910

Hoku’s

FINE DINING

The Kahala Hotel & Resort, Lobby Level 5000 Kahala Ave. 739-8760

Fifty Three By The Sea

ITALIAN

Stage Restaurant

Il Lupino

1250 Kapiolani Blvd.

237-5429

53 Ahui Street 536-5353

Hy’s Steak House

Bali Steak & Seafood

Top of Waikiki

2440 Kuhio Ave. 922-5555

Hilton Hawaiian Village (Rainbow Tower) 2005 Kalia Road 949-4321

CHRISTMAS BUFFETS

49

Prime Grade

DINNER BUFFET

FILET MIGNON

10% OFF Kama‘aina Discount with valid Hawaii I.D. Not valid with other offers, valid on food only.

Please present ad when ordering

922-6868

4:00p.m. - 8:30p.m.

Adults $36.95 , Keikis (5-12 years old) $14.95 Salads: Assorted Salads-Fresh Poke Lomi Lomi Salmon- Peel and Eat Shrimp Entrée: Shrimp Scampi Pasta-Chicken Honey Glazed Ham- Ehu Braised Shortribs - Baked Salmon Dynamite- Roast Turkey- Snow Crab Legs Action Station: Carved Garlic Roasted Prime Rib of Beef Desserts: Banana Bread Pudding with Coconut Glaze Apple Cobbler - Assorted Pies & Cakes- Ice Cream Coffee, Tea, Soft Drinks included Menu Subject to Change Without Notice

Coupon required. Not combinable with other offers. Expires 12/27/12

THAI CUISINE SERVING HAWAII SINCE 1977...

Dinner 5:00pm - Closing

2028 Kuhio Avenue Walking distance from all Waikiki Hotels

tel. 951-9355 www.keosthaicuisine.com

Lunch 11am - 4pm Dinner 5pm - 10pm at the old Waikiki III Theatres Parking available at the Pro-Park location Seaside Ave. Pay $2 at the Restaurant. www.atlantisseafoodsteak.com

8:30am - 12noon Carved Roast Beef, Omelet Station, Miso Soup, Saimin, Jook, Breakfast Meats, Sam’s Fried Rice, Assorted Salads, Assorted Desserts and much much more.

Adults $24.95, Keikis (5-12 years old) $12.95

Cakes Available In Store Dec. 23rd & 24th

580 Nimitz Hwy. 545-7979

Ala Moana Center • Mall Level

first come, first served

(Mountain side, next to Shirokiya)

Like us on Facebook for Special Deals & Offers

www.lapalmedor-usa.com 941-6161

www.samchoyhawaii.com

Chef Chai’s Holiday Special LIMITED TIME ONLY

25

$50 Gift Certificate $ for only

Valid from Feb. 2013 at the Pacifica Honolulu location only (1009 Kapiolani Blvd). Offer expires 12/31/12.

SPECIAL GUEST APPEARANCE Special Final Show!

Fri, Dec 28 Sat, Dec 29 Mon, Dec 24 Tue, Dec 25 Wed, Dec 26 Thur, Dec 27 Danny Robert Cazimero Jerry Santos Robert Cazimero Keli‘i Kaneali‘i Closed & Hula Couch & Hula & Hula and Healani Yuen Merry Christmas

FREE VALET PARKING • www.chefchai.com • Call 585-0011

24 | DINING OUT | DEC. 23-29, 2012

Kobe Beef $ Shabu Shabu Piikoi St. 2-6pm & 9:30-close

16

95

** while supplies last **

Aiea 4-6pm & 9:30-close

Merry Christmas!

Tuesday, January 1st

Open 7 Days from 11am-10pm

HAPPY HOUR

TWO GREAT LOCATIONS! AIEA • 484-2222 HONOLULU • 589-2299 98-150 Kaonohi St. 510 Piikoi St.

New Year’s HANGOVER BUFFET

Call for Reservations & Information 2284 Kalakaua Ave.

Ward Center (Next to Ryan’s Grill) 1200 Ala Moana Blvd.

375-1200

Voted Best Thai in Hawaii 15% OFF Take Out

Tuesday, December 25th

$

Inferno’s Wood Fire Pizza

Waikiki Business Plaza 2270 Kalakaua Ave. 923-3877

BRUNCH/ LUNCH BUFFET

8:30a.m. - 2:00p.m.

Adults $32.95, Keikis (5-12 years old) $14.95 Salads: Peel and Eat Shrimp Fresh Poke - Assorted Salads Entrees: Breakfast Meats - Roast Turkey - Snow Crab Legs Waffles - Shrimp Scampi - Chicken - Honey Glazed Ham Shortribs - Baked Salmon Dynamite Action Station: Omelets Made to Order Carved Steamship Round Beef Desserts: Banana Bread Pudding with Coconut Glaze Assorted Pies & Cakes - Ice Cream with Toppings

Royal Hawaiian Center 922-3400

HOLIDAY MENU Christmas and New Year Eve & Day

Eve & Day

Includes Roasted Turkey & Seafood Menu $

95

12

Lunch

$

95

19

Dinner

Course 1 Soup

CRAB & BUTTERNUT SQUASH Melted Leeks, Bacon Lardons, Gruyere Toast

Course 2 APPETIZER

RAVIOLO Smoked Duck Leg, Braised Pork Belly, Ricotta, Arugula, Sage Brown Butter

Course 3 ENTREE SELECTION

PEPPERCORN CRUSTED FILET MIGNON Horseradish Mashed Potatoes, Caramelized Brussels Sprouts, Pomme Frites, Demi, Beurre Blanc

or MACADAMIA NUT CRUSTED AUSTRALIAN LAMB CHOPS Fingerling Potato Saute, Blueberry Port Wine Reduction

or

Holiday Special

PAN ROASTED U-10 SEA SCALLOPS Kabocha Squash Puree, Braised Choy Sum, Wasabi Beurre Blanc, Kabayaki Drizzle

$5

Course 4 DESSERT

Receive a FREE Gift Certificate

with purchase of $50 in Gift Certificates

$10

with purchase of $100 in Gift Certificates

Offers Expires 12/24/12

Kapolei Marketplace 590 Farrington Hwy

Gift Certificate

692-9880

4 Co Prix urse F Men ix u

TIRAMISU Crème Anglaise

No Substitutions on menu items. Items are subject to availability.

1131 Nu‘uanu Ave. • 587-7877 Reservations recommended

WHERE TO DINE Paesano Ristorante Italiano

Z Pizza

Waimalu Shopping Plaza 98-1277 Kaahumanu St. (across from Safeway) 485-8883 Manoa Marketplace 2752 Woodlawn Drive 988-5923

JAPANESE Chinpei Ramen

Romanos Macaroni Grill

2080 S. King Street 947-5919

Ala Moana Center Hookipa Terrace 356-8300

Genki Sushi Aina Haina 373-4033 Ala Moana 942-9102 Ewa Town Center 683-1003 Kaneohe 247-9595

Taormina-Sicilian Cuisine 227 Lewers St. 926-5050

Beach Front Dining

Ichiriki

Genki Sushi (cont.)

Ward Centre Auahi St. Shops 596-0066 Kailua 151 Hekili St. 230-8400

(cont.)

Kapahulu 735-7700 Kapolei Commons 674-4227 Waiau 485-0227 Waikele Center 678-3180 Ward Center 591-5600

AIEA 98-150 Kaonohi St. 484-2222

Gyu-Kaku

1841 Ala Moana Blvd.

941-4444

HONOLULU 510 Piikoi St. 589-2299

Kobe Japanese Steak House

WINDWARD MALL 46-056 Kamehameha Hwy F1 922-5511 KAPIOLANI - 1221 Kapiolani Blvd., #105 589-2989 WAIKIKI - 307 Lewers St. 926-2989

Kahala Mall • 738-KOZO Keeaumoku • 946-KOZO Moiliili • 951-KOZO Pearlridge • 483-6805 Pearl City • 455-6805

Hifumi Japanese Restaurant

Odoriko Japanese Restaurant

Chinese Cultural Plaza 536-3035

2400 Koa Ave. 923-7368

Kozo Sushi

OD OR IK O Japanese restaurant

Celebrating 40 years!

“Committed devotion to serving authentic Japanese taste & hospitality”

are offering Gift Card specials Buy $100 in Gift Cards and Receive a Complimentary $20 Card

or

Buy $50 in Gift Cards and Receive a Complimentary $10 Card

*Complimentary Card Valid 1/1/13 - 3/31/13. This offer is good 11/23/12 - 12/24/12.

Please call 923-4056 Between 9 am-3 pm or visit our restaurants both located in

Outrigger Reef On the Beach Hotel • 2169 Kalia Road www.oceanhousewaikiki.com

Bring or mention this Ad to receive 10% off your food only

(not combinable with other offers/specials/discounts/kama‘aina rates)

HOLIDAY LUNCH SPECIAL 20% OFF

Any Take-Out Kitchen Order

10% OFF

ALL TAKE-OUT SUSHI

Happy Hour 50% off any size from 4pm-6pm and 10pm-12am

Draft Beer!

Kama‘aina Lunch Early Bird SPECIAL QUEEN SET & Take Out Menu ($14.95) (picture shown)

Only 7.50

KING SET ($16.95)

All offers expire 12/31/12.

King’s Village Shopping Center 2400 Koa Ave. visit us at odorikohawaii.com

808-923-7368 Lunch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11am– 5pm Dinner . . . . . . 5pm–12am (Midnight)

947-2836

Open 7 Days • 2700 So. King St.

98-150 Kaonohi St. • Tel: 486-5100 *Menu and prices subject to change. *Dinner Menu Only.

PURCHASE $100 IN GIFT CARDS AND RECEIVE A $20 MAKINO CHAYA VOUCHER.* ONLY ONE TYPE OF COUPON PER PARTY

*OFFER EXPIRES 12/24/12

ONLY ONE TYPE OF COUPON PER PARTY

SENIOR SPECIAL! 55+ KAMA‘AINA SPECIAL! LUNCH & LUNCH & DINNER DINNER

30% OFF

Not combinable with other discounts. 55 or older w/ coupon & ID. No online or photo-copied coupons. One coupon per person. Discounts off regular adult price. Excluding Holidays. Expires 12/28/12.

20% OFF

One coupon per person. Must have valid ID. Not combinable with other discounts. Discounts off regular adult price. No online or photo-copied coupons.

Must purchase beverage. Not valid on Holidays. Expires 12/28/12.

DINING OUT | DEC. 23-29, 2012 | 25

WHERE TO DINE Restaurant Suntory

Sushi Company

Don-Day Yakiniku

Royal Hawaiian Shpg Cntr, 3rd Flr. 922-5511

1111 McCully Street 947-5411

905 Keeaumoku St. 951-1004

Sushi King

Sakura Restaurant RESTAURANT & PUPU BAR

Korean Hibiscus BBQ

2700 S. King St. 947-2836

3008 Waialae Ave 259-7100

EAST, in King’s Village 922-4233 CENTRAL, in Waikiki Shopping Plaza 922-4702 WEST, in Ala Moana Cntr-Hookipa Terrace 945-3443

2746 Kaimuki Avenue 732-1656

Sumo Ramen

Kaneohe 234-6868 Kapolei 693-8808 Market City 737-1868 Kamehameha Shp Cntr 848-8186 Pearl Highlands Cntr 456-8082 99 Ranch Mapunapuna 833-3139

Kaimuki Shopping Center 3221 Waialae Avenue 734-8282

Tanaka of Tokyo

Sekiya’s Restaurant & Delicatessen

Surf N Turf Tacos 3045 Monsarrat Ave. 456-5343

OKAZUYA Mitsu-Ken

Yakiniku Million

1223 N. School Street 848-5573

626 Sheridan St. 596-0799

OKINAWAN

MEXICAN

KOREAN

Wahoo’s Fish Taco

New Violet’s Grill

Kahala • 4614 Kilauea Ave. 732-9229 Ward • 940 Auahi St. 591-1646

Chogajib Korean Restaurant

825 Keeaumoku St. #111 744-3440

Kapalama Shopping Center 1210 Dillingham Blvd # 8 841-8535

Full Service Catering for the Holidays! • Fried Dumpling Salad • Cream of Shrimp Bisque Soup • Choice of: Lobster Pasta • Pasta • Risotto • Burgers • • Salads • Sandwiches • )PMJEBZ 1BSUJFT t 8FEEJOH 3FDFQUJPOT t TU #JSUIEBZ -VBVT 8PSLTIPQT 4FNJOBST t BOE NVDI NPSF &YDMVTJWF DBUFSFS GPS FWFOUT IFME BU UIF )BXBJJ 0LJOBXB $FOUFS $BMM GPS EFUBJMT

677-7744 www.acateredexperience.com Ph:

OPEN TIL MIDNIGHT! 2919 Kapiolani Blvd., #218

MARKET CITY SHPG CNTR

735-3888

OPEN ‘til 7pm on

Lobster meat in a pink sauce topped with a lobster tail

CHRISTMAS EVE

Turkey Breast

Closed on Christmas Day

Lightly breaded turkey breast sauteed with mushrooms in marsala demiglaze sauce, served with pasta & vegetables

Order Your Christmas Treats Today!

$

25.95 pepersr on

Lamb Chops

Pan-fried lamb chops in peppercorn sauce served with pasta & vegetables

• Cream Brulee for Dessert

Gift Card HOLIDAY FREE $10 of $100 in gift cards SPECIAL! w/ purchase offer ends 12/24/12

Fendu Stollen Bread

988-4310

2752 Woodlawn Dr. • Manoa Marketplace

Mon-Sat 7:30am-7pm; Sunday 7:30am-3pm

A lighter version of the Traditional German Fruit Cake.

$23 regular loaf (approx 2 lbs) $12.75 petite loaf (approx 1 lb)

MITSU-KEN Home of the Famous Garlic Chicken

Breakfast • Lunch Catering • Okazu

20th Anniversary Special

December Special

Buy One, Get One

Summer Rolls $3.99

Offer valid on dine-in orders only. Must present coupon.

Cannot be combined with other offers or coupons. Exp 12/31/12

Military w/ID receive 10% OFF facebook.com/phomylienhawaii

2012 FIRST PLACE

WESTRIDGE SHOPPING CENTER • 488-4900 (Next to Makino Chaya) 98-150 Kaonohi St., Aiea Mon-Sat 10am-10pm • Sun 10am-8pm

FREE! Fried Saimin Bento

Not valid with other offers/discounts. Coupon expires 12/29/12.

Tues-Sat 5:00am-1:00pm • Sun-Mon Closed

1223 N. School St.

848-5573

come join us‌ TUESDAY, 12/25 AND 1/1

1

/2 PRICE

Lobster or Dugeness Crab

BYOB

525-8585

or

Monday-Sunday 10:30am to 9:00pm

Weekday Special Lunch

1055 Alakea Street FREE PARKING Mon-Fri after 5pm & All Day Sat & Sun

With purchase of Combos #1 or #2.

LIVE NFL GAMES

& B U F F E TS DIM SUM BRUNCH DINNER BUFFET

10% OFF

11AM-5PM Cannot be combined with other Offers or Discounts

3441 WAIALAE AVE

OPEN DAILY 11 AM - 12 AM

780-3115

26 | DINING OUT | DEC. 23-29, 2012

BUFFET 10:30AM & 12:30PM

featuring‌ a variety of Hong Kong Style Dim Sum

• Pork Hash • Shrimp w/ Nori Roll • Mochi Rice in Lotus Leaf • Egg Flower Soup • Haupia Gelatin Cake • Fresh Fruits • and much more

5:00PM & 7:00PM

featuring‌ Prime Rib • Roasted Pig • Snow Crab Legs • Peking Duck w/ Bun • Shrimp Cocktail • Stir Fried Entrees • Soup • Salad • and much more

Adults $21.99 • Senior (60+) $17.99 Adults $28.99 • Senior (60+) $24.99 Children (3-12) $17.99

www.themandalayhawaii.com Children (3-12) $13.99

Order Yours Today! Call 422-0059 4369 Lawehana St. (across Target in Salt Lake) | OPEN Mon - Fri 6AM - 1PM Sat 6AM - 12PM www.larrysbakery.com or find us on Holiday Hours: 12/23, 12/24: Open 6am-12pm Closed: 12/25-12/27

WHERE TO DINE PACIFIC RIM

SEAFOOD

SWEETS

Lobster King

3660 on the Rise

Blue Water Shrimp & Seafood

3660 Waialae Ave. 737-1177

1006 Kapahulu Ave. 688-8891

1380 S. King St. 944-8288

Tropical Tribe

(across Pan Am Bldg) 1637 Kapiolani Blvd.

366-8226

SHOR American Seafood Grill

The Ocean House Restaurant Outrigger Reef On The Beach 2169 Kalia Rd. 923-2277

Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach 2424 Kalakaua Ave. 923-1234 ext. 59

Crab City 3441 Waialae Ave. 780-3115

Adega Portuguese

Karai Crab

1138 Smith Street 566-5909

901 Hausten St. 952-6990

Keo’s Thai Cuisine

2028 Kuhio Ave. 951-9355

SHABU SHABU

PORTUGUESE

THAI

VIETNAMESE

Shabu Shabu House

Pho My Lien

1221 Kapiolani Blvd 597-1655

98-150 Kaonohi St. 488-4900

Try Our Tasty HASH TEMPURA!

It’s still not too late to get your Holiday Desserts…

The Best Hash Tempura on the Island!

Sun-Thu 8am-10pm • Fri-Sat til 11pm Okazuya open daily from 8am

RESTAURANT

SUNTORY

SEKIYA’S RESTAURANT & DELICATESSEN

Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center, 3rd Floor

restaurantsuntory.com

922-5511

GIFT CARDS still available

PANYA BAKERY & BISTRO

ALA MOANA CENTER • 597-8880 • MON - FRI 10AM - 5PM EMAIL US AT: sales@panyagroup.com | Follow us on

Enjoy the Complete Holiday Dining Experience at the Pagoda Floating Restaurant

$100 Gift Card Purchased Receive a $15 Gift Certificate New Hours of Operation: Breakfast Service: Daily Saturday and Sunday Lunch Service: Monday-Friday Brunch Buffet: Saturday and Sunday Dinner Buffet: Wednesday-Sunday

Enjoy great food surrounded by a beautiful waterfall filled with colorful koi and salt water fish, while our attentive servers create a memorable dining experience for your ohana and keiki. All keikis can help with feeding the fish. Lots of FREE parking during breakfast & lunch!

6:30am-1:00pm 6:30am-9:30am 11:00am-2:00pm 10:00am-2:00pm 5:00pm-9:30pm

*For information/reservations call Pagoda Restaurant at 948-8356 or go to our website at: Pagodahawaii.com

Serving Hawaii for 77 Years!

Decorations May Vary

2746 Kaimuki Ave

732-1656

www.SekiyasRestaurant.com

ACROSS KAIMUKI H.S.

2012

SENIOR (65+) DISCOUNT

10% OFF ENTIRE MENU

801 Dillingham Blvd. (next to Costco Iwilei) Honolulu, Hawaii 96817 Waipahu Shopping Plaza 94-300 Farrington Hwy., Suite F-1 Waipahu, Hawaii 96797

www.maxschicken.com

Does not apply with other discounts/offers.

Dine-in only. Applies to senior’s orders only.

Exp. 12/27/12

Holiday Catering and Private Parties Available

951-MAXS (6297)

Be e Our Guest This Christmas Weekend! December 22nd - 25th h

SUN-THURS 6:30AM-10PM FRI-SAT 6:30AM-11PM

Open Christmas Day & Eve!

515 WARD AVE.

593-2800

Give the Gift of G

GREAT G GR R TASTE. Baked Ba aked H Ham with ith R Rum Raisi Raisin in S Sauce (pictured)

Roast Turkey & Baked Ham Combo Prime Rib (pictured, rest. only)

Grilled Salmon with Crab & Artichoke Sauce (rest. only)

Purchase a total of $50 P in in Zippy’s Z Gift Cards and Receive a FREE $5 Zippy’s Zi Gift Certificate!

ORDER ONLINE at www.zippys.com OR O RV VISIT ANY ZIPPY’S LOCATION

Served from 10:30am - 9:30pm at Zippy’s Dine-In Restaurants & Fast Food Counters.

DINING OUT | DEC. 23-29, 2012 | 27

orderoftheday

R o v a l F f o e v a W e h t h Catc A

s the popularity of food trucks continues to build among local diners looking for quality cuisine at affordable prices, Blue Water Shrimp & Seafood is, as its motto suggests, “as good as it gets” when it comes to serving a variety of delicious surf-and-turf options.

Blue Water Shrimp & Seafood is conveniently located at the corner of Kapahulu and Kaimuki avenues, across the street from Crane Park and just up the road from Leonard’s Malasadas. The food truck has occupied its current location for about a month now, and customers may recognize the eatery, as it has other outlets at International Marketplace in Waikiki, as well as trucks in the Haleiwa and Schofield areas.

Unlike most food trucks, where customers are forced to take their food to go because of a lack of eating space, Blue Water Shrimp & Seafood provides a large, covered eating area for its guests. The dining area is just steps away from the truck, and provides room for more than 20 patrons to enjoy their meals in cool comfort.

The food truck is open daily, and offers a host of breakfast selections from 7 to 11 a.m. Breakfast specials are available for $8.95, and include Eggs Benedict with a

Pulehu Ribs ($8.95)

Leah Friel by os ot Ph + ra ei ld Ga Story by Kyle

choice of Canadian bacon, salmon or vegetarian fillings; Fresh Fish & Eggs; Pork Chops & Eggs; or Steak & Eggs.

Additionally, breakfast favorites such as Loco Moco ($6.95) and Omelettes ($8.95) also are available, the latter of which can be made with vegetarian, seafood or meat lovers’ tastes in mind.

Blue Water Shrimp & Seafood is known for its iconic Garlic Shrimp ($7.95), which includes six pieces of fresh, juicy shrimp bathed in a zesty garlic butter sauce that is made to order at mild, medium or spicy heat increments. All plates at the eatery also include two scoops of white or brown rice, corn, and a choice of potato salad or tossed green salad.

“It’s our signature dish, and as soon as you open it up, you smell the garlic butter sauce — I can eat that sauce with anything, at every meal,” says Gilbert Sakaguchi II, who co-owns the truck with Lesly Goo. “We cook with love in our food, every plate.

We make the food as if we were making it for ourselves to enjoy. Everything is made fresh to order, and we receive fresh seafood daily.”

The eatery also offers an assortment of additional fresh seafood selections, includCo-owners Gilbert Sakaguchi II and Lesly Goo

ing Fresh Salmon ($8.95) prepared in a garlic butter sauce, and a large, juicy Lobster Tail ($14.95). Blue Water Shrimp & Seafood also serves up a slew of “turf” to complement its “surf” options, including Pulehu Ribs ($8.95), which are flame-broiled to perfection and are so tender that they fall off the bone.

“The menu is seafood-driven, but we also cater to the local customers who want their meat and their steaks,” explains Sakaguchi, who recently graduated from the Kapiolani Community College’s Culinary Arts program prior to taking the helm at the truck/eatery. “We try to keep our prices low, and keep our customers coming back. The majority of our customers, we see them two or three times a week.”

As a way to service its growing Japanese customer base, Blue Water Shrimp & Seafood currently has two locations in Japan (Odaiba and Yokohama), and is expected to open seven more outlets in the country throughout 2013.

Locally, the eatery will open another location Jan. 21 in the Shirokiya food court at Ala Moana Center.

Fresh Grilled Salmon ($8.95)

Garlic Shrimp ($7.95)

BLUE WATER SHRIMP & SEAFOOD

Lobster Tail ($14.95) 28 | DINING OUT | DEC. 23-29, 2012 •

WHERE 1006 Ka pahulu Ave., Hon olulu CALL 688.8891 HOURS Open da ily, and 11 a.m. to 10 7 to 11 a.m. (breakfast) p.m. (lunch and dinner)