123012 DO Opt

AN EDITION OF

DEC. 30, 2012 JAN. 5, 2013

Known for its Eurasian fare, Kit n Kitchen always brings something new to the table, as evidenced by owner/executive chef May Yiu’s latest menu addition, Moroccan Lamb Stew.

See Page 4 | Leah Friel photo

Surf-and-turf really shines at Atlantis | 7 Odoriko’s savory traditional Japanese cuisine | 12

ALSO: “Moore” than meets the eye at Panya | 10

ono,youknow Big City Diner

Restaurant Epic

Eggs ‘n Things

is the

Answer This

New Year

By Alana Folen | Photos by Leah Friel

peaking from a foodie standpoint, indulgence was the theme this Christmas. Seriously. From the prime rib, pasta, bread pudding and coconut haupia cake on Christmas Eve to more prime rib, turkey, mashed potatoes, brownies, chocolate cake and coco puffs on Christmas Day, my stomach can take no more. Talk about a major kanak attack.

So, while my tummy is still digesting these feasts, it’s time to get back on track and start the new year with a clean slate. Ahi is the answer, and the Islands’ most widely observed New Year's tradition at that. Believed to bring luck, ahi is the prime indication that a new year is upon us.

With that, raise your chopsticks or forks, and let’s sing praises for ahi as we welcome 2013 at the following Ono, You Know establishments. Here’s to new beginnings and a fresh start on life! Really, there’s no better way to ring in the new year than with exquisite ahi.

S

and trade in those for all things ahi.

Executive chef Dennis Franks at Big City Diner Pearlridge reels in quite a catch when it comes to the restaurant’s Fresh Island Ahi (market price). Available for lunch and dinner, have your ahi panseared or flame-broiled topped with your

Big City Diner Take a bite out of the big city at Big City Diner, a longtime local establishment that has been serving Hawaii’s foodies since 1998. Here you’ll find ono local grinds and American mainstay favorites all within a classic diner atmosphere.

While it may be hard for me to say, in 2013, I will try to put a halt to my frequent burger indulgences 2 | DINING OUT | DEC. 30, 2012-JAN. 5, 2013

choice of fresh tomato salsa, wasabi aioli or red ginger lime butter. The ahi lies on a bed of spinach and is accompanied by white or brown rice sprinkled with furikake.

“Everyone comes in looking for fresh fish,” Franks says. “Our ahi is always fresh and we usually get it from Tropic Fish at the fish auction.”

So, making the healthy choice is easier than you think, and it doesn’t have to be boring. Big City Diner’s Fresh Island Ahi is just as delicious as it is nutritious.

Big City Diner Pearlridge (and various locations) 98-211 Pali Momi St. 487.8188

Above: The editor hopes for good luck and is ready to take a bite of Big City Diner’s Fresh Island Ahi. Left: Big City Diner’s Fresh Island Ahi (market price)

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

EDITOR Alana Folen Phone: 529.4854 diningout@staradvertiser.com

Restaurant Epic Stroll down Nuuanu Avenue in the heart of downtown Honolulu, and if you’re lucky enough you’ll stumble across Restaurant Epic.

And this week, luck was all mine.

Co-owner and chef Brian Chan welcomed me to the eclectic eatery, which is ... well, epic, of course! The ambiance is warm and inviting, and the food is what Chan describes as “unique.”

– See page 18

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

ethnicfaves Buy 1 Plate, Get the 2nd

HIFUMI JAPANESE RESTAURANT

50% OFF

Chinese Cultural Plaza 100 N. Beretania St. #113

with coupon

2nd entree of equal or lesser value.

Cannot combine w/ other discounts/offers.

Exp. 1/3/13.

536.3035 Tuesday-Sunday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., lunch 5-8:30 p.m., dinner Closed Monday

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

(Corner of Kaimuki Ave/Kapahulu Ave)

Wishing you an Eggscellent New Year!

All year long, at all locations, Kama‘aina and Military get…

5% off * for Breakfast & Lunch 10% off * after 4:00pm

Shrimp Special ($9.25 and $10.25 on Dec. 31 and Jan.1).

Steamed Sea Bass Fillet Special ($10.95) Rachel Breit photos

*with Valid Id. *Not Valid for retail items

Available at all 3 locations www.eggsnthings.com Ala Moana 451 Piikoi St 538-EGGS

Saratoga 343 Saratoga Ave 923-EGGS

Eggspress 2464 Kalakaua Ave 926-EGGS

HOLIDAY PACKAGES TO-GO!

Available at our Kam Shopping Center location.

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

HOLIDAY PRIME RIB

New Year’s

By Rachel Breit

HALF sweet potato), miso Tuesday, January 1st $ 99 soup, rice and + 8:00am - 12noon 99 $ tsukemono, the + WHOLE HOLIDAY HAM Carved Roast Beef, Shrimp Special 5 LBS PRE-SLICED ($9.25 and $10.25 FRESHLY ROASTED TURKEY Omelet Station, HAM WITH 12 –14 LBS TURKEY, PINEAPPLE Dec. 31 and Jan. 1) Miso Soup, Saimin, 1 QT. STUFFING & RAISIN SAUCE. 1 QT. GRAVY is the complete Jook, Breakfast Meats, $ +99 00 bento meal. This TAX $ Sam’s Fried Rice, +TAX gourmet grouping +TAX +TAX Assorted Salads, stems from the NOW Assorted Desserts Japanese tradition OUR POPULAR CATERING PANS $ and much much more. of daintily arrang• Chinese Chicken Salad • Korean Chicken +TAX Adults $24.95, ing dinner leftovers • Egg-Battered Mahi • Chow Mein Noodles in wooden boxes $3 OFF Keiki (5-12 years old) $12.95 for diurnal meals.

EARLY BIRD SPECIALS MONDAY THRU THURSDAY 580 Nimitz Hwy. Just as traditional BREAKFAST 6-8AM • DINNER 2-6PM 545-7979 bento offerings SELECTED ITEMS change seasonally Like us on Facebook for KAMEHAMEHA SHOPPING CENTER ROYAL HAWAIIAN SHOPPING CENTER Special Deals & Offers based on availabili- www.samchoyhawaii.com Call for Ala Carte options Kenny’s Hawn BBQ 922-3333 ty of ingredients, Hifumi’s offerings also change per person $ based on availabilities, 10 person minimum customers’ feedback and Chicken Salad w/Oriental Dressing Ching’s observations. “We 4 TYPES OF DIM SUM ask customers what they (BBQ Pork, Chive Dumpling, like, and we keep that,” Pork Hash, Seafood Dumpling) Ching says.

Beef & Broccoli Visit Hifumi in Chinese Kalua Short Ribs Cultural Plaza during the Stir-Fried Assorted Vegetables Chinese New Year celeMinute Chicken Fried Noodle bration for lion dances and 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 DESSERT: Almond Float fireworks, Jan. 25 and 26 Hyatt Regency Resort& Spa-Street Level•2424 Kalakaua Ave., Ewa Tower and Feb. 1, 2, 8 and 9.

199

W

hen you bite through the crispy outer layers and tender inner layers of Hifumi Japanese Restaurant’s shrimp tempura realize that what you have by the tail is the essence of Japanese cuisine: freshness, simplicity and balance.

The tiger shrimp is freshly peeled and battered with egg and two kinds of flours for different textures, then fried to a light crisp in oil guaranteed fresh everyday. First try Hifumi’s tempura unadorned so that you can taste the special tempura recipe on its own.

“Outside crispy, inside soft — you can taste the original flavor of the shrimp,” says Elise Ching, a longtime server. Notice the simple flavors of the fresh, unencumbered ingredients. “Your tongue will tell you the truth,” Ching

WITH AU JUS & HORSERADISH

HANGOVER BUFFET

55

TAX

399

TAX

135

129

says. Next dip the shrimp in the tempura dipping sauce to soak up some fresh daikon and salty sweetness. The Japanese were smart in this way, says Ching, matching foods together for the most benefit: the fresh radish cuts down the richness of the oil.

Served with vegetable tempura (eggplant, green beams, and sometimes

841-0931

10.95

DINING OUT | DEC. 30, 2012-JAN. 5, 2013 | 3

A FOR ALL PALATES STORY BY ALANA FOLEN | PHOTOS BY LEAH FRIEL

n explosion of flavors takes over at Kit n Kitchen, an awardwinning restaurant on University Avenue, where the best of Eurasian fare makes its mark on Hawaii’s dining scene. Owned and operated by the husband-and-wife team of Kit and May Yiu, Kit n Kitchen has been attracting diners for the past 11 years with a myriad of eclectic fare, ranging from the most tender of meats and savory seafoods to decadent pastas and so much more.

Dining Out recently caught up with May — who also serves as executive chef of the restaurant — over superlative fare and conversation. An independent soul, May shares her passion for cooking, food and travel. For May, food is the essence of life, and it’s her worldly experiences that have helped to sustain the success of this most soughtafter restaurant and will continue to do so for years to come.

DO: Have you always had a passion for cooking?

Yiu: Yes, I’ve always had a passion for this. I grew up in Montreal, Canada, and I loved to watch my mom cook.

Then, as I got older, I lived on my own so I had to cook for myself.

1

4 | DINING OUT | DEC. 30, 2012- JAN. 5, 2013

DO: When in the kitchen, what is your favorite style of cuisine to create?

Yiu: Definitely Eurasian. When you combine European fare with Asian fare, it just complements each other perfectly. Chinese cooking has so much flavor to it, but requires the use of a lot of oil, and I don’t necessarily like that. And in European cooking, a lot of things are simmered, making the food relatively healthy. So, I like to combine the two. I like healthy food with a lot of taste.

2

DO: What is your favorite ingredient to work with?

Yiu: Vegetables. That is my primary ingredient that I use when I cook.

There’s so much flavor in vegetables.

DO: Please explain some of the bestselling dishes here at the restaurant?

Yiu: There are so many, but I’ll tell you about some of the most popular.

Garlic Pork Chop Chimichurri ($13.95) features bone-in pork chop with chimichurri sauce served over spaghetti with garlic olive oil, and accompanied by mixed vegetables. We’re known for our chimichurri sauce and sell it on its own here at the restaurant as well.

Scallop, Bacon, Spinach Spaghetti ($15.95) is another extremely popular dish, and presents seared scallop with spinach and crispy bacon over spaghetti. It’s a really good combination and

can select from Garden Salad with homemade ginger dressing, Milano Tomato Soup, Creamy Corn Soup or Creamy Mushroom Soup. The second course follows with Spinach Lamb Roll — lamb roasted with herbs, mozzarella and pesto in flaky pastry baked to golden perfection — Grilled Beef with Chimichurri and Garlic Basil Shrimp. Then select an entree from the entree selection, and finally end on a sweet note with chocolate cake, ice cream, crème brulee or cheesecake.

You can add a wine pairing to your meal for $10 more.

DO: That sounds incredible! Do you like spicy foods?

Yiu: Yes, I love spicy food! I make my own habanero sauce.

DO: Kit n Kitchen has always been known for its Eurasian-style cuisine, but recently, there have been additions to the menu, highlighting other ethnic fare.

Tell us about this.

VARSITY CENTER 1010 UNIVERSITY AVE., HONOLULU 942.7622

3

DO: Have you created any new dishes for customers to try?

Yiu: Yes, I’ve recently added Moroccan Lamb Stew to the menu. It’s very, very spicy. It features lamb marinated with spices and herbs, such as cumin, paprika, saffron, cinnamon clove and fennel seeds, braised in a rich tomato sauce. The spice in the dish is very intense, so I’ve also added in some cranberries for a hint of sweetness. Lately, I’ve been playing with a lot of spices, so it’s nice to see the finished product.

5 P.M.-MIDNIGHT (DINNER) SATURDAY-SUNDAY, 8-11 A.M. (BREAKFAST)

6

Yiu: I really enjoy tasting all kinds of food from around the world, and I’ve been loving spices. I love to travel, and I recently had the opportunity to visit India earlier this year — that trip really inspired me in the kitchen. I visited a local family and had many dinners with them. As a result, I learned new cooking techniques that I’m able to incorporate into the cuisine here at Kit n Kitchen. Moroccan Lamb Stew is an example of that.

4

customers can choose their own sauce, be it olive garlic oil, tomato sauce, rose pink sauce or pesto cream sauce.

Then we have Sizzling Seafood Paella ($14.95), which consists of a bed of toasty rice seasoned with sun-dried tomatoes, saffron and butter, topped with a seafood medley of shrimp, mussel and squid.

And for the best value, we recommend Four Course Meal ($20.95) — a set meal. For the first course, patrons

OPEN DAILY, 11 A.M.-2 P.M. (LUNCH)

5

1 OWNER AND EXECUTIVE CHEF MAY YIU WITH MOROCCAN LAMB STEW 2 MOROCCAN LAMB STEW ($14.95) 3 SIZZLING SEAFOOD PAELLA ($14.95) 4 SECOND COURSE OF FOUR COURSE MEAL ($20.95 SET MEAL) 5 SCALLOP, BACON, SPINACH SPAGHETTI ($15.95) 6 GARLIC PORK CHOP CHIMICHURRI ($13.95)

DO: Kit n Kitchen has always been able to maintain its outstanding cuisine.

As executive chef here, what are your plans for 2013?

Yiu: I hope to travel more and improve on my cooking techniques. In 2013, I would love to go to Cambodia. I heard it’s beautiful there, and I want to explore and try all the cuisine. My tastes are constantly changing and I love to try new things.

DINING OUT | DEC. 30, 2012- JAN. 5, 2013 | 5

3

4

S

akura Restaurant has moved to Kaimuki from its original home of seven years at Olomana Golf Links.

Founded by Shuntaro Tsuchiya and his sons Jun and Ryojiro, the casual restaurant features a menu of classic Japanese, American and local favorites, including a great selection of steak and fish dishes.

Some of its most popular items are Mushroom Hamburger Steak ($16), which is topped with grilled mushrooms and a demi glace sauce and served with potatoes and vegetables; Grilled Ahi Belly ($10.95) served on a

sizzling platter; and for dessert, Special Homemade Cheesecake with chocolate sauce ($6) is a must.

Also on the menu are various pasta, soup, salad,

SAKURA RESTAURANT

noodle and rice dishes.

There also is a full-bar and happy hour specials from 5 to 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. to close, including beer for $2.95, house wine and sake for $3.50 and a $5 pupu menu.

At Olomana Golf Links, Sakura Restaurant was known as not just a fun 19th hole hang-out for golfers, but also as a great family-friendly restaurant with tasty food and good service.

Shuntaro died in 2011, but the Tsuchiya family, who also own restaurants in Japan, are committed to providing the same positive experience in their new place.

1 Special Homemade Cheesecake ($6) 2 Ryojiro and Jun Tsuchiya 3 Grilled Ahi Belly ($10.95) 4 Mushroom Hamburger Steak ($16) Nathalie Walker photos

HOLIDAY PARTY MENU Serves 10-12

$188

WHERE 3008 Waialae Ave., Honolulu CALL 259.7100 HOURS Tuesday-Sunday,11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to midnight

2

6 | DINING OUT | DEC. 30, 2012-JAN. 5, 2013

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!

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

Korean Hibiscus BBQ

FREE MANDOO* 4 PIECES

2 PIECES

with purchase of regular plate

with purchase of mini plate

*Cannot be combined with any other offers. Expires 1/31/13.

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

✁

1

Closed on New Year’s Day

2013 New Year Special

4-Course Meal!

28

1st Course: Soup or Mixed Greens $ 2nd Course: Appetizer Trio plus tax 3rd Course: per person Pick any of 8 Entrees…

• Baked Salmon • Pan Seared Pork Tenderloin Wellington • Opaka Fettucini • Grilled New York • Lobster Pad Thai Steak Brioche 4th Course: Dessert of Choice

5 OFF 10%OFF

$

Any Whole Cake

All Desserts til 1/15/13

eatthis

Journey to Atlantis

By Jaimie Kim

W

hen you enter through the doors at Atlantis Seafood and Steak, the first thing you’ll notice is its mesmerizing decor. The second thing you’ll realize as soon as you sit down, is that the menu boasts an impressive selection of items that everyone can enjoy.

The ceiling of the restaurant is a ship’s frame, surSeafood Boat ($39) Atlantis Fillet ($49)

ATLANTIS SEAFOOD AND STEAK

Nathalie Walker file photos

WHERE 2284 Kalakaua Ave. (the former Waikiki 3 Theater) CALL 922.6868 HOURS Open daily, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

NOTES $2 validated parking

rounded by lights that mimic a starry evening — you’ll forget you’re still in Waikiki.

“We like to think of ourselves as friendly with very warm service, in a fancy, aquatic-themed restaurant,” says executive general man-

ager Steven Matsuno.

Located in the middle of Waikiki on Kalakaua Avenue and surrounded by retail shops, the restaurant has been in business since 2006.

“Waikiki is bustling right now, and it’s a great time to rediscover it,” shares Matsuno.

For a limited time until the end of the year, Atlantis Fillet, the restaurant’s fillet mignon is only $49 (usually priced at $59). Cooked to your liking and served with the vegetable of the day and a baked potato, Matusno says this dish remains a favorite with tourists and locals.

For something a little more surf than turf, Seafood Boat ($39) is an appetizer great for sharing.

“It’s hands-down our most popular appetizer,” Matsuno reveals.

An offering of a variety of different raw seafood items, this dish includes crab claws, mussels, clams, shrimp cocktail and oysters served on an ice platter.

Dine with someone and you can enjoy the best the restaurant has to offer from the land and sea.

Serving Hawaii Since 1989

YAKINIKU

MILLION only

15

$

95

for Lunch 11am-2pm

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

• Book A Kook Dried Pollock Soup

• Sul Lung Tang Beef & Tendon Soup

• Bi Bim Bap

(behind Walmart)

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

GRAND OPENING

DINE-IN

$ 95

5

TAKE-OUT

Mixed Rice with Veggies & Beef

626 SHERIDAN ST.

Shabu Shabu or any Sukiyaki Set featuring our special sukiyaki sauce. Exp. 1/3/13

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

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

✁

SPICY FRIED SMALL

Octopus

Best “Japanese Style” Shabu Shabu in Hawaii

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

$6.95

(next to Ryan’s Grill)

375-1200

Tues-Sun 11am-9pm • Closed Mondays

www.infernospizzahawaii.com

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

NIGHTLY 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM

Teriyaki Chicken . . . . . . . . . . . . .$15.95 Daily Fish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$23.95 Sukiyaki Steak . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$21.95 Teriyaki Steak & Chicken Combo .$23.95 Kama‘aina & Military Discount Available (with proper ID)

10% OFF

OurMustWhole Menu! present coupon.

Exp 1/31/13

1841 Ala Moana Blvd.

CHOGAJIB KOREAN RESTAURANT

744-3440

DINNER BUFFET

Ward Center

Authentic Korean Cuisine

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

RA I N BO W L A N A I ____________________

Reg. $19 *Offer not valid with other offers/ discounts. Expires 1/3/13

596-0799

BYOB

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

Between Ilikai & Hilton Hawaiian Village

941-4444

Call today for reservations

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

Dinner served from 5:30 nightly. Valet parking available. Not valid with any other offer.

DINING OUT | DEC. 30, 2012 - JAN. 5, 2013 | 7

F

ew things in this world compare to the simple pleasure of biting into a freshly baked loaf of bread that’s still warm from the oven. Or, experiencing an artisan panini that has been crafted from the same loaf and, wow — life couldn’t get better!

While most people are caught up in the hustle and bustle of the daily grind, Fendu Boulangerie chef and owner Niel Koep is slowing down the pace to masterfully

Koep. “We are spoiled by going to the store and buying yeast. Well prior to that, people still made bread, but the sourdough process is what they used.”

To craft his European-style loaf, Koep nurtures his yeastculture mix by “feeding” it flour and water throughout the day. “It’s like having a pet,” he says with a laugh.

“Some people have a cat and a dog; I have a sourdough.”

The process is certainly worth it for the wonderfully

1

crisp crust that results, as well as a soft, chewy interior that boasts a mild sourdough flavor. The bread is best when accented with butter or olive oil, or toasted up in the morning.

The eatery also is known for its mouth-watering sandwich menu, which includes an impressive selection of breakfast paninis (available from 7:30 to 10:30 a.m.).

Koep suggests indulging in Bacon, Egg and Cheese Panini ($7.25), which starts with house-made French Bread, of course. A glorious combination of fresh bacon, eggs seasoned with Hawaiian salt and black pepper, caramelized sweet onions and fresh farmed tomatoes melt into a gooey blend of munster, Parmigiano Reggiano and Vermont white Cheddar cheeses. After 15 minutes on the press, this sandwich is unbelievably right.

Save room to enjoy some3

prepare the best in homemade breads, brick-oven pizzas, fresh pastries and gourmet sandwiches.

Take the bakery’s French Sourdough ($5.25, regular; $3.50 petit), for example. It’s not a bread that gets much attention here in Hawaii, mostly because its preparation involves a lengthy process of cultivating wild yeast and bacterial culture into the perfect mixture for baking.

“It’s the oldest form of breadmaking,” explains

2

8 | DINING OUT | DEC. 30, 2012-JAN. 5, 2013

FENDU BOULANGERIE WHERE Manoa Marketplace 2752 Woodlawn Drive #5119 CALL 988.4310 HOURS Monday-Saturday, 7:30 a.m.-7 p.m.

Sunday, 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

thing sweet at Fendu as well, such as Valrhona Bittersweet Chocolate Mousse Cake ($48, 10-inch round; $36, 7inch round; $4.50 per slice).

It’s delicately layered with a crunchy, tempered-chocolate base, chocolate chiffon cake, chocolate mouse and almond cake. Shiney chocolate glaze tops off this semi-sweet beauty.

Just as the bakers at Fendu Boulangerie artfully prepare each edible gem, you should take the time to masterfully devour each bite.

1 French Sourdough ($3.50 petit, $5.25 regular) 2 Valrohna Bittersweet Chocolate Mousse Cake ($48, 10-inch round; $36, 7-inch round; $4.50 per slice) 3 Bacon, Egg and Cheese Panini ($7.25)

Nathalie Walker photos

KITCHEN INSIDER

NEW YEAR’S MENU

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.

This week, Dining Out gets the inside scoops from Chogajib Korean Restaurant owner Jeong Lim, who gives us a little taste of Chogajib and shares just what fuels his culinary drive.

A

Who or what inspires you as a chef/manager/owner? When I see that my customers are happy with their food it always gives me a sense of accomplishment. Nothing makes me happier than seeing loyal customers come back and visit us regularly, because that means they enjoy what we are offering. When they write good reviews online that also is very fulfilling because it spreads the word to others that they enjoyed their experience here and would recommend it to others.

If you could serve food to a celebrity, who would it be and why? What dish would you serve? I would love to serve Hyun Bin, a famous Korean actor who is very popular and actually well known with locals here who like to watch K-dramas. I heard he is actually in Hawaii now! I would serve him our Eujungbu Budae Stew, a stew with all kinds of things in it — Spam, sausage, bacon, ramen, etc. I would also like to serve Daniel Dae Kim from Hawaii Five-0. He’s a

very famous Korean-American actor, and I would love for him to try our authentic dishes. I would serve him our kalbi and naeng myun (cold noodle) set.

What is your favorite dish on the menu? Why? My favorite dish on the menu is Kimchi Jeongol-Pork or Kimchi Pot Stew. It’s a spicy stew with all kinds of things in it such as kimchi, pork, tofu, onion, chili pepper, etc. We bring it out on a burner and it cooks on the table in front of you!

New Year’s Eve & Day Includes Roasted Turkey & Seafood Menu and more! $ $ 95 Lunch Lunch $ $ 95

12 Dinner Dinner19

Dim Sum

Take-Out Mon-Sat 6:00am • Sunday 8:00am Dine-In Daily 10:00am-9:00pm Kapolei Marketplace 590 Farrington Hwy

692-9880

Is there a dish that you create that’s not on your menu, but available upon request? A couple of specials we have right now that are not on our usual menu are Stewed Smothered Monkfish and Spicy Chopped Chicken Stew. If you ask for these we will be happy to serve it to you.

Name Jeon Lim Nathalie Walker file photo

Title Owner of Cho ajib Training/education 15 years in the restaurant industry

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.

Cho ajib korean restaurant

825 Keeaumoku St. #111 744.3440 Open daily, 10 a.m.-4 a.m.

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. 30, 2012-JAN. 5, 2013 | 9

STORY BY ALANA FOLEN PHOTOS BY LEAH FRIEL

G

ood Golly, Miss Molly … Little Richard is back in the Islands, thanks to impersonator, tribute artist and entertainer Garry Moore. A local boy raised in Haleiwa, Moore currently resides in Mililani and takes the stage in Legends in Concert Waikiki tonight and tomorrow night performing as the outrageous “Architect of Rock ’n Roll.”

In the meantime, however, Moore fueled up for his upcoming shows by partaking in a meal at Panya Bakery, Bistro & Bar, as he takes the spotlight in this week’s Dining With the Stars.

Moore and I escaped the hustle and bustle of the postholiday rush and paid a visit to Panya’s Ala Moana Center location, where we were greeted with a host of the restaurant’s signature dishes, including six-piece Gyoza, Laksa,

Steak Salad and Steamed Sea Bass. Best known for its eclectic Euro-Asian fare, Panya made a great first impression on Moore, who was beyond excited about this new dining experience.

“The food here is very unique. My favorites have to be the Sea Bass and Laksa,” says Moore. “The Laksa is awesome, I’ve never had anything like this. The first bite was absolutely delicious and the spice is so good, it just creeps up on you. I’ll definitely be back for more.”

A house specialty, Laksa is a Malaysian-Singapore-inspired noodle dish. Its soup base is a blend of coconut milk, chili oil and chicken broth, and a mound of noodles and a medley of seafood complete the dish.

“The gyoza also pairs well with the noodles. I’ve had gyoza many times before, but

10 | DINING OUT | DEC. 30, 2012-JAN. 5, 2013

this one stands out,” he adds of the plump dumplings filled with shrimp, pork and vegetables.

Moore also had nothing but good things to say about Panya’s Steamed Sea Bass.

Presented on a bed of tofu and served with a bowl of rice, the sea bass is soaked in a flavorintense shoyu sauce and garnished with chives.

“The fish is really good. You wouldn’t think to pair it with

recommends the eatery’s Steak Salad, which features morsels of ribeye steak atop fresh greens splashed with a ginger lime dressing.

After an A-list meal like this, Moore is more than ready to rock on! And you can be sure that when this celebrity takes center stage jaws will drop and Little Richard fans will be in awe. Moore began his tribute to Little Richard in 1990 when he performed on the Jerry Lewis Muscular Dystrophy Telethon. This was then followed by performances throughout the Islands, PANYA BAKERY, which led to future internaBISTRO AND BAR tional gigs.

“I’ve been impersonating Ala Moana Center Little Richard for more than 1450 Ala Moana Blvd., Suite 2054 20 years and it’s always fun to be a part of Legends in 946.6388 Concert in Waikiki.

Monday-Saturday, 7:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

“I had to study Little Sunday, 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

Richard’s character, and it took me about three years to PanyaGroup.com perfect it,” Moore explains.

“It’s very important to capture his (Little Richard) sound.

You have to hear it. It’s the tofu, but it works very well,” sound and the music that will capture audiences and give Moore exclaims.

And for a healthy alternative you chicken skin. I’ve even to any meal, Moore highly had the honor of performing

with Little Richard himself.”

Legends in Concert Waikiki is a family-friendly, live musical celebration and concert.

The show runs Tuesdays through Sundays at 8:15 p.m. at Royal Hawaiian Theater, and transports guests to magical times when classic superstars ruled the airwaves.

Ticket prices start at $40.50 (kamaaina rate).

“I auditioned for Legends in 1991 in Atlantic City, and when they opened the show in 1993 in Hawaii, they hired me and I came back home.”

Nowadays, Moore continues to share his talents and passion for Little Richard with people across the globe. In fact, after his performances in Legends in Concert Waikiki, Moore will be heading to Finland and Sweden, where he will perform on a cruise ship.

“Surprisingly, I’ve had no formal musical training. I’m just a professional shower singer,” Moore says with a laugh.

For more information on Legends in Concert Waikiki, visit legendswaikiki.com or call 629-SHOW (7469).

Chips & New Year’s Special Salsa after 2pm on Mon - Fri

Terri Hefner

EXPIRES 1/3/13

VO

veg’with nout

Chicken, Carnitas, or Steak

456-5345

Diamond Head Plaza 3045 MONSARRAT AVE

o matter what the occasion, heading to Waikiki to celebrate can make it all the more special.

Sure, it’s a busy place with lots going on, but that’s the fun part — the hard part is choosing just the right venue.

Buffets are popular in part because of the variety of dishes offered, which makes it easier to please your whole party. But do you really want the same old buffet line fare?

Definitely not the same old thing, the concept at Kai Market, located on the ground floor of Sheraton Waikiki overlooking Waikiki Beach, is to harken

N

Kai Market WHERE Sheraton Waikiki 2255 Kalakaua Ave.

free dishes also take the spotlight. Executive chef Darren Demaya, who is thrilled to utilize quality, local products in his cuisine and is locally grown himself, recommends a couple of his favorites from the nightly offerings (dinner prices are $55 for adults ($58 Friday and Saturday; $35/$38 for seniors age 62 and up), $25 for children age 13-16, free for children under age 12 with a paying adult, one child per adult).

Yuzu Glazed Kahuku Japanese Long Eggplant is tender and flavorful. Fresh from the farm, the eggplant is glazed with miso, brown sugar, sake, mirin and yuzu juice, then roasted to perfection.

Another must-try is Chilled Rice Noodle Salad with Sumida Farm watercress and shoyu-mustard vinaigrette. The cool combination of fried

EXPIRES 1/3/13

with purchase over $10

30% OFF WITH RESERVATIONS. DINE IN ONLY. Lobster & crab not valid with offer. Coupon expires 1/3/13

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.

bliss.

tender moments of

CALL 931.4600 HOURS Open daily, Breakfast: 6-11 a.m.

Dinner: 5:30-9:30 p.m.

Yuzu Glazed Kahuku Japanese Long Eggplant Nathalie Walker photos

filet mignon,10 ounces Executive chef Darren Demaya puts the finishing touches on a dish.

Chilled Rice Noodle Salad

back to Hawaii’s plantation days and the food that resulted from the blending of ethnicities, offering a farm-to-table dining experience that changes nightly.

And if you choose not to eat meat or fish, unlike many buffets, you’ll not have to settle for the typical vegetable-based dishes that seem to be almost an afterthought. Why not eat fresh and local?

At Kai Market, island-fresh vegetables and meat-

diced tofu, watercress tops, julienned carrots, shaved red onion, slivered almonds and sliced won bok cabbage is topped with the savory vinaigrette and garnished with Chinese parsley and green onions.

And that’s just a sample of what’s in store, so don’t settle for anything less when you can enjoy a fresh, plantation-style feast at contemporary Kai Market.

Contact Terri Hefner at diningout@staradvertiser.com

A prime cut from the tenderloin of beef, exceptionally textured and uniquely tender.

A fine steak. A fine experience.

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

DINING OUT | DEC. 30, 2012-JAN. 5, 2013 | 11

1

2

3

... dining out ...

inside

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

12 | DINING OUT | DEC. 30, 2012-JAN. 5, 2013

JAPANESE RESTAURANT King’s Village Shopping Center 2400 Koa Ave., Honolulu 923.7368 Open daily, 6 to 11 a.m. (breakfast) 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. (lunch) 5 p.m. to midnight (dinner).

4

5

... dining out ...

inside

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

STORY BY: KYLE GALDEIRA PHOTOS BY: LEAH FRIEL

hile restaurants tend to come and go seemingly as often as the winds change direction, Odoriko Japanese Restaurant has proven that serving a quality menu with choices for all sorts of customers coupled with exceptional service are keys to withstanding the tests of time.

Odoriko is celebrating its 40th anniversary after opening its initial location at Ilikai Hotel in 1972. The

Japanese nationals come and visit our restaurant, but in the past five years or so, the growing attraction of Japanese cuisine and the fact that more people are traveling have brought us customers from around the world, as well as more of our local friends.”

Takei explains that he and the talented chefs at Odoriko strive to integrate locally grown and produced products and produce whenever possible. That effort can be

6

original eatery was called Maiko, which led to its sister restaurant — Odoriko — opening in 1978, and while the original location closed in the mid-1990s, the latter still remains in its King’s Village locale in the heart of Waikiki, away from the hustle and bustle.

“We’ve withstood the big highs of the Japanese economic bubble, the low times of that bubble bursting, and also the American economic bubble bursting, but we’ve tried our best to stand our ground,” says Hiro Takei, general manager of Odoriko, whose restaurateur father opened the eatery four decades ago.

“We’ve predominantly had

seen in one of the eatery’s many fresh seafood dishes, including Big Island Abalone Sashimi ($15 for small order, $25 for large order), which is available as a special menu item.

Odoriko also offers a kamaaina lunch special menu designed for those local customers looking for a hearty, inexpensive meal that can be enjoyed quickly.

Some of the special items served from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. include Odoriko Don ($7.50), a rice bowl dish featuring maguro, salmon and ika, as well as Nakaochi Don ($7.50), which includes tuna atop the rice bowl prepared either mild or spicy.

“We introduced a

1 Odoriko general manager Hiro Takei with restaurant favorites 2 Big Island Abalone Sashimi ($15 small order, $25 large order) 3 Chanko-nabe ($16.50 for one person at lunch, $76 for two people at dinner and $38 for each additional diner) 4 Nakaochi Don ($7.50) 5 Odoriko Don ($7.50) 6 Trio Sampler Set ($32.50)

kamaaina lunch menu so that our industry friends and other workers, such as those at the nearby hotels, could come here to enjoy lunch,” says Takei. “They’re on the run, so they need to eat and go quickly. So, we cater to them with a menu that’s affordable and quick, and I’m happy about that.”

For dinner, customers can order a la carte items, as well as selecting from a host of

Wateishoku (Japanese Dinner Set) selections.

Additionally, diners can indulge in the interactive cooking experience of shabu shabu, or hot pot cooking, where food is delivered on a platter and cooked in a desired broth, including Tonkotsu (pork bone broth), Shoyu (Japanese-style seaweed broth) or Spicy Sesame.

Chanko-nabe ($16.50 for

one person at lunch, $76 for two people at dinner and $38 for each additional diner) features a large platter of Odoriko’s finest meats, seafood and vegetables including crab legs, shrimp, salmon, squid legs, clams, thinly sliced beef, shiitake mushrooms, green onion, bak choy, tofu and shiratake (long rice noodles).

Odoriko also offers a vast selection of sushi and sashimi choices, and also features smaller dinner sets, such as the Trio Sampler Set ($32.50). The dinner set showcases the diverse tastes and preparation styles, and includes butterfish, garlic shrimp, kalbi, salad, edamame, rice and miso soup.

“We offer a dining experience that’s laid back, where loud bursts of laughter and excitement are welcomed, not frowned upon — this is a place where you let loose,” Takei explains.

“You kick back, have a drink — typically alcoholic, if you’re of age — and you eat pupu-style. For example, each individual orders two or three pupustyle dishes like garlic shrimp, butterfish or fried chicken, and another person would get grilled squid skewers and whatnot, and then they share. But, because we have a lot of families visiting us, our menu is more comprehensive, and includes a full sushi menu, hot pot selections and Japanese- and traditional-style meal sets.”

DINING OUT | DEC. 30, 2012-JAN. 5, 2013 | 13

Romano’s Macaroni Grill Ala Moana Center, Hookipa Terrace 1450 Ala Moana Blvd.

356.8300 Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Fridays and Saturdays, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

with Christina O’Connor Mama’s Trio ($21)

Tasty, Traditional Italian Treats

R

fect for sharing. omano’s Macaroni Grill has As general manager Kunani Blake been wowing customers with puts it, the restaurant constantly tries to its classic Italian dishes since stay on the cutting edge, often introopening in 2005 in Hookipa Terrace at ducing new dishes.

Ala Moana Center. And it’s not just “We like to try new and exciting locals the restaurant has been impressthings for our guests,” he says. ing. If anything can speak to the quality of Macaroni Grill’s cuisine, it is the If you haven’t been to visit Macaroni Grill lately, you might be in fact that Italians visiting the Islands have been known to frequent the Pasta di Mare ($22) restaurant.

“I had a family come in visit- Nathalie Walker ing from Italy for a week, and photos they came in four days out of that week to eat here,” recalls longtime staff member Sheldon Obra.

The restaurant’s cuisine, after all, is inspired by various regions in Italy. The menu features a wide range of appetizers, pizzas and flatbreads, pastas, and meat and fish entrees — all served in generous portions that are per-

14 | DINING OUT | DEC. 30, 2012-JAN. 5, 2013

ON THESIDE

W

hen Romano’s Macaroni Grill first opened in Ala Moana Center several years ago, there was a great deal of buzz surrounding it.

“It wasn't uncommon for us to have a three-and-a-half hour wait at that time,” recalls Sheldon Obra, a staff member who has been at the restaurant since it opened.

“It was insane.”

That might sound a little extreme, but the buzz certainly was understandable given Macaroni Grill’s successful track record.

The first Macaroni Grill restaurant opened in Texas, and has since expanded to include about 240 locations worldwide, including General manager Kunani Blake with Macaroni Germany, Puerto Rico, Grill classics.

Dubai and Okinawa.

Not to mention the fact that excellence certainly seems to run in its genes, as its sister restaurant is the ever-popular Ruth’s Chris Steak House.

While customers luckily won’t encounter such long waits these days, excitement about the restaurant certainly hasn’t waned.

“I definitely like to think that our staff — and our food — bring our guests back again and again,” general manager Kunani Blake says.

Blake also attributes the restaurant’s success to its ability to continually evolve and improve.

“Macaroni Grill tries to keep moving and not be a stagnant company as far as redoing the menu and making other changes,” he says.

Just a year ago, in fact, the restaurant went through an overhaul — changing everything from its uniforms and plate wear to the menu, adding a number of fresh, light dishes.

“Corporate Macaroni Grill has a team of chefs that is constantly creating new dishes,” Obra adds, explaining that these chefs have travelled to Italy to search for inspiration and new flavors.

But much of Macaroni Grill’s charm can be found closer to home in its welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff.

“I think the restaurant has a nice, cozy, warm feeling,” Blake says. And while that warm feeling certainly is immediately apparent in the restaurant's décor, it also extends to the welcoming attitude of the staff.

“We pride ourselves on great food and great service,” Blake says. “Those go hand in hand.”

chewonthis

Steak and Frites ($27)

ing Market Chop Salad ($15), which features roasted turkey, pepperoni, provolone, artichoke, balsamic vinaigrette and pumpkin seeds.

If you find all of these options a little overwhelming, then Mama's Trio ($21) provides a perfect solution. The dish features three different items — chicken Parmesan, lasagna Bolognese and chicken cannelloni.

“It's a hearty dish,” Blake says.

Macaroni Grill also is known to frequently offer a number of great deals. Ongoing promo-

Local grinds galore

By Alana Folen

A

sahi Grill on Ward Avenue aspires to be your top choice when it comes to local, island-style fare. Pay a visit to the eatery on any given day and you’ll notice that the restaurant is always packed with kamaaina and visitors alike who come hungry — and for good reason. Asahi Grill’s Oxtail Soup has received rave reviews from diners, and Teriyaki Pork Chops ($9.75) top the list as well.

“Our Teriyaki Pork Chops are delicious and marinated in a special teriyaki sauce and topped with green onions, and served with two scoops of rice and your choice of mac or tossed salad,” says restaurant manager Victoria Sayno.

“But our Oxtail Soup has

been our best-seller since the days of Kapiolani Coffee Shop, and then we brought it to Asahi Grill.”

Priced at $11.95 for a small bowl, $13.95 for a regular bowl and $22.95 for an extra-large bowl, Asahi Grill’s Oxtail Soup is made from an original Chinese recipe. According to Sayno, the soup is made fresh daily.

“We boil our oxtail for two to three hours in a clear broth with Chinese herbs — the meat just falls off the bone. The soup is garnished with Chinese parsley and

green onion,” she says, adding that a side of rice (white/brown or fried rice) and grated ginger complete the meal.

For the ultimate oxtail experience, add a splash of shoyu to the ginger or Sriracha sauce to the soup to really warm you up during the winter months.

“I say we sell about 80 orders of Oxtail Soup on a daily basis,” Sayno notes.

Asahi Grill is your onestop shop when comfort food served with a smile is just what you need.

Oxtail Soup ($11.95 small, $13.95 regular, $22.95 extra-large) Teriyaki Pork Chops ($9.75) Leah Friel photos

Market Chop Salad ($15)

for a surprise. The restaurant unveiled a set of new dishes last year, including Pasta di Mare ($22), a flavorful blend of scallops, mussels and shrimp flavored with white wine, pomodoro and garlic — all served over delectable fresh pasta.

Dishes made with fresh pasta have been one recent addition.

“The difference with fresh pasta is that it is a little more al dente,” Blake explains, “and it holds flavor well.”

One customer favorite has been Steak and Frites ($27), flavored with arugula pesto and Parmesan fries.

Macaroni Grill also offers a wide selection of salads, includ-

tions include Vino Thursday, where customers receive 25 percent off any bottle of wine all day. Happy hour runs every day from 3 to 6 p.m. and includes food deals such as pizzas for $7 and house wine and draft beers for $4. On Monday-Thursday, stop in from 4 to 6 p.m. for an unparalleled deal: The Primo Menu offers a three-course meal for just $25.

For diners who would like to enjoy their Italian treats at home or for parties, pick-up for family-style dishes that serve eight to 10 people is available.

Contact Christina O’Connor at diningout@staradvertiser.com

ASAHI GRILL WHERE 515 Ward Ave., Honolulu CALL 593.2800 HOURS Sunday-Thursday, 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

Friday-Saturday, 6:30 a.m.-11 p.m

DINING OUT | DEC. 30, 2012-JAN. 5, 2013 | 15

1

2

3

4

Always delivering appetizer greatness

G

GENKI SUSHI WHERE Ward Center 1200 Ala Moana Blvd. (and various locations) CALL 591.5600 HOURS Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

enki Sushi is a bit unique in the local sushi market. The popular Japanese eatery has nearly as many pupus as main courses on its varied menu. Among the 31 appetizer-friendly items on the menu are edamame, miso soup, shumai, salmon bone, potato fries, spicy tuna bowl, garlic chicken, soft shell crab, vegetable croquette and spicy and stuffed mushrooms.

Garlic Chicken ($3.80) is made from juicy pieces of thigh meat that are battered in corn starch, fried and tossed with a Korean garlic sauce. What arrives on the conveyor belt of dishes is a tender, crisp, moist

portion of chicken that also is slightly sweet.

On the other end of the spectrum is Spicy Mushrooms ($4.80). Button mushrooms are tempura-fried, topped with spicy ahi and drizzled with an unagi sauce. The kick from the tuna is a nice complement to the tender mushrooms, which act as a sponge for the flavors that surround the mild fungi.

Vegetable Croquette ($1.50) is a simply-prepared mash of potato and peas that is battered in panko and fried until it is golden brown. It’s light, crispy and vegan approved.

Finally, Soft Shell Crab ($4.80) is tasty, crunchy good-

ness. The crab is tempura-fried and topped with a special sauce of mayo, tobiko and other things not for public discussion.

Such secrecy is not a bad thing, as the topping provides a pleasant creamy element to the crunchy critter.

1 Soft Shell Crab ($4.80) 2 Spicy Mushrooms ($4.80) 3 Vegetable Croquette ($1.50) 4 Garlic Chicken ($3.80) 5 Lead supervisor Elvin Manglicmot 5

Nathalie Walker photos

g n i p l e H ra t X

(File photos)

After more than 14 years in business, Chai’s Island Bistro in Aloha Tower Marketplace will officially close its doors tomorrow (make your reservations now).

Owned and operated by celebrity

chef Chai Chaowasaree, Chai’s Island Bistro is renowned for its award-winning Pacific Rim cuisine, which is always prepared with aloha and served with exquisite presentation.

And although loyal patrons are saddened by the news of the restaurant’s closing, Chaowasaree is ready to take

16 | DINING OUT | DEC. 30, 2012 - JAN. 5, 2013

advantage of 2013 with new opportunities. He will open a new restaurant on the ground floor of Honolulu Pacifica Building (1009 Kapiolani Blvd.) early next year.

According to Chaowasaree, the restaurant will focus on healthier cuisine.

For more information, visit chaisislandbistro.com or call 585-0011.

i’s a Ch

d n la s I

ro t s Bi

Five-star delights to complete a meal

W

ith so many delicious sweets from countries across the world, it’s comforting to know that Five Star International Buffet has a dessert menu that showcases Hawaii’s fabulous flavors.

Each bite-sized dessert

makes for a perfect addition to the restaurant’s buffet (lunch $19 adults, $12 keiki 5 to 12 years old; dinner $48 adults, $24 keiki 5 to 12 years old). But it doesn’t matter how old or young you are, there’s a dessert for everyone in the buffet line at

Five Star International Buffet.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Roll, topped with fruits such as green grapes and blueberries, is sure to be a favorite among the keiki, as it was inspired by pastry chef Ryan Lai’s hanabata days growing up eating peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.

If you’re looking for a flavor that screams “Hawaii,” then Pineapple Cheesecake is perfect for you.

“Instead of a standard vanilla, we wanted to offer something that represents Hawaii,” Lai explains of the Pineapple Cheesecake that sits on a drizzle of kiwi syrup. “It’s a nice refreshing pineapple taste without being too heavy or sweet.”

Small pieces of pineapple sit atop one half of the cheesecake bite, while a raspberry sits on the other.

Each ingredient not only adds beautiful colors to the pastry, but also a memorable taste that will have you going back in line for just one more.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Roll (part of the buffet)

Pineapple Cheesecake (part of the buffet)

If Asian delicacies are your cup of tea, Five Star International Buffet has a White Chocolate Matcha with Azuki Beans. “We wanted a Japanese-flavored

FIVE STAR INTERNATIONAL BUFFET WHERE Royal Hawaiian Center Bldg C, third level 2201 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu CALL 380.9300

White Chocolate Matcha (part of the buffet) Nathalie Walker photos

HOURS Open daily, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

(Lunch), 2-5 p.m. (Happy Hour), 5-10 p.m. (Dinner)

dessert,” Lai says. “That way, if we have tourists come in, or locals, they’ll see a classic pairing with green tea and azuki. And the white chocolate makes it a little sweeter.”

The White Chocolate Matcha’s finely milled Japanese green tea pairs well with the rice cracker texture beneath, and together the flavors create a symphonious harmony.

If you’d like a preview of these three dessert buffet items, then make sure you check out Five Star International Buffet’s full selection.

And while the extravagant buffet may entice you to fill your stomach, save room for dessert!

DINING OUT | DEC. 30, 2012-JAN. 5, 2013 | 17

ono,youknow 1

2

3

4

1 Eggs ‘n Things’ Furikake Ahi ($14.95) 2 Eggs ‘n Things’ Cajun Ahi ($14.95) 3 Restaurant Epic’s Seared Ahi with Togarashi ($14) 4 Restaurant Epic co-owner and chef Brian Chan

– From page 2

“Restaurant Epic opened in 2007, and it’s all about unique food at affordable prices. We take your common comfort foods and put our own twist on it,” he says.

The eatery appeals to all crowds with a variety of tastes. However, the majority of patrons can’t get enough of Restaurant Epic’s Mac and Cheese, Miso Marinated Wild Salmon and its slew of burger delights, be it your classic burger, spicy teriyaki burger or a one-of-a-kind grilled apple bacon and bleu cheese burger.

I love all of the above, yet with the new year just a couple days away, I must start fresh and opt for Seared Ahi with Togarashi.

Priced at $14, this lunch-only entree captured my appetite at first sight. Three ounces of seared fresh, local ahi seasoned with togarashi is served with fingerling potatoes, grilled asparagus, cherry tomatoes and egg with mixed greens brought to

life with a zesty lemon vinaigrette.

“Seared Ahi with Togarashi is a popular item here,” Chan says. “We’re always busy for lunch and see a lot of the downtown business crowd. Happy hour from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday also is crowded.”

So, if you choose to eat clean or splurge a little, Restaurant Epic is the place to be. Care for a drink or two with your meal? Restaurant Epic’s full bar is at your service.

Restaurant Epic 1131 Nuuanu Ave. 587.7877

Eggs ‘n Things There's no stopping Eggs ‘n Things when it comes to whipping up a breakfast of champions. Now, with three locations islandwide, it’s easier than ever to get your fix of Eggs ‘n Things favorites. I’ve been a fan of this renowned restaurant for

18 | DINING OUT | DEC. 30, 2012-JAN. 5, 2013

years, but this was my first time to its newest location on Piikoi Street. The line was out the door, and once inside the place was full of hungry diners enjoying bite after bite of decadent omelets, pancakes, crepes and more. The energy throughout the restaurant was intoxicating, not to mention my breakfast: Furikake Ahi with salsa, scrambled egg whites and brown rice ($14.95).

“Our ahi steak comes in three styles: Simple Sauteed Ahi, Cajun Ahi or Furikake Ahi,” says Eggs ‘n Things general manager Michael Skedeleski, noting that you also can select your choice of starch, be it pancakes, rice or potatoes, and eggs cooked to your liking.

“We really cater this dish to the cus-

tomer,” he adds.

“For instance, you can have Cajun Ahi Steak with sunny side up eggs and pancakes ($14.95), if you wish.”

What’s even better is that you can add whipped cream and fruits to your pancakes for a more elaborate meal for an additional cost. Can we say delicious?

“We get fresh fish every day provided by local vendors,” Skedeleski notes. “Our eggs are fresh and local, too.”

It's a beautiful day at Eggs ‘n Things where the cuisine is always made with love and the staff always greets you with a smile.

Eggs ‘n Things 451 Piikoi St. 538.3447

tableside

tableside @ Makino Chaya

Right: Bradon Kishimoto with Maguro Kabuto Yaki (roasted ahi heads) from the buffet Inset: Tofu from the salad bar

B

ring your appetite to Makino Chaya in Aiea and be ready to dig in to its all-youcan-eat lunch and dinner buffets. With more than 100 items to choose from, it’s no wonder this Japanese seafood buffet is a favorite local hang out. Customers can’t seem to get enough of the mounds of crab, lobster, fish and more. Makino Chaya is located at Westridge Shopping Center (98-150 Kaonohi St.). For more information, call 486.5100.

1 | Sumie, Joy, Stacey, Brian, Sumie Yamada and Natsuko Sato 2 | Samantha, Julia and Emily Preis and Rod Martin | 3 Nicolette Saavedra and Taylor Ayau 4 | Tehani Ayau, Savanah Omoso, Kaleb Vutnoski and Kenny Ringor 5 | Branard and Rene Manding and Douglas Fulp 6 | Christian and Romeo Gimenez 7 | Angela Neri, Spencer Smith, Jennifer Yamanuha and Holly Honbo

Rachel Breit photos

1

2

5

3

6

4

7 DINING OUT | DEC. 30, 2012-JAN. 5, 2013 | 19

WHERE TO DINE AMERICAN

Symbol Key

Atlantis Seafood & Steak

Breakfast

2284 Kalakaua Avenue 922-6868

Lunch Eggs n’ Things Ala Moana

Dinner

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

Napoleon’s Bakery

Fendu Boulangerie

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

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

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

Catering

$

15

per person

for a sampling of authentic Portuguese dishes from our chef Regular menu, beer & cocktails also available

Special NEW YEAR Menu $188

OPEN DAILY: 10am — midnight 923 KEEAUMOKU ST.

Daily Lunch Buffet - $1299 11:30am-2:30pm

Best Cantonese Cuisine

955-3388

HOLIDAY LUNCH SPECIAL 20% OFF

Any Take-Out Kitchen Order

10% OFF

ALL TAKE-OUT SUSHI

947-2836

Open 7 Days • 2700 So. King St.

949-4590 OPEN:

Sunday - Thursday Friday & Saturday

11:00AM - 11:00PM 11:00AM - 11:30PM

www.mccullysc.com • Ample Parking Available in Basement off Pumehana St 1960 Kapiolani Blvd., Suite 104, Honolulu, HI 96826 20 | DINING OUT | DEC. 30, 2012-JAN. 5, 2013

With any food purchase. Dine-in only. Cannot be combined with other offers.

Limit 1 coupon per party.

Expires 1/3/13.

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

Reservations Recommended Sorry, we cannot accept Hot Deals or any other discounts/coupons at this event.

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

Chee Fried Rice or Kim Chee Pancake FREE Kim

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

ut -O le ke ab Ta vail A

Saturday, January 5, 2013 5-7pm

Larry’s Bakery

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

BAKERY

451 Piikoi St 538-EGGS (3447)

After Midnight

Tropics Bar & Grill

905 Keeaumoku Street

OPEN Daily 5pm - 2am

(808) 951-1004

WHERE TO DINE 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

Hee Hing Restaurant 449 Kapahulu Ave. 735-5544

CAFE Five Star International Buffet

Happy Day Chinese Restaurant

CATERERS

Yakiniku Camellia Buffet

CHINESE Ho Ho Chinese Cuisine

Anytime Cafe Canton Seafood Restaurant

Market City Shopping Center 2919 Kapiolani Blvd 735-3888

Royal Hawaiian Center, Bldg C, Level 3.

380-9300

Makino Chaya

Jade Dynasty Seafood Restaurant

Golden Palace Seafood Restaurant

Kissaten

98-150 Kaonohi St. 486-5100

590 Farrington Hwy. 692-9880

923 Keeaumoku St. 955-3388

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

✃ 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 111 N. King St. near Maunakea

RSVP Today!

15% OFF

Private Party Menu Available for All Groups

Dim Sum $ 98

1

735.1122

(past McCully St.)

(808) 947-5919

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

(Across from Pan Am Bldg.)

1137 11th ave

www.tropical-tribe.com

366-8226

Belly Dancing (1st & 3rd Sunday)

Open New Year’s Day January 1st

2080 S. King Street

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

with this ad

Served 7am Daily Take-out Orders Welcomed

We will be closed Dec. 28 - Jan 2.

Please visit us again on Jan 3, 2013 during our dinner hours.

Coupon Required.

Exp: 1/3/13.

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

LUNCH, DINNER & LATE NITE

WAFU RIB EYE STEAK

FRENCH TOAST

Call In Your Orders Today!

Our Broths are made from scratch with no MSG!

Pearlridge (Phase II) . . . . . .483-6805 Moiliili . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .951-5696 (KOZO) Kahala Mall . . . . . . . . .738-5696 (KOZO) Pearl City by Wal-Mart . . .455-6805 WWW.KOZOSUSHIHAWAII.NET

HAPPY HOUR

5-6p & 9pm-midnight

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

3008 Waialae Ave. 259-7100

Ring in the New Year with Us! 98-150 Kaonohi St. • Tel: 486-5100

Beach Front Dining & Great View of the Fireworks.

No Cover!

Party All Night Long!

*MENU AND PRICES SUBJECT TO CHANGE *DINNER MENU ONLY

ONLY ONE TYPE OF COUPON PER PARTY

ONLY ONE TYPE OF COUPON PER PARTY

SENIOR SPECIAL! 55+ KAMA‘AINA SPECIAL!

LUNCH & 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 1/4/13.

LUNCH & DINNER

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 1/4/13.

Please call 923-4056 or visit our restaurants both located in Outrigger Reef On the Beach • 2169 Kalia Road

www.oceanhousewaikiki.com

www.shorebirdwaikiki.com

DINING OUT | DEC. 30, 2012-JAN. 5, 2013 | 21

WHERE TO DINE Nice Day Chinese Seafood Restaurant

Little Village Noodle House 1113 Smith St. 545-3008

5724 Kalanianaole Hwy. 377-5566

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

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

Liliha Square, 524-1628

Lung Fung Chinese Restaurant

Big City Diner

Seafood Village

Panda Cuisine 641 Keeaumoku St. 947-1688

Good To Grill

FAMILY DINING

888 Kapahulu Ave. 734-7345

ON ON At McCully

Asahi Grill Ward

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

Mandalay (The) 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

Join Chef Russell Siu’s

BOUNTY Y SEVEN SEAS AS AS of the

SEAFOOD BUFFET

Friday & Saturday 5:30 – 9:30 pm

Asian Mix

Himalayan Kitchen

1234 South Beretania St. 521-1688

1137 11th Ave. 735-1122

Tel: 947-8818

NEW YEAR SPECIAL

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

$318 for table of 10 $438 for table of 10

* BYOBAG E

NO CORK

Crispy Shrimp

1020 Keolu Dr. Thurs-Sun 11am-2pm Daily 5pm-9pm

230-2300

KAIMUKI*

ALA MOANA CENTER

734-0404

949-2120

3040 Waialae Ave. Daily 11am-10pm

WAIKIKI

Makai Market

1831 Ala Moana Blvd. #201

Daily 11am-10pm

Daily 11am-10pm

941-3444

Fire Roasted Duck Breast

For Reservations

Braised Daikon

Soy Sake Butterfish

739-8760

Soy Ginger Dashi Nage

Key Lime Tart $

INCLUSIVE OF TAX & 67Limited GRATUITY, PREPAID reservations

This cooking demonstration includes wine pairings

AT

THE KAHALA

HOTEL & RESORT www.kahalaresort.com

2850 Paa St. 833-3728

Ala Moana Center

TAVERNA SHRIMP PASTA

with Garlic & Scallions

Henry Loui’s

Try our newest menu item…

Cooking Class Wed., Jan. 16 6:00pm

515 Ward Ave. 593-2800

Okinawan • Japanese Steak • Seafood Local Favorites

Buy One Entrée Get the Second

50% OFF*

• Cold Cut Appetizer Platter • Crab Meat & Fish maw Soup • Peking Duck with Home made Buns • Steamed Whole Fish with Scallion & Soy Sauce • Sautéed Peking Duck Meat with onions & peppers • Sautéed Shrimp & Scallop with Honey Glazed Walnut • Baby Pak Choy w/Crab Meat & Carrot Sauce • New Year Good Luck “Jai” • Seafood Fried Rice w/Garlic • Mochi Balls in Sweet Ginger Broth

• Steamed Scallop in half shell • Imitation Shark’s Fin Soup • Lobster w/ Garlic & Butter Sauce • Sautéed Shrimp & Scallop with Honey Glazed Walnuts • Steamed Whole Fish with Scallion & Soy Sauce • Smoked Chrysanthemum Chicken • Braised Shiitake Mushrooms w/ Vegetable • New Year Good Luck “Jai” • Sticky Rice w/Preserved Meats in a Lotus Wrap • Mochi Balls in Sweet Ginger Broth

*Some exclusions may apply. Exp.1/31/13 ON THE RISE

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

ODOR IK O

Under New Management

Japanese restaurant

10% OFF

Cash Sale Only (With Coupon)

5% OFF

Credit Card Sale Only (With Coupon)

Hong Kong Dim Sum & Regular Menu Items 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 1/31/13. Must present coupon.

Lobster

1299

$

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

Nice Day Chinese Seafood Restaurant

Dear Hearts,

Celebrating 40 years!

Here’s wishing you all a happy, heartfelt and fruitful New Year filled with camaraderie, love and caring for all.

“Committed devotion to serving authentic Japanese taste & hospitality”

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

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

Happy Hour 50% off any size

Liliha Square by Times Supermarket

524-1628

Sincerely,

Celebrating 11 Years!

Dim Sum Take Out Special! 8am-11:30am Lobster $1299 with purchase of Full Price Entree Valid 5-10:30pm

10% OFF(Charge) • 15% OFF(Cash) 5% OFF(Charge) •10% OFF(Cash)

3553 Waialae Avenue

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 1/31/13. Must present coupon.

22 | DINING OUT | DEC. 30, 2012-JAN. 5, 2013

Draft Beer!

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

Shiro “Manuela Boy” Matsuo

(picture shown)

Only 7.50

Dim Sum & Reg. Menu Dine In Special!

Happy Day Chinese Restaurant

738-8666

from 4pm-6pm and 10pm-12am

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

KING SET ($16.95)

All offers expire 1/31/13.

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

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

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

Wailana Coffee House

WAIPAHU 94-256 Waipahu Depot St. • 676-2088

1860 Ala Moana Blvd.

955-1764

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 Center, Mauka - Mall Level 946-6388

Willows (The) 901 Hausten St. 952-9200

Shore Bird Restaurant

Kit N Kitchen

Outrigger Reef on the Beach 922-2887

Restaurant Epic

1010 University Avenue 942-7622

1131 Nuuanu Ave. 587-7877

Zippy’s Call the one nearest you

GRAND OPENING SPECIAL

% 10 OFF Entire Menu

Lunch Dinner

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

1495

$

2495

$

1

/2 PRICE

with coupon

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

Senior/Military Discounts Available Mon.-Thurs.

Cannot be combined with other offers. Exp. 1/3/13.

Lobster or Dugeness Crab With purchase of Combos #1 or #2.

BYOB

LIVE NFL GAMES

Stadium Mall 4510 Salt Lake Blvd. 486-3311

BYOB

Celebrate Your Birthday

Weekday Special Lunch

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

3441 WAIALAE AVE

With us and Receive a complimentary Hy’s Cheesecake & Keepsake Photo For Honoree

www.genkisushiusa.com

10

or

% OFF

OPEN DAILY 11 AM - 12 AM

780-3115

Mon-Fri: 6:00 - 10:00 pm Sat, Sun: 5:30 - 10:00 pm

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

OUTER ISLANDS: KONA KUKUI GROVE LAHAINA MAUI MALL

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

Proud recipient of:

• Wine Spectator Award-Winning Wine List • Live Entertainment • Valet Parking

Order Yours Today! Call 422-0059 4369 Lawehana St. (across Target in Salt Lake) www.larrysbakery.com or find us on

Sat 6AM - 12PM

Holiday Hours: 12/30, 12/31: Open 6am-12pm Closed: 1/1-1/3

Proper Attire Required

922 5555

Chef Chai’s Holiday Special

www.hyshawaii.com

LIMITED TIME ONLY

Reservations Recommended

2440 Kuhio Ave.

$

RECEIVE A

6 DISCOUNT

on a Second Dinner OR A $

3 DISCOUNT

when Dining Alone

Must present coupon (No take outs) Not valid with any other discount offers.

Expires 1/11/13

SERVING LUNCH & DINNER • TAKE-OUT AVAILABLE

| OPEN Mon - Fri 6AM - 1PM

2850 Paa St. (near Airport and 99 Ranch Market) 833-3728

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 New Year’s Eve

Sunday, Dec 30 Hapa

Monday, Dec 31 Keli‘i Kaneali‘i & Healani Yuen

FREE VALET PARKING • www.chefchai.com • Call 585-0011 DINING OUT | DEC. 30, 2012-JAN. 5, 2013 | 23

WHERE TO DINE FILIPINO Max’s Of Manila

Chai’s Island Bistro

Plumeria Beach House

Aloha Tower Marketplace 585-0011

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

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

Stage Restaurant

ITALIAN 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

Royal Hawaiian Center 922-3400

Inferno’s Wood Fire Pizza

Waikiki Business Plaza 2270 Kalakaua Ave. 923-3877

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

375-1200

Now Available for New Year’s

Kuromame

• Fried Dumpling Salad • Cream of Shrimp Bisque Soup • Choice of: Lobster Pasta

a traditional Japanese holiday dish symbolizing a wish for good luck and health in the New Year.

Lobster meat in a pink sauce topped with a lobster tail

• Pasta • Risotto • Burgers • Salads • Sandwiches

SEKIYA’S RESTAURANT & DELICATESSEN

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

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

Only

Serving Hawaii for 77 Years!

25

$

• Cream Brulee for Dessert

95 per person

2746 Kaimuki Ave

OPEN TIL MIDNIGHT!

2919 Kapiolani Blvd., #218

735-3888

MARKET CITYSHPG CNTR AT ALA MOANA HOTEL, 3rd Floor 410 ATKINSON DRIVE

732-1656

www.SekiyasRestaurant.com

ACROSS KAIMUKI H.S.

2012

December Specials

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.

HAPPY HOUR

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

16

95

** while supplies last **

Aiea 4-6pm & 9:30-close

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

et Cake Red Velv

Gingerbread Snack Cake

Visit stores Vi st es for more sto morrre ite items! ms!

WE’RE OPEN ON NEW YEAR’S DAY! OPEN AT 8:00am 25¢ from each Vic Pac sold will be donated to the Shane Victorino Foundation.

8.28*

$

fast food

*Res *Restaurant Resstaurant Price: Vic PPac $9.38. Prices slightly higher at Zippy’s Kahului.

Offer valid through 12/31/12 for Vic Pac. Cannot be combined with any Offe other promotional offers, coupons or discount cards. While supplies last. othe Sorry, no substitutions. Other restrictions may apply.

Sor 24 | DINING OUT | DEC. 30, 2012-JAN. 5, 2013

Ala Moana, Koko Marina & Pearlridge

OPEN AT 10:00am Ewa, Kahala, Kaneohe, Kapolei, Makiki, Mililani,Vineyard & Waiau

All other Zippy’s locations will be closed on New Year’s Day, and will re-open on January 2, 2013.

WHERE TO DINE Genki Sushi

Romanos Macaroni Grill Ala Moana Center Hookipa Terrace 356-8300

Taormina-Sicilian Cuisine 227 Lewers St. 926-5050

Chinpei Ramen 2080 S. King Street 947-5919

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

AIEA 98-150 Kaonohi St. 484-2222

Gyu-Kaku

HONOLULU 510 Piikoi St. 589-2299

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

JAPANESE

Hifumi Japanese Restaurant Chinese Cultural Plaza 536-3035

Aina Haina 373-4033 Ala Moana 942-9102 Ewa Town Center 683-1003 Kaneohe 247-9595 Kapahulu 735-7700 Kapolei Commons 674-4227 Waiau 485-0227 Waikele Center 678-3180 Ward Center 591-5600

Ichiriki Odoriko Japanese Restaurant 2400 Koa Ave. 923-7368

Kobe Japanese Steak House

Restaurant Suntory

1841 Ala Moana Blvd.

941-4444

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

Special Economy Holiday Menu

$138 for 10 people

Chicken with Corn Soup Fried Crispy Whole Chicken Honey Walnut Shrimp Salt & Pepper Pork Chop w/ Tofu Steamed Fish Fillet 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

Panda Cuisine New Management! New Menu!

Specializing in Fresh Seafood

Honey Walnut Shrimp $$7.95

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

$

Mon-Sat 9am to 7:30pm; Sun 9:30am to 6pm • 1111 McCully Street • 947-5411

indulgence is closer than you

19.99

$

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

• Lobster • Dungeness Crab

$1 OFF Any Bread purchases over $4

Coupon must be present

Must present coupon • exp. 1/3/13

Original Steak w/ Mushrooms & Onions

DAILY BREAD SPECIALS Sizzlin’ Prime Time 3 Course Menu for $42.95 Daily 5pm – 6pm Happy Hour Daily in our lounge 5pm – 7pm

Steak & Chicken Mix

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY

Ciabatta Closed Rustic Kalamata Olive Bread New Year’s Sundried Tomato Cheesebread Day Foccacia Derecco Walnut Raisin Hamakua Farms Mushroom Bread Buckwheat Fig

“All Natural no added chemicals”

988-4310 2752 Woodlawn Dr. • Manoa Marketplace

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

Wine Wednesdays 25% off bottles of wines

KOREAN CUISINE

Restaurant Row 500 Ala Moana Blvd.

808.599.3860

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

Waikiki Beach Walk 226 Lewers St. 808.440.7910

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

Windward Mall Foodcourt | 45-056 Kam Hwy | Kaneohe, HI 96744 | 247- 0111 Pearl Kai | 98-199 | Kam Hwy | STE B8 | Aiea, HI 96701 | 488-9590 Kailua |43 Oneawa St | Kailua, HI 96734 | 263-7101 Expires 1/31/13

• Manila Clams • Shrimp • Mussels

947-1688

FREE DRINK WITH PLATE LUNCH

Garlic Steak

lb.

Includes:

think Original Steak & Shrimp

All Day

9.99/

LIVE OYSTERS

Cannot combine with other discounts or specials

377-5555 or 377-5566

2

Beer

Seafood Special

Limited Time Only

(reg $13.95) *with 1 reg. priced entree.

$

www.ruthschrishawaii.com

*DISCOUNT EXCLUDES ALL BEVERAGES WITH THIS AD. EXP. 1/31/13.

930 McCully St. • 951-0511/951-0611

• PRIVATE PARTY ROOM • CONVENIENT PARKING

DINING OUT | DEC. 30, 2012-JAN. 5, 2013 | 25

WHERE TO DINE Sakura Restaurant 3008 Waialae Ave 259-7100

RESTAURANT & PUPU BAR

Sushi Company

Don-Day Yakiniku

1111 McCully Street 947-5411

905 Keeaumoku St. 951-1004

Sushi King

Korean Hibiscus BBQ

2700 S. King St. 947-2836

Sekiya’s Restaurant & Delicatessen

Kaimuki Shopping Center 3221 Waialae Avenue 734-8282

Tanaka of Tokyo 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

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!

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

$7.99 each

3 dishes to choose from

Tuesday, January 1, 2013

)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

Complete Dinners Served 11 A.M. - Midnight

1695 $ 50 Seafood Continental 14 Roasted Turkey $ 95 w/ Smoked Ham 13 New York Steak

$

677-7744 www.acateredexperience.com Ph:

facebook.com/phomylienhawaii

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

SENIOR (65+) DISCOUNT

10% OFF ENTIRE MENU

Coupon required. Not combinable with other offers. Expires 1/4/13

1050

Breakfast Special: $

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

Military w/ID receive 10% OFF

Voted Best Thai in Hawaii 15% OFF Take Out

Dinners Include: Salad Bar, Corn on the Cob, Coconut Cake, Beverage and More!

Eggs Benedict Royal

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

Cannot be combined with other offers or coupons. Exp 1/31/13

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

ROYAL HAWAIIAN CENTER • VALIDATED PARKING WWW.ILLUPINO.COM • 808.922.3400

Does not apply with other discounts/offers.

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

Exp. 1/3/13

SERVING HAWAII SINCE 1977...

Dinner 5:00pm - Closing

2028 Kuhio Avenue Walking distance from all Waikiki Hotels

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

tel. 951-9355 www.keosthaicuisine.com

515 WARD AVE.

593-2800

BUFFETS DIM SUM BRUNCH BUFFET 10:30AM & 12:30PM

525-8585 Monday-Sunday 10:30am to 9:00pm 1055 Alakea Street FREE PARKING Mon-Fri after 5pm & All Day Sat & Sun

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

DINNER BUFFET 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

26 | DINING OUT | DEC. 30, 2012-JAN. 5, 2013

Happy New Year!

Ala MallLevel Level AlaMoana MoanaCenter Center • Mall

(Mountainside, side, next to Shirokiya) (Mountain Shirokiya)

941-6161

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

$199.95

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

MITSU-KEN Home of the Famous Garlic Chicken

98-150 Kaonohi St. 488-4900

Breakfast • Lunch Catering • Okazu

20th Anniversary Special RESTAURANT

SUNTORY Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center, 3rd Floor

restaurantsuntory.com

922-5511

CELEBRATE 2013 SPECIALS NEW YEAR’S TAKE-OUT PARTY

Buy One, Get One

Spring Rolls • Baked Char Siu Happy Bao • 36 pc Dim Sum Platter (Shrimp Dumpling, Potstickers, Siu Mai) • Roasted Garlic Chicken Wings • Pepper Salt Shrimp • Gon Lau Chow Mein

FREE! Fried Saimin

$139 for 10 to 12 people NEW YEAR’S DAY LUNCH SPECIAL

Bento Limit 5 Free Bentos.

Not valid with other offers/discounts. Coupon expires 1/3/13.

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

1223 N. School St.

848-5573

Chinese Chicken Salad • Hong Kong Dim Sum Platter (Baked Char Siu Bao, Shrimp • Dumpling, Potstickers, Siu Mai) • Shrimp Taro Basket • Sweet and Sour Whole Snapper • Boneless Minute Chicken Cake Noodle • Black Pepper Beef Fried Rice

$159 Table of Ten (reg. $189) Available December 1 through January 3.

Limited to (2) tables of ten.

Open New Year’s Eve & Day

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 or Pork Teriyaki • (4) Veg. Tempura • Miso Butterfish or Grilled Salmon • Tsukemono

Peking Duck • Seaweed Fish Cake Tofu Soup Sweet Chili Cilantro Chicken • Taro Basket Shrimp Maine Lobster with Ginger Scallion • Beef with Fresh Asparagus • Braised E Mein with Shredded Duck New Year's Fried Rice

Since 1944

100 N. Beretania Street #113

536-3035

ORDER NOW NEW YEAR’S! POI STEW • SQUID LUAU • SHOYU PORK for

KARAI CHICKEN WINGS & MUCH MORE ONO FOOD!

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

Enjoy the Complete Holiday Dining Experience at the Pagoda Floating Restaurant 801 Dillingham Blvd. (next to Costco Iwilei) Honolulu, Hawaii 96817 $100 Gift Card Purchased Receive a $15 Gift Certificate

Waipahu Shopping Plaza 94-300 Farrington Hwy., Suite F-1 Waipahu, Hawaii 96797

www.maxschicken.com

951-MAXS (6297)

New Hours of Operation: Breakfast Service: Daily Saturday and Sunday Lunch Service: Monday-Friday Brunch Buffet: Saturday and Sunday Dinner Buffet: Wednesday-Sunday

Prime Grade

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

Limited to (2) tables of ten.

Call for Reservations & Information 2284 Kalakaua Ave.

TAKE-OUT PARTY PLATTERS

Open 7 Days from 11am-10pm

$199 Table of Ten (reg. $249)

• (3) Jumbo

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

NEW YEAR’S SEAFOOD DINNER SPECIAL

49

$

reg. $59.95

Perfect for your New Year’s party! www.HeeHingHawaii.com

Lunch 11am - 4pm Dinner 5pm - 10pm

735-5544

at the old Waikiki III Theatres Parking available at the Pro-Park location Seaside Ave. Pay $2 at the Restaurant. www.atlantisseafoodsteak.com

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

Celebrate the New Year with Your Holiday Favorites from…

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

Decorations May Vary

*For information/reservations call Pagoda Restaurant at 948-8356 or go to our website at: Pagodahawaii.com DINING OUT | DEC. 30, 2012-JAN. 5, 2013 | 27

orderoftheday

Story by Kyle Galdeira | Photos by Nathalie Walker

W

hether one is ending a surf outing, or simply looking for a freshly prepared, delicious meal, Surf N Turf Tacos has brought a wave of flavorful Mexican cuisine to Hawaii. The eatery has occupied its Monsarrat Avenue location fronting Diamond Head for three months now, and patrons have flocked there for quality, authentic Mexican food.

Chef Martin Gonzalez brings his experience to the kitchen, and the native of Sonora, Mexico, infuses fresh, local ingredients with the traditional dishes that he grew up with.

“The base of everything is authentic Mexican food,” explains manager Dustin Hara. “All the recipes are from Martin’s mom, so they’re the real deal. Everything is made from scratch, fresh in house.”

Surf N Turf Tacos is gaining notoriety for its stellar Fish Taco ($4.50, add $1 for guacamole).

The dish can be ordered with either beer-battered or grilled fish, and pairs perfectly with one of four homemade sauces ranging from the mild green tomatillo variety to the red chile verde sauce, “secret” DH sauce and the sweat-inducing habanero pepper blend made with island-grown habanero peppers.

“We use fresh fish in our tacos, and they’re the bomb,” Hara says. “The beer-battered fish taco is probably our best seller, while the grilled fish taco is a close second. We also make our sauces and salsa in house, from scratch.”

For those looking to start the day on a high note, Surf N Turf’s Breakfast Burrito ($7.50 to $8.95) offers up eggs, pico de gallo, seasoned potatoes, beans and cheese wrapped up in a 12inch tortilla with one’s choice of bacon, turkey bacon, Portuguese sausage, steak or vegetarian filling.

Nachos ($7.95) are another popular dish at Surf N Turf, as the selection features a mountain of tortilla chips topped with beans, melted cheese, salsa and sour cream. Diners may add chicken, carnitas (slow roasted pork) or steak for just $1 more.

“This is Hawaii, and people love to eat, so our philosophy is to give people good portions of authentic Mexican cuisine at an affordable price,” Hara says.

Breakfast Burrito with bacon ($8.50)

“There’s a definite need for authentic Mexican food on the island.”

Burritos ($6.95 to $11.95) also are specialties at Surf N Turf Tacos, and diners may choose from a host of flavorful fillings including char-grilled chicken, carnitas, steak and fish to complement the refried or black beans and rice wrapped up in a 12-inch flour tortilla. Also, for $1 more, one may choose to add sauce for a wet-style burrito.

In addition to selecting their favorite a la carte items, customers are encouraged to make the meal into a combo (additional $2.99) with the addition of chips, salsa and a medium drink. Or, one can “make it a meal” (additional $3.99) by adding beans, rice and a medium drink.

Customers are allowed to bring their own alcoholic beverages, and may enjoy these drinks for a minimal $5 corkage fee per party. Also, keep an eye out for Surf N Turf Tacos in Waikiki as the eatery is planning to open a second location in the near future on Kuhio Avenue.

1

4

SURF N TURF TACOS WHERE 3045 Monsarrat Ave., Honolulu CALL 456.5345 HOURS Open daily, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Sunday, 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

2 1 Fish Taco ($4.50) 2 Chef Martin Gonzales 3 Nachos with chicken ($8.95) 4 Steak Tostada Salad Bowl ($8.95) 28 | DINING OUT | DEC. 30, 2012-JAN. 5, 2013

3