Hawaii Dining Out 25 Mar 2012

MARCH 25-31, 2012

AN EDITION OF

Makino Chaya is a seafood lover’s haven with its elaborate buffet and bountiful menu options. Now, things are even sweeter with JJ Bistro & French Pastry’s decadent desserts added to the mix.

(from left) Cook Audy Fleming and executive chef John Arciaga present Makino’s elaborate cuisine, including Garlic Shrimp Sizzling Plate and Dungeness Crab Sizzling Plate.

See Page 4 Leah Friel photo

Ert’s Grill whips up the best local grinds | 6 Treat yourself to Patisserie La Palme D’Or | 8

ALSO: A taste of Thai Village | 12

ono,youknow

Eggs ‘n Things

Keo’s Thai Cuisine

Pho My Lien

Devouring the the crisp and crunch of

Calamarı

By Alana Folen | Photos by Leah Friel

Eggs ‘n Things

S

quid. It doesn’t sound so appealing right off the bat, now does it? But what if I told you it was breaded and deep-fried? Don’t tell me that doesn’t spark your interest, because we all know everything tastes better that way! Well, the proof is in the pudding. Calamari has been a favorite among diners for decades, and for good reason! It consists of batter-coated, deep-fried squid (usually fried for less than two minutes to prevent toughness) served plain, with salt and lemon, or with a special dipping sauce for seasoning.

The word calamari is the plural form of the Italian word for squid, calamaro, and calamari itself is quite popular in Mediterranean cuisine. However, over the years it’s crossed cultural boundaries as well, and today you can find calamari at the forefront of many restaurant menus.

Therefore, this week, craving all things calamari, I decided to pay a visit to a few of my favorite Ono, You Know establishments eager to take a bite out of simple calamari goodness! It doesn’t get much better than this!

Eggs ‘n Things makes waking up before the crack of dawn a walk in the park — because, really, who can resist everything from pancakes to crepes, omelets, waffles and more? No foodie I know of, and certainly not me! But don't think this breakfast lover’s paradise only caters to early birds, because here at Eggs ‘n Things, you’ll find many alluring dinner specials (available from 5 to 10 p.m.) as well. And being a self-proclaimed food enthusiast, I

will admit that I have an undying affection for the eatery’s Calamari Steak ($13.95).

If you haven't tried it yet, you must! It’s superb!

General manager Michael Skedeleski presented me with not one, but three styles in which this most sought-after steak can be prepared: Sauteed, Cajunstyle or Furikake-style.

“Cajun Calamari Steak is most requested by our customers,” Skedeleski says, noting that the Cajun seasoning undoubtedly provides a bit of a kick.

“Locals love Furikake Calamari Steak because it has a nice Asian flair to it,” adds nighttime kitchen manager Peter Kauleinamoku.

So, whatever your choice, do know that Eggs 'n Things Calamari Steak is bound to stir up an appetite, as the steak itself is pan-seared and ever-so tender, and served with potatoes, pancakes or rice, and your choice of potato or tossed salad.

“We not only serve Calamari Steak here at our Saratoga restaurant, but also at Waikiki Beach Eggspress on Kalakaua Avenue,” Skedeleski explains. Eggs ‘n Things Waikiki Beach Eggspress is perfect for those on the go who want to grab a quick bite to eat, and in an effort to help the environment, everything is served in eco-friendly takeout containers.

Eggs ‘n Things 343 Saratoga Road 923.3447

Keo’s Thai Cuisine

Above: The editor loves Eggs ‘n Things Cajunstyle Calamari Steak ($13.95).

Right: Keo’s Thai Cuisine’s Crispy Calamari Salad ($14.95) 2 | DINING OUT | MARCH 25-31, 2012

Continuing on my trek through Waikiki, I decided to pay a visit to Keo’s Thai Cuisine on Kuhio Avenue. You can’t miss this divine establishment as it welcomes

all patrons with its open-air atmosphere and garden setting, which features a lush array of fresh floral arrangements, and Thai statues and décor.

Keo Sananikone owns the restaurant, which has been named as a kamaaina favorite for years and prides itself on serving the best in authentic Thai cuisine.

My favorites on the menu run the gamut, however, a few that stand out include Evil Jungle Prince (Keo’s signature dish), Sa-Teh Chicken, Garlic Shrimp with Mushrooms and none other than Crispy Calamari Salad ($14.95).

A refreshing take on a classic food, Keo’s Crispy Calamari Salad is some– See page 22

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

$

34.95

$

3 Course Chef‘s Dinner Tasting Menu

26.

Honolulu Design Center 1250 Kapiolani Blvd.

2nd Floor Free covered parking

3 Course Chef‘s Lunch Tasting Menu

Call 808.237.5429 for details and reservations

Call 808.237.5429 for details and reservations

A Blank Canvas ready for your artistry…

From Intimate concerts and Fab Fashion Shows to Memorable Weddings and Corporate Workshops… The Cupola Theatre is a unique events venue with award winning accomodations.

Contact Trina at 808.237.5475 or tshiroma@hdc-hawaii.com for more information

Honolulu’s “See and Be Seen” Pre-Clubbing Hangout…

Live Music, D’lish Appetizers, Impressive Wine Selection, Beer Tap Party Tables and Signature Cocktails…

Come take the edge off your work day, Amuse Wine Bar will ease you into the right mood.

Amuse Wine Bar and Cupola Theatre Sta ge Res t a ur a nt H a w a i i .com Honolulu Design Center • 2nd Floor Lunch Mon-Fri 11:30a - 1:30p Free covered parking Dinner Mon-Sat 5:30- 8:30p

and details.

Honolulu Design Center On Kapiolani between Pensacola & Piikoi St. 1250 Kapiolani Blvd. • t: 956-1250

Scan for peek at the fun at Amuse Wine Bar

DINING OUT | MAR. 25-31, 2012 |

3

Executive chef John Arciaga and cook Audy Fleming

Dining Out Cover Story Makino Chaya

E

very foodie would agree that heaven on earth is found at Makino Chaya. And with more than 100 items to feast on, you can only hope that you`re not dreaming. This popular Japanese seafood eatery is nothing but reality, and has been stealing the hearts of hungry diners for years and continues to do so with its elaborate buffet and everexpanding menu options.

JJ Luangkhot and Makino Chaya’s general manager of operations Chris Mitchell

4 | DINING OUT | MARCH 25-31, 2012

“Our main draw is our Dungeness Crab Sizzling Plate seafood,” says Chris Mitchell, general manager of operations.

“We have Snow Crab, Half Maine Lobster and Miso Butterfish that you can order off the dinner menu, and on weekends we offer snow crab during lunch as well,” he explains. “We always change things up and look for new ideas and new opportunities, but our goal will always be to make our customers happy.”

Makino Chaya’s lunch buffet is available weekdays from 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. ($14.98 per person) and weekends from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. ($17.98 per person). The dinner buffet is offered Monday through Thursday from 6 to 8:30 p.m. ($30.98 per person), Fridays from 6 to 9 p.m. ($31.98 per person) and weekends from 5:30 to 9 Pearlridge restaurant also recently added two alluring sizzling plates that p.m. ($31.98 per person).

“People always ask me what’s the loyal patrons have been loving.

“We have our Garlic Shrimp difference between lunch and dinner, and I always tell them that the higher- Sizzling Plate, in which the shrimp quality items are always served at is sauteed in a garlic butter sauce, dinner. You can also order off our and we have a Dungeness Crab Sizzling Plate with curry sauce. menu, too.”

On the dinner menu you’ll find a Once you get the meat out of the variety of mouth-watering selections shell and mix it with the curry sauce, to reel in your appetite including it’s so delicious.”

As for Makino Chaya’s other topFresh Oysters, Shrimp Tempura, Zaru Soba, Soft Shell Crab, Katsu Curry notch items such as Seafood and more. According to Mitchell, the Dynamite — a mixture of lobster

Dining Out Cover Story Makino Chaya and crab topped with Chef JJ Luangkhot’s assorted desserts now availcheese in a crab shell — able at Makino Chaya. tempura and barbecue chicken, executive chef John Arciaga and his dedicated team make sure there’s more than enough for everyone's dining pleasure.

And, in addition to the restaurant’s remarkable lunch and dinner offerings, a tried and true feast isn’t complete without the sweetest of endings.

Makino Chaya has raised the bar once again and has now added the finest of creations from JJ Bistro & French Pastry to its dessert selection.

“The collaboration that we’ve done with chef JJ of art on a daily basis, and he Luangkhot is a genius idea,” couldn’t be happier to share Mitchell states. “JJ’s a very excel- these sweet nothings with lent chef and it’s a start of a great Makino Chaya. family friendship. We’re certain “It’s a dream come true to have his desserts will bring a lot of this opportunity to work with sweet tooths here.

Makino Chaya,” he states. “They “JJ’s desserts are usually meant wanted to provide the best dessert for upscale a la carte restaurants, ending, seeing that they already and to see this type of dessert at have the best buffet. Every month our buffet is excellent. He takes a we hope to change up the lot of pride in his work,” he adds. desserts. We always want to Luangkhot, an award-winning update the selection, and right pastry chef, creates edible works now we have Strawberry Guava

Customer Leimaile Quitevis enjoys Makino’s impressive buffet.

Cake, Red Velvet Cake, Chocolate Cake, Mango Cake, Tiramisu, and of course, Chocolate Pyramid.”

And if you dine on your birthday, you’ll receive a free Chocolate Pyramid courtesy of Makino Chaya (also, don’t forget to take advantage of the birthday special coupon and kamaaina special coupon found on Page 29 for even more great offerings).

Want to continue any birthday celebration with one of Luangkhot’s magnificent cakes? You can place an order at least 24 hours in advance and it will be ready for you at Makino Chaya.

“It’s been said that our restaurant is like Disneyland — you can’t get on all the rides in one day, so you have to come back again. The same goes for our food, you have to return for more,” Mitchell exclaims.

“We try to give our customers what they want at a reasonable price, and we always want to give back to the locals. It’s the locals who keep our business going strong.”

MARCH 25-31, 2012

AN EDITION OF

Makino Chaya is a seafood lover’s haven with its elaborate buffet and bountiful menu options. Now, things are even sweeter with JJ Bistro & French Pastry’s decadent desserts added to the mix.

(from left) Cook Audy Fleming and executive chef John Arciaga present Makino’s elaborate cuisine, including Garlic Shrimp Sizzling Plate and Dungeness Crab Sizzling Plate.

See Page 4 Leah Friel photo

Ert’s Grill whips up the best local grinds | 6 Treat yourself to Patisserie La Palme D’Or | 8

ALSO: A taste of Thai Village | 12

Cover Story Makino Chaya Westridge Shopping Center 98-150 Kaonohi St. #218, Aiea 486.5100 11:45 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Monday-Friday lunch 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday-Sunday lunch 6-8:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday dinner 6-9 p.m. Fridays dinner 5:30-9 p.m. Saturday-Sunday dinner

Garlic Shrimp Sizzling Plate

Seafood Crab Cakes

DINING OUT | MARCH 25-31, 2012 |

5

Ert’s Grill

2

Enthralls Eaters

A

common opinion held by the majority of local culinary connoisseurs is the notion that small, hole-in-thewall establishments offer up some of the most eclectic — and delicious — eats.

Ert’s Grill fits the bill to perfection as its unassuming location in Aiea offers up a great selection of plate lunches, breakfast items and assorted pupus that pair perfectly with one’s favorite pau hana beverage. The relaxed, family-style atmosphere and excellent customer service have driven Ert’s popularity ever since co-owners Stephen Ichioka and Clyde Higa opened the eatery opened last August.

“You’ve got to do things with love: cook, serve — everything,” says Ichioka.

1

Ichioka, a flight attendant at Aloha Airlines for 22 years, and Higa, who currently continues to work during the day as an auto mechanic, have fostered a love for cooking since their childhood days as friends growing up in Wahiawa. The pair developed a passion for food, both through cooking and eating, and the experiences played a key role in developing Ert’s menu.

“We’ve been best friends since we were 6 years old; we’ve known each other forever,” Ichioka says. “We decided to perfect our menu first, and make it how we want it to be.”

“We’re such a small place, and yet, somehow everyone finds their way here,” adds Higa.

Smoked Meat ($12.50 per pound, $5 for a mini plate lunch and $8 for a regular plate lunch) has emerged as the bestseller as the dynamic duo marinate the succulent pork butt overnight and smoke the meat in house for five hours until the ideal combination of taste and texture is achieved. The meat is served with grilled onions, and is perfect as both a satisfying meal or an appetizer amongst friends and family.

“We’re from Wahiawa, and the recipe is based on what we eat when our

ERT’S GRILL WHERE 99-082 Kauhale St. #B10, Aiea CALL 488.8898 HOURS Sunday and Monday, 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.; TuesdaySaturday, 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

NOTES While alcohol is not available for sale, customers are allowed to bring their own alcoholic beverages.

3 1 Co-owners Clyde Higa and Stephen Ichioka 2 Smoked Meat ($12.50 per pound, $5 for a mini plate lunch and $8 for a regular plate lunch) 3 Steak ($12.50 per pound, $5 for a mini plate lunch, $8 for a regular plate lunch and $12 for a large plate lunch) Leah Friel photos

friends hunt,” says Ichioka. “It’s a long process, we do ‘em right.

We also make chicken and pipikaula in the smoker.”

Ert’s also serves up succulent Steak ($12.50 per pound, $5 for a

mini plate lunch, $8 for a regular plate lunch and $12 for a large plate lunch) that also can be enhanced with either Teriyaki or Garlic Butter sauce for an additional $1.

Diners have established Shrimp & Chips ($6) — juicy shrimp smothered in garlic and served with jumbo crinkle french fries along with a house special sauce — as a must-try.

Basa DilisGrilled (Anchovy) With Mango Fried Salsa Rice

The Plaza Café NIGHTLY 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM

Teriyaki Chicken . . . . . . . . . . . . .$15.95 Daily Fish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$23.95 Sukiyaki Steak . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$20.95 Teriyaki Steak & Chicken Combo . .$21.95 Kama‘aina & Military Discount Available (with proper ID)

| ALL YOU CAN EAT Crab Legs! |

Every Friday & Saturday 5pm–9pm $26.31 with coupon. 15% off all other menu items. Not valid on alcohol purchases or with other discounts/promotions. Exp: 3/31/12

The PlazaHotel 3253 N. Nimitz Hwy | 836-3636 Breakfast Daily 6:30 –10 am | Dinner Fri-Mon 5 –9pm 6|DINING OUT | MARCH 25-31, 2012

1841 Ala Moana Blvd.

Between Ilikai & Hilton Hawaiian Village

941-4444

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

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

Cuisine of the Philippines www.maxschicken.com

951-MAXS (6297)

Genki’s

sushi glory 2

1

W

ith more than 50 different types of sushi on its menu, Genki Sushi is sure to please any sushi craving.

And with its trademark kaitenstyle, or revolving belt of sushi plates going around the restaurant, it’s always a hit with customers of all ages.

Since opening its first Hawaii location in Kapahulu almost 20 years ago, Genki Sushi has since grown to nine locations on Oahu, two on Maui, one in Kona, one on Kauai, four in Washington and most recently one in California (Santa Ana).

Genki’s most popular sushi is Spicy Tuna Gunkan ($2.20) featuring chopped tuna with a special spicy sauce over nori-wrapped rice and topped with green onions.

“Our spicy sauce was made specially 5

3

for Genki Sushi,” says David Moon, director of purchasing. “It’s a mayonnaise, sesame seed oil base, and the taste is tailored to the local market. For me, it’s on the medium side. And the name gunkan means battleship because it’s supposed to look like a battleship.”

The unagi sauce, which has a sweet, teriyaki flavor, also was made exclusively for Genki Sushi and is used not just for the

Unagi Roll but on several other dishes as well.

Other must-try items include Kabocha Tempura ($2.20); Stuffed Mushroom ($4.80), which is baked with a crab mixture and topped with a garlic mayonnaise sauce; Vegetarian Roll ($2.20) with carrots, cucumber, lettuce, oshinko and kanpyo in

a reversed sushi roll and sprinkled with sesame seeds; and Onion Salmon ($2.80).

In addition to sushi, the restaurant offers a variety of items such as Agedashi Tofu, Gyoza, Miso Soup, Chawan Mushi, Somen Salad and a lot more. If you don’t see what you want on the revolving belt, you can always order straight from the menu.

Open for lunch and dinner, and everything in between, Genki Sushi also offers special takeout sets and sushi platters.

The eatery also is updating its menu and plans to have the new menu released by this summer.

WHERE Various locations; also on Maui, Big Island (Kona) and Kaua‘i (Kukui Grove) CALL Kapahulu 735.7700 Waiau 485.0227 Kaneohe 247.9595 Ala Moana 942.9102 Waikele 678.3180 Ewa Town Center 683.1003 Ward Center 591.5600 Aina Haina 373.4033 Kapolei 674.4227 HOURS Hours vary per location WEBSITE genkisushiusa.com 1 Vegetarian Roll ($2.20) 2 Kabocha Tempura ($2.20) 3 Spicy Tuna Gunkan ($2.20) 4 Onion Salmon ($2.80) 5 Velma Fleming, Jodee Spencer and Lydia Kwok with handfuls of Genki favorites.

Lawrence Tabudlo photos

4

Sunday, April 8th

Crisp, Fresh and Amazing.

Enjoy our…

Apple Fresco Salad For a limited time only.

KAILUA 263-8880 KAIMUKI 738-8855 PEARLRIDGE EAST 487-8188 WAIPIO 678-8868 WARD CENTER 591-8891 www.bigcitydinerhawaii.com

4369 Lawehana St. (across Target in Salt Lake) | OPEN Mon - Fri 6AM - 1PM Sat 6AM - 12PM www.larrysbakery.com or find us on

GENKI SUSHI

WARD CENTRE (Auahi Streetfront) 1200 Ala Moana 596-0066 KAILUA (Next to Boots & Kimo’s) 151 Hekili St. 230-8400

Sauteed Asian Fish with Chef’s Spicy Black Bean Sauce

Ultimate Seafood Omelet 12.99 (7am to 3pm)

$

12.99 (11am ‘til we‘re out)

$

Hawaiian Rock Salt Prime Rib of Beef 23.99 (4pm ‘til we‘re out)

$

Find us on Facebook & Twitter

DINING OUT | MARCH 25-31, 2012 |

7

Patisserie La Palme D’Or

Open Monday–Saturday, 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Sunday, 9 a.m.–7 p.m.

BELOW (from left): Plantation Tea Jelly ($4), Tea Jelly Au Lait ($4.55, with milk), Lava Flow ($4), Coffee Jelly Au Lait ($4.55, with milk)

with Christina O’Connor

Lawrence Tabudlo photos

Treat Yourself

to Decadent

B

y mid-morning on a recent weekday, there was already a bustling crowd at Patisserie La Palme D’Or. The small shop in Ala Moana Center filled up with customers ordering pastries, stopping in to pick up special orders and chatting with friends over tea and sandwiches.

Executive Chef Akiko Kimura and the staff remain unfazed by the crowd as they welcome each of the guests.

“It's often busier than this,” Kimura says, smiling.

A few of the customers stare at the many decorative desserts for minutes before placing their order, seemingly unable to choose just one option from the bunch. Their dilemma is understandable; Patisserie La Palme D’Or offers a variety of desserts, and each is an artful design filled with an intricate blend of ingredients.

One of the most popular dishes is the signature strawberry shortcake, Gateau Au Fraise ($4.95 for a slice; $35 for a 6inch cake), with layers of light and moist sponge cake with fresh whipped cream and sliced strawberries. Another customer favorite is Cheese D’Or ($4 for a slice, $24 for a 7-inch cake), which is a Japanese-style souffle cheesecake. Both 8 | DINING OUT | MARCH 25-31, 2012

Delights

are light and easy to eat.

Other tasty treats include La Macha ($4.45), which is chocolate cake topped with green tea mousse, and Chocolat ($4.30), a tantalizing treat that features layers of chocolate mousse, soft chocolate sponge and vanilla cream.

For even more tasty options, you’d better stop in soon. The fruity chocolate treat Raspberry Amor ($4.95) and Passion Delight ($4.95), which features layers of white chocolate and banana, are both part of a seasonal list that may be switched out for other items in the coming months.

Now through Easter Sunday, La Palme D’Or offers the Chick Cake ($36), a special treat for Easter that features a strawberry shortcake with layers of custard cream.

La Palme D’Or also offers House Made Croissant Sandwiches ($4.15), which include two options, Tuna or BLT. “The croissants are hand made every day,” Kimura says, “and these are some of our most popular items in the morning.”

Be warned, though, these are so popular that they often sell out by early afternoon.

With all of these decadent treats, you’ve got to have something to wash it all down.

Luckily, La Palme D’Or offers some of the tastiest and most creative beverages

P

ON

atisserie La Palme D’Or offers a menagerie of tasty treats colorful, delicate creations that are so beautifully crafted you almost don’t want to eat them — almost being the key word. Once you’re done admiring the food, you’ll find that the taste of each dessert lives up to its appearance.

Dessert enthusiasts can thank the creative combination of Japanese and French influences for the cuisine at La Palme D’Or. The ingredients, too, hail from a range of places.

“We have many ingredients from Japan,” executive chef Akiko Kimura explains. “The chocolates are from Europe, and then we also have other local ingredients that we use.”

Kimura, who joined La Palme D’Or in 2009, got her start in Japan, where she worked for 12 years. She explains that in Japan, it is common to integrate the European style into pastries.

“I am constantly thinking about creating dishes, and sometimes I will have a little lightbulb that goes off,” Kimura says. “I am constantly thinking about what I can do to make everything better.”

In addition to its daily menu items, Patisserie La Palme D’Or also offers special order cakes. Kimura explains that customers often special order treats, which can feature customized images or words, for a variety of special occasions, including weddings and birthdays.

around. Drinks include Plantation Tea Jelly ($4), which features pineapple juice jelly with sweetened black tea, and Lava Flow ($4), a creamy blend of condensed milk, milk and strawberry puree.

And perhaps the most interesting drinks that La Palme D’Or has are Coffee Jelly Au Lait and Tea Jelly Au Lait, which feature coffee or Earl Grey tea with a layer of sweet jelly. A Jelly Au Lait is $3.25 without milk, $4.55 with milk, $5.25 with soy milk and $5.55 for a mocha. Although a seemingly strange combination, the jelly perfectly complements a coffee or tea drink to create a sweet, refreshing treat.

Contact Christina O’Connor at diningout@staradvertiser.com

THESIDE

Ala Moana Center 1450 Ala Moana Blvd., Honolulu 941.6161

BELOW (back) Tuna House Made Croissant Sandwich ($4.15); (front) BLT House Made Croissant Sandwich BOTTOM (Back, from left): Passion Delight ($4.95), Gateau Au Fraise ($4.95), Chocolat ($4.30); (front, from left): Raspberry Amor ($4.95), La Macha ($4.45), Cheese D’Or ($4)

s s s s s

Sunday, April 8 s 9:00am - 3:00pm Adults $59, Includes 2 glasses of Mimosa or Champagne (ages 21+) Kids $24, ages 5-12 years (children 4 and under are free) Complimentary self-parking Live Hawaiian Music s 10:00am - 2:00pm Prices exclude sales tax and gratuity.

SALAD SELECTIONS Local Mesclun Greens Balsamic Vinaigrette, Buttermilk Dressing & Champagne Vinaigrettes, Herb Croutons, Garbanzo Beans, Sunflower Seeds, Shredded Cheddar & Blue Cheese Crumbs, Bacon Bits, Sliced Red Onions, Sliced Button Mushrooms, Chopped Hard Boiled Eggs

Hawaiian Grown Tomato Salad Picked Fresh Herbs, Lilikoi Vinaigrette

Watercress, Hearts of Palm & Orange Salad Corn Sprouts & Sliced Radishes

Asian Chicken Salad Crisp Wonton, Ginger Dressing

Somen Salad Dashi, Fishcake, Scallions, Egg, Nori

Sliced Seasonal Fruits

HOT SPECIALTIES Steamed White Rice Fresh Clam & Miso Soup Napa Cabbage

Pasta Station Chef’s Selection of Sauces & Preparation

EGG & OMELET STATION

Crispy Bacon

Pasteurized Eggs, Egg Whites, Egg Beaters, Whole Fresh Eggs, Ham, Bacon, Mushrooms, Spinach, Onions, Peppers, Tomatoes, Cheddar & Jack Cheeses

Portuguese Sausage

DESSERTS & PASTRIES

Herb Roasted Fingerling Potatoes

Poached Egg & Creamed Spinach Cocotte Hollandaise Sauce

Chinese Roasted Oyster Chicken Cake Noodle, Bok Choy, Shiitake Oyster Sauce

Steamed Mini Char Siu Bao & Assorted Dim Sum Chili & Mustard Sauces

Chocolate Fountain with Assorted Fruits, Strawberry Tapioca Shot Glass, Mini Malasadas, Fruit Tartlet, Praline Nest, Almond Angel Food Cake, Lemon Tart, Paris-Brest, Coconut Panna Cotta, Pineapple Cheesecake, Decadence Dome, Spring Bread Pudding, Coffee Cakes, Hot Crossed Buns, Croissants, Banana Bread

Sautéed Island Catch Lemongrass Butter Caper Sauce, Charred Lemons

Domestic & Imported Cheeses

Teriyaki Beef

Sliced Breads, Lavosh, Crackers, Crostini, Dried Fruits & Nuts, Grape Clusters

Toasted Sesame Seeds, Scallions

15% Kama‘aina dining discount not available for Easter Champagne Brunch.

Menu items subject to change without notice.

Kim Chee Fried Rice

CHILLED SEAFOOD & SUSHI Chilled Peel-n-Eat Shrimp Cocktail and Brandy Sauces, Limes & Lemons

Seafood Salad Mussels, Bay Scallops & Shrimp, Citrus Dressing

Nairagi Poke Maui Onion, Shoyu, Sesame Oil, Ogo

Futomaki & Inari Sushi

CARVING STATION Kona Sea Salt Roasted Prime Rib of Beef Au Jus, Horseradish Cream

Hawaiian Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

For reservations call

Pineapple & Golden Raisin Chutney

949-4321 ext.48

Sourdough & Sweet Bread Rolls, Butter

Oceanfront, Ground Floor in Rainbow Tower

Wasabi, Soy Sauce & Gari Shoga

DINING OUT | MAR. 25-31, 2012 |

9

chewonthis

whatwe’reeatingat...

Cheese and Walnut Custard Tart ($3.50 for three pieces)

ent of Honolulu Star-Advertiser’s Ilima Awards Critics Choice 2011.

Jade Dynasty Yakiniku introduces Million exotic, new fare

Kristine Tubay: “We can cook our own food, and it’s always fresh.”

By Nicole Kato

By Alana Folen

J

JADE DYNASTY SEAFOOD RESTAURANT WHERE Ala Moana Center 1450 Ala Moana Blvd. #4220 CALL 947.8818 HOURS Open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

WEBSITE jadedynastyhawaii.com

ade Dynasty Seafood Restaurant, conveniently located in Ala Moana Center, has transformed your typical Chinese fare into something a bit more unconventional with the unveiling of two new dishes, Shrimp Mixed with Bamboo Fungus and Cheese and Walnut Custard Tart.

“Both of these dishes aren’t listed on our menu, but customers can request them,” says general manager Gary Chan.

Priced at $16.95, Shrimp Mixed with Bamboo Fungus features savory pieces of shrimp nestled inside hollow bamboo fungus. It’s then topped with a clear chicken broth gravy and hints of carrot. Shanghai bak choy is served on the side. As for Jade Dynasty’s Cheese and Walnut Custard Tart ($3.50 for three pieces), Chan says this is a unique take on the average Custard Tart dim sum.

“We take the Custard Tart and top it with American cheese, and inside the custard tart are bits of walnut,” he explains. “It’s sweet, but the cheese gives it a bit of a bite. It’s something very different. I think we’re the only restaurant to offer this.”

Home of the Perry and Price Show, Jade Dynasty caters to all events and special occasions (call ahead to make reservations), and in celebration of Easter, the restaurant also is offering a Sunday brunch buffet from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

S

ince 1989, Yakiniku Million has served great Korean food to customers. Patrons have the choice of Yakiniku Sets ($46.95) or a la carte meat items, side orders, soups, noodles, mixed rice and Million special plates. The yakiniku meats can be cooked at the table (minimum two orders).

Dining Out caught up with Kristine and Karen Tubay, and Lesley Hamm for lunch. They ordered the Yakiniku Set A, which comes with Seasoned Kalbi, Beef Outside Skirts, Beef Brisket, BulGo-Ki (Beef) and Shrimp.

Yakiniku Million was the recipi-

with purchase of 1 regular PLATE or COMBO! (With coupon)

Celebrating 40 years

Catering Available

Committed devotion to serving authentic Japanese taste & hospitality

Expires 3/31/12

Next to Zippy’s, Don Quijote & Nanding’s Bakery

Fresh Seafood, Sushi, Hot Pot, Full Izakaya Menu

10 | DINING OUT | MARCH 25-31, 2012

WHERE 626 Sheridan St., Honolulu CALL 596.0799 HOURS Monday-Thursday and Sunday, 11 a.m.-midnight, Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.-2 a.m.

2 Choice Teishoku Combo

1 FREE regular DRINK

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

YAKINIKU MILLION

Dinner Menu

Under New Management

94-216 Farrington Hwy • Waipahu

Lesley Hamm: “I like the Kalbi.”

(from left) Lesley Hamm, Kristine and Karen Tubay | Nicole Kato photo

808 Yong’s BBQ

678-8058

Karen Tubay: “There’s a lot of side dishes. That makes it more fulfilling.”

808-923-7368 King’s Village Shopping Center 1F 2400 Koa Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815

17.75 - $22.75

$

Served with rice, miso soup, two side dishes, and pickles.

Choose from • Fried Oyster • Ebi Fry • Ahi Sashimi • Broiled Salmon Chicken Katsu • Miso Butterfish • Karaage • Pork Ginger Sizzling Hamburger Steak • Tempura • Tonkatsu and many more!

Bentos and assorted musubi available daily as well as ala carte specials OPEN DAILY 11am-9pm Lunch 11 am - 4 pm Dinner 5 pm - 9 pm

Japanese Home Style Restaurant “Hinone Mizunone” Please enjoy the KAMADAKIGOHAN cooked completely by “Ogama”.

1345 S. King Street Corner of S. King St. & Sheridan St. Close to Ala Moana Shpg Cntr & Wal Mart

942-4848

TEL.

www.fujio-food.com

Spring

into seafood

B GOLDEN PALACE WHERE 111 N. King St., Honolulu CALL 521.8268 HOURS Open daily, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Howard and Gary Lam

lack Bean Sauce with Clams, Salt and Pepper Squid, Garlic Steamed Shrimp — yup, it’s safe to say Golden Palace has seafood down pat.

Complete with mostly authentic Chinese dishes, Golden Palace manager Gary Lam gets a kick out of carrying on the family tradition set before him by his father and Golden Palace owner Howard Lam, and as a huge seafood lover, he enjoys sharing his favorite dishes with patrons.

Black Bean Sauce with Clams ($9.50) is made with basic ingredients that come together to form a tasty dish that combines steamed clams with Golden Palace’s black bean sauce, diced chili peppers and a touch of minced garlic.

“This dish is popular with our lunch and dinner crowd. We end up making it throughout the whole

day,” says Lam. Another seafood option that hits the spot regardless of the time of day is Salt and Pepper Squid, priced at $7.50. This dish brings together diced bell peppers, chili peppers and squid, which has been lightly battered and dipped in a salt and pepper mix, prepared daily by the chef.

Rounding out the seafood collection is Garlic Steamed Shrimp ($9.95).

“This is another traditonal Chinese dish. It really is a treat, because the shrimp is actually steamed over noodles, so the noodles absorb all the flavor and juice from the shrimp. That is the winner right there. Love that one,” says Lam. As parking often times can be tricky to find downtown, Golden Palace offers free parking for its dinner guests.

Black Bean Sauce with Clams ($9.50) LEFT Salt and Pepper Squid ($7.50) | Chris Fleck photos

btwbytheway Oh, by the way, last week Dining Out listed the wrong phone number for Paesano’s Waimalu location. The correct phone number is 485.8883. Also, a clarification on Opulicious’

March special, customers can receive either a Chicken Katsu plate or Hamburger Steak plate for $5.95 (large Opu size plate), regular price is $7.75.

YOUR EASTER GIFT Hint: It’s 10 hours of FREE validated parking in Waikiki.

Join us for Easter shopping and dining at Royal Hawaiian Center April 6 - 8. Bring this ad along with your original receipts totaling $25 or more to Lei ‘Ohu Guest Services on the ground level by Tourneau.

We’ll give you a parking pass good for one day of free parking – up to 10 hours. Use it any day you like. Happy Easter!

Restrictions may apply. Original ad must be presented with original receipts totaling $25 or more.

Parking pass to be used one time only. See Lei ‘Ohu Guest Services for details.

Three fabulous blocks Kalākaua Avenue from Fendi to Forever 21 More than 100 Shops, Restaurants and Night Spots 10am till torch lights out

Like us on

@RoyalHwnCtr

DINING OUT | MARCH 25-31, 2012 |

11

eatthis

In pursuit of noodles

By Ali Resich

W

hether you enjoy them big or small, thick or thin, noodles have a special spot in every local’s heart, each with a favorite type unto themself. One place abundant in scrumptious noodle varieties is Thai Village, a sanctuary of culinary delights serving up Thai classics at its three locations in Waipio, Kunia and Kalihi.

But when noodle cravings hit, only a

bowl full of them will do. One dish that is sure to satisfy your hankering is Mee Ga Ti, or Curry Noodle. Mildly spicy (feel free to add extra heat) red curry is combined with coconut milk, rice noodle and sliced cabbage on the side to provide a great base for meats, vegetables or seafood. To complete the dish, diners may choose from chicken, pork or beef priced at $10.95, tofu or vegetarian priced at $9.95, or shrimp, calamari, scallop or mixed seafood for $12.50.

1

2 Mee Ga Ti with Chicken ($10.95) Co-owner Mang Sisounthone with Pad Kee Mow with Shrimp.

Pad Kee Mow with Shrimp ($11.95) Lawrence Tabudlo photos

3

Hyatt Regency Resort & Spa • Street Level • 2420 Kalakaua Ave., Ewa Tower • 971-1818

www.seafoodvillagehawaii.com • Ask About Our Kama‘Aina Special Discount * $3 Self Park Validation

• Chicken Salad w/Ori$ ental Dressing per person • 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

$ • Seafood Salad • 6 TYPES OF DIM SUM per person (Seafood Dumpling, Seafood Siu Mai, Lotus Wrap Mochi Rice w/Chicken, Crispy Shrimp Dumpling, Spinach Dumpling, BBQ Pork Manapua) • Roasted Peking Duck • Salt & Pepper Calamari • Seafood Fried Noodle • DESSERT: Mango Pudding

15.95

10.95

MINIMUM OF

10 PERSONS (1 DAY ADVANCE RESERVATION NEEDED).

PRIVATE ROOM DEPENDS ON AVAILABILITY. MENU PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE TAX

12 | DINING OUT | MARCH 25-31, 2012

& GRATUITY.

“I love the dish and so far everyone that’s tried it, they like it. If they like curry and they like noodle … it’s a nice, nice combination!” says co-owner Mang Sisounthone.

The unique thing about the yummy bowl is that the curry takes on a soup-like consistency, providing an incredibly flavorful broth for the rice noodles.

“Anybody who tries it is like, ‘This is my new favorite dish now.’ It’s really good.”

For a noodle that takes center stage, look no further than Pad Kee Mow ($9.95 for chicken, pork, beef; $8.95 for tofu, vegetarian; $11.95 for shrimp, calamari, scallop, mixed seafood), or Drunken Noodle. Legend has it that these thick, wide rice noodles get their name from the kick you feel after tasting the spicy chili sauce used in the dish. Basil, bean sprouts and broccoli also are stir-fried with the plump favorites.

There’s more where those noodles

came from, with Pad Thai and even Pho (Noodle Soup) rounding out the cozy eatery’s large menu of diverse eats. No matter the type, Thai Village has your noodle needs — and so much more — deliciously covered.

THAI VILLAGE DILLINGHAM 1286 Kalani St, # 104 845.4554 KUNIA 94-673 Kupuohi St. #B105 676.0843 WAIPIO 94-1040 Waipio Uka St. #15 678.2878 HOURS Thai Village Waipio and Kunia locations are open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Thai Village Kalihi is open Monday through Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sundays from 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

3660ONTHERISE 3660 Waialae Ave. // Honolulu

Easter Brunch Buffet // $39, Adults; $17, Children 3-10

BIGCITYDINER Various Locations

Call: 737.1177 Web: 3660.com Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 5:30-8:30 p.m.; Easter Brunch, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

The time of year has come to welcome spring’s arrival and partake in Easter celebrations with family and friends. 3660’s Easter Brunch Buffet offers an abundant line of culinary treasures the whole family will love. Breakfast goods include Eggs Benedict, a French Toast Station, an Omelet Station and Breakfast meats.

Such savory classics as Prime Rib of Beef with Au Jus, Pan Seared Salmon with Tomatoes & Capers and Assorted Poke also brighten the buffet. An array of desserts completes your Easter feast.

Call: 738.8855 (Kaimuki) 263.8880 (Kailua) 591.8891 (Ward) 678.8868 (Waipio) 487.8188 (Pearlridge) Web: BigCityDinerHawaii.com Hours: Easter Sunday, 7 a.m.-10 p.m.

Why not go the traditional route, and try an appetizing fish specialty this Easter. Big City Diner is serving up its popular Sauteed Asian Fish Fillets with Chef’s Spicy Black Bean Sauce on a bed of sauteed fresh vegetables.

Diners may choose from steamed white or brown rice to accompany their festive meal.

Sauteed Asian Fish Fillets with Chef’s Spicy Black Bean Sauce // $12.99

BEACHHOUSEATTHEMOANA 2365 Kalakaua Ave. // Moana Surfrider

What better place to spend Easter Sunday than oceanside at Beachhouse, where an elegant brunch awaits you and your family. The mouthwatering menu includes Hawaiian Style Snow Crab Legs, Maple Leaf Duck Breast with Hamakua Mushrooms and Passional Pineapple Sweet and Sour Glaze, Roast Leg of Lamb and Herb Crusted Veal Chop. Adding to the holiday masterpieces are Assorted Maki, Inari, Nigiri Sushi and Ahi Sashimi, as well as tantalizing desserts.

Easter Sunday Brunch // $85, Adults; $45, Children

CHAI’SISLANDBISTRO 1 Aloha Tower Drive // Aloha Tower Marketplace

Call: 585.0011 Hours: Easter Sunday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Brunch; 5-10 p.m., Dinner

Your bunny ears will perk up as soon as you hear Melveen Leed’s beauifully powerful voice enchant your Easter brunch at Chai’s (show starts at 10:30 a.m.). The eatery’s daytime delicacies include Thai Curry Puffs and Grilled Kurobuta Pork Tenderloin with Peanut Sauce, to name a few. Or come in for the restaurant’s Easter Dinner, featuring show-stopping Chicken Roulade with Roasted Leek Gravy and Mashed Potato, Seafood Tortellini with Lobster Reduction and much more.

Special Easter Brunch // $45.95, Adults; $25, Children up to 12 Five Course Easter Dinner // $40 per person; $55 with wine D I N I N G

Call: 921.4600 Web: beachhousewaikiki.com Hours: Easter Sunday, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

O U T

|

M A R C H

2 5 - 3 1 ,

2 0 1 2

|

13

easterspecial

HEEHINGRESTAURANT 449 Kapahulu Ave., Ste. 101 // Honolulu

Easter Buffet and Special Menus // Prices Vary

KISSATENCOFFEEBAR 88 Piikoi St. // Hawaiki Tower

Smoked Salmon & Bacon Eggs Benedict // $12

KOBESTEAKHOUSE 1841 Ala Moana Blvd. // Waikiki

Easter Special Combination Dinner // $29.95 14

|

D I N I N G

O U T

|

M A R C H

2 5 - 3 1 ,

2 0 1 2

Call: 735.5544 Hours: Daily, 10:30 a.m.9:30 p.m.; Easter Sunday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m, Brunch; Dinner until 9:30 p.m.

As people from every part of the globe prepare their Easter soirees, Hee Hing Restaurant is bringing a world of flavors right to you. The Easter Sunday Brunch Buffet ($23.95, adults; $22.95, seniors; $11.95, keiki 4 to 12) will include an International Assortment of salads, Hawaiian Luau, Hong Kong Dim Sum Bar and Chinese entrees like Pepper Salt Shrimp and Szechuan Eggplant. For larger parties, the Easter Sunday Special Menu ($279, table of 10) boasts Peking Duck and Maine Lobster Ginger Scallion among other joyous eats.

Call: 593-1200 Hours: Daily, 24 hours; Easter Sunday Brunch, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Kissaten Coffee Bar’s got some egg-cellent dishes for you to try this Easter. While the cafe is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, you’ll only have Easter Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. to experience the gloriously flavored Smoked Salmon & Bacon Eggs Benedict. Toasted English muffins are piled high with smoked Scottish salmon, bacon and two poached eggs. The eatery’s riveting hollandaise sauce and mini caprese salad top it off for an Easter meal you won’t forget.

Call: 941.4444 Web: honolulukobe.com Hours: Daily, 5:30-10 p.m., Dinner

You may have to hunt for colorful eggs in your garden, but a luscious Easter meal is easy to spot at Kobe. Lay your eyes on an enticing combo of moist Pacific Cod, 5 ounces of Sirloin steak and 4 ounces of succulent Teriyaki Chicken served with Grilled Shrimp appetizer, Shabu-Shabu Soup, pickled and grilled vegetables, white rice and hot green tea. Available April 6-8, this special pairs well with Marquis de Chocolat mini chocolate mousse cake ($6; $7 ala mode).

KENNY’SRESTAURANT 1620 N. School St. // Kamehameha Shopping Center

Smothered Fried Chicken and Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya // $15.99 each

KIT‘NKITCHEN 1010 University Ave. // Varsity Center

Four Course Dinner // $20.95

LARRY’SBAKERY 4369 Lawehana St. #B2 // Salt Lake

Easter Themed Treats // Prices Vary

Call: 841.0931 Hours: Sunday-Thursday, 6 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 6 a.m.-11 p.m.

There are plenty of scrumptious Southern bites to help everyone “spring” into Easter at Kenny’s Restaurant. Try the Smothered fried chicken on a bed of mashed potatoes, topped with mushrooms, grilled onions and chicken gravy. Then explore the classic Chicken and sausage jambalaya with cajun seasoning. Each dish comes with a marvelous piece of Honey butter cornbread with honey butter on the side.

Call: 942.7622 Web: kitnkitchen.com Hours: Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., 5 p.m.-midnight; Saturday-Sunday, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., 5 p.m.-midnight

Put some hop in your Easter step with Kit ‘n Kitchen’s Four Course Dinner. The jaw-dropping journey starts with Milano Tomato Soup or Garden Salad. Then venture into Kit’s Sampler of Escargot Wellington, Beef Chimichurri and Garlic Basil Shrimp. For the entree, choose from Rosemary Roasted Lamb, Baked Seafood Pasta, Pan-fried Basil Salmon, Rib-eye Steak with Chimichurri sauce or Red Wine Ox tail stew.

End on a sweet note with dessert.

Call: 422.0059 Web: larrysbakery.com Hours: Monday-Friday, 6 a.m.1 p.m.; Saturday, 6 a.m.-noon; Closed Sundays

You can fill up all of your Easter eggs with treats found at Larry’s Bakery. Traditional Hot Cross Buns may be savored from Ash Wednesday through Easter. And be sure to try the Easter Bunny Cakes (chocolate, butter or red velvet) and assorted Easter cookies, baskets, cupcake packs and Spam can favors. In addition to all those goodies, Larry’s Easter Colored Butter Bread is great for egg salad sandwiches after the hunt! Please place orders one day in advance.

easterspecial

LUNGFUNG 5724 Kalanianaole Hwy. // Niu Valley Shopping Center

Call: 377.5555 or 377-5566 Hours: Daily, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Once Easter Rabbit has finished speading cheer throughout every household, he’ll be found enjoying Lung Fung Chinese Restaurant’s Easter Special Menu. Just like him, soak up every bite of seafood with tofu soup, three lobsters with ginger and onion, whole crispy chicken, beef with young ginger and pineapple, steamed fish fillet with ginger, salt and pepper shrimp, choy sum with meat sauce, garlic with shrimp fried rice and an irresistable dessert.

Easter Special Menu // $178 for 10 people

THEMANDALAY 1055 Alakea St. // Downtown

Easter Sunday Dim Sum Brunch Buffet // $20.99, Adults; $17.99, Seniors (60 and up); $13.99, Children 3-12

NAPOLEON’SBAKERY Various Locations around Oahu, including all Zippy’s

Call: 525.8585 Hours: Easter Sunday, 10:30 a.m., First seating; 12:30 p.m., Second seating

MAKINOCHAYA

Call: 486.5100 Hours: Daily, 11a.m.-2 p.m., Lunch; 5:30-9 p.m., Dinner

98-150 Kaonohi St. #218 // Aiea

It’s no surprise that Makino Chaya leaves locals feeling eggstatic about its Easter Lunch and Dinner Buffets. During the holiday, specialities normally available at dinner only — like Garlic Shrimp, Snow Crab, Teppanyaki and Shrimp Tempura — also will be available at lunch. For those of you seeking an Easter full of sweets, the eatery’s spread contains more than 40 delectable desserts to choose from.

Easter Lunch and Dinner Buffet // $22.98, Lunch; $31.98, Dinner

MAX’SOFMANILA

Call: 952.6297 (MAXS) Web: maxsofmanila.com Hours: Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sunday, 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Waipahu; Daily, 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Dillingham

801 Dillingham Blvd. // Honolulu & 94-300 Farrington Hwy. // Waipahu

Any restaurant hopper knows that dim sum is great for every special occasion. Make The Mandalay’s Dim Sum Brunch Buffet part of your Easter memories this year, with a variety of Hong Kong-style dim sum such as Pork Hash, Baked Char Siu Bun and Tripe with Ginger Sauce. The bountiful array of food also will include soups and salads, stir fried entrees like Beef Broccoli and egg-citing desserts like Egg Custard Tarts.

A wonderful place to gather all of your furry friends this Easter is Max’s of Manila. The restaurant, which specializes in Filipino cuisine, will offer Spicy Laing Tilapia just in time for the celebratory weekend.

Crispy and golden brown Tilapia fillets are simmered in coconut milk with spicy taro leaves for a uniquely delicious burst of flavor.

Spicy Laing Tilapia // $12.50

Web: napoleonsbakery.com Hours: Most locations open 24 hours

ONONATMCCULLY

Call: 946.8833 Web: ononhawaii.com Hours: Daily, 10:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

1110 McCully St. // Honolulu

On Easter Sunday, Napoleon’s Bakery will be filled with the sweet aroma of cakes galore, perfect for making Easter baskets overflow with yumminess.

Try the Oreo Cookies ‘N Cream Cake* ($17.95, pictured), a chocolate cake filled and iced with Oreo cookie whipped cream and garnished with Oreos, Easter Decorated Dobash Cake* ($16.50) or Easter Peach Bavarian Cake* ($17.80). Easter Decorated Cupcakes* ($1.25 each; $7.20 6-pack) also will be available from April 4.

Easter’s Featured Items // Prices Vary

* Prices slightly higher at Zippy’s Ala Moana, Pearlridge

Hares and humans alike will be hopping to On On at McCully Chinese Restaurant for its Easter Banquet, which accommodates 10 people for only $189. You’ll be endlessly satisfied with family-style creations such as Chinese Chicken Salad, Scallop Egg Soup, Peking Duck with Bun, Steamed Sea Bass Ginger Onion, Salt & Pepper Shrimp, Peking-style Pork Chop, Steamed Rice, and everybody’s favorite Minute Chicken Cake Noodle. Call for reservations and to inquire about the private party room.

Easter Banquet for 10 // $189 D I N I N G

O U T

|

M A R C H

2 5 - 3 1 ,

2 0 1 2

|

15

easterspecial

OPULICIOUS

Call: 943.8885 Web: opulicious.com Hours: Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.3 p.m.; Closed Sundays

946 Coolidge St. // Honolulu

Baked Ham Plate & Easter Packages To-Go // Prices Vary

PAGODAFLOATINGRESTAURANT 1525 Rycroft St. // Honolulu

Easter Brunch Buffets // $38.95, Adult; $18.95, Children 5-8 Easter Dinner Buffet // $41.95, Adult; $19.95, Children 5-8

PLAZACAFÉ 3253 N. Nimitz Hwy. // Best Western, The Plaza Hotel

Easter H“air”s are eager to fill their opus with the mouthwatering Baked Ham Plate ($6.25; April 6 and 7) at Opulicious, complete with raisin sauce, yams, rice and mac or tossed salad. They’ll also hop on the Easter Packages To-Go ($119; April 6 pickup), which easily feed eight to 10. Choose from Baked Ham with raisins and yams or Roast Turkey with stuffing and gravy, and enjoy rice, mac or tossed salad and apple crumble.

Call: 948.8356 Web: pagodahawaii.com Hours: Easter Brunch, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; Easter Dinner, 4-9:30 p.m.

Pagoda’s Japanese garden is sure to be blossoming beautifully now that spring has arrived, creating the perfect setting for Easter Sunday.

Amidst the restaurant’s surrounding Koi ponds and waterfalls, a basket-full of buffet stations — from a poke bar to hot entrees — fulfill every craving.

But be sure to try the Sweet Bread French Toast with Lilikoi Butter or Belgium Waffle Station during brunch, and the Sushi Hand-Roll Station at dinner.

Call: 836.3636 Hours: Daily, 6:30-10 a.m., Breakfast; Friday-Monday, 5-9 p.m., Dinner; Easter Brunch, 10 a.m., First Seating; 12:30 p.m., Second Seating

If a certain whiskered, fuzzy creature seems to have gone missing, he might be taking a break from giving out candy to try some sensational local favorites that Plaza Café is serving up as part of its Easter Brunch Buffet. The bountiful spread contains Kalua Pork Hash, Oxtail Soup, Poke, Eggs Benedict, a salad bar and more.

Reservations are recommended.

Easter Brunch Buffet // $34.95, Adults; $18.95, Keiki 4-10 16

|

D I N I N G

O U T

|

M A R C H

2 5 - 3 1 ,

2 0 1 2

PAESANORISTORANTEITALIANO 98-1277 Kaahumanu St. #119 // Waimalu & 2752 Woodlawn Drive // Manoa

Seafood Rustica // Market Price

Call: 485.8883 (Waimalu) 988.5923 (Manoa) Web: paesanohawaii.com Hours: Daily, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Lunch; 5-9 p.m., Dinner, Waimalu; Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Lunch; Daily, 5-9 p.m., Dinner, Manoa

Seafood lovers everywhere are found savoring the fruits of the sea during Easter. One dish that leaves them jumping for joy is Paesano’s Seafood Rustica, a medley of seafood sauteed with garlic, onion, Hamakua mushrooms, bacon, cherry tomatoes, capers and spinach in a dazzling white wine butter sauce draped over pasta.

PHOMYLIEN 98-150 Kaonohi St. // Westridge Shopping Center

Call: 488.4900 Hours: Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Pho My Lien has become a stomping ground for locals seeking the best in authentic Vietnamese fare. This Easter will be no different as patrons hop on over to try the Westridge Shopping Center eatery’s House Special Vietnamese Chicken Salad, complete with an el-eggtrifying house-made dressing.

House Special Vietnamese Chicken Salad // $4.79

RAINBOWLANAI 2005 Kalia Road // Hilton Hawaiian Village

Easter Buffet // $59, Adults; $24, Children 5-13 (Children younger than 5 eat free)

Call: 949.4321 Web: hiltonhawaiianvillage.com Hours: Easter Brunch, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

A whole day of searching the far reaches of your backyard for colorfully painted eggs is enough time to work up a hankering for the little oval treasures. Rainbow Lanai’s expansive buffet can satisfy that craving with Chopped Hard Boiled Eggs and an Omelet Station. The rich array of eats also features Kona Sea Salt Roasted Prime Rib, Hawaiian Brown Sugar Glazed Ham, sushi, salads and poke, as well as a mound of sweets like Spring Bread Pudding and Mini Malasadas.

easterspecial

RUTH’SCHRIS 500 Ala Moana Blvd. // Restaurant Row & 226 Lewers St. // Waikiki Beach Walk

Easter Sunday Menu // Prices Vary

SAKURATERRACE 1240 S. King St. // Honolulu

Sakura Chirashi Sushi Don // $18

SEKIYA’SRESTAURANT 2746 Kaimuki Ave. // Honolulu

Oyako Donburi // $9.95

Call: 440.7910 (Waikiki) 599.3860 (Restaurant Row) Web: ruthschrishawaii.com Hours: Easter Sunday, From 5 p.m.

Put down the Easter candy and indulge in something savory from Ruth’s Chris Steak House Hawaii. In celebration of Easter Sunday, each table will receive a gift from the restaurant. You’ll also love the gift of good eats, like USDA Prime Cowboy Ribeye, Filet, New York Strip, Fresh Island Fish and Ruth’s famous Barbecued Shrimp.

Soon after, you’ll decide you need to come back for the eatery’s nightly three-course Sizzlin’ Prime Time Dinner as well as its Wine Wednesdays.

Call: 591.1181 Web: sakuraterrace.com Hours: Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Lunch; 5-10 p.m., Dinner; Sunday, 4:30-9:30 p.m., Dinner

As cherry blossoms, or sakura, have just started to bloom in Japan, Sakura Terrace Japanese Cafe is more than fashionable this spring. The elegant eatery’s Chirashi Sushi Don is always in season for the restaurant’s loyal patrons, but why not make it part of a flavorful Easter celebration? It’s fresh, healthy and unbelievably satisfying with Ahi, Yellowtail, Salmon, King Crab Leg, Ikura and Uni on Sushi Rice with grilled Salmon flakes.

Call: 732.1656 Web: SekiyasRestaurant.com Hours: Sunday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 8 a.m.-11 p.m.

In Japanese, “oyako” means parent and child, or in the case of Easter, a chicken and the egg.

That’s why Sekiya’s Restaurant & Delicatessen is egg-static to offer its Oyako Donburi, a chirpy bowl filled with a crave-worthy combination of chicken, egg, longrice and mushrooms in an omeletelike mixture served on top of rice.

Miso soup, Tsukemono and Hot Japanese Green Tea complete the meal. And for dessert, try a classic Milkshake ($4.95).

SAIGONCUISINE

Call: 521.6888 Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sunday-Monday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

1408 Liliha St. // Honolulu

There’s nothing like colorfully decorated eggs to signify Easter’s merriment. Saigon Cuisine’s whimsical mini Rainbow Mochi Eggs will brighten your weekend, and are free with every entree from April 6 to 8. In the same spirited fashion, the restaurant’s tasty Veggie Spring Rolls ($7.25) and Imperial Spring Rolls ($8.25), with shrimp and taro or tofu, veggies and rice, are definitely a must.

Rainbow Eggs, Veggie Spring Rolls, Imperial Spring Rolls // Prices Vary

SAMCHOY’S

Call: 545.7979 Web: samchoyhawaii.com Hours: Easter Sunday, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

580 N. Nimitz Hwy. // Honolulu

Hawaii’s staple restaurant for local grinds and fresh seafood, better known as Sam Choy’s Breakfast, Lunch & Crab, has sprung right into Easter with its brunch buffet. Enjoy Island favorites like Lomi Lomi salmon and Tako poke or Dive into Island fusions like Kalua Benedict and Mini Belgian waffles topped with Maple and Coconut Syrup. Diners also may enjoy traditional wonders like Prime Rib of Beef with Horseradish and Au Jus or Hot Cross Buns, just to name a few.

Easter Sunday Brunch Buffet // $31.95, Adults; $16.95, Children 5-12

SHIRO’SSAIMINHAVEN 98-020 Kamehameha Hwy. // Waimalu Shopping Center

Call: 488.8824 Web: shirossaimin.com Hours: Sunday-Thursday, 7 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; FridaySaturday, 7 a.m.-11:30 p.m.

For any Easter party you are hopping to, Shiro’s Saimin Haven caters to your needs with its Crispy Pork Belly Platter. The indulgent golden brown pork belly, with its crackling skin is noteworthy in itself, but maxes out the taste-o-meter at every catered event when sprung into the garlic ponzu dipping sauce.

Crispy Pork Belly Platter // $47, Serves 25; $32, Serves 15 D I N I N G

O U T

|

M A R C H

2 5 - 3 1 ,

2 0 1 2

|

17

easterspecial

SURFLANAIRESTAURANT Call: 921.4600 Web: royal-hawaiian.com Hours: Easter Sunday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

2259 Kalakaua Ave. // The Royal Hawaiian

Easter Sunday Brunch // $88, Adults; $53, Children 6-12 (Children 5 and younger eat free)

THEROYALHAWAIIAN 2259 Kalakaua Ave. // Waikiki

Annual Easter Egg Hunt // Included in Surf Lanai Restaurant’s Easter Sunday Brunch

ZPIZZA 1200 Ala Moana Blvd. // Ward Centre & 151 Hekili St. // Kailua

Whole Pizza, Specialty Salad & Free Dessert Special // Prices Vary 18

|

D I N I N G

O U T

|

M A R C H

2 5 - 3 1 ,

2 0 1 2

THAIVILLAGE 1286 Kalani St. #104 // Kalihi; 94-1040 Waipio Uka St. #15 // Waipio; 94-673 Kupuohi St. #B105 // Kunia

Long live the king of Easter feasts, the Easter Sunday Brunch at The Royal Hawaiian’s luxurious Surf Lanai Restaurant. First work up your appetite at the Annual Easter Egg Hunt (See The Royal Hawaiian for details). Then savor the brunch’s crowning moments, like its Roast Suckling Pig and Dry Aged Prime Rib. There also will be an Omelet and Egg Station, as well as a chocolate Fountain that gives the Easter Bunny some competition.

Call: 921.4600 Web: royal-hawaiian.com Hours: Easter Sunday, 9:30 a.m.

Pho Special // $13.95

WAILANACOFFEEHOUSE 1860 Ala Moana Blvd. // Honolulu

The hunt is on at The Royal Hawaiian’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt to take place April 8. One of the largest Easter Egg Hunts in Waikiki, the grand event will be hosted at the resort’s Coconut Grove and will feature more than 2,000 treat-filled eggs! The quest begins at 9:30 a.m. and once the animated search ends, head over to the hotel’s Surf Lanai for its Easter Sunday Brunch (see Surf Lanai Restaurant for brunch details).

Call: 596.0066 (Ward) 230.8400 (Kailua) Web: zpizza.com Hours: Sunday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m., Friday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Ward Centre; Sunday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Friday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m., Kailua

The most hoppin’ pizza place in town is offering an irresistible Easter special. With any of the restaurant’s large menu of Pizza Creations or Rustica Pizzas, along with any Specialty Salad, customers will be bouncing off the walls with happiness when they receive a free Bubbie’s Ice Cream Dessert.

Happy Easter Menu // Prices Vary

ZIPPY’SRESTAURANT Various Locations

Easter Specials // Prices Vary

Call: 845.4554 (Kalihi) 678.2878 (Waipio) 676.0843 (Kunia) Web: VillageThai.com Hours: Daily, 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m., Waipio & Kunia; Monday-Saturday, 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sunday, 10:30-8 p.m., Kalihi

Many a “pho”rry little animal will be “hop”ing to try something new this spring, like Thai Village’s Pho Special (Beef Noodle Soup), which features a choice of Combination (beef, tripe, tendon and meatball), Chicken or Pork Pho served with three pieces of Spring Roll or two pieces of Summer Roll. The meal includes one Thai Iced Tea, Thai Iced Coffee, soda or soybean drink.

Call: 955.1764 Hours: Daily, 24 hours; Closed Tuesday from 10-11 p.m.; Easter Menu, 11 a.m.-midnight

Happy Easter! Hauoli la Pakoa!

Feliz Pascua! No matter how you say it, Wailana Coffee House will make your Easter a jovial one. The restaurant’s Roast Prime Rib of Beef ($16.95) is wonderfully tender and tasty, served with au jus and zesty horseradish cream. Or try the Roast Turkey with Smoked Ham ($13.95), served on Macadamia nut stuffing with old fashion giblet gravy, a pineapple ring and cranberry sauce. The menu also boasts Seafood Continental ($14.50) and a Breakfast Special with Eggs Benedict Royal ($9.95).

Web: zippys.com Hours: Most locations open 24 hours

Starting at 10:30 a.m. on April 6, sink your buck teeth into Zippy’s Good Friday specials, including Spaghetti alla Verdura ($6.95, fast food; $7.95, restaurant) and Tempura Cod Plate ($11.95, restaurant only). Then come back April 7 and 8 for the Baked Ham special ($7.45, fast food; $8.55, restaurant) with rum raisin sauce. Zippy’s Dine-In Restaurants also have a giveaway for children up to 10 years old for the chance to win a Nintendo 3DS. See dine-in stores for details.

Made to order J Praseuth Luangkhot, Chef JJ for short, is doing what he loves at JJ Bistro and French Pastry.

“I just enjoy cooking,” he says simply.

And it shows. His dishes are creative, reflect his Laotian roots with French flair, are appetizingly presented with attention to detail and — drum roll, please — can be modified to suit your tastes. Yes! That's such good news for those who don’t eat meat or fish. And it makes sense to treat guests well so they’ll want to return again and again.

For example, JJ Bistro and French Pastry’s menu lists a number of gourmet pasta dishes,

VO

J

JJ Bistro and French Pastry WHERE 3447 Waialae Ave., Honolulu CALL 739.0993 HOURS Open Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

Sunday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

veg’with nout Terri Hefner

order, and he’ll re-create the dish without them.

The chef recomWild 2 mends Mushroom Ravioli with red bell pepper and zucchini and sauteed button mushrooms in butter sauce ($11.95).

Don’t eat butter? Not a problem. Chef JJ will adjust the dish to please you, and judging from his talent when it comes to combining textures and flavors, it’s bound to be just as delicious as the original recipe.

Talk about the customer comes first!

The perfect plate to tickle your taste buds is waiting at JJ Bistro and French Pastry.

1

and some have a veggie option next to their description, such as Southeast a la Maison (Veggie $9.95), with eggplant, bamboo shoots, red bell peppers and zucchini in a green curry sauce.

But the chef doesn’t stop there, so you don’t have to either.

“Every sauce can be made vegetarian,” Chef JJ says. “Most of our dishes are made to order.”

And when he says made to order, he means just that, which certainly makes life easy for nonmeat eaters. Even if the sauce has butter or cream, the chef assures Dining Out readers that all you have to do is ask when you place your

Contact Terri Hefner at diningout@staradvertiser.com

1 Wild Mushroom Ravioli ($11.95) 2 Southeast a la Maison Pasta ($9.95) Leah Friel photos

10% OFF Entire Menu Buffet

For up to 20 people

Lunch $11.95

Kids $7.50 (Ages 5–12)

Dinner $15.95 Kids $9.00 (Ages 5–12)

Must present coupon for discount.

Not to be combined with any other specials or promotions.

Reservations Recommended

*Free parking available at First Hawaiian Bank

Maple Garden/Yen King 909 Isenberg Street • 941-6641 www.MapleGardenHawaii.com

#25

Shrimp Salad

Celebrate Your Birthday

HAWAII’S only GOURMET BUFFET,

now 15% off.*

Dinner (daily) Lunch (weekday) Lunch (weekend)

adults $48, children $24 adults $19, children $12 adults $48, children $24

Royal Hawaiian Center, Bldg. C, Level 3

OUR IMMENSELY POPULAR TAKE-OUT PLATE LUNCH FOR ONLY...

6.65

$

NOW OPEN at 900 N. Nimitz Hwy 536-8570 1627 Nuuanu Ave 585-8839 2955 E. Manoa Rd 988-0212

Lunch 11:30a-2:00p, Happy Hour 2p-5:30p, Dinner 5:30p-10:30p Open Daily | Full bar | Validated Parking | 380-9300 FiveStarWaikiki.com *Offer valid for dinner and weekend lunch buffets only. Discount valid with local or Military ID, and for seniors (ages 60 or better). Cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion.

Mon-Sat 10:30am-9pm; Sun 12n-8pm

Call For Take Out www.bangkokchefexpress.com

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

Mon-Fri: 6:00 - 10:00 pm Sat, Sun: 5:30 - 10:00 pm • Wine Spectator Award-Winning Wine List • Live Entertainment • Valet Parking Proper Attire Required Reservations Recommended

2440 Kuhio Ave.

922 5555 www.hyshawaii.com DINING OUT | MARCH 25-31, 2012 |

19

... dining out ...

inside

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

2 1

3

Dishes that are sure to put a smile on your face

BIG

Story by Nicole Kato Photos by Lawrence Tabudlo

F

rom its humble beginning in 1998, Big City Diner has grown to five locations in Pearlridge, Waipio, Ward, Kailua and Kaimuki, where the first Big City Diner opened.

Owner and president Lane Muraoka’s goal is to cater to the culinary wants and needs of the community.

BIG CITY DINER

PEARLRIDGE

KAIMUKI

KAILUA

WARD

WAIPIO

98-211 Pali Momi St. 487.8188

3565 Waialae Ave. 738.8845

108 Hekili St. 263.8880

1060 Auahi St. 591.8891

94-800 Ukee St. 678.8868

20 | DINING OUT | MARCH 25-31, 2012

Sunday to Thursday 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday 7 a.m. to midnight BigCityDinerHawaii.com

... dining out ...

inside

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

4 According to Big City Diner, its success is based on the hard work and commitment of its nearly 400 team members who strive to provide excellent customer service to all who walk through the doors, as well as provide customers with exceptional food quality.

Big City Diner has new additions to the menu that are already proving to be customer favorites.

Teriyaki Hamburger Steak ($10.99) combines the localfavorite teriyaki flavor with the local staple hamburger steak. “A lot of people request this dish,” says senior executive chef Dennis Franks. The dish is topped not only with teriyaki sauce, but also caramelized onions and scallions.

If a burger or sandwich is more your speed, Big City Diner now offers a Patty Melt ($10.99) with caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms and Thousand Island dress-

ing — all between pieces of grilled Texas toast bread. This dish is served with skin-on fries or roasted garlic fries (for only 99 cents extra), and according to Chef Franks, this dish has a good following.

For those who are still sticking to their “healthy eating” New Year’s resolution, you’re in luck!

BBQ Chicken Salad ($11.99) is served with romaine lettuce, roasted corn, flame-broiled grilled chicken with barbecue sauce, fresh avocados, and is topped with onion rings and served with a barbecue ranch dressing.

Big City Diner also has $10 weekly specials on rotation that are served from 11 a.m. Monday through Friday while supplies last, and the restaurant is adding on another week of Grilled Asian Fish Oriental (Swai). It was originally only served during Week 3, but because customers raved about the

1 Senior Executive Chef 2 Big City Diner has Dennis Franks adds the everything your appetite finishing touches to BBQ desires.

Chicken Salad

3 Teriyaki Hamburger Steak ($10.99)

5

dish, Big City Diner decided to add it as an option for Week 6. It is prepared Oriental style with ginger sauce. “We have people who set alarms on their phones for that one,” says Franks.

Week 3 is coming up this week, so be sure to go down to a Big City Diner location and try the Grilled Asian Fish Oriental (Swai).

There are many options to choose from at Big City Diner including salads, famous local creations, local-style fried min, specialty sandwiches, burgers and more. Locations are open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner and late-night dining (available after 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays), and there also are catering options.

Follow Big City Diner on Twitter at @BigCityDiner and Lane Muraoka at @BCDlane for specials and information on the restaurant.

4 Server Russell Collier with Teri Hamburger Steak and BBQ Chicken Salad

5 Patty Melt ($10.99)

6

6 BBQ Chicken Salad ($11.99)

DINING OUT | MARCH 25-31, 2012 |

21

ono,youknow 2

1

3

1 Eggs ‘n Things Calamari Steak options include Sauteed, Cajun-style or Furikake-style.

2 Pho My Lien is located at Westridge Shopping Center in Aiea.

3 Pho My Lien’s Crispy Calamari ($7.95) 4 Eggs ‘n Things nighttime kitchen manager Peter Kauleinamoku with Cajun-style Calamari Steak and Furikake-style Calamari Steak ($13.95 each)

– From page 2

thing definitely worth tasting, as it features a bed of fresh greens sprinkled with hints of cucumber, celery, red onion, lemon grass and mint topped with morsels of crispy calamari mixed in a roasted chili sauce. Sounds delicious, doesn’t it?

Believe me, this is the best way to kick off any dining experience here at Keo’s Thai Cuisine. And what many don’t know about Keo is that he also operates a farm in the Mokuleia area, where he grows the majority of the vegetables found in his cuisine. So, expect nothing but the freshest of ingredients here — in fact everything grown on the farm is organic and free of pesticides.

And finally, for those in the mood for nothing but calamari, start your meal off with Crispy Calamari. This most popular appetizer is priced at $12.95 and is a meal in itself. Calling all calamari lovers, Keo’s Thai cuisine is open daily from 5 to 10 p.m. and will reel you in with its exquisite

selection of onolicious options.

Keo’s Thai Cuisine 2028 Kuhio Ave. 951.9355

Pho My Lien Vietnamese Restaurant Lastly, my taste buds brought me to Pho My Lien in Westridge Shopping Center in Aiea, where husband-and-wife duo Tommy Dang and Lien Bui serve up delectable Vietnamese cuisine.

Prices are reasonable and the pho is absolutely delicious as its homemade from Bui’s personal recipe. Each order is served with mint leaves, bean sprouts, herbs, chili pepper and a special blend of sauces.

However, if you’re craving calamari, Pho My Lien whips up an incredible Crispy Calamari (Muc Chien Don). Priced at $7.95, this house specialty features a plateful of lightly-battered squid that is fried to a crisp with hints of shoyu and chili pepper for taste. It’s then enhanced with a sweet

22 | DINING OUT | MARCH 25-31, 2012

and sour dipping sauce that will surely place this dish at the top of your list.

“The correct preparation for this dish is essential,” says Walter James, a close friend and business partner of Dang and Bui. “You want the squid to be crispy, yet tender.”

You don’t have to travel far to experience a taste of Vietnam — you can have it all right here at home at Pho My Lien.

Pho My Lien Vietnamese Restaurant Westridge Shopping Center 98-150 Kaonohi St., Suite B213-B 488.4900

4

Kobe keeps the spark

T KOBE JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE WHERE 1841 Ala Moana Blvd., Honolulu CALL 941.4444 HOURS Daily, 5:30-10 p.m., Dinner; Lounge open from 5 p.m.

Lawrence Tabudlo photos

Short Ribs ($12)

Lobster and Steak Combo ($45.95)

he friendliest — and tastiest — teppanyaki spot in town, better known as Kobe Japanese Steakhouse, excites customers night after night as highly skilled chefs stylishly grill the best in fresh meat and seafood on flattops placed at each table.

While there has been an an abundance of construction outside the Ala Moana Boulevard restaurant, owner Roy Nakamura confirms the steakhouse’s doors are wide open, cooking up Japanese fare as effortlessly as ever.

Kobe recently got hold of a rarity in the fresh seafood world that is taking one of its teppan meals from flavorful to absolutely divine. Lobster and Steak Combo ($45.95), which usual-

alive

ly features tender steak and a prime Tristan lobster tail, will include two smaller Tristan lobster tails with every order, while supplies last.

“The smaller lobsters are usually more tender,”

($3 each) and standard cocktails ($3 each).

To accompany your drinks, sushi will be presented at 20 percent off, with fresh classics such as Rainbow Roll ($14) and Spicy Tuna ($11.50) flying off the sushi bar. Or nibble on pupu favorites like boneless, kalbi-style Short Ribs ($12) or Ahi Poke Salad ($10, spicy or regular).

“Poke salad has always

An “air”larious dining experience with ono food and FUN balloon art!

Limited Time Only!

HAMBURGER STEAK PLATE

or

CHICKEN KATSU PLATE

SPECIAL $5.95 946 Coolidge St. (across Moiliili Long’s) Mon-Fri: 10am-8pm • Sat: 10am-3pm • Sun closed

reg. $7.75 Special pricing good thru 3/31/12

943-8885

Rainbow Roll ($14)

innovation says Nakamura. “But it’s the same Tristan lobster, so the quality’s really good.”

In addition to memorable teppanyaki-style dining, customers also may enjoy an evening at the restaurant’s low-key, intimate lounge.

Beginning April 1, the lounge will offer a slew of specials from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. There’ll be daily drink specials as well as discounted domestic beers

been a favorite. That’s available in the dining room, too,” explains Nakamura.

It looks like the legendary Waikiki spot’s recipe for succulent dishes, outstanding customer service and a unique Japanese-cabin style setting has come out just right, because it continues to sizzle today, just as it has for more than 30 years.

World-renowned for its award-winning “New Style” Japanese cuisine, Nobu continues to offer savvy gourmands across the globe a gastronomic culinary experience.

Nobu Waikiki is yet another canvas for Chef Nobu Matsuhisa to display his legendary dishes paired with aloha-inspired service.

Ahi Poke Salad ($10)

AT THE WAIKIKI PARC HOTEL Valet Parking, 2233 Helumoa Road 808.237.6999 www.noburestaurants.com DINING OUT | MARCH 25-31, 2012 |

23

WHERE TO DINE AMERICAN

Symbol Key

Atlantis Seafood & Steak

Breakfast

Tropics Bar & Grill

Larry’s Bakery

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

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

2284 Kalakaua Avenue 922-6868

Lunch

BAKERY

Dinner

343 Saratoga Road 923-EGGS (3447)

Alcohol served

Waikiki Beach Eggspress

Online

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

Located inside of Zippy’s

Fendu Boulangerie

Eggs n’ Things

After Midnight

Napoleon’s Bakery

2752 Woodlawn Dr. Manoa Marketplace 988-4310

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

La Palme D’or Ala Moana Center - Mall Level Mountain Side, next to Shirokiya 941-6161

Catering

ROYAL PALACE R E S TA U R A N T

4510 Salt Lake Boulevard 96818 Stadium Mall, next to Ice Palace LOTS OF PARKING

Offering Buffet & Sit Down Menus

Lunch Buffet (11:00AM-2:00PM) Daily ..................$10.50

Dinner Buffet (5:30pM-8:30PM) Weekends/Holidays..$11.95 Monday – Friday ........$10.95

Special Party Menu - $185.00 per table of 10

SAKURA TERRACE JAPANESE CAFE

1240 South King Street | 591-1181 | www.sakuraterrace.com Mon–Sat 11am–2:30pm & 5pm–10pm • Sun 4:30pm –9:30pm

-Scallop Soup -Whole Peking Duck w/ Steamed Buns -Salt & Pepper Shrimp -Seafood Combination w/ Mixed Vegetables -Sweet & Sour or Steamed Fish Filet -Cold Ginger Chicken -Live Lobster with Ginger onion or Black Bean Sauce (2pc.) -House Special Cake Noodle -Steamed Rice Restaurant Hours: 10 AM - 9 PM

Call for Reservations 487-6662 or 486-7410

BUY ONE, GET ONE FREE (Reg. $9.95each)

*Take out only, w/coupon; not to be combined with any other offer. Expires 3/31/12.

Also available Pasta • Burgers • Salads • Sandwiches

OPEN TIL MIDNIGHT! 2919 Kapiolani Blvd., #218

MARKET CITY SHPG CNTR 735-3888

2pc. Shrimp Tempura 2pc. Vegetable Tempura & Miso Butterfish

10.95

$

Includes: Scoop Rice, Miso Soup,Tea,Tofu, Gyoza, Green Salad or Tsukemono 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

Coupon required. Not combinable with other offers. Expires 3/30/12

Summer Rolls $3.79

THAI CUISINE

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

Cannot be combined with other offers or coupons. Exp 3/31/12

Military w/ID receive 10% OFF

WESTRIDGE SHOPPING CENTER • 488-4900 Won Ton Noodle

12.00

(add $2 more to meal price)

March Special

facebook.com/phomylienhawaii

Shrimp Scampi

• 2pc Shrimp & 2pc Vegetable Tempura • Chicken Katsu • Chicken Karaage • Chicken, Beef or Pork Teriyaki • Salmon or Ahi Shio, Teriyaki, Plain Butterfish • Sashimi or Unagi $

Voted Best Thai in Hawaii 15% OFF Take Out

FREE PIZZA! Build your own 10” pizza with unlimited toppings.

Choice of Two:

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

SERVING HAWAII SINCE 1977...

Dinner 5:00pm - Closing

2028 Kuhio Avenue Walking distance from all Waikiki Hotels

tel. 951-9355 www.keosthaicuisine.com Sittings at 10:30am and 12:30pm $20.99 Adults $17.99 Seniors (60 and older) $13.99 Children (3-12) featuring a variety of Hong Kong Style Dim Sum, soups, salads, stir-fried entrees and desserts

www.themandalayhawaii.com ALA MOANA CENTER, MALL LEVEL, MAUKA NEXT TO VICTORIA’S SECRET 946-6388 • Ordering hotline 597-8880 M-F 24 | DINING OUT | MAR. 25-31, 2012

1055 Alakea St.

Mon - Sun 10:30am to 9:00pm Excluding all coupons and other discounts. Dine-in only.

525-8585 Free Parking Mon- Fri after 5pm & All Day Sat & Sun

WHERE TO DINE BUFFET

CHINESE

CAFE

Camellia Buffet

Anytime Cafe

Aina Haina Chop Suey

930 McCully St. 951-0511/0611

Market City Shopping Center 2919 Kapiolani Blvd 735-3888

Aina Haina Shopping Center 820 W. Hind Dr. 373-1303 or 373-4632

Kissaten Westridge Mall 486-5100

3553 Waialae Ave. 738-8666

Golden Duck 4230 Waialae Ave., Kahala 737-7188 1221 S. King St. 597-8088

A Catered Experience 94-1068 Ka Uka Blvd.

677-7744

2380 Kuhio Ave. 923-2260

Happy Day Chinese Restaurant

923 Keeaumoku St. 955-3388

CATERERS Makittii

111 N. King St. 521-8268

Canton Seafood Restaurant

88 Piikoi St. 593-1200

Makino Chaya

Golden Palace Seafood Restaurant

Hee Hing Restaurant 449 Kapahulu Ave. 735-5544

YAKINIKU

MILLION

Plate Lunch Special Beef Stone Bi Bim Bap

DRIVE-IN

Includes: Shoyu Chicken 2 Scoops Rice Mac Salad

Serving You For

50 Years

only $5.00

Mahalo Hawaii 626 SHERIDAN ST. (behind Walmart)

Kapahulu 737-0177

596-0799

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

Since 1989

3308 Kanaina Avenue

…just like home!

with this ad 1351 Nuuanu Ave • m-f 5a-1p / sat 5:30a-2p / sun 7a-1p

533-6169

Limit one coupon per person/2 plates per coupon. No substitution. Exp. 3/31/12 • nuuanuokazuya.com

Open

7

Days www.choisgarden.com

Lunch

14 LOCATIONS: Aina Haina 373-4033 Kapahulu 735-7700 Waiau 485-0227 Kaneohe 247-9595 Ala Moana 942-9102 Waikele 678-3180

Stadium Marketplace 488-9202 Ewa Town Center 683-1003 Ward Center 591-5600 Kapolei 674-4227

RYCROFT ST.

CHOI’S GARDEN

SHE R ST.IDAN

Kalbi Kim Chee Chi-ke

PIIKOI ST.

Kalbi Seaweed Soup

KAPIOLANI BLVD.

Specials starting from $7.99 Served Daily 10am-3pm

SPRING SPECIALS Available 3/1 - 4/30/12

Kukui Grove 808-632-2450 Maui Mall 808-873-7776 Lahaina 808-661-0333 Kona 808-327-6776

Kal-Bi Shortrib Soup…$11.99 Steamed Kal-Bi…….....$18.99 1303 Rycroft Street | Honolulu | HI 96814

10% OFF

Cash Sale Only (With Coupon)

Aloha Tower Drive Suite 110, Honolulu

5% OFF

524-4668

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 3/31/12. Must present coupon.

Lobster $999 with purchase of Full Price Entree Valid 5-10:30pm

Nice Day Chinese Seafood Restaurant Liliha Square by Times Supermarket

MARCH SPECIAL

Shumai 43.90

524-1628

Celebrating 10 Years!

pcs. of

$

AVAILABLE AT ALL LOCATIONS.

50% Off

well drinks, domestic drafts & select appetizers

Dim Sum Take Out Special! 8am-11:30am Lobster $999 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) • Happy Day Chinese Restaurant 3553 Waialae Avenue

Serving Lunch & Dinner • Take-out Available

(808) 596-7555

738-8666

10% OFF(Cash)

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 3/31/12. Must present coupon.

EVERY Wednesday & Sunday... LIVE Music!

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT-WINGS…only $16.99 DINING OUT | MAR. 25-31, 2012 |

25

WHERE TO DINE Jade Dynasty Seafood Restaurant

Mandalay (The) 1055 Alakea St. 525-8585

Ala Moana Center 1450 Ala Moana Blvd.

4th Floor - Ho’okipa Terrace 947-8818

ON ON

Seafood Village Hyatt Regency Resort & Spa

On On at McCully

at McCully 1110 McCully St.

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

946-8833

FAMILY DINING

Panda Cuisine Maple Garden / Yen King Little Villlage Noodle House 1113 Smith St. 545-3008

641 Keeaumoku St. 947-1688

Big City Diner

Royal Palace Restaurant

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

909 Isenberg St. 941-6641

Lung Fung Chinese Restaurant

Nice Day Chinese Seafood Restaurant

5724 Kalanianaole Hwy. 377-5566

Liliha Square 524-1628

ROYAL PALACE R E S TA U R A N T

Stadium Mall 4510 Salt Lake Blvd. #C1 487-6662 or 486-7410

Ert’s Grill 99-082 Kauhale St., Aiea 488-8898

Full Service Catering & Event Planning EASTER CELEBRATION AT HEE HING

EASTER SUNDAY BRUNCH BUFFET Sunday, April 8 • 9:00 am to 2:00 pm

Array of Salads, Ahi Poke, Hawaiian Luau, Hong Kong Dim Sum, Roast Leg of Lamb, Peppered Roast Beef Carving, Roast Pork, Favorite Chinese Entrees, Fresh Baked Cakes & Pies, Almond Float and more

BUY ONE ITEM & GET THE NEXT ONE

8FEEJOH 3FDFQUJPOT t TU #JSUIEBZ -VBVT t (SBEVBUJPOT 8PSLTIPQT 4FNJOBST t BOE NVDI NPSF &YDMVTJWF DBUFSFS GPS FWFOUT IFME BU UIF )BXBJJ 0LJOBXB $FOUFS $BMM GPS EFUBJMT

50% OFF

$23.95 Adults • $22.95 Seniors $11.95 keikis 4 to 12

Good for any item of equal or lesser value. Original Coupon required. Not valid on retail items or bottled beverages. One discounted item per coupon.

Not combinable with any other offer. No cash value.

EASTER SUNDAY SPECIAL MENU Peking Duck, Imperial Scallop Soup, Maine Lobster Ginger Scallion, Roasted Garlic Chicken, Braised Boneless Beef Shortribs, Peipa Tofu on Spinach, Sweet and Sour Whole Fresh Fish, Braised E Mein with Duck, Steamed Rice, Mango Tapioca

Exp. 3/31/12.

Ph:

88 Piikoi St., Honolulu 593-1200 • kissatencafe.com

677-7744

www.acateredexperience.com

OPEN EVERYDAY • ALL DAY

BEST FOOD***BEST PRICE***BEST SERVICE

$279 Table of Ten

SPECIAL SEAFOOD MENU*

Seafood Potsitckers Watercress Soup with Tofu and Fresh Fish Ginger Scallion • Maine Lobster on Lo Mein Noodles Roasted Garlic Chicken or Pepper Salt Shrimp Steamed Flounder Fillet with Black Bean Sauce Sauteed Ong Choy with Chili Chinese Miso Mongolian Pork Chop or Szechuan Eggplant

www.VillageThai.com

$199 for table of Ten ($89 table of Four) *Available Until March 31, 2012

CITY SQUARE SHOPPING CENTER

For reservations, call

735-5544

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

TEL. 845-4554

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

$1 OFF Any Bread purchases over $4 Must present coupon • exp. 3/29/12

DAILY BREAD SPECIALS TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY

Rustic Kalamata Olive Bread Sundried Tomato Cheesebread Foccacia Derecco Walnut Raisin Hamakua Farms Mushroom Bread Buckwheat Fig

WAIPIO SHOPPING CENTER

TEL. 678-2878

KUNIA SHOPPING CENTER

TEL. 676-0843

FREE

Must present coupon.

Not valid w/other specials/discounts.

Limit one coupon per person.

Exp. 3/31/12

WITH $10 OFF $50.00 PURCHASE WITH $5 OFF $30.00 PURCHASE Cannot be combined with any other promotions. Cannot be used for private parties. No Holidays. Must present coupon. Expires April 30, 2012.

4 pc. gyoza w/any regular entree OR 2 pc. shrimp tempura w/any combo meal

“All Natural no added chemicals�

988-4310 2752 Woodlawn Dr. • Manoa Marketplace

Tues-Sat 7:30am-7pm; Sunday 7:30am-3pm 26 | DINING OUT | MAR. 25-31, 2012

Mililani Shopping Center • Open Daily 10am-9pm

625-9999

WHERE TO DINE Henry Loui’s 2850 Paa St. 833-3728

IHOP Waikiki - 1850 Ala Moana Blvd 949-4467

JJ Bistro & French Pastry

Le Cacao Bistro

3447 Waialae Ave.

3441 Waialae Ave.

739-0993

626-5368

Kenny’s Restaurant

Opulicious

1620 N. School St. 841-0931

Plaza Cafe (inside Best Western - The Plaza) 3253 N. Nimitz Hwy 836-3636

Rainbow Drive Inn

946 Coolidge St. 943-8885

3308 Kanaina Ave. 737-0177

Waikiki - Kuhio & Lewers 921-2400 Pearl City - Times Sq. SC 486-4467

Kenny’s Express Hawaiian BBQ Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center, 2nd floor 922-9333

Kaneohe - Windward Mall 235-4467 Hilo - Prince Kuhio Plaza 959-2600

end your hunt for a sumptuous

celebration.

Pagoda

Restaurant Epic

1525 Rycroft St. 948-8356

1131 Nuuanu Ave. 587-7877

Kit N Kitchen

Panya Bistro • Bakery • Bar

1010 University Avenue 942-7622

Ala Moana Center, Mauka - Mall Level 946-6388

EASTER SPECIALS

Available thru April 8, while supplies last

Sam Choy’s BLC 580 N. Nimitz Hwy. 545-7979

r Easte ls Specia

Easter Special 6" cake $36

Smothered Fried Chicken Served on a bed of mashed potatoes, topped with mushrooms, grilled onions and chicken gravy and a piece of corn bread $15.99 Chicken & Sausage Jambalaya w/Cajun seasoning. Served with corn bread. $15.99

Order Yours Today!

Ala Moana Center • Mall Level

(Mountain side, next to Shirokiya) www.lapalmedor-usa.com 941-6161

ALOHA SPECIALS EXTENDED!

easter brunch buffet april 8, 2012, 10:00am-1:30pm $78 adults, $85 adults champagne brunch, $37 for children 6-12 Featuring an extensive seafood bar, Roasted Leg of Lamb, Herb Crusted Veal Chop, Hawaiian Style Snow Crab Legs, Eggs Benedict with Kalua Pig, a dessert buffet and more.

Now available Thursday thru Sunday! while supplies last

Prime Rib Au Jus Slow roasted and served with au jus, horseradish, rice and vegetables.

Regular Cut $16.99 • Kenny’s Cut $20.99

HAWAIIAN SPECIALS Lau Lau or Kalua Pig Plate Served with chicken long rice, sweet potato, lomilomi salmon, haupia, & rice or poi $14.99 Kenny’s Hawaiian Plate Lau lau, kalua pig, chicken long rice, sweet potato, lomilomi salmon, haupia, & rice or poi $17.99

Easter Day Brunch & Dinner Buffet Saturday, April 8, 2012 Call 948-8356 For Reservations

BRUNCH: 9:00am - 2:00pm DINNER: 4:00pm - 9:30pm Easter Day BRUNCH BUFFET Easter Day DINNER BUFFET SALAD BAR Seafood Chowder | Asian Chicken Salad / Tofu Watercress Salad / Potato Macaroni Salad / Lomi Lomi Salmon / Carrot & Daikon Namasu

POKE BAR Seared Blackened Sashimi / Ahi Inamona Poke / Shoyu Ahi Poke / Korean Style Mussel Poke / Spicy Salmon Poke

ACTION STATIONS Roasted Garlic & Herb Crusted Prime Rib w/ Homemade Horseradish & Au Jus / Made to Order Omelet Station (Brunch Only) Belgium Waffles Station w/ Butterscotch Banana Sauce (Brunch Only) / Sushi Station Featuring: Spicy Tuna & California Hand Rolls (Dinner Only)

FEATURED HOT ENTREE Steamed Alaskan Snow Crab Legs / Shrimp & Vegetable Tempura / Steamed Whole Red Snapper w/ Ginger Pesto Sauce / Roasted Pork w/ Stuffing & Gravy | Sweet Bread French Toast w/ Lilikoi Butter/ Breakfast Meats (Brunch Only) / Seafood Stuffed Fresh Atlantic Salmon (Brunch Only) / Eggs Benedict (Brunch Only) | Oyster Rockefeller (Dinner Only) / Kim Chee & Oxtail Fried Rice / Chow Mein Noodles / Taro Rolls

DESSERT BAR Ice Cream w/ Assorted Toppings / Macadamia Nut Tarts | Chocolate Mousse Tart w/ Raspberry / Zenzai w/ Mochi

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

Kam Shopping Center • Open 6am Daily • 841-0931 Kenny’s Hawn BBQ at Royal Hawaiian Center • 922-3333

Breakfast: Daily 6:30am-1:00pm Lunch Service: Mon-Fri 11:00am-2:00pm Brunch Buffet: Sat & Sun 10:00am-2:00pm Dinner Buffet: Wed-Sun 5:00pm-9:30pm

Lots of fun for the kids: Easter Eggs, Easter Photos & Fish Feeding

DINING OUT | MAR. 25-31, 2012 |

27

WHERE TO DINE Shiro’s Saimin Haven

Willoughby’s

Waimalu - 98-020 Kam Hwy. 488-8824

(inside Ohana Honolulu Hotel) 3401 N. Nimitz Hwy 833-3844

Waipahu - 94-256 Waipahu Depot St. 676-2088 Ewa Beach Shp. Ctr. - 91-919 Fort Weaver Rd. 689-0999

FINE DINING

Stage Restaurant

Bali Steak & Seafood Hilton Hawaiian Village (Rainbow Tower) 2005 Kalia Road 949-4321

Zippy’s

Chai’s Island Bistro

Call the one nearest you

Aloha Tower Market Pl. 585-0011

FILIPINO Max’s Of Manila

Wailana Coffee House

94-300 Farrington Hwy

1860 Ala Moana Blvd.

955-1764

Hy’s Steak House

The Fat Greek

2440 Kuhio Ave. 922-5555

Kaimuki - 3040 Waialae Ave. 734-0404

Ruth’s Chris Steak House

Ala Moana - Makai Market 949-2120

Chinese Cultural Plaza (near Royal Kitchen) Open Daily 9:30am-5:30pm

100 N. Beretania St • 538-1151

Buy one entree, Get the 2nd

Deli Hours: Wed-Sun 6am-2pm After hours catering available

Available for lunch & dinner at Kahala location only

50% OFF

2710 South King St. www.fukuyadeli.com

Valid w/ coupon at new location only. Expires 3/31/12

Sun-Thurs 11am-9pm • Fri-Sat 11am-10pm • Ward Warehouse • 591-8855

Roasted Butternut Squash & Lobster Bisque • Baby Greens with Tangerine Vinaigrette • Baby Romaine with Caesar Dressing • Shredded Green Papaya Salad • Fresh Fruit Platter

Appetizers Alaskan King Crab Cake • Kataifi & Macadamia Nut Crusted Jumbo Black Tiger Prawn • Salmon Tartar & Asian Flat Bread Tobiko • Vegetarian Spring Rolls Pineapple Plum Sauce • Thai Curry Puffs

Entrées Thai Chicken Curry • Grilled Fresh Atlantic King Salmon • Braised Boneless Beef Short Ribs • Pasta Primavera • Jumbo Black Tiger Prawns • Vegetarian Stir-fried with Tofu • Grilled Kurobuta Pork Tenderloin

Mouth Watering Desserts

25% OFF NABE

Green Tea Tiramisu • Tahitian Vanilla Créme Brulee Peanut Butter Opera and Chocolate Ganache Chocolate Decadence Mousse Cake • Strawberry Short Cake

Monday - Thursday 5-6pm.

Up to 4 people. Cannot be used with other offers.

each

Blueberry Cloud Cake & Blueberry Yeast Donut

TWO GREAT LOCATIONS!

Melveen Leed

March 5th - 31st

599

ONLY $

EARLY BIRD SPECIAL

$45.95 per person $25 for children 12 years and under

Aloha Tower Marketplace FREE VALET PARKING • www.chefchai.com

4230 Waialae Ave. 737-7188 • 737-7288 Open daily 10am-9pm

Your choice: • Crispy Gau Gee 10 pcs • Chinese Chicken Salad • Oyster Sauce Chicken with Cake Noodle

March Specials

Soups & Salads Sunday April 8, 2012

March Specials

Celebrate our 2nd location!

946-2073

with Hawaii’s Best Entertainer Melveen Leed seating at 10:00 AM Show start at 10:30 AM

Waikiki - 1831 Ala Moana Blvd 941-3444

Home of the “Milky-White” Paitan Ramen!

Perfect for Birthday Parties, Family get togethers and more!

all-you-can-eat buffet

Waikiki Business Plaza 2270 Kalakaua Ave. 923-3877

Restaurant Row 599-3860 Waikiki Beach Walk 440-7910

801 Dillingham Blvd.

951-6297

All-Occasion Catering

Top of Waikiki

GREEK

Shore Bird Restaurant Outrigger Reef on the Beach 922-2887

1250 Kapiolani Blvd.

237-5429

• Call 585-0011

AIEA • 484-2222 98-150 Kaonohi St.

HONOLULU • 589-2299 510 Piikoi St.

Enter To Win A

SWEET & SOUR CHICKEN PLATE Available during Specials Hours from 10:30am, while supplies last.

Available March 1st - April 30th ONLY

8.08

$

FAST FOOD

25¢ from each Kokua Pac sold will be donated to the American Red Cross Hawaii Chapter.

Restaurant price: Sweet & Sour Chicken $8.35, Kokua Pac $9.30. Offer valid March 5th - 31st for Sweet & Sour Chicken, March 1st - April 30th for Kokua Pac. Prices slightly higher at Kahului. Offer not valid with any other promotional offers/discount cards. Other restrictions may apply, see stores for details.

28 | DINING OUT | MAR. 25-31, 2012

WHERE TO DINE Romanos Macaroni Grill

ITALIAN

Ala Moana Center Hookipa Terrace 356-8300

Happy Valley Pasta & Pizza

Z Pizza

3106 Monsarrat Ave. 737-0080

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

Il Lupino Royal Hawaiian Center 922-3400

Paesano Ristorante Italiano

JAPANESE Curry King

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

Ward Warehouse 1050 Ala Moana Blvd. #1400 591-8855 Chinese Cultural Plaza 100 N Beretania St. 538-1151

Four Seasons Rolls

EARLY BIRD SPECIAL $15.95 Complete Dinner

Try our healthy & fresh Spring, Summer, Autumn & Winter Rolls

Purchase one order at regular price and receive the second order at

New Hours 5:30 - 6:45pm

50% OFF

$11.45 Complete Lunch & after 10:30 p.m.

521-6888 1408 Liliha St.

*Cannot combine with other discounts or specials.

Limit 2 orders per coupon.

(Corner of Liliha & Vineyard Blvd.)

Exp. 3/29/12.

Sapporo & Kirin (large) $5.75 after 10:30pm

Hinone Mizunone

Genki Sushi

1345 South King St. 942-4848

Stadium Market Place 488-9202 Aina Haina 373-4033 Ala Moana 942-9102 Ewa Town Center 683-1003 Kaneohe 247-9595 Kapahulu 735-7700 Kapolei Commons 674-4227 Waikele Center 678-3180 Waiau 485-0227 Ward Center 591-5600 Kukui Grove 808-632-2450 Maui Mall 808-873-7776 Lahaina 808-661-0333 Kona 808-327-6776

Ichiriki Aiea 98-150 Kaonohi St. 484-2222 Honolulu 510 Piikoi St. 589-2299

Kobe Japanese Steak House 1841 Ala Moana Blvd.

941-4444

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

Hifumi Japanese Restaurant Chinese Cultural Plaza 536-3035

GRAND OPENING

10% OFF with this coupon.

Expires 3/31/12. !

BYOB

7 7

(Monk’s Food) Available All-Day

Special Menu for10

179

$

Okonomiyaki Starting Starting at at

Jai

Chinese New Year

Ham and Scallop Soup • Chinese Chicken Salad • Peking Duck w/ Buns • Steamed Sea Bass w/ Ginger & Onions • Walnut Shrimp • Capitol Pork Chops • Boneless Chicken Cake Noodle • Rice • Jai • Chef’s Dessert of the Day 111N. King St. near Maunakea 7am-10pm

80 $ $ 80

521-8268

Free Parking in the Rear DINNER HOURS ONLY No credit cards accepted for special menu

Dim Sum $ 98

Served 7am Daily

1

Take-out Orders Welcomed

Year Of The Dragon Special For 10 People $

178

Dine-in or take-out

Seafood w/ Tofu Soup 3 Lobsters w/ Ginger & Onions Whole Crispy Chicken Beef w/ Young Ginger & Pineapple Steamed Fish Fillet w/ Ginger Salt & Pepper Shrimp Choy Sum w/ Meat Sauce Garlic w/ Shrimp Fried Rice Dessert

Build Build your your own own Japanese Japanese “pancake” “pancake” layered layered with with noodles, cabbage, noodles, cabbage, pork, egg, etc. pork, egg, etc.

SHOCHAN

FREE LOBSTER

with purchase of (4) orders from Special Lungfunghawaii.com • Open Daily 11am-9pm Open Menu 5724 Kalanianaole Hwy • Niu Valley Shopping Ctr. LOTS OF FREE PARKING

377-5555 or 377-5566

947-2836

Open 7 Days • 2700 So. King St.

OKONOMIYAKI • TEPPANYAKI 449 Kapahulu Ave, 2nd Floor LUNCH 11:30a-5:00p DINNER 5:00p-10:00p Closed Tuesdays

225-0603

343 SARATOGA AVE. 923-3447 www.eggsnthings.com 2464 KALAKAUA AVE. 926-3447

BEACHFRONT AT THE OUTRIGGER REEF ON THE BEACH

Receive a FREE JJ’s Bistro

(808) 922-2887 WWW.SHOREBIRDWAIKIKI.COM

Buy One, Get One 50% Off with this Ad Purchase one breakfast, lunch or dinner entree at regular price, and receive 50% off the second entree of equal or lesser value, with this ad.

THIS AD IS VALID AT THE TIME OF YOUR ORDER, ONLY. NO CASH VALUE. NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER OFFER OR DISCOUNT. TAX AND GRATUITY NOT INCLUDED. GOOD FOR PARTIES UP TO 4 PEOPLE FROM 7 A.M.-10 P.M. DAILY. EXPIRES APRIL 30, 2012.

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

KAMA‘AINA SPECIAL! LUNCH & DINNER

20% OFF

1 Coupon per group. Must have valid ID. Not combinable with other discounts.

Discounts off regular adult price. No online or photo-copied coupons. Must purchase beverage. Expires 3/30/12

Chocolate Pyramid dessert on your birthday! *Valid on actual birthday w/valid ID

BIRTHDAY SPECIAL! FREE BIRTHDAY MEAL FOR ANY AGE With Family & Group

LUNCH & DINNER

20% OFF

Must have minimum party of 4. One Birthday coupon per party of 4. Coupon valid on actual birthday, ID required. Not combinable with other discounts. Discounts off regular adult price. No online or photo-copied coupons. Must purchase beverage.

Expires 3/30/12

DINING OUT | MAR. 25-31, 2012 |

29

WHERE TO DINE Restaurant Suntory

Nagoya Ramen Mililani Shopping Center 95-221 Kipapa Dr. #C-15 625-9999

Sakura Terrace Japanese Cafe 2400 Koa Ave. 923-7368

Makino Chaya 98-150 Kaonohi St. 486-5100

Ala Moana Hotel, Ground Floor 943-1155

Sekiya’s Restaurant & Delicatessen

Sushi Company

2746 Kaimuki Avenue 732-1656

1111 McCully Street 947-5411

Shochan

Sushi King

Easter Brunch Buffet Sunday, April 8 9:30am - 1:00pm

Buttermilk Popcorn Shrimp & Fries

A half-pound of golden fried popcorn shrimp served with seasoned fries, garlic bread and cocktail sauce. Then we’ll bring you more shrimp until you’ve had your fill.

Fridays Only $

39

While Supplies Last

17

Ages 3-10

808 Yong’s BBQ 94-216 Farrington Hwy #B1-4 678-8058

Kahala Mall 738-5696

MARCH SPECIALS!

(KOZO)

Deep Fried Crispy Flounder Chicken (Whole) with Seasoning Herbs

Salad Bar Peel & Eat Shrimp Assorted Poke Omelet Station French Toast Station Eggs Benedict Breakfast Meats Turkey ala King Kalbi Chicken Pan Seared Salmon w/ Tomatoes & Capers Baked Ham w/ Caramelized Pineapple Glaze Carving: Prime Rib of Beef, Au Jus $ $ Array of Desserts Adults Children

KOREAN

2700 S. King St. 947-2836

Moiliili 951-5696 (KOZO)

Half

$9.99 $4.99

(Reg. $15.99)

Menu Highlights

9.99

Yuzu Japanese Cuisine & Bar

449 Kapahulu Ave, 2nd floor 225-0603

And we know you’ll also love...

East, in King’s Village 922-4233 Central, in Waikiki Shopping Plaza 922-4702 West, in Ala Moana Cntr-Hookipa Terrace 945-3443

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

1240 South King Street 591-1181

Odoriko Japanese Restaurant

Tanaka of Tokyo

Sumo Ramen

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

(Reg. $12.99)

With purchase of an entrée. Not to be combined with any other offer or special. Limited Time.

OPEN DAILY: 10am — midnight 923 KEEAUMOKU ST.

955-3388

Best Cantonese Cuisine

Purchase any entrée* after 6:30pm and receive a FREE side order of fries

Keeaumoku

by Wal-Mart 946-5696

45 pcs.

Nigiri 27 pcs/ Hosomaki 18 pcs

(KOZO)

Pearlridge 483-6805

One coupon per order.

Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 3/31/12

Pearl City

by Wal-Mart 455-6805

MANOA 988-5923

WAIMALU 485-8883

2752 Woodlawn Drive

98-1277 Kaahumanu St. (across from Safeway)

©2012 IHOP IP, LLC

*Excluding breakfast. Must present coupon.

Valid at Participating Locations Windward Mall 235-4467 Pearl City 486-4467 • Hilo 959-2600 Waikiki (Ala Moana Blvd) 949-4467 Waikiki on Kuhio Locations: 921-2400 Valid at Participating Waikiki (Alawww.ihophawaii.com Moana), Hilo, Pearl City, and Windward Mall

ON THE RISE

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

UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT!

Panda Cuisine

947-1688 Hong Kong Style Dishes

FREE!

side order of Fried Rice or Dessert with purchase of entree

Mango Pudding or Almond Float Available.

• • • • •

Live Lobster Specially prepared with E-mein noodles ONLY

$

10.99

w/purchase of entrée. Dine-in only.

Not valid with other specials or promotions. Must present coupon. EXPIRES 3/31/12

641 KEEAUMOKU ST. • OPEN DAILY 11AM - 1AM 30 | DINING OUT | MAR. 25-31, 2012

488-8898

99-082 Kauhale • Aiea Next to Trina’s Beauty

Smoked Meat & Onions

Sun. & Mon. 10:30am-3pm • Tues.-Sat. 10:30am-9pm Exp. 3/30/12

Dear Hearts,

Veal and Shrimp sauteed with garlic, onions, bell peppers and sausage in a white wine and coriander butter sauce

w w w. p a e s a n o h a w a i i . c o m

Jade Dynasty

A heartfelt mahalo to everyone who stopped by yesterday for our Founder’s Day.

Seafood Restaurant Ala Moana Center 947-8818

The Shiro Family is grateful to have such loyal customers.

Easter Seafood & Dim Sum Brunch Sunday, April 8, 2012

We are looking forward to serving all of you for many years to come!

Over 40 items to choose from...

Crab Legs, Shrimp, Roasted Duck, Dim Sum & more!

Mahalo,

Adult $23.95 • Senior [65 & over] • Child [3-10] $18.95 under 3 Free

Shiro “Mistah Saimin” Matsuo 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

Graduation Menu for 10 @ $238.00

WHERE TO DINE Choi’s Garden

Fukuya Delicatessen & Catering

Choon Chun Chicken

2710 S. King St. 946-2073

1649 Kalakaua Ave. 447-4492

MEXICAN

Book your party of 10 or more people and get

10plus % OFF your choice of dessert

D AY

CHOICE

OF APPETIZER Lao Rock & Roll • Baked Lobster Avocado • Escargot • Crab Rangoon

CHOICE

OF

ONE ENTREE

PLUS CR ÈME BRÛLÉE From

$24.70 per person

expires 3/31/12

3447 Waialae Avenue |

739-0993

Pho My Lien

Bangkok Chef

98-150 Kaonohi St. 488-4900

1627 Nuuanu Ave. • 585-8839 2955 E. Manoa Rd. • 988-0212 900 N. Nimitz Hwy. • 536-8570

Saigon Cuisine 1408 Liliha St. 521-6888

4-Course Meal OF THE

VIETNAMESE

Try Our Tasty PORK TOFU!

March Special SOUP

Keo’s Thai Cuisine 2028 Kuhio Ave. 951-9355

THAI

3660 Waialae Ave. 737-1177

Fisherman Pie • Baked Cornish Hen • Baked Salmon Asian Classic • Cheese Ravioli w/Lobster (*$5 for Lamb Wellington)

Bistro & French Pastry

Hanaki Restaurant

3660 on the Rise

99-115 Aiea Heights Drive 488-9727

March Afternoon

SHABU SHABU

PACIFIC RIM

El Charro Mexicano Aiea Restaurant

1286 Kalani St. #104 • 845-4554 94-1040 Waipio Uka St.#15 • 678-2878 94-673 Kupuohi St. #B105 • 676-0843

Manoa Marketplace 2756 Woodlawn Drive 988-1551

1351 Nuuanu Ave. 533-6169

626 Sheridan St. 596-0799

Thai Village

2169 Kalia Rd., Outrigger Reef Hotel 923-2277

Nuuanu Okazuya

Yakiniku Million

TEA SPECIAL

The Ocean House Restaurant

OKAZUYA

1303 Rycroft St., Honolulu. HI 596-7555

Pork Tofu simmered in our special broth...

Delicious!

3441 Waialae Ave.

626-5368 Le Cacao

FREE BIRTHDAY CAKE

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

Now Serving

Serving Hawaii for 75 Years!

BRUNCH

2746 Kaimuki Ave

12.95

Enjoy menu items made with our Aloha beers Appetizers • Ehu Ale Tempura Crusted Sashimi • IPA Kalua Pork Spring Rolls • Ehu Ale Shrimp Entrees • Ehu Braised Short Ribs on Fettuccine • Aloha Dark Baby Back Ribs

www.SekiyasRestaurant.com

ACROSS KAIMUKI H.S.

Sauteed Mahi with Lobster Sauce Steak & Shrimp Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Don’t forget to make your reservations for our

Easter

Brunch Buffet

922-6868

Call for Reservations & Information 2284 Kalakaua Ave.

RESTAURANT

Sunday, April 8th • 8:30am – 2:00pm

SUNTORY

Open 7 Days from 11am-10pm

Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center, 3rd Floor

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

restaurantsuntory.com

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

922-5511

your hunt for the perfect

easter dinner is over

join us in welcoming the spring season easter sunday, april 8th.

• LUNCH $16.95 10:30AM - 2:30PM • DINNER $24.95 2:30PM-10PM

Beginning at 5:00 pm, enjoy our full ala carte menu and a tantalizing selection of chef’s fresh specials. Keiki Menu available.

KAL BI, SIRLOIN, CHICKEN, SASHIMI, SPICY PORK *DISCOUNT EXCLUDES ALL BEVERAGESWITH THIS AD. EXP. 3/31/12.

Restaurant Row | 808.599.3860 | 500 Ala Moana Blvd.

Waikiki Beach Walk | 808.440.7910 | 226 Lewers St.

930 McCully St. • 951-0511/951-0611

• PRIVATE PARTY ROOM • CONVENIENT PARKING

Today thru Sun, April 1st 16oz glass of freshly brewed Aloha Beer for $3.00

732-1656

Daily 10:30am-2pm

KOREAN CUISINE

BEER FESTIVAL

SEKIYA’S RESTAURANT & DELICATESSEN

with any party of 6 or more people AND purchase of 4-course meal

| jjfrenchpastry.com

Early Bird $ Special Only

Also Sizzlin’ At...

Mauna Lani, Big Island | Lahaina Center, Maui | The Shops at Wailea, Maui

www.ruthschrishawaii.com

1 FREE Shrimp Tempura With your order when you bring in this coupon, 1 per person

Looking for a place to enjoy breakfast? Join our BLC breakfast club... receive a 10% discount and after accumulating 12 stamps, a free breakfast.

580 Nimitz Hwy. 545-7979 Like us on Facebook for Special Deals & Offers www.samchoyhawaii.com

Expires March 29, 2012

Hanaki Japanese Cuisine

Serving Oahu’s Ohanas For More Than 14 Yrs. 11:30 am-2:30 pm; 5 pm-9:30 pm (Closed Tuesdays)

MANOA MARKETPLACE (Tons of FREE Parking) 988-1551 DINING OUT | MAR. 25-31, 2012 |

31

orderoftheday Dragon Roll ($18.50)

Pure Authenticity at

ODORIKO ODORIKO JAPANESE RESTAURANT

“It’s simple to say we ‘keep it authentic,’ but what does that mean?” Takei asks. “To us, that means authenticity of not just taste, but authenticity of hospitality and service. A lot of our customers are repeat tourist customers; we’ve been complimented that our food is just like (food in) Japan. Our job, though, is not just to give Japanese food to Japanese people and make them happy; it’s to show this authenticity to people who aren’t as familiar with Japanese cuisine.”

Located in King’s Village Shopping Center in Waikiki, Odoriko opened in 1978. The eatery was the sister restaurant of the former Maiko Restaurant at Ilikai Hotel, which opened in 1972. The restaurants were under the same family business, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.

“Maiko was open from 1972 to 1995,” Takei shares. “Maiko means ‘geisha’s disciple.’ The translation of odoriko is a dancing or performing arts girl, so it runs along the theme of traditional Japanese performance,

Where: King’s Village Shopping Center 2400 Koa Ave., Honolulu Call: 923.7368 Hours: Daily, 6 a.m.-midnight Website: www.odorikohawaii.com Notes: Parking at King’s Village Standard Public Parking lot ($8 pre-payment, parking limited), Miramar Hotel or Ohana East Hotel (customers receive validation up to two hours). arts or culture.”

Although Odoriko is an izakaya-style eatery, it is unique because it features a full course menu. “(Izakaya restaurants) usually put as much emphasis on drinks as they do food and the menu is usually big, filled with lots of small tapa (appetizer) dishes to share,” Takei explains. “But we have a full sushi bar; our menu is more comprehensive than a typical izakaya menu so there’s something for everyone.”

The seafood items on Odoriko’s menu are customer favorites, as well as any item that has the eatery’s name in it. The Odoriko Roll ($11.50)

Shabu Shabu Hot Pot ($35 per order, minimum two orders) 32 | DINING OUT | MARCH 25-31, 2012

Rainbow Roll ($18.50)

General Managers Rie & Hiro Takei with The Odoriko Set ($39.95), Chef's Choice ($50), and Shabu Shabu Hot Pot ($35 per order, minimum two orders).

— comprising salmon, squid, avocado and tuna — and The Odoriko Set ($39.95) — half a live lobster, New York steak, crab legs, salad, edamame, rice and miso soup — are signature dishes. Also popular is the restaurant’s variety of hot pot dishes.

“We have four different types — Sukiyaki ($35), Chanko-nabe ($38), Shabu Shabu ($35) and Live Lobster-nabe ($45),” Takei says. “It’s (the hot pot orders) for two people, but hopefully we can find a way to have it for one (person) also.”

Other popular menu items include Kalbi ($12.50), Tempura ($9.95 for vegetable; $13.50 for shrimp and vegetable), Handmade Tofu ($6.95) and Tofu Salad ($9.75).

Chef's Choice ($50)

There are several upcoming changes at Odoriko, according to Takei. Odoriko will soon kick off its Happy Hour from 4 to 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. to midnight.

“It’s 50 percent off our beer and sakes, and 25 to 50 percent off about 25 of our most popular menu items,” Takei says.

Another possible change might be a revised parking structure so Odoriko customers can park anywhere.

“The King’s Village parking lot requires customers to pay $8 up front and we give back $4,” Takei says.

Takei notes that Odoriko can seat more than 200 people and offers customers private rooms for parties, tatami rooms — where customers sit on straw mats — and karaoke.

He clarifies that Odoriko is not a karaoke restaurant; karaoke is merely an option for larger parties.

“It’s (karaoke) offered after 9:30 p.m.; the rate is $30/hour for fewer than 10 people and $40/hour for 10 or more,” Takei says.

Odoriko also provides large party menus, ranging from $25/person to $45/person. The eatery features three types of party menu courses, according to Takei, and customers usually substitute items on the menu.

“There’s two ways we bring out the party dishes,” he explains. “One way is buffetstyle, so we bring it out on large platters; the other way is we put it on smaller plates to share among three or four people.”

Odoriko Set ($39.95)