Honolulu Star-Advertiser Ilima Awards 2010 by Oahu Publications, Inc

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Filipino Cuisine DAILY LUNCH & DINNER SPECIALS LUNCH BUFFET – SATURDAY 10AM-3PM DINNER BUFFET – SATURDAY 5PM-9PM y Our… Come Tr

S FAMOUT, I PANC O & AL HALO HY PATA CRISP

• Full Service Catering • Banquet Facility can accommodate 150-200 people • Full Service Bar with Wine & Fine Liquors • Fresh Ingredients Organically Grown With No Artificial Additives • Lots of Parking

1125 North King St. • 853-2212 • www.LoulensRestaurant.com H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

•INTRODUCTION LEGEND

TABLE OF CONTENTS

$$$$ VERY PRICEY: ENTREES MOSTLY MORE THAN $30

People’s Choice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Critic’s Choice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Diamond Head Theatre

$$$ PRICEY: ENTREES MOSTLY $17-$29

Show Stoppers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Star Circle winners (winners in perpetuity) . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

$$ MODERATE: ENTREES $10-$16

The Newbies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Chef Profile | Masaharu Morimoto . . 26

$ BUDGETFRIENDLY: ENTREES MOSTLY LESS THAN $10

Dining Etiquette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Note: The restaurant scene changes rapidly, so please call the restaurant for the latest information.

TOP RESTAURANTS (ALPHABETICAL BY NAME)

Best Bakeries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Best of Pau Hana Patrol . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 C . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

ON THE COVER

From left to right, an oyster and Portuguese sausage appetizer, a salmon plate and a porterhouse steak.

‘ILIMA AWARDS CRITICS Wanda A. Adams Jason Genegabus Nadine Kam Elizabeth Kieszkowski Joleen Oshiro Betty Shimabukuro

TODAY EDITOR Christie Wilson COVER DESIGN Joe Guinto

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Sherri Yoshioka Jenny Delos Santos Zenaida Serrano

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Which restaurants are tops? Foodies debate the question endlessly. The answer is, of course, a matter of taste. A team of Star-Advertiser food experts put their educated tastes to the task of selecting the top restaurants on Oahu and came up with more than 150 options, from “puka in the wall” cheap eats to those offering the most elegant dining experiences. In choosing Oahu’s Top Restaurants, we were guided by these ideas: >> We liked the restaurant. In previous, anonymous visits, one or more of us was impressed, either by the whole restaurant or by a particular dish or two (when it’s the latter, we’ll point you in the direction of the specialty of the house). >> The restaurant is an ‘Ilima Award winner, chosen by public ballot, or has been one in the recent past. That is, our readers liked it. >> The restaurant is a classic, a nostalgic favorite that just could not be left out if the book is to reflect island style. >> The location, food style, ethnicity or ambience set the restaurant apart;

ONLINE This guide may be found online at www.staradvertiser.com. To keep up with the restaurant scene, see Nadine Kam’s “Weekly Eater” in the Wednesday Today section of the Star-Advertiser and the “Quick Bites” column in Friday’s TGIF section or check The Pulse online at http://honolulupulse.com.

D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 F . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 G . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 H . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 I . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 J - K . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 L . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 M. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 N - O . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 P . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

perhaps it’s the only restaurant of its type, or it’s off the beaten path. >> Although the bulk of restaurants are in greater Honolulu, we sought out the best that East, Leeward, Windward and North Shore Oahu had to offer, too. >> All reviews are conducted anonymously and paid for by the Star-Advertiser. None of the establishments in this guide were included or given a favorable review because they advertise in the newspaper or in these pages.

R . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 T . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 V - W . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Y - Z . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

INDICES By restaurant name. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 By food category . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 By neighborhood. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Advertiser index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

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•PEOPLE’SCHOICE

Chosen by readers of the Honolulu Star-Advertiser

BEST RESTAURANT IN HAWAII

BEST FINE DINING LA MER AT HALEKULANI Although it’s perhaps the most formal room in the city, Halekulani’s tranquil, shadow-washed fine-dining room, where the windows frame Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach, is also among the most welcoming. The “Cuisine of the Sun” menu marries island ingredients with classic French technique. Recommended: The eight-course Degustation Menu, from lobster and asparagus soup to a tray of imported French cheeses, from foie gras to sea bass, ending with the delicate little sweets calls mignardises. ——— Halekulani Hotel, 2199 Kalia Road; 923-2311; www.halekulani.com. Jackets required for men. Dinner. $$$$.

BEST CASUAL RESTAURANT L & L DRIVE-INN L & L HAWAIIAN BARBECUE

CINDY ELLEN RUSSELL / CRUSSELL@STARADVERTISER.COM

Russell Siu, chef and owner of 3660 on the Rise, raises a glass to his third win as Best Restaurant in Hawaii. Siu says he gives all the credit to his staff: “Without them I couldn’t do anything.”

The initials L&L could stand for “local” and “loved.” The 34-year-old chain, born in a modest Liliha outlet, now serves classic plate lunches — entrees, two scoops rice, mac salad — in more than 200 locations from Hawaii to the West Coast and even Japan. Recommended: Chicken katsu, barbecue mixed plate. ——— Multiple locations; www.hawaiianbarbecue.com. Breakfast, lunch, dinner. $

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

3660 ON THE RISE

KA RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

USSELL SIU says he didn’t go into the restaurant business to become a millionaire. The goal was a comfortable living serving good food. “I want to have balance in my life,” he says. So rather than build an empire of restaurants, Siu concentrates on 3660 on the Rise and his more casual Kakaako Kitchen, and that focus rewards him with two restaurants of consistent quality. 3660 wins the ‘Ilima People’s Choice award for Best Restaurant in Hawaii for the second year straight — and marks Siu’s third win over 14 years. Kakaako Kitchen is a perennial on our guide to Hawaii’s best (see Page 43). “We’re trying to stay within our concept,” Siu says of 3660’s steady success. “We’re not known for being ‘out there.’” What he is known for is a menu that fuses Eastern and Western flavors with a local sensibility — dishes like Bro6

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chette of Char Siu Long Island Duckling that conjure luscious mixed culinary images. Menu classics include the Ahi Katsu, Potato-Crusted Crab Cake, New York Steak Alae, Tempura Farm-Raised Catfish and the Mile High Waialae Pie. The restaurant is an island favorite for special events — who hasn’t been to a wedding there? — and Siu also hosts popular cooking demonstration dinners. It hasn’t been an easy year, Siu says, but a little belt-tightening and a refocus on the basics for his staff are pulling them through the tough economic times — the worst he’s seen since he opened. “We’re holding steady, but we still have to watch out because it’s not really over. … You can’t take things for granted.” ——— 3660 Waialae Ave., Kaimuki; 737-1177; www.3660.com. Dinner (closed Mon). $$$

This new Ward Centre hot spot has become a favorite pau hana location, known for crunchy, chewy Asian-style pizzas topped with — just for example — Thai-inspired peanut sauce or a Korean barbecueinspired sweet-tangy sauce. But chef Travis Inouye’s full menu is equally tasty. Try his bao — in a set of four on a long plate. It’s all contemporary, flavorful and fun. Recommended: Buttermilk fried chicken bao; garlic, bacon and pepperoni pizza; $5 pizzas on Wednesdays. ——— Ward Centre, 1200 Ala Moana Blvd.; 5937885, www.karestaurant.com. Dinner (closed Sun). $$ H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

Tasty Chinese and

Local Entrees All You Can Eat Buffet Over 50 items Daily for Lunch & Dinner

Private Parties Available Complimentary Roast Pig Call for details

Call

833-3366

Open Daily 10:30am - 9:30pm 3131 N. Nimitz Hwy

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•CRITIC’SC H O I C E | WANDAADAM S KCC FARMERS MARKET

Freelance food writer Wanda A. Adams writes the monthly “Our Island Plate” feature for the Honolulu Star-Advertiser.

OK, it’s not a restaurant, but the premier Hawaii Farm Bureau locavore market has changed the way Honolulu does Saturday breakfast. Yes, we go there to stock up on baby kale and dairy-churned fresh butter, but we also eat. Wander the booth-lined parking lot and you’ll encounter a breakfast buffet to put a Waikiki hotel to shame: biscuits swimming in Hamakua mushroom gravy, fried green tomatoes, butter-slathered roast Kahuku corn, grilled pizza paved with heirloom tomatoes, dolmathes, strawberry mochi, taro bread, goat cheese omelets, kalua pork sliders, barbecue abalone. And the menu changes every week. ——— Kapiolani Community College, makai parking lot, 4303 Diamond Head Road; 848-2074. 7:30-11 a.m. Saturdays. $

TOWN Ed Kenney’s Town was a hit from the day it opened its doors in the spring of 2005. Diners of all persuasions greeted with open arms a style of cuisine — contemporary American bistro — and a cutting-edge, buzzy atmosphere woefully lacking in Honolulu at the time. Fronted by its own herb garden and with a commitment to locally sourced foods (“organic when possible and with aloha always”), Town marries a green consciousness (takeout containers are biodegradable) with sharp, 21stcentury edges, from the steel tabletops to the revolving art collection and garage-band-girl waitresses. The menu borrows generously from Italy’s casual cafe cuisine: hand-cut pasta, gnocchi, the classic Asparagus Milanese (soft egg-asparagus-Parmesan), braised oxtail with papardelle, frittatas, grilled risotto cakes and panini sandwiches. The kitchen has no fear of simplicity. Chef David Caldiero’s signature dish is the one considered the best test of a chef: roast chicken, here served over crisp croutons that deliciously absorb the juices. The MA‘O greens salad topped with shaved cheese is a moment of healthful perfection. Braised meats, Kuahiwi Ranch grass-fed steaks, grilled fresh fish and an exceptional ahi tartare are worth mention. It’s best to make reservations, but if you drop in at the last minute, perch at the bar or take a table on the dog-friendly patio. It’s not difficult to see why some neighbors drop in two or three times a week. ——— 3435 Waialae Ave., 735-5900; www.townkaimuki.com. Breakfast, lunch, dinner. $$$ 8

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KALAPAWAI CAFE Every neighborhood should have a Kalapawai Cafe, a drop-in and do-what-you-will sort of place: pick up a quick lunch, choose something to take home and warm up for dinner, join friends for afterwork wine and tapas, linger over a romantic dinner with a special someone. The chefs are John Memering, a former Kapiolani Community College instructor who spent quite a few years in food-friendly Portland, Ore., and Jason Iwane, a Kailua boy with 20-plus years of restaurant experience. The take-and-heat menu changes daily, the set menu seasonally, and the chefs create daily fish and meat specials with influences from Italian trattoria to California cuisine, Spanish tapas to French bistro. Recommended: Wild boar ragu, Portuguese fish stew, pan-roasted duck breast, kabocha squash “love letters” in brown butter reduction, grilled Waialua asparagus, wine flights. ——— 750 Kailua Road; 262-3354; www.kalapawaimarket.com. Lunch, dinner. $$$

CAFE MAHARANI

STAR ADVERTISER / 2007

Town restaurant owner Ed Kenney prepares tapas, above. At top, his Blistered Shishito Peppers and Tomato Toast and ProsciuttoWrapped dates.

The neighborhood has so embraced Maharani that on any given weeknight the takeout counter at the rear of the restaurant is three deep with people who recite their orders from memory without looking at the menu. They put up with the almost total lack of parking, the refusal to take reservations and the consequently long wait for a table and the generally unengaging service. They do so for the sake of the garlic naan and other delicious tandoori breads and scrumptious examples of Northern Indian standards in heat measures from 5 to a head-searing 10. Whatever you order, ask for a side of the delicious yogurt-mint sauce. Recommended: samosas, butter chicken, stuffed naans, lamb biryani. ——— 2509 S. King St.; 951-7447. Dinner. $$ H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

NOW OPEN ON SUNDAYS Voted 7 years in a row I N T H E A N N U A L O A H U T O P R E S TA U R A N T S G U I D E !

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•CRITIC’SCHOICE | JASONG E N EGAB US TACOS RICOS

Jason Genegabus is entertainment editor/online for the Honolulu Star-Advertiser.

Phil Wong and his wife, Carolina GarciaWong, took quite a risk when they moved Tacos Ricos from Kalihi to Kapahulu at the start of 2010. The gamble paid off, however, with locals and tourists alike flocking to the former Waiola Shave Ice location for tasty, street wagon-style tacos, burritos and nachos. The lenguas (beef tongue) and cabezas (cheek) are easily the best on Oahu, with Garcia-Wong’s Mexican grandmother’s recipes elevating the succulent bits served on corn tortillas to legendary status. Especially tasty after visiting nearby Waikiki nightspots on Friday and Saturday nights, when Tacos Ricos is open until 3 a.m. ——— Tacos Ricos, 525 Kapahulu Ave.; 626-5006. Lunch, dinner, late night. $

V LOUNGE Leave it to a crew of local party promoters and a former pastry chef to transform Honolulu’s pizza culture. When Alejandro “Aker” Briceno left Nobu Waikiki a year ago to build a traditional, kiawe wood-burning stone oven with the Vertical Junkies, few believed the best pizza on Oahu would come from a bar that stayed open until 4 a.m. and catered to 20-somethings more interested in shots than slices. That didn’t deter Briceno, who started off by introducing club kids to Neapolitanstyle classics like the traditional Margherita, Sopressatta, Prosciutto Rucola and Prima. In recent months, traditional Bianca and Aosta pies were added, along with the Salsiccia (which uses locally produced Kukui Brand Portuguese sausage) and a secret, off-the-menu “New York-style” pizza. V-Lounge takes pride in using imported Italian flour and San Marzano tomatoes, handmade mozzarella cheese and fresh toppings from local farmers — and it shows. The smoky, chewy crust is the perfect complement to the premium ingredients, and a “build your own pie” option ensures all customers will get the pizza they want. The kitchen at V-Lounge opens at 5 p.m. daily (except Sundays) and keeps serving until the dough runs out. Get there early. ——— V Lounge, 1344 Kona St.; 953-0007; www.vlounge hawaii.com. Dinner. $ 10

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THE ALLEY (AT AIEA BOWL) Oahu residents have become pretty familiar with the restaurant inside Aiea Bowl since Glenn and Gregg Uyeda took over a few years ago. Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef Glenn revamped the menu with comfort foods like his famous Tasty Chicken, oxtail soup and Coca-Cola turkey sandwiches, and now the emphasis has shifted to baked goods and desserts. The Lemon Crunch Cake alone is worth driving across the island for a slice. Also recommended: Pumpkin Crunch Cake, Mama Miya’s Chocolate Cake, cream cheese brownies and scones. ——— The Alley, 99-115 Aiea Heights Drive, No. 301; 488-6854; www.aieabowl.com. Lunch, dinner. $$ STAR ADVERTISER / 2009

HANK’S HAUTE DOGS

Above, pizza chef Alejandro Briceno puts wood logs in the oven named “Sandy,” which is used to bake pizza at V Lounge.

Go ahead, admit it — sometimes you crave one of those cheap hot dog-and-soda combos from a certain warehouse-style retail establishment. It’s OK. Really. But for the other nine out of 10 times you want a hot dog, Kakaako sausage slinger Henry “Hank” Adaniya is the man to visit. Keep it simple and order the Classic Chicago dog, an all-beef wiener imported from the Windy City and served with all the classic garnishes. Or follow Adaniya’s adventurous lead and try daily specials like alligator, buffalo, lobster or Kobe-style beef (be sure to pick up some fries or onion rings with Hank’s specialty dipping sauces, too). ——— Hank’s Haute Dogs, 324 Coral St.; 532-4265; www.hankshautedogs.com. Lunch, dinner. $

Left, patrons of V Lounge.

H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

CRITIC’SCHOICE | NADINEKAM• HOG ISLAND BBQ

Nadine Kam is a restaurant critic for the Honolulu Star-Advertiser. She writes the column “The Weekly Eater.”

It’s all about transparency here, where hungry diners can’t miss the scent of slow-cooked, oak-fired pork and beef brisket emanating from the Wam-Turbo pit cooker that sits front and center near the takeout counter. They make the best beef brisket on Oahu, available on a plate or in a French roll sandwich. You’ll also find pulled pork and baby back ribs, available on a plate or by the pound. Side dishes such as classic cole slaw with dried cranberries and scalloped potatoes complete the experience. ——— 11th Avenue Atrium, 1137 11th Ave. (behind Big City Diner), Kaimuki; 388-7784 or 734-1333; www.hogislandbbq.com. Lunch, dinner. $

BLT STEAK

KAIWA Kaiwa embraces the principle of “kai wa,” invisible factors that communicate harmony and artistry. Certainly, there is something harmonious in the seamless blending of the best of Hawaii and Japanese ingredients, merging in this upscale fusion restaurant geared to the most stylish clientele. The sleek, modern space is divided into two rooms. In the main room, teppan chefs preside, preparing grilled meat, fish and vegetable specialties to order. Sushi is prepared at a bar facing the sleek zashiki room, available for an intimate table for two or a private party for up to 20, with floor-style seating. Dishes range from sashimi and a decadent uni and caviar martini, to heavier wagyu and kurobuta selections. A fully stocked bar offers shochu, sake, wine, beer and cocktails. ——— Waikiki Beach Walk, 226 Lewers St., second floor, 924-1555; www.kai-wa.com. Lunch, dinner. $$$$

ORINE SARANGCHAE This hidden gem of a restaurant is fenced in under a tree in a Keeaumoku parking lot. The tree is crucial as a place where, the menu explains, the man of the house can “forget terrible things” and entertain guests. In modern times, I’m sure that extends to women as well. People ordering basic Korean plates will find this a different restaurant from those ordering a la carte meat for the grill, with the latter leaving more impressed. It pays to show up with a hungry group of friends because a minimum order of two grilled meat specialties comes with a shared jackpot of a basket of greens for wraps, plus raw garlic and jalapeños for tossing on the grill, and red bean paste and sesame oil for flavoring your wrap. The result is a feast for about $40. Recommended: Ribeye, fatty black pig pork belly. ——— 905 Keeaumoku St., Suite A; 955-0646. Lunch, dinner. $$-$$$ H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2010

At top, popovers from BLT Steak at the Trump International Hotel. Above, a porterhouse with one of the many sauces to choose from.

BLT stands for more than the initials of the popular lunch-counter classic. It represents another kind of comfort cuisine as shorthand for Bistro Laurent Tourondel. The French chef aimed to remake the American steakhouse for a global audience, and he’s done it in splendid style at the Trump International Hotel, where the room is dressed in elegant warm walnut and wood tones, and dark leather banquettes in traditional steakhouse style, with trellised lanais. Don’t be surprised if you don’t feel like you’re in Hawaii anymore. Incorporating elements of European, Asian and South and North American cuisine, the menu is accessible with just enough exoticism to prevent foodies from yawning. Appetizers and salads such as lobster Cobb salad and beets with Mauna Kea goat cheese are followed by the sizzle of ribeye, hanger, wagyu or porterhouse steaks. Switch it up further on repeat visits by trying a new sauce, whether BBQ, Bearnaise, chimichurri, peppercorn, Roquefort or red wine. Dress up your meal with such side options as creamed spinach with nutmeg, spicy BBQ Kahuku corn, jalapeño mashed potatoes, onion rings and potato gratin. If you’re not in the mood for a full dinner, the raw bar provides a nice warm-up act, where cocktails and wines by the glass accompany shellfish, sushi and sashimi. ——— 223 Saratoga Road, Waikiki; 683-7440. www.bltsteak.com. Dinner. $$$$ ‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

•CRITIC’SCHOICE | ELIZABETHKIESZKOWSKI SUSHI IZAKAYA GAKU

Elizabeth Kieszkowski is TGIF editor for the Honolulu Star-Advertiser.

Gaku quickly rose to the top tier of sushi restaurants in Honolulu based on the insistent presence of its raw preparations and izakaya-style side dishes. Inventive preparation is all over the place, but one almost doesn’t notice, as each fresh flavor is so particularly placed. If the craft and science of sushi excite you, you’ll be over the moon with Gaku’s taste and presentation in dishes such as a light, sweet papio, served carpaccio style with ponzu and roe. Another secret weapon at Gaku is the service — informed, confident and sensitive. The comfortable, rustic design and sensitive lighting add to the pleasure of dining here. Recommended: Aji nigiri with onion, ginger, shoyu; hamachi tartar; homemade tofu with dashi jelly and wasabi. ——— 1329 S. King St., Moiliili; 589-1329. Dinner (closed Sun). $$$$

AZURE Azure is a romantic, delicious location. Make the commitment to dine here by reserving an oceanside table at this chic restaurant, part of the reconceptualized Royal Hawaiian Hotel, and trusting Hawaii chef Jon Matsubara to give you a meal with value, and you will be rewarded with a singular experience. Matsubara is known as a chef who is not afraid of new technique or experimentation, but his emphasis at Azure is on the freshest fish and classic presentation, with touches of the contemporary. His Pier 38 menu is created daily, based on the selections available at the Honolulu Fish Auction and prepared simply — roasted or island style. Other dishes allow for culinary surprises: foamy Parmesan as a garnish for mouth-melting veal, or taro-brandy purée and delicate charred Brussels sprouts to accompany duck. Many dishes are enlivened with a surprising touch of spice — Korean chili dust, for example, on the crispy whole moi. Service is highly valued here; waiters expect an international, cosmopolitan clientele and treat you accordingly. Let your expert server recommend a cheeky, bright European wine, or revel in the cocktails designed by master mixologist Joey Gottesman. A tasting menu, when available, provides good value and a wellthought-out tour through Azure’s highlights. Give yourself over to some of Matsubara’s more inventive dishes, and you might even have a revelation or two. Recommended: Crispy Whole Moi, Grilled Kona Lobster, Asian Pear Martini. ——— 2259 Kalakaua Ave., Waikiki; 931-7440; www.azurewaikiki.com. Dinner. $$$$ 12

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THE PINEAPPLE ROOM BY ALAN WONG

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2009

At top, a lobster plate. Above, the interior of Azure restaurant in the Royal Hawaiian Hotel in Waikiki. Chef Jon Matsubara emphasizes fresh fish and classic presentation.

Don’t try to come without a reservation; this restaurant is jamming all the time. And there’s a reason for that: It’s superbly satisfying. Attention to detail in dishes such as a Eurasian-style monchong, with its interplay of delicate and robust tastes, or the cheeseburger creation, lovingly embellished with bacon, onion rings and avocado salsa toppers, creates a consistently rewarding experience. Service is attentive and respectful. The impressive cocktail menu and wine list is on par with the carefully concocted menu. Recommended: Daily special seafood presentations, Pineapple Room Burger, New Zealand wines. ——— Macy’s, third floor, Ala Moana Center; 945-6573, www.alanwongs.com. Breakfast on weekends, lunch daily, dinner except Sundays. $$$ H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

CRITIC’SCHOICE | JOLEENOSHIRO• GYU-KAKU

Joleen Oshiro is food editor for the Honolulu Star-Advertiser.

Yakiniku chain Gyu-Kaku hits on a winning formula: simple and delicious. The beauty of the eatery is its Japanese sensibility, demonstrated in its austere décor, prompt, polite service and conservative portions. The latter ends up being beneficial to all: Small eaters won’t waste; big eaters get variety. For smaller, less expensive portions, try the happy-hour menu available 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. daily. All that, and a warm fire to boot. Recommended: Bistro harami, garlic spinach, Yakimochi ice cream, pork belly, shochu (Japanese vodka). ——— 1221 Kapiolani Blvd.; 589-2989; www.gyukaku.com. Lunch, dinner, late night; in Waikiki, 307 Lewers St., 926-2989. $

CHEF MAVRO

MAILE’S THAI BISTRO This restaurant in Hawaii Kai Towne Center is inviting on so many levels. Its convenient location among the likes of Costco, Ross and other stores makes an impromptu visit easy, offering a cool, elegant respite after a hot day of shopping. It’s a good stop for pau hana takeout and ideal for a family occasion. But it’s not just about convenience. Maile’s has some of the tastiest Thai food on the island. The massamum curry is lushly creamy with subtle heat, and Maile’s cashew chicken offers a crisp, flavorful alternative to the Chinese version. Also recommended: Beef sashimi. ——— 333 Keahole St.; 394-2488; www.mailesthaibistro.com. Dinner, lunch. $$

MIX CAFE 1 AND 2 If you can’t fly to Italy for lunch, Bruno Lezzi’s Mix cafes are the next-best option for beautiful, toothsome and seasonal light meals. The meats are full of flavor, the organic greens pristinely fresh, the bread delectable. Recommended: Roast pork, steak or pork sandwiches, Italian sausage pasta. ——— 35 S. Beretania St., 537-1191; 1025 Alakea St., 532-4540; www.mymixcafe.com. Breakfast, lunch. $$ H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

STAR ADVERTISER / 2009

At top, Chef George Mavrothalassitis prepares a course. Above, Chef Mavro serves evolving cuisines like tarte tatin.

Dining at Chef Mavro is certainly a five-star experience, but chef George Mavrothalassitis’ execution of magic isn’t of the razzledazzle, hit-’em-between-the-eyes sort. Rather, his contemporary regional cuisine dances elegantly on the palate. Surprising combinations work together seamlessly; distinct flavors delight but don’t distract from the unity of each dish. Hamachi Poke & Caviar from the restaurant’s summer menu, for instance, showcases the fish’s delicious creaminess, seasoned with Hanapepe salt and topped with Malossol caviar. Avocado adds silky texture and body, while baby shiso offers a zing of bright interest. A kanzuri yuzu-chili sauce unites the ingredients perfectly. One key to the James Beard award winner’s success is using top-quality local ingredients. As a founder of Hawaii Regional Cuisine, Mavrothalassitis has proved he knows how to showcase the islands’ premier products in their finest light. Seasonal menus support this commitment and allow Chef Mavro’s cuisine to continually evolve. Add to the mix selected wine pairings, and dishes sing. Three-, four- and six-course menu options are offered, and the Grand Tasting menu provides smaller portions of the entire spectrum. All include a pre-appetizer, pre-dessert and candies made in-house. Fresh, local ingredients and impeccable wine pairings, combined with Mavrothalassitis’ classic French training, make Chef Mavro one of the finest dining experiences in the islands. Also recommended: Kurobuta Pork “A La Saigon,” Lilikoi Malasadas, caramel with sea salt. ——— 1969 S. King St.; 944-4714; www.chefmavro.com. Dinner (except Sun-Mon). $$$$ ‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

•CRITIC’SCHOICE | BETTYSHIMABUKURO SUGAR RUSH BY FRANCES

Betty Shimabukuro is a managing editor at the Honolulu Star-Advertiser and writes the weekly recipe column “By Request.”

When I made this selection, pastry artisan Frances Pons had a little storefront bakery in Kalihi where she crafted minipastries that were quite to die for. She’s since had to close the shop to deal with an illness in the family, but hopes to open again in Kaimuki early next year. In the meantime, Sugar Rush still does catering — wacky, crooked cakes as well as artful arrays of miniatures. Parisian macaroons and cheesecake lollipops are other favorites. Can’t wait til she’s back. ——— Sugar Rush by Frances, 949-4948; e-mail Frances@SugarRushHI.com; www.sugarrushhi.com. Special orders only. $$

HIROSHI EURASION TAPAS Fusion food can be a mess, or it can be magical — the way chef Hiroshi Fukui does it. His food is sophisticated, artful and startlingly original. Delicious, too, but that goes without saying. Fukui describes his menu as Euro-Japanese. If you can’t quite wrap your brain around that, it means traditional Japanese cuisine melded with fine European techniques. Opah (moonfish) served with musubi and an ogo-miso brown butter. Fresh island fish, served carpaccio-style with truffled ponzu sauce. The restaurant is overseen by master sommelier Chuck Furuya, who works the room and offers often unusual wine pairings designed to be an extension of the food (he also tells very bad jokes once you get to know him). Hiroshi’s is my handsdown favorite place to take any visitor, and my top recommendation to anyone for a special occasion meal. For a real indulgence, catch one of Fukui’s 10-course Contemporary Kaiseki dinners. In these he plays with new ideas wrapped around seasonal ingredients. That, and wine, too. Recommended: Sizzlin’ Hamachi Carpaccio, Red Wine Steamed Veal Cheek, Crispy Skin Moi (with Mrs. Cheng’s tofu). ——— Hiroshi Eurasian Tapas, Restaurant Row, 500 Ala Moana Blvd.; 533-4476; www.hiroshihawaii.com. Dinner. $$$ 14

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TANIOKA’S SEAFOODS & CATERING Got a mainland friend coming to visit? Someone of the raw-fish-eating, showme-where-the-locals-eat persuasion? Take ’em to Tanioka’s — a cultural experience as much as a place to pick up takeout. Stand in the Disneyland-style, wraparound line and point out your picks the way the veterans do, choosing from dozens of poke, musubis and fried okazuya-type items. Everything’s delish, but don’t miss the fried chicken — crisp boneless thighs that don’t taste greasy even if you eat them the next day. ——— Tanioka’s Seafood & Catering, 94-903 Farrington Hwy.; 671-3779; taniokas.com. Takeout only. $

SOUVALY THAI CUISINE

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2008

Above, Chef Hiroshi Fukui shows two of his dishes, slow-cooked salmon and slowcooked beef. At left, a Big Island abalone dish from Hiroshi Eurasion Tapas.

On the west side of Oahu we don’t have a deep selection of nice sit-down restaurants where you can take a family, a date or a business associate for a good, affordable meal. This makes Souvaly Thai special. That and the truly tasty Thai specialties that make the trip worth it even if you don’t live near Pearl City. They do a great job here with Pad Thai and all the basics, but I make it a practice to always order something uncommon. Try the Mus sa Mun Curry, Chef’s Crispy Curry, Golden Pepper Quail or any of the fish specialties. ——— Souvaly Thai Cuisine, 803 Kamehameha Hwy., Pearl City; 455-5888; www.souvaly .com. Lunch, dinner. $$ H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

COME TRY OUR NEWLY ADDED DISHES TO OUR MENU Private Parties Fundraisers - Birthdays - Baby Luaus

$16 per person (excludes holidays)

Prime Rib Sunday Brunch Served 10am - 2 pm

$19.95 Adults, $15.95 Senior $9.95 Keiki (excludes holidays)

See website for more information see www.DONHOS.net H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

Under New Ownership Owner, Phillip Johnson Chef Robert Denis

528-0807 Aloha Tower Marketplace Validated Parking â&#x20AC;&#x2DC; I L I M A AWA R D S

• D I A M O N D H E A D T H E AT R E S H O W S T O P P E R S BEST COCKTAILS KINCAID’S FISH, CHOP & STEAK HOUSE This past ‘Ilima Award winner is a favorite of business lunchers, celebrating families and pau hana diners, especially for seafood specials such as the annual Copper River salmon run. Recommended: Pea salad, crab cakes, New York steak in brandy peppercorn sauce. ——— Ward Warehouse,1050 Ala Moana Blvd.; 5912005. www.kincaids.com. Lunch, dinner. $$$

BEST SPECIAL OCCASION HY’S STEAK HOUSE At Hy’s, patrons step back in time to cozy banquettes, tableside preparations, tuxedoed waiters and plush, dim surroundings. While some menu items have been updated, this is one of the few places where you can get classic cuts such as Delmonico and porterhouse. Recommended: Bone-in steaks, chicken Marsala, chocolate-lovers’ flambé. ——— 2440 Kuhio Ave.; 922-5555, www.hyshawaii.com. Dinner. $$$$

BEST QUICK DINNER BIG CITY DINER STAR-ADVERTISER / 2008

Big City Diner’s five locations offer family-style dining with a varied menu that has something for everyone.

DHT PRODUCERS AWARDS THE RANCH HOUSE

KAI MARKET

Nostalgia rules at the reinvented Ranch House Restaurant — today’s version of the old Aina Haina landmark that served up steaks, chops and good old Americana for decades until it closed in the ’80s. The Old West ambience is back with saddles and ranch paraphernalia, and so are many of the meaty menu favorites, although the overall effect is somewhat lightened up with seafood selections such as Chinese-style steamed fish. Recommended: Prime rib crusted with Hawaiian alae salt, meatloaf with Hamakua mushroom brown gravy, Mongolian braised short ribs. ——— 449 Kapahulu Ave. No. 201; 737-4461. Dinner. $$$

Chef Darren Demaya has reinvented the buffet at the Sheraton Waikiki’s bold and beautiful Kai Market. The concept is a “farm-to-table” buffet, which basically slaps down the traditional limp, beige, warming-table image of the genre. Demaya’s goal is to offer as much locally grown produce as possible, on a menu that represents the cultures that have defined Hawaii’s palate since plantation days. Recommended: Niihau chowder, Misoyaki Marinated Hapu‘upu‘u, “Kahlua” Drunken Duck, bread pudding with Wild Turkey brandy sauce. ——— Sheraton Waikiki, 2255 Kalakaua Ave., 921-4600, www.sheraton-waikiki.com /dining/kai. Breakfast, dinner. $$$$

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STAR-ADVERTISER / FEBRUARY 2010

The Ranch House is outfitted in cowboy chic.

Local boy Lane Muraoka went from dishwasher to director of a family of restaurants offering a wide-ranging menu, breakfast, lunch, dinner and brunch in bustling family-friendly environments popular with locals and visitors of all ages. Recommended: Grandma’s Incredible Kim Chee Fried Rice, Paniolo Chicken Salad, Boneless Korean Kalbi Steak. ——— Waipio Shopping Center, Pearlridge, Ward Entertainment Center, Kaimuki, Kailua. www.bigcitydinerhawaii.com. $$

BEST DESSERT JJ BISTRO & FRENCH PASTRY “JJ” is Laos native Praseuth Luangkhot, the chef who presides over this wonderland of pastries. JJ made his name with his Chocolate Raspberry Pyramid, but the display case here offers a bewildering array of sweet choices. And JJ does meals, too. Recommended: Haupia tart, variety of mousses hidden in chocolate ganache. ——— 3447 Waialae Ave.; 739-0993; www.jjfrenchpastry.com. Lunch, desserts, dinner. $ H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

CREATIONS BY HAWAII’S RENOWN CHEF, SAM CHOY Serving island style breakfast, lunch & dinner Fresh island fish, live crabs, Kona lobster, local ingredients; daily specials Home of the Aloha Brewery - fresh island beers brewed on premises

Private rooms available for parties

HOURS: Monday through Friday 7 am to 10 pm Saturdays and Sundays 8 am to 10 pm (Closed daily from 2 pm to 5 pm)

HAPPY HOUR 5 pm to 6 pm

Visa, Mastercard and Amex accepted

SERVING HAWAII FOR 3 GENERATIONS

449 KAPAHULU AVE., STE. 101 WWW.HEEHINGHAWAII.COM H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

735-5544

VISA, MASTERCARD & AMEX ACCEPTED

580 Nimitz Hwy. 545-7979 ‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

• S TA R C I R C L E

The Star Circle comprises restaurants so popular with our readers that they have been voted into the ‘Ilima Awards for 10 years or more.

ROY’S RESTAURANT The first Hawaii restaurateur to win a regional James Beard Best Chef award, Roy Yamaguchi expresses his passion through his food and in training the chef team that has helped him realize his dream of a restaurant empire (29 locations in the U.S). After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, Yamaguchi rose swiftly through the ranks of California Cuisine kitchens and founded his own 385 North in Santa Monica in 1984, where his East-West approach was a revelation for many diners. Four years later he decided to return to Hawaii, where he had culinary roots. He had grown up in Japan, but his grandparents emigrated to Maui where they owned a tavern that served local-style plate lunches. A generation later, their grandson would build on

this humble foundation, incorporating the flavors he recalled so clearly into something that was then new. At his flagship Roy’s Restaurant in Hawaii Kai, which opened in 1988, he melded island and Asian foodways with classic European techniques and warm Hawaiian hospitality to create what he calls Hawaiian Fusion Cuisine. Foodies and food media raved, and they still do. Recommended: Szechuan Baby Back Short Ribs, Misoyaki Butterfish (or a scallop appetizer prepared the same way), Melting Hot Chocolate Souffle. ——— Hawaii Kai, 6600 Kalanianaole Hwy., 396-7697; Ko Olina, 92-1220 Alii Nui Drive, 676-7697; Waikiki, 226 Lewers St.; 923-7697; www.roysrestaurant.com. Lunch, dinner (lunch only at Ko Olina). No checks. $$$

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2010

ALAN WONG’S Alan Wong’s, among the premier Hawaii Regional Cuisine fine-dining restaurants, reflects its founder’s intelligence, humor and skill and especially his go-to-any-length commitment to locally sourced ingredients. A guest judge during Bravo TV’s “Top Chef” Season 2, Wong’s ideas are widely recognized as innovative and often surprising but remain rooted in generations-old island foodways, reflecting his boyhood in the pineapple fields of Wahiawa and his Hawaiian-Chinese heritage. Monthly Farmers Series dinners bring farmers and ranchers, cheese makers and beekeepers, fishermen and ranchers to the restaurant, exposing diners to the ever-evolving food landscape. 18

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Wong calls his daytime kitchen a “culinary studio” where thoughtful experimentation is encouraged. He hosts field trips for his young chefs and created the New Generation dinners (menus devised by up-and-coming assistants), ensuring the dining experience remains exceptional even when he is traveling to his Japanese outlet or making special appearances elsewhere. Recommended: Da Bag (steamed clams with shiitake), Ha Farms Whole Tomato Salad with Li Hing Vinaigrette, Twice-Cooked Short Ribs Kal Bi Style, pastry chef Michelle Karr’s Chocolate Sampler with a cup of one of the estate coffees roasted. ——— 1857 S. King St., third floor; 949-2526; www.alanwongs.com. Dinner (reservations a must). $$$$

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2010

H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

S TA R C I R C L E•

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2009 STAR-ADVERTISER / 2008

RYAN’S GRILL Ryan’s is one of those places that has become so much a part of our lives that we know what we’re going to order before we get into the car. It’s the go-to spot for pau hana drinks, business lunches, office parties, girlfriend lunches and guy-friend sports nights. A testament to its popularity is that Seattle-based owner Restaurants Unlimited, known for frequent concept makeovers, has applied the if-it-ain’t-broke, don’t-fix-it philosophy to this 27-year-old restaurant. Part brass rail tavern, part trattoria, Ryan’s casual, family-friendly menu careens easily from soybean and poke appetizers to kalua pork pizza and rigatoni Bolognese. Central to its appeal is Ryan’s bar, with its waist-toceiling array of liquors, beers and liqueurs, flatscreen TVs, lanai and indoor seating, and outgoing staff. It’s as comfortable for a quiet midafternoon shopping break as for a raucous Super Bowl party or a place to satisfy the midnight munchies. Recommended: Crab and Artichoke Dip, Beer-battered Onion Rings, Poke Salad with Fried Ogo, Guava and Tamarind Ribs. ——— Ward Centre, 1200 Ala Moana Blvd.; 591-9132; www.ryansgrill.com. Lunch, dinner. $$

H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

ZIPPY’S

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2008

STARBUCKS COFFEE HAWAII Starbucks began life in 1971 as a lone Seattle shop, the earnest proponent of fresh-roasted, grind-yourown arabica beans. This, at a time when America was the land of Mr. Coffee and instant Sanka. In the intervening years, Starbucks taught us to pronounce espresso (never “expresso”), made “barista” into a career choice and brought macchiato and frappucino into the common lexicon. They made fruit smoothies a food group. They took soy milk from “health food” to everyday choice. They pioneered social responsibility, loyalty cards and free WiFi. They turned to teas and chai, too. Backlash was inevitable, but Starbucks soldiers on through the controversy, with more than 11,000 U.S. locations and stores in 55 countries — often two to a block or a building. Now the menu has proliferated, from yogurt-cereal cups to hummus-and-chicken snacks and hot panini sandwiches. Now it’s back to the future with Starbucks’ instant line: Via Ready Brew in clever little vacuum-packed tubes. ——— Multiple locations; www.starbucks.com. $$

In 1966, brothers Charles and Francis Higa opened the first Zippy’s, a humble drive-in on King Street at McCully serving saimin, chili, beef stew and curry — dishes Mom used to make. Today, Zippy’s is a franchise with a capital F: more than 25 locations, a family of bakeries, an okazuya, a sushi shop, catering and fundraising operations and frozen products sold in grocery stores. Their signature Zip Pac (four meats on furikakeflecked rice) is Hawaii’s Happy Meal. Their won ton min has treated many a hangover. For many transplanted Oahuans, Zippy’s is the first stop on any visit home. And with all that, their prices have remained budget-friendly. Recommended: Chili rice bowl or chicken rice curry, finished off with a couple of Napples from the bakery. ——— Multiple locations; www.zippys.com Breakfast, lunch, dinner. $$

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Fresh Ma Pastries,de Dim Sum, Man Roast Du Roast Pork, Charapua, Siu, k, Hon & Lots Mc ore to Cehy Glaze Ribs oose From • Ala Moan a Shopping ! Cente rMaka • Windward i Market Mall Food Court • Chinatow n (Bakery o nly 1041 Maun akea St. )

No Added MSG!

www.thecateringhotline.com H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

Here are some of Oahu’s newest restaurants, as reviewed by Nadine Kam

THENEWBIES•

BRUNO’S FORNO Bruno’s restaurants radiate from a single kitchen at the original Mix Cafe at 35 Beretania St. It’s the space where Bruno Iezzi bakes the lasagnas and ciabatta for his rustic sandwiches. A stickler for details, Iezzi turns out his own pasta made of unbleached flour that go into lasagnas comprising four layers of pasta, lovingly prepared, and interspersed with lovely vegetable purees and high-quality, savory ingredients, sometimes with a mellow puree of plum tomatoes, carrots, onions and garlic. The most popular lasagnas include the groundbeef Bolognese and the rich portobello, or funghi, lasagna. Fish dinners are a newer offering. Lighter fare includes sandwiches of portobello, or a combination of salmon and arugula. Complete your meal with a mixed salad of arugula, red leaf lettuce, grape tomatoes and pecans served in bags, a space-saving measure. Simply open the bag, pour in the balsamic vinaigrette dressing, shake and eat. The grab-and-go bags are also convenient for those stopping in for takeout en route home. Desserts of tiramisu and mocha mousse are served in cups, ready to go. ——— 1120 Maunakea St.; 585-2845; open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. $

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2010

Two types of lasagna and a sandwich and salad are among the offerings at Bruno’s Forno. The lasagna is baked in about five minutes.

CASTAGNOLA’S PIZZERIA For many people, Castagnola’s Pizzeria marks a brand-new arrival on the dining scene, but the Castagnola name has some deep roots on Oahu. George “Cass” Castagnola had been running restaurants in Hawaii since he opened his first Castagnola’s restaurant in the Manoa Marketplace. Beyond serving food that diners loved, the restaurant proved to be a classroom for many a budding restaurateur. Castagnola’s became a template for a style of Italian restaurant popular with an entire generation, and the DNA continues to run through several popular restaurants. Accompanying Cass’ return with his sons at the helm are rollback prices dating to his early days. The trade-off is that some of the frills are gone, hence the “pizzeria” designation, though diners will be happy to find much more than pizza, which composes only a small portion of the menu. Classic Italian comfort fare includes lasagna, eggplant Parmesan, linguine with shrimp or with sausage, peppers and potatoes and shrimp or clam linguini. Sandwich versions of some of these dishes are also available. ——— Restaurant Row, 500 Ala Moana Blvd.; 523-3399; open 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Mondays to Fridays, and 5:30 to 9 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays. $ H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2010

This plate of shrimp linguine comes from Castagnola’s Pizzeria, located in Restaurant Row on Ala Moana Boulevard. ‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

•THENEWBIES GAAN SUSHI

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2010

This nigiri sushi arrangement comes from Gaan Sushi in the Waikiki Sand Villa Hotel.

You’re going to have to work to find Gaan Sushi, but for sushi purists, the small gem of a restaurant may be worth the expedition. Tucked behind a nondescript black door in the Waikiki Sand Villa Hotel, you’ll find a glimmer of sushi made in the traditional Edo way of nearly 300 years ago, when people began combining fish and rice together as a convenient street and finger food. Where the past 20 years have seen the rise of creative sushi rolls, comprising layers of sliced shellfish, fish and sauces, Gaan’s focus is on oldschool sushi showcasing a single main ingredient on vinegared rice, in this case Edo red vinegar and salt that gives the rice its red tinge and stronger, rustic flavor. Ordering the Gaan omakase is the best way to sample all the restaurant has to offer, with a balanced and thoughtful mix of warm and cool, cooked and raw dishes, at the chef’s whims. ——— Waikiki Sand Villa Hotel, 2375 Ala Wai Blvd. at Kanekapolei Street; 922-3399; open 5:30 to 10 p.m. Tuesdays to Sundays. $$$$

HONOLULU BURGER CO.

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2010

Above is the interior of the Honolulu Burger Co., at 1295 S. Beretania St. At right, the Blue Hawaii Burger consists of a Big Island range-fed beef patty topped with bacon and gorgonzola, tomatoes and sautéed Maui onions. 22

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Former Hilo resident Ken Takahashi takes a stand for the Big Island, having opened the first burger joint in Honolulu devoted to serving 100 percent Big Island free-range, hormone-free, grass-fed beef burgers. He’d grown up eating such beef and taking it for granted. Nobody gave much thought to whether it was grass- or grain-fed or hormone free. The more people have learned about what goes into factory-raised animals, the more diners are welcoming alternatives. Of course, the cost associated with smaller production is higher, so the beef has more typically been available in middle-tier to upscale restaurants, out of reach of those who just want to enjoy a simple burger when they go out. He’s not sure whether supply will be able to keep up with demand, but said: “If I have to close for a day, so be it. I am not going to run out to the store.” Ditto with the potato fries, hand cut every morning, served plain ($1.99/$2.99), with garlic ($3.99), truffled ($4.99) or with blue cheese ($4.49). He refuses to serve the frozen variety. Other offerings may not be 100 percent local, such as steak in the Philly or “The Bull” sandwiches, but the burgers are a guarantee. A dash of salt is all that’s needed to showcase the beef. ——— 1295 S. Beretania St.; 626-5202; open 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. $ H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

THENEWBIES• IZAKAYA TAIRYO To glance upon Izakaya Tairyo is to come close to witnessing an ukiyo-e print of a Japanese fishing village spring to life in 3-D. Superflat imagery of fish and ocean waves swirl around the restaurant’s rooftop and exterior, while the interior is festooned with paraphernalia of the fisherman’s trade: nets, glass floats and lobster traps. “Tairyo” loosely translates to “big fish harvest,” though the harvest here is minimalist sushi for beginners, with the tamest of offerings: ahi, salmon, marinated mackerel, white fish, shrimp, scallop, squid and ikura. Heavier fare was represented by a grilled chicken meatball, chicken wings and skewered pork cutlet with miso sauce. Some of the most impressive dishes are meant to be shared, such as the Fisherman’s Hot Pot featuring salmon, tofu, clams and shrimp, along with tofu, bean threads and won bok. Similarly, the steamed “Harvest From the Sea and Mountain” basket feeds two or three with its combination of pork, beef, clams, mussels and salmon. When you’re ready for dessert, the frozen creme brulee, with the texture of cheesecake, is a standout. ——— 514 Piikoi St.; 592-8500. Open 5 to 11 p.m. daily. $$

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2010

Izakaya Tairyo, with its colorful exterior, serves up various minimalist sushi and other impressive dishes.

KAHUMANA CAFE The cafe is an extension of the work taking place at Kahumana Organic Farm in Waianae, where beyond simply feeding people, the combination of farm, kitchen and job training site has the lofty aim of serving as a model for sustainability, mindful eating and healthy, compassionate living. Foodies will be pleased to find dishes that are both healthful and delicious, from the humblest beet and pea soups, to plates accompanied by greens fresh from the farm. These might include Greek or Mexican veggie wraps, whole-wheat pastas served with ahi, chicken or garlic shrimp, or meatloaf comprising a mix of grass-fed beef and Swiss chard. Tip well, as donations support Kahumana Farms endeavors. ——— 86-660 Lualualei Homestead Road; 696-6608; open 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays. $ H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2010

Above is the quesadilla with chicken from Kahumana Cafe. At left, chef Ranjith Ramanakumar plates some ginger garlic mahimahi plates with Robert Zuckerman, program manager of the Kahumana Cafe. ‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

•THENEWBIES LOBSTER KING

Lobster King seafood co-owner Jay Chen holds Dungeness crab, left, and lobster at Lobster King Restaurant. The new spot also features a seafood market as well as dining.

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2010

The promise of lobster was a big draw. I envisioned lobster prepared every way imaginable, from old-fashioned thermidor, to po’ boys, bisques or even served popcorn-style, lightly dusted with flour and flash fried. But this ain’t that place. It’s a fairly typical Chinese restaurant offering lobster stir-fried with your choice of ginger and green onion, black bean sauce, or XO sauce. The rest of the menu is given over to the likes of minute chicken, kung pao chicken, steamed pork with salted egg, etc., plus soup noodles. And, the place is usually packed due to its location, central to anyone who lives in a Makiki tower, and the rare commodity of a large parking lot and ample street parking. Late-nighters will be happy to find they’re open until 3 a.m. daily. ——— 1380 S. King St.; 944-8288; open 11 a.m. to 3 a.m. daily. $$

LOVING HUT

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2010

The vegan restaurant Loving Hut features dishes such as this Spicy Moana Stir-Fry, which contains mock shrimp made of yam root. 24

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Most people say they want to eat more healthfully; they have the opportunity to prove it at the Loving Hut. There’s one on Beretania Street, and another set to open on Pensacola Street. These sister restaurants make an impressive template for what a meatless future could be. Vietnamese cooking, already high on vegetarian ingredients and palate- wakening flavors, is a natural for adding to a vegan menu, and Loving Hut offers a superb example of what can be done without a trace of meat. Substitutions include mock shrimp made from yam root, realistic to the orange bands associated with cooked shrimp. The mock shrimp has the sweetness and bouncy texture similar to fishcake, which, combined with the flavors of soy, garlic and green onions, made a dish of Spicy Moana a reasonable facsimile of a shrimp stir-fry. No doubt we’ll grow accustomed to this, just as we have largely embraced the crab impostor surimi. Soy protein substitutes for meat in Fabulous Pho, and in Lemongrass Hawaiiana, the lemony herb, peppers and spices coat soy protein sliced to resemble chicken or pork. A two- or three-entree plate allows you to sample as many dishes as possible in one sitting. ——— 1614 S. King St.; 373-6465. Open 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. week-days, and 10:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Saturdays. $. (Coming to 1102 Pensacola St.) H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

THENEWBIES• PANCAKES & WAFFLES You gotta love a restaurant that knows how to keep things simple, and what could be easier to comprehend than a love of pancakes and waffles? With no fanfare, frills or evocative moniker necessary, Pancakes & Waffles simply states what’s important. As soon as I saw the beckoning sign, I knew I had to be there. The breakfast diner at City Square (home of Sugoi and Koolau Farms) delivers on the pancakes and waffles, while offering much more, including a mainland favorite of fried chicken-topped waffle. It turns out local owner Jason Sung went to school in California, which left him with a craving for the combination. Here, the waffle is topped with three large pieces of chicken, almost too much for one person. It’s not for early risers, available only after 9 a.m. Otherwise, omelets are made with 31⁄2 eggs, and for diversity beyond eggs, waffles and pancakes, there is also chili and rice, sandwiches, kalbi and daily specials. Due to the heavy carbs, I hear it’s especially a hit with moms-to-be. ——— City Square, 1284 Kalani St.; 847-7770; open 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily. $

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2010

At top, Pancakes & Waffles’ signature dishes are waffle eggs Benedict, strawberry whipped cream pancakes, waffle-battered fried ice cream, and honey-butter fried chicken and waffle.

SOUL I think a lot of people were surprised when Sean Priester left his long-standing, lofty perch at the Top of Waikiki to roll out his lunchwagon Soul Patrol. Once lunch crowds got a taste of his honeytopped cornbread, fried chicken and jambalaya, there came requests for him to put down some permanent roots. These days, the truck still makes the occasional guest appearance at community events, but the real action is at the restaurant with Southern recipes injected with “aloha and spice.” So, in addition to buttermilk-fried chicken and chili and crabcake po’ boys, you may find a dice of daikon in his Sassy Southern Vegetarian Chili or gumbo accented with sweet potato and slices of spicy Kukui Portuguese sausage. Jambalaya and mac-and-feta cheese with cornbread au gratin, the latter piled so high it was oozing over the side of the dish, are a couple of to-die-for specialties. Sundays are made special with an all-day brunch menu with choices like crab cake Benedict, chorizo scrambled eggs and Southern-spiced sweet potato pancakes with bananas and maple butter. ——— 3040 Waialae Ave.; 735-SOUL (7685); open 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Mondays to Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sundays. $$ H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2010

A plate of jambalaya (Creole Paella) is available at Sean Priester’s Soul on Waialae Avenue. ‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

•CHEFP ROFI LE | MASAHARUMORI MOTO

place, he intends to focus on the isles’ expansive selections of fresh seafood and quality local products to build the foundation of his menu at Morimoto Waikiki.

STAR-ADVERTISER STAFF

Chef Masaharu Morimoto opened his namesake restaurant in the boutique Edition hotel too late to allow for an ‘Ilima Awards review, but given his reputation in Japan, where he launched his career, and New York, where he worked with chef Nobu, expectations are high for the new Morimoto Waikiki. Even nonfoodies might recognize the name Chef Morimoto from his many years as one of the original masters in the Japanese cooking competition “Iron Chef” and its U.S. version. His goal, he says, is the seamless integration of Western and Japanese ingredients. Effectively, Morimoto has created his own cuisine — one defined by innovation and inspiration. With Morimoto Waikiki at the Waikiki Edition, he pledges a high level of service and food presentation to a community for which he feels a sincere connection. (Incidentally, Morimoto was married in Hono-

The Iron Chef Japan import brings his modern Japanese cuisine to Oahu

COURTESY PHOTO

lulu, in 1979, and honeymooned at the Princess Kaiulani hotel.) Inspired by the Hawaiian sense of

MODERN and fresh. Stylish while refreshingly simple. Morimoto says he believes that eating is theater, and in this case, Morimoto Waikiki is the stage. This new restaurant has developed a contemporary Japanese menu, infusing traditional dishes with Western ingredients and preparation. “The quality of my ingredients is the highest expression of my skill and judgment as a chef,” Morimoto says in his cookbook, “Morimoto: The New Art of Japanese Cooking.” The menu highlights a wide array of culinary choices, with an eye toward the finest and freshest. Seasonal selections of raw fish will feature seafood from Japanese and Hawaii waters. Morimoto’s signature offerings include Wagyu beef, a vast array of sushi,

and locally grown fruits and vegetables. This high-achieving cuisine will be served in a restaurant designed to be equally fresh and elegant. The contemporary dining room is warmed by hardwood floors underfoot and lit by clear, acrylic coral boxes suspended from the ceiling. A semiprivate dining room is available, sheltered by sheer curtains. On the expansive open-air lanai, patrons can choose to dine waterfront. Deep sofas, cocktail tables and open fire bowls are designed to create a balance of island style, sophisticated dining and night-life lounging. The open kitchen is the heart of the space, featuring highly trained Japanese sushi chefs. It is, after all, all about the food, in chef Masaharu Mori-moto’s newest restaurant. ——— Morimoto Waikiki in the Waikiki Edition, 1775 Ala Moana Blvd.; 941-5900. Breakfast, lunch, dinner. $$$$

11th Ave. Mexitlan Grill AUTHENTIC MEXICAN CUISINE

AUTHENTIC MEXICAN CUISINE

LIKE YOU’VE NEVER TASTED BEFORE Chef straight from Baja, Mexico

• Specialty Platters • Tacos • Burritos • Quesadillas BYOB • DELIVERY • CATERING • Pasta • Pizza • Hot Subs • Oven Baked Pasta • Pizza Rolls • Stromboli • Calzone • Salads & More!

Bella Mia Italian 1137 11th Ave. Kaimuki (11th Ave. Atrium)

737-1937

Open Everyday 11am-10pm 26

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Bella Mia Pizzeria 2222 S. Beretania St.

941-4400

Sun - Thur 11am - 9pm • Fri - Sat 11am - Midnight

• Enchiladas • Wraps • Appetizers • Salads • More

1137 11th Ave. Kaimuki (11th Ave. Atrium) Open Everyday 11am-9pm

737-5678 BYOB • CATERING H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

TOPR E STAU RANTS | A•

The listing of Oahu’s top restaurants in alphabetical order

A CUP OF TEA

Darlene Pahed has turned this Kailua storefront into a Victorian postcard where chef Jocelyn Pacheco creates freshly made, daintily presented multicourse teas. Recommended: Ever-changing, interesting soups and flavorful sweets (the lemon curd!). ——— 407 Uluniu St. Suite 101, Kailua; 230-8832; www.acupoftea.com. Lunch, teas $$-$$$

ALAN WONG’S See ‘Ilima Awards Star Circle, Page 18.

ALLEY, THE (AT AIEA BOWL) See ‘Ilima Awards Critic’s Choice, Page 10.

ASSAGGIO The Assaggio family of restaurants (Kailua, Ala Moana, Kahala, Kapolei, Mililani and Hawaii Kai) serves reliably good Sicilian-American standards based on recipes the Ky family adapted from those of popular one-time entrepreneur Cass Castagnola. Recommended: the hot bread, Sicilian Chicken with olive-oil roasted potatoes, Crispy Golden Fish Salad, Eggplant Parmigiana or Milanese. ——— 354 Uluniu St., Kailua, 261-2772; 1450 Ala Moana Blvd., Suite 1259, 942-3446; 4346 Waialae Ave., Kahala, 732-1011; 777 Kamokila Blvd., Suite A, Kapolei, 674-8801; 95-1249 Meheula Parkway, Mililani, 623-5115; 7192 Kalanianaole Highway, Hawaii Kai, 396-0756; www.assaggiohi.com. Lunch, dinner. $$

STAR ADVERTISER / 2009 STAR ADVERTISER / 2008

AZURE See ‘Ilima Awards Critic’s Choice, Page 12.

Scallop and jumbo shrimps alla bolla and a caprese salad of buffalo mozzarella and fresh tomato and basil with a

Assorted fresh fruit sits on the top of a tiered tray above an assortment of desserts from A Cup Of Tea in Kailua.

888 N. Nimitz Hwy. #103 Open Daily 7 am - 9 pm H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

524-2020

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•TOPR E STAU RANTS | B BA-LE SANDWICHES & BAKERY

This ubiquitous locally owned chain introduced the islands to Vietnam’s French-Asian creation, banh mi — fresh-baked minibaguettes stuffed with meats, crisp vegetables, herbs and fiery chili sauce. Now, their parent company dominates the local artisanal baking market. Recommended: the sandwiches, but also cold bun (rice noodle dishes) and pho (Vietnamese beef and rice noodle soup). ——— Multiple locations; 847-2299; latourbakehouse.com. $

BANZAI SUSHI BAR This hidden indoor-outdoor enclave at the rear of the North Shore Marketplace was an homage to the roofed but wall-less beach shacks of the founders’ Brazil home. Relax on floor cushions or sit at tables and chairs to savor contemporary sushi and Japanese bar food that gets high marks, though service can be spotty and slow. Recommended: hamachi sashimi, avocado tempura, Bonsai roll (deep fried spicy tuna roll). ——— North Shore Marketplace, 66-246 Kamehameha Highway, Haleiwa; 6374404. Lunch, dinner. $$$

America-trained chef Rodney Uyehara offers a luxurious, a la carte surf-and-turf-driven menu enlivened by seasonal specials. Recommended: daily foie gras preparation; iceberg salad with gorgonzola, bacon and tomatoes; creamed spinach side dish; kurobuta pork shank (a giant, falling-off-the-bone preparation); Hawaiian Chocolate Volcano Cake. ——— Moana Surfrider Hotel, 2365 Kalakaua Ave.; 921-4600; www.beachhouse-waikiki.com. Dinner. $$$$

BEIJING CHINESE SEAFOOD RESTAURANT Deep in the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center, where many locals never penetrate, is one of the city’s best pan-Chinese restaurants, wellknown to Japanese nationals and city movers and shakers, who often gather there for business meetings. Recommended: potstickers in tomato, chili, garlic sauce; lions head meatballs (call ahead to special order); fried scallop, soup noodle with spicy Szechuan beef brisket, steamed milk pudding. ——— Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center, 2301 Kalakaua Ave.; 971-8833; www.beijinghawaii.com. Lunch, dinner. $$$

BEACHHOUSE AT THE MOANA STAR-ADVERTISER / 2009

The Banzai Roll at Banzai Sushi Bar in Haleiwa.

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In this historic, light-filled room with its view of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head, Culinary Institute of

BIG CITY DINER See Diamond Head Show Stoppers, Page 16.

H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

The #1 Japanese Steak House in Hawaii

KOBE JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE

Super Sunset Specials

Waikiki, Oahu 1841 Ala Moana Blvd.

NIGHTLY 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM

15 $ 95 Daily Fish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 $ 95 Sukiyaki Steak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 $ 95 Teriyaki Steak & Chicken Combo . . . . . . . . . 21 $

Teriyaki Chicken . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(Between the Ilikai and Hilton Hawaiian Village) Dinner served from 5:30pm nightly. Valet parking available. Kama‘aina & Military Discounts Available (with proper ID).

941-4444

www.honolulukobe.com H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

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•TOPR E STAU RANTS | B-C BLT STEAK See ‘Ilima Awards Critic’s Choice, Page 11.

BOOTS & KIMO’S HOMESTYLE KITCHEN Boots & Kimo’s has moved to a larger location down the street, somewhat mitigating the inevitable lines (especially at breakfast time). Recommended: banana pancakes with macadamia nut pancake sauce, omelets, fried rice loaded with bacon and Spam, pulehu short ribs at lunch. ——— 151 Hekili St., Suite 150, Kailua; 263-7929. Breakfast, lunch. Cash only. $$

BRASSERIE DU VIN A bit too refined to qualify as a true brasserie, this charming spot does feel like a bit of France set like a gem in the heart of the Nuuanu arts district. Regulars appreciate the relaxed rustic decor, praiseworthy service, weekly wine events and, most notably, chef Jake Dobbs’ unfussy but carefully prepared food. Recommended: Moules Frites (wine-steamed mussels with french-style fries), roasted beet salad with goat cheese and walnuts, baked Brie in puff pastry, nightly specials. ——— 1115 Bethel St.; 545-1115; www.brasserieduvin.com. Lunch, dinner, late night. $$$

BUZZ’S ORIGINAL STEAKHOUSE Sometimes you wanna go where nothing has thankfully changed: the old-style salad bar, the generous portions of kiawe-grilled surf and turf, the happy crowds. Recommended: the ground sirloin (don’t call it a burger) with mushrooms and onions, Artichoke Surprise appetizer, ice cream pies. ——— 413 Kawailoa Road, Kailua; 261-4661; 98-751 Kuahao Place, Pearl City, 487-6465; www.buzzssteakhouse.com. Lunch, dinner (Pearl City, dinner only). $$$

CAFE KAILA Chrissie Castillo’s airy cafe solved the long-lamented problem of the lack of a perfect breakfast in Honolulu (delicious and healthful food, real cutlery, prompt service, good coffee). And lunches match the morning standard. Expect a wait. Recommended: caramel-apple French toast, malted waffles, pesto chicken, pasta. ——— Market City Shopping Center, 2919 Kapiolani Blvd.; 732-3330. Breakfast, lunch. $$

CAFE MAHARANI See ‘Ilima Awards Critics Choice, Page 8.

CASTAGNOLA’S PIZZERIA

STAR ADVERTISER / 2007

Roasted pesto chicken panini and french toast with caramelized apples from Cafe Kaila in the Market City Shopping Center.

CASABLANCA MOROCCAN CUISINE

CHAI’S ISLAND BISTRO

This made-over house is the sole place on Oahu where you can lounge on cushions in a faux tent and make like Rudolph Valentino at a fixed-price, five-course Moroccan feast. Recommended: the romantic atmosphere and the Western-style b’stilla — chicken instead of the classic pigeon in crackling phyllo pastry. ——— 19 Hoolai St., Kailua; 262-8196. Dinner (closed Sun-Mon). $$$

See The Newbies, page 21.

Chef Chai Chaowasaree has earned his place in the hearts of Oahuans with his commitment to live, local music, his East-West fusion menu and stylish room. The “Island Fondue,” offered in the orchid-draped courtyard only, is a one-of-a-kind spicy, hot-pot DIY dinner. Recommended: Japanese Eggplant and Zucchini Souffle, Deconstructed Beef Wellington with Merlot Demiglace. ——— Aloha Tower Marketplace; 5850011; www.chaisislandbistro.com. Lunch, dinner. $$$$

“Best Ramen in Hawaii” voted by Tokyo Walker Japanese Magazine

Shrimp Risotto

Won Ton Noodle

Mango Snow Ice

Also available Pasta • Burgers • Salads • Sandwiches MARKET CITY SHOPPING CENTER 2919 Kapiolani Blvd., #218

735-8833 30

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Kamehameha Shopping Center ..848-8186 Kaneohe......................................234-6868 Kapiolani .....................................737-1868 Kapolei ........................................693-8808 Mapunapuna...............................833-3139 Pearl City ....................................456-8082

Good Price, Good Portion & Good Taste H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

Toast Your Honey... with our Honey Toast! The Specialty of the House. Thick Japanese white toast cutout and cubed, drizzled with honey and topped with vanila ice cream

We’ve Gone

GREEN! We have converted all of our restaurant lighting to LED light bulbs in order to help protect Hawaii’s Environment!

Casual Chic,Just As You Are Ala Moana Pacific Center • 1585 Kapiolani Blvd. shokudojapanese.com (808) 941.3701 H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

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•TOPR E STAU RANTS | C CHEF MAVRO See ‘Ilima Awards Critic’s Choice, Page 13.

CHOI’S GARDEN For the true Choi’s experience (larger servings, more interesting banchan relish plates), invite a knowledgeable Korean speaker to help you dig into this varied 24-hour menu. Recommended: kim chee soup, dol sot (crisp stone pot rice), yakiniku (cook-at-the-table grilled menu), Korean-style misoyaki butterfish, various kalbi. ——— 1303 Rycroft St.; 596-7555; wwwhdink.com/choi. Lunch, dinner. $$

STAR ADVERTISER / 2009

Crepes No Ka ‘Oi’s Berry Heavenly, a crepe topped with strawberries, blueberries and raspberries.

CINNAMON’S FAMILY RESTAURANT From the Nan family to your family: Friendly service, a casual atmosphere, full plates and reasonable prices are the hallmarks of this breakfast, lunch and dinner Kailua institution. Recommended: Chef Carsie’s Crabcake Benedict, red velvet pancakes (if you like sweet for breakfast), curried chicken and papaya salad, Hawaiian plate or Hawaiian omelet. ——— 315 Uluniu St., Kailua; 261-8724; www.cinnamonsrestaurant.com. Breakfast daily, lunch except Sun. $

STAR ADVERTISER / 2009

“The Counter” customers can order custom toppings, dressings and bun like this burger with gourmet cheese, red bell pepper and garden greens.

CONTEMPORARY CAFE

THE COUNTER

With seating that spills out of an airy daylight basement and onto the lawn, prepacked picnics for enjoying elsewhere on the museum grounds and a short but tasteful and often healthy menu, Contemporary Cafe is the perfect spot for a ladies’ lunch or a minutesfrom-town business meeting. Recommended: the daily soup specials, crostini or hummus small plates, soba salad, chocolate gateau. ——— Contemporary Museum, lower level, 2411 Makiki Heights Drive; 523-3362; www.tcmhi.org. Lunch. $$

Bountiful burgers made from Angus beef ground in-house, premium toppings, sweet potato fries, a full bar and a great Kahala Mall location have made this outlet of the mainland chain a much-appreciated addition to the Honolulu culinary landscape. Recommended: build-your-own-burger option, deep-fried pickle chips, garlic aioli sauce. ——— Kahala Mall, 4211 Waialae Ave.; 739-5100; www.thecounterburger .com/honolulu. Lunch, dinner. $-$$

Free Parking in stalls 1-9, 27-33 and all front parking.

CREPES NO KA ‘OI Rosario and Chris Tarvyd bring the favored street food of France to the islands in this bright little cafe where you can watch them roll the lacy, oversized discs of batter off the griddle and choose from sweet and savory fillings, from cheese and egg breakfast crepes to Nutella-stuffed dessert wraps. Recommended: Ultimate Breakfast crepe, cinnamon apple with whipped cream. ——— 131 Hekili St., Kailua; 263-4088; www.crepesnokaoi.com. Breakfast, lunch, dinner (no dinner on Sundays; closed Tuesdays). $

Specialties: Pho, Spring Rolls, Summer Rolls, Rice Vermicelli in Duck & Bamboo Shoot Broth, Stir Fried Dishes, Vietnamese Sandwiches, Seafood Hotpot, Finest Rice Vermicelli with Pounded Shrimp & Pork Brochette & More.

1617 KAPIOLANI BLVD. • 955-3438 • OPEN DAILY 9AM-10PM 32

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H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

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•TOPR E STAU RANTS | D

D.K STEAK HOUSE Known for his contemporary sushi restaurants, D.K. Kodama proved he and his chefs also know their turf (and surf), pioneering the use of dry aging here to build rich, sophisticated flavor in prime cuts of beef and weaving in island flavors in rubs and marinades. Recommended: dryaged bone-in ribeye; Asparagus Milanese. ——— 2552 Kalakaua Ave.; 931-6280; www.dksteakhouse.com. Dinner. $$$$

DA SPOT This migratory Middle Eastern/Mediterranean menu by the friendly and accommodating husband-and-wife team of Ako Kifuji and Ahmad Ramadan can be found in a new, much larger location on South King Street, but still maintains their kiosk at the University of Hawaii-Manoa as well as booths at local farmers markets, with lines forming wherever they go. They’ve started breakfast service and are making their own organic sorbets. Recommended: Egyptian chicken dolmas, lamb, curry, baklava. ——— 2469 S. King St.; 941-1313. Breakfast, lunch, dinner. $

STAR ADVERTISER / 2005

Here is the Monster Shrimp Scampi at d.k Steak House at Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa in Waikiki.

DEAN’S DRIVE INN Chef Dean Mishima and his baker wife, Doreen, produce some of the best local-style plate lunches in Honolulu in this small storefront where regulars pack the house by midday every day (except Saturdays, when they’re closed). Recommended: ahi belly, rack of lamb, teri beef, pineapple upside-down cake or any of the homestyle desserts. ——— Adon Plaza, 45-773 Kamehameha Highway, Kaneohe; 247-1300. Lunch. Cash only. $

At left, the teri beef plate at Dean’s Drive Inn in Kaneohe.

STAR ADVERTISER / 2007

Come Try our Famous Homemade Tofu

Wide Selection of Sake, Shochu, Beer, Cocktails, Whiskey & Wine.

Innovative, Traditional & Modern Japanese Izakaya Dishes with a Local Twist

Order a Wide Range of Pupu Style Dishes that Everyone Can Share

HAPPY HOUR EVERYDAY 5 PM - 6:30 PM • LATE HAPPY HOUR SUN - THU 9 PM - 11 PM 2840 Kapiolani Blvd. • 737-0230 • 5 PM – 11 PM Sundays - Thursday • 5 PM – 1 AM Friday & Saturday 34

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H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

TOPR E STAU RANTS | D•

STAR ADVERTISER / 2007

An omelet from Diamond Head Market & Grill on Monsarrat Avenue.

DIAMOND HEAD MARKET & GRILL Honolulu long needed a place like this: a multifaceted takeout grill, bento bar, bakery and gourmet heat-and-eat shop. This one is operated by former restaurateur, gubernatorial chef and Kapiolani Community College instructor Kelvin Ro, who knows how to make it all work. Recommended: the breakfasts (especially the roast pork hash), portobello burgers, lemon crunch and pumpkin crunch. ——— 3158 Monsarrat Ave; 732-0077; www.diamondheadmarket.com. Breakfast, lunch, dinner. $$

DORAKU SUSHI Nouveau sushi and the widest-ranging sake menu in the city highlight this chic Waikiki restaurant founded by Kevin Aoki, the son of the man who brought teppanyaki to America, who likens sushi to poetry. Recommended: tuna tataki with Doraku’s signature mango-ponzu sauce, Dragon Roll (shrimp tempura, avocado, smelt roe and spicy mayo), churrasco steak (South American touches are courtesy of Doraku’s Florida roots). ——— Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center, 2233 Kalakaua Ave.; 922-3323; www.dorakusushi.com. Lunch, dinner. $$$$

STAR ADVERTISER / 2008

Seafood Salad by Doraku Sushi at the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center. H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

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•TOPR E STAU RANTS | D DOWNTOWN @ THE HISAM (AND ASAP SANDWICH, SOUP, SALAD COUNTER) Island-born chef-restaurateur Ed Kenney brings his “local first, organic when possible and with aloha always” philosophy and contemporary Mediterranean ideas to a chic, well-lighted place and open-air courtyard at the Hawaii State Art Museum. Recommended: We can’t say; the menu changes constantly, in a very good way. ——— Hawaii State Art Museum, 250 S. Hotel St.; 536-5900; www.hawaiistateartmuseum.org/?q=restaurant. Lunch. $$

DUC’S BISTRO

STAR ADVERTISER / 2007

Downtown@hiSAM’s sandwiches and antipasti.

‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

After 15 years of French-accented fine dining, “Duc” Nguyen and partner Minh Nga Vu took a risk and embarked on “the road home” with a new Vietnamesedriven menu and it, and the more budget-friendly prices, proved a winning formula. Recommended: veal in la lot leaves, Ga Kho (Vietnamese braised chicken), the fish dishes, especially crispy pan-fried fish with green mango and ginger, Minh Nga’s ginger cheesecake. ——— 1188 Maunakea St.; 531-6325; www.ducsbistro.com. Lunch, dinner. $$$

BRUCE ASATO / BASATO@STARADVERTISER.COM

H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

TOPR E STAU RANTS | F•

STAR ADVERTISER / 2009

Assorted breads from Fendu Boulangerie in the Manoa Marketplace.

FENDU BOULANGERIE

FORMAGGIO WINE BAR

How does patissier Niel Koep do it when so many others here disappoint? By baking great-tasting, properly textured French-style breads. Recommended: the breads (don’t go before 11:30 a.m.), fresh fruit danishes (especially pear/chocolate/mascarpone), chocolate croissant. ——— 2752 Woodlawn Drive, Suite 5-119; 988-4310. Takeout breakfast, lunch, early dinner. $$

With its wine cellarlike feel, this dimly lit, music-washed underground room is the perfect setting for wines by the glass (50, selected by master sommelier Roberto Viernes) and small plates. Recommended: crostini, French onion soup, braised short ribs. ——— Market City Shopping Center, lower level, 2919 Kapiolani Blvd.; 739-7719; www.formaggio808.com. Dinner (closed Sun). $$

BRUCE ASATO / BASATO@STARADVERTISER.COM

1860 ALA MOANA BLVD. • 955-1764

Margherita ‘Extra’ thin crust pizza from Formaggio Wine Bar. H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

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Validated Parking

•TOPR E STAU RANTS | G

GAAN SUSHI See The Newbies, Page 22.

GINA’S BAR-B-Q There are a gazillion Korean barbecue shops in the islands, but this spot, owned by sisters Gina Song and Young Hae Han, stands out for its lasting popularity, “gigongous” servings (as one blogger termed it) and right-on flavors. Recommended: kalbi, hot fried chicken wings, Korean spicy pork. ——— Market City Shopping Center, 2919 Kapiolani Blvd.; 735-7964; www .ginasbbq.com. Lunch, dinner. $

GOLDEN PALACE SEAFOOD RESTAURANT STAR ADVERTISER / 2005

Cobb Salad from Grand Cafe & Bakery.

Behind the crimson and gold pillars on King Street, find the classic dim sum experience from

early morning to midafternoon (there are better places for dinner) for cheap, cheap, cheap. Be firm with the ladies pushing steaming carts; they’ll try to push off plates on you. Accept only what you want (and recognize). Recommended: egg custard, beef balls, siu mai, pork buns, joong (rice- and pork-stuffed bamboo leaves). ——— 111 N. King St.; 521-8268. Lunch, dinner. $

GRAND CAFE & BAKERY Chef Tony Vierra marries the ’20s-era diner classics of his greatgrandfather (who owned a restaurant of the same name) to his more contemporary ideas on the brunch, lunch and dinner menu here. Recommended: Bananas Foster French Toast, Apo’s Salty Pancakes (Chinese green onion

cakes), apple-blue cheese salad, chicken pot pie, Grandma’s Lemon Cake. ——— 31 N. Pauahi St.; 531-0001; www.grandcafeandbakery.com. Breakfast, lunch (except Mon), dinner (Fri-Sat only). $-$$

GULICK DELICATESSEN One of increasingly few islandstyle okazuya, second-generation Gulick is typical: a bit hard to find, not particularly newcomerfriendly, early hours only, no place to sit, long lines. The food makes up for it all. Recommended: kakiage (mixed) tempura, furikake musubi, pork with green beans, corned beef hash patties, fried chicken. ——— 1512 Gulick Ave., 847-1461; 1936 S. King St., 941-2835. Breakfast, lunch. $

We Serve Only the Best

2010 Best Italian Restaurant 5x Ilima Award Winner - 6x Hale Aina Award Winner Gift Certificates Available Party Rooms Available at Ala Moana & Kahala Reservations Recommended

Open for Lunch & Dinner • Bread & Pastries are Baked Fresh Daily at Assaggio Specializing in Fine Italian Cuisine • A Perfect Place for Any Occasion!

Now Open at Kahala & Kapolei • www.assagiohi.com

Ala Moana 942-3446 • Kahala 732-1011 • Kailua 261-2772 • Hawaii Kai 396-0756 • Kapolei 674-8801 • Mililani 623-5115 38

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H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

TOPR E STAU RANTS | H•

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2009

Ha Long Pho Noodle House is a chic version of the typical pho eatery.

HA LONG PHO NOODLE HOUSE A cut above most pho restaurants in decor (clean and contemporary) and in the making of Vietnam’s signature noodle soup, in broth slow-simmered for hours on end. Recommended: Pho tai chin (round steak and brisket); Bun Thit Nurong (rice noodles with barbecue beef). ——— City Square Shopping Center, 1286 Kalani St., 845-3687; www.halongnoodle.com. Lunch, dinner. $

HALE MODERN MACROBIOTIC CUISINE Don’t be put off by the “M” word; chef-owner Moco Kubota’s gorgeous plates are nothing like the tasteless, good-foryou food you may have tried elsewhere. Kubota returned to culinary school in Japan to learn the art of cooking seasonally, in balanced harmony as envisioned by macrobiotics creator Michio Kushi, and she learned well. Recommended: Kuruma-Fu Cutlet with Apple Miso Sauce, Mabo Tofu, the crunchy whole grain bread. ——— 1427 Makaloa St.; 944-1555; www.halemacro.com. Lunch, dinner (closed Mon). $$

verything made from scratch daily using the best quality ingredients from the Islands & worldwide... Bringing you the finest Japanese influenced French pastries, from an array of seasonal desserts to buttery flaky fresh croissant sandwiches and our original drinks that you will not find elsewhere. Custom orders are welcomed. Our chef & staff will be happy to assist you to create an exciting cake for your special occasion. Please visit us for a bite of heaven!

The Macrobiotic Lunch Plate from Hale Modern Macrobiotic Cuisine.

Store Hours: Monday - Saturday: 9:00am - 9:00pm Sunday: 9:00am - 7:00pm Ala Moana Center-Mall Level, Mountain side, next to Shirokiya www.lapalmedor-usa.com STAR-ADVERTISER / 2009

H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

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941-6161

•TOPR E STAU RANTS | H HALE VIETNAM

PROUDLY SERVING YOU FOR THE PAST 34 YEARS!

HONOLULU’S

AWARD-WINNING RESTAURANT! HONOLULU MAGAZINE

Hale ‘Aina Award – The People’s Choice ZAGAT SURVEY

One of Honolulu’s Top Five Restaurants WINE SPECTATOR MAGAZINE

Award of Excellence

The restaurant that introduced Honolulu to pho, green papaya salad and other Vietnamese standards continues to be popular despite increased competition. Recommended: Imperial Spring Rolls, bun (rice noodles) with fresh vegetables or barbecued pork, French coffee. ——— 1140 12th Ave.; 735-7581. Lunch, dinner. $$

HALEIWA EATS THAI The bright tile decor offers no hint of what to expect: really tasty Thai-style food. We say Thai-style because the cooking sometimes strays from the traditional. Spicing can vary here; be sure to ask for your favored degree of heat. Recommended: tofu salad or ginger salad, curries (especially pumpkin

vegetable), coconut rice. ——— 68-079 Kamehameha Hwy., Haleiwa; 6374247. Lunch, dinner (closed Tues). $$

HAILI’S HAWAIIAN FOODS Relocated to Kapahulu from its longtime Ward location, Haili’s offers a full range of Hawaiian foods including hardto-find pickled limu, opihi cups, ake (innards) and, in a departure, an excellent Puerto Rican pastele stew. Recommended: kalua pork, the many poke varieties, rice bowls, mango haupia. ——— 760 Palani Ave. (front door on Kapahulu Avenue); 735-8019. Lunch, dinner. $$

HANK’S HAUTE DOGS See ‘Ilima Awards Critic’s Choice, Page 10.

A “USDA PRIME BEEF” SPECIALTY HOUSE Since 1976

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2008

Above, Haleiwa Eats Thai serves up tasty Thai -style food. 2007

2008

200

At left, the kalua pig bowl at Haili’s Hawaiian Foods.

“Best Fine Dining Restaurant”

Live Entertainment

www.hyshawaii.com

2440 KUHIO AVENUE FIRST FLOOR RESERVATION 922-5555 VALET PARKING I

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2009

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H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

TOPR E STAU RANTS | H• At right, a teri beef plate from Hapa Grill in Kapolei.

Kaiwa Thanks Star Advertiser for Critics Awards!

Below, fried butterfish collar from Helena’s Hawaiian Food.

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2006

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2006STAR-ADVERTISER / 2006

HAPA GRILL Two generations of cooking expertise go into this stepped-up plate lunch restaurant in Kapolei; daughter Shannon Tangonan learned the trade working in her parents’ fondly remembered Sassy Kassy lunch wagon. Recommended: best teri beef ever; Love You Like a Mango salad, Mom’s Hot Fudge Brownie (really homemade by Mom Tangonan). ——— Marketplace at Kapolei, 590 Farrington Highway, No. 539; 674-8400; www.hapagrill.net. Breakfast, lunch, dinner. $$

HELENA’S HAWAIIAN FOOD Founder Helen Chock is gone but the third generation continues her legacy in H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

a menu of Hawaiian-style favorites that bear her trademark techniques and flavors. Recommended: pan-fried pipikaula smoked over the grill, fried butterfish collar with stew gravy, opihi poke. ——— 1240 N. School St.; 845-8044. Cash only. Lunch, dinner (closed Sat-Mon). $-$$

HEE HING RESTAURANT The bustling restaurant in Kapahulu is a favorite for weddings, retirement parties, reunions and all manner of family gatherings. It’s an especially tasty stop during Chinese New Year. Recommended: dim sum and the house specialty, lobster. ——— Hee Hing Plaza, 449 Kapahulu Ave.; 7355544. Lunch, dinner. $$ ‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

•TOPR E STAU RANTS | H-I HIMALAYAN KITCHEN Still packed most evenings even though it’s more than a year old, Himalayan Kitchen offers praiseworthy Nepali and Indian food. If you like your food spicy, be sure to request it; their spice palate tends to be muted. Recommended: flavored naan breads, chicken tikka masala; namkeen papri (deep fried cumin chips). ——— 1137 11th Ave., second floor; 358-7158; www.himalayankitchen.net. Lunch, dinner. $$

HIROSHI EURASIAN TAPAS

IMANAS TEI

Though it’s less flashy than some new players, many consider this

See ‘Ilima Awards Critic’s Choice, Page 14.

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2008

Above, some of the fine Japanese food at Izakaya Nonbei.

HOG ISLAND BBQ See ‘Ilima Awards Critic’s Choice, Page 11. STAR ADVERTISER / 2004

At left, a nabemono (hot pot) dish at Imanas, located in Moiliili.

HOKU’S In a window-lined room that’s like sitting in a seaside painting, Hoku’s chef Wayne Hirabayashi weaves together many traditions, from tandoori cooking to wok steaming, to create a cuisine of his own. Award-winning, sophisticated and cutting-edge. Recommended: Peking duck consommé, seared foie gras, salt-crusted Colorado rack of lamb, kurobuta pork, mango cannelloni. ——— Kahala Hotel & Resort, 5000 Kahala Ave.; 7398780; www.kahalaresort.com. Dinner. $$$$

HONOLULU BURGER CO. See The Newbies, page 22.

HY’S STEAK HOUSE See Diamond Head Theatre Show Stoppers, Page 16.

the best izakaya (Japanese tavern) on the island with its tiny sushi bar, nabemono (hot pot) specialties, tonkatsu on a stick, Seafood Dynamite. ——— 2626 S. King St., next to Puck’s Alley; 941-2626. Dinner (closed Sun). $$$

INDIGO EURASIAN CUISINE Glenn Chu mines the celestial cuisine of his Chinese ancestry, exhibits his sense of humor in such menu titles as Fiery Explosions to Heaven Shrimp, and adds contemporary flair in such unexpected combinations as goat cheese wontons. Recommended: the wontons, grilled chive flatbread, lamb chops with tangerine sauce, Ten Thousand Chili Chicken with dark meat; ginger creme brulee. ——— 1121 Nuuanu Ave.; 521-2900; www.indigo-hawaii.com. Lunch (Tues-Fri), dinner (Tues-Sat), closed Sun-Mon. $$$

IZAKAYA NONBEI After a change in management, this critically-acclaimed Japanese tavern is more newcomer-friendly (more English-language menu information, a more welcoming hostess, more contemporary decor) but no less high quality. Recommended: sake slushee; karaage (whole, deep-fried) flounder; and ultrafresh sushi, particularly salmon, hamachi and moi. ——— 3108 Olu St., just off Kapahulu Avenue; 734-5573. Dinner. $$$

IZAKAYA TAIRYO See The Newbies, page 23.

HAWAII’S BEST!

Upscale, casual, family dining with award winning Italian and Local cuisine

BYOB WELCOME! Open For Lunch and Dinner Daily McCully Shopping Center • 1960 Kapiolani Blvd., Suite 103

946-3338

‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

TOPR E STAU RANTS | J-K•

JIMBO RESTAURANT

See People’s Choice Awards, Page 6.

Generous servings of house-made udon (thick, round wheat noodles) in made-fromscratch broth are the centerpiece of Jimbo’s menu, but the skinny noodles have their advocates. Lots of different flavors, including curry in a thick broth. Recommended: Spicy Yaki Udon, Cold Skinny Noodle Salad, crab udon. ——— 1936 S. King St.; 9472211. Lunch, dinner. $

KAHUMANA CAFE See The Newbies, page 23.

KAI MARKET See Diamond Head Show Stoppers, Page 16.

KAIWA See Critic’s Choice, Page 11.

KAKAAKO KITCHEN

JJ BISTRO & FRENCH PASTRY See Diamond Head Show Stoppers, Page 16.

Naan

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2008

Nabeyaki and Salad Udon with tofu from Jimbo Restaurant in McCully.

Russell Siu’s gourmet homage to small-kid-time plate lunch (but with plenty of seating) offers a menu that runs from breakfast and baked goods, and from light and healthy to gravy on everything. This year, they responded to our one whine: real tableware at breakfast, no Styrofoam or paper. Recommended: corned beef and eggs, tempura catfish, crispy calamari spinach salad, chickenfried chicken (Wednesdays only), and shoyu chicken. ——— Ward Centre, 1200 Ala Moana Blvd.; 596-7488. Breakfast, lunch, dinner. $-$$

E xperience theT aste of I ndia

KA RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

Lamb Kebab

Meat Samosa

Paneer Masala

Rack of Lamb

onsoon is a much anticipated and welcomed event each year in India bringing relief from the intense heat of summer and water to nourish the crops and the people…

The entire staff welcomes you and bring you the abundance of Monsoon India! Please relax while you enjoy the authentic cuisine, hospitality and music of their native land.

Monsoon India brings to Oahu from Maui their years of experience in creating exquisitely seasoned curries along with the delicacies of traditional tandoor cuisine using the finest fresh ingredients and exotic spices.

Discovery Bay (Across Ilikai) 1778 Ala Moana Blvd., Ste. 213 www.MonsoonIndiaOahu.com

941-5111

H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

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•TOPR E STAU RANTS | K

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2008

Some of the menu items at Kanpai Bar and Grill on Ward Avenue.

The Tai Shan Crab at Kirin Restaurant will delight hungry diners.

KALAPAWAI CAFE

KINCAID’S FISH, CHOP & STEAKHOUSE

KEO’S IN WAIKIKI

See Critic’s Choice, Page 8.

KANPAI BAR AND GRILL It’s almost an insult to call Kanpai’s menu bar food; it’s so much more than edamame and fried rice. The team that gave us Slammer’s knows their way around the grill and griddle, and the atmosphere is comfortable and friendly. Recommended: kimchee ribeye steak with eggs, short rib loco moco, panfried ahi belly. ——— 404 Ward Ave.; 593-9202. Lunch, dinner, late night. $$

Still the Evil Jungle Prince after all these years, Keo Sananikone and family offer a full menu of Thai standards. Recommended: Evil Jungle Prince with chicken, ginger string beans and chili with beef, crispy mahimahi with saté sauce, Bangkok duck breast with plum sauce. ——— 2028 Kuhio Ave.; 951-9355; www.keosthaicuisine.com. Dinner. $$$

730 lley • 5 a V iu N

See Diamond Head Show Stoppers, Page 16.

KIRIN RESTAURANT Far from Chinatown, this Moiliili institution dispenses with the customary trolleys but serves some of the best and most varied dim sum in town. Recommended: har gow, siu mai, bao. ——— 2518 S. Beretania St.; 942-1888; www.kirinhawaii.com. Lunch, dinner. $$

naole Kalania

KUA ‘AINA SANDWICH SHOP In Haleiwa as well as in town, Kua ‘Aina has long been the answer when locals have traditional beef burgers in mind, but the signature mahi burger with house-made tartar sauce runs a close second in popularity. ——— Ward Centre, 1200 Ala Moana Blvd.; 5919133; Haleiwa, 66-160 Kamehameha Hwy., 637-6067. Lunch, dinner. Cash only at Haleiwa location. $$

Highw

nt a r o u l a t s a e h Mabeing Top R for

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H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

TOPR E STAU RANTS | L• L & L DRIVE-INN See People’s Choice Awards, Page 6.

LA MER AT HALEKULANI See People’s Choice Awards, Page 6.

LE BISTRO One of greater Honolulu’s most charming and consistently satisfying restaurants is hidden in this unremarkable strip mall location, where chef-owner Alan Takasaki puts a contemporary spin on country French classics from onion soup to beef daube. Recommended: four-crostini salad, foie gras in quince gastrique, slow and low short ribs. ——— Niu Valley Shopping Center,

5730 Kalanianaole Highway; 373-7990. Dinner (closed Tues). $$$$

LE GUIGNOL On evenings before a Blaisdell Concert Hall show, Le Guignol is the place to be for chef Ala Sutton’s contemporary French preparations. Both three- and five-course fixed-price menus are offered. Recommended: bone marrow with olive oil and sea salt, rabbit with onions and cream reduction, olive oil and black pepper cake with blue cheese ice cream and honey drizzle. ——— Medical Arts Building, 1010 S. King St., No. 108; 591-1809; www.leguignol.org. Lunch (Wed-Fri), dinner (Wed-Sun). $$$$

H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2002

Get a modern take on country French classics at Le Bistro.

‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

•TOPR E STAU RANTS | L LEGEND SEAFOOD RESTAURANT Raucous, crowded and worth the noise assault for the reliably fresh and delicious dim sum and Chinese classics. Especially popular with large family groups on weekends but pretty much busy all the time. Recommended: bao (steamed, stuffed dumplings), joong (sweet rice richly laced with roast pork), look fun (pork-flecked rice noodle roll), egg custard tart. ——— Chinese Cultural Plaza, 100 N. Beretania St.; 532-1868. Lunch, dinner. $$

LIKE LIKE DRIVE INN

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2005

A sample of dim sum served at Legend Seafood Restaurant in the Chinese Cultural Plaza.

This nothing-fancy coffee shop serves everyone — breakfasting families, seniors seeking inexpensive early evening meals, late-night carousers. The menu is heavy on both local-style plate lunch and American diner standards with many meals served in sets with nostalgic sides such as fruit cup and sherbet. Recommended: saimin with a burger deluxe on the side, hash browns with cheese and gravy (not kidding), anytime breakfast items, fried rice. ——— 745 Keeaumoku St.; 941-2515. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, late night. $$

Visit Kenny’s Restaurant or Kenny’s Express for the

“BEST”LOCAL DISHES like our famous Chinese Chicken Salad, Loco Moco, BBQ Beef Tri-Tip, and Hawaiian Reef Fish (on availability) Kenny’s has been feeding Hawaii’s families for 44 years. Now specializing in menus for diners with special dietary requirements, and catering for those memorable events.

Kim Chee II Restaurant Est. in 1977

3569 Waialae Avenue 737-7733 46

‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

841-0931

Kenny’s Kamehameha Shopping Center

922-3333

Kenny’s Hawaiian Barbecue

841-3733 Kenny’s Catering

kennyshawaii.com H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

TOPR E STAU RANTS | L•

HAPPY HOUR! Monday–Saturday 3pm–7pm

& 19TH PUKA

Beer & Drink Specials Lechon Kawali Pork Belly Special

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2007

•Monday Night Football

Pancakes on the grill at Liliha Bakery. At left, Little Village manager Jennifer Chan displays a healthier Chinese diet of grilled fresh akule.

Followed Immediately By Live Music

•Tuesdays Happy Hour All Night Crab Cakes

Tableside Magic with Santos Kidd

•Wednesday-Saturday STAR-ADVERTISER / 2001

LILIHA BAKERY & COFFEE SHOP Though most stop here for the bakery with its unforgettable Coco-Puffs (cream puffs stuffed with chocolate pudding and topped with heavenly chantilly cream), many others are willing to wait in line for a scarce seat at the counter. Recommended: pancakes, grilled butter rolls or cornbread, loco moco, cheeseburger deluxe, grilled mahi mahi and, from the bakery, cinnamon twists. ——— 515 N. Kuakini St.; 531-1651; www.lilihabakeryhawaii.com. Breakfast, lunch, dinner (closed Mon). $$

LITTLE VILLAGE NOODLE HOUSE When Little Village opened in 2001, we fell in love at first bite, as did half of Honolulu. It has since expanded in size, but you still can’t go wrong, no matter what you order from this pan-Chinese menu. And there’s parking! Recommended: Shanghai noodle, salt and pepper pork chop, black pepper beef, clams with black bean sauce, blistered green beans. ——— 1113 Smith St.; 545-3008; www.littlevillagehawaii.com. Lunch, dinner. $$$ H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

Live Music

•Live UH Football Games

LOBSTER KING

Private Parties & Fundraisers Call for details

See The Newbies, page 24.

LOVING HUT

Shoyu Pork

See The Newbies, page 24.

LUIBUENO’S MEXICAN & SEAFOOD RESTAURANT This attractive Mexican-style restaurant is unusual in that its menu is not driven by tacos, tortillas and such but focuses on seafood, mostly in straightforward preparations enlivened by Mexican-style sauces. Worth the drive to the North Shore is a pair of appetizers, scallops or shrimps in Aguachile (“pepper water”) marinade brightly flavored with lime and hot peppers. Recommended: garlic grilled whole fish (a periodic special), fried ice cream. ——— 66-165 Kamehameha Hwy., Haleiwa; 6377717. Lunch, dinner. $$$

Nachos

Joal’s Teriyaki Flap Meat Salad

Ige’s Restaurant & 19th Puka Monday–Saturday 3pm – Closing Sunday Private Parties

98-761 Oihana Place, Aiea

486-3500 ‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

To view events schedule, visit www.igesrestaurant.com

•TOPR E STAU RANTS | M

MAC 24/7 BAR + RESTAURANT It’s hard to believe that before MAC 24/7, Waikiki lacked many 24-hour eating options. The hours, and the menu of amply portioned retro diner and local food options, made an immediate hit. Recommended: towering pancake stack, chicken fried steak with white cheddar mac and cheese, Char Siu Sumo Saimin, peach and berry cobbler. ——— Hilton Waikiki Prince Kuhio, 2500 Kuhio Ave.; 921-5564; www.mac247waikiki.com. Open 24 hours. $$$

MAGURO-YA

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2008

Assorted musubis from Mana Bu’s. They offer more than 50 different rice-ball combinations.

Japanese cuisine cognoscenti swear by this place which, including most sushi bars here, offers a Japan-style rather than local-style experience. You won’t need a translator but you may wish you had one to identify interesting-looking dishes that flow by to other tables. Teishoku — a multicourse menu — is a specialty. Recom-

mended: miso butterfish, karaage (fried) specials, maguro special teishoku (multiple ahi dishes). ——— 3565 Waialae Ave., No. 108; 732-3775. Lunch, dinner (closed Mon). $$

MAILE’S THAI BISTRO See ‘Ilima Awards Critics Choice, Page 13.

MANA BU’S If you think musubi is another word for Spam on rice, this place will change your mind in a minute. Triangular cakes of white rice, brown rice or multigrain rice are stuffed with 30 different selections a day, depending on the chef’s whim. Also, there’s an extensive healthy vegetarian menu. Go early; they run out. Recommended: tuna-mayo, salmon, poke bowls. ——— 1618 S. King St.; 358-0287; www.hawaiimusubi.com. Breakfast, lunch (closed Sundays). Cash only. $$

All Day Dining Sun-Thu 11am-9:30pm Fri & Sat 11am - 10pm Reservations Recommended Take-Out Available

Hawaii Kai Towne Center 333 Keahole Street mailesthaibistro.com

394-2488

Mini Okinawan Sweet Potato & Kalua Pork Cakes

Ricotta Stuffed Chicken

DINE IN – TAKE-OUT Catering from casual to exquisite events

Prepared by Renown Executive Chef DAVID YAMAMOTO 2009 Ilima Award Winner Critics Choice

‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

Soft Shell Crab Alfredo

Signature dishes offered as Daily Specials

237 KALIHI ST. (Corner of Kahai and Kalihi)

ph 845-0320 fax 842-4273 kahaistreet-kitchen.com H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

TOPR E STAU RANTS | M• MARIPOSA Much more than a department store restaurant, this sunny second-floor restaurant in Neiman Marcus serves not only the de rigueur popovers and bouillon but an island contemporary menu under the supervision of chef de cuisine Marc Anthony Freiberg. Numerous lighter selections, exceptional soups and salads. Recommended: grilled lemon shrimp, king crab bruschetta, onaga and clams in tomato broth. ——— Ala Moana Center, 1450 Ala Moana Blvd.; 951-3420; www.neimanmarcushawaii.com. Lunch, dinner. $$$-$$$$

MATSUGEN

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2007

A plate of seared scallops prepared by Mariposa restaurant.

H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

Known for its wide menu of imported soba dishes (buckwheat noodles served with broth on the side) and favored by Japanese nationals, Matsugen lovers have become used to waiting for tables in order to enjoy cold noodles

and tempura or goma (sesame) dipping sauce and bukkake udon (noodles with natto, fermented soybeans). Recommended: any noodle dish, crab salad. ——— 255 Beach Walk, Waikiki; 926-0255. Dinner. $-$$

moving bistro serves made-to-order Italian classics (caprese and bruschetta, house-made pasta and gnocchi, risotto and so on). Recommended: insalata contadina, lobster ravioli in squid ink sauce, spinach ravioli, and tiramisu. ——— 1279 S. King St.; 593-1466. Dinner. $$

MAX’S OF MANILA Max’s dates back to postwar Quezon City and ever since has catered to lovers of the trademark fried chicken — bone in, skin on, fried and cut up. This dish and others are served in ample portions. Recommended: the chicken, of course, garlic fried rice, sinigang (sour tamarind soup), leche flan. ——— 801 Dillingham Blvd., 94-300 Farrington Hwy., Waipahu, 951-6297; www.maxschicken.com. Lunch, dinner. $$

MEDITERRANEO This tiny, somewhat quirky and slow-

MEI SUM DIM SUM RESTAURANT This longtime Chinatown favorite has moved to a roomier space on Nuuanu Avenue and there’s parking around the corner. You can have dim sum via cart at lunch but individual orders are fresher and hotter. The menu extends to Chinese standards such as minute chicken with cake noodle and garlic eggplant. Recommended: taro puffs, mochi rice in banana leaves, vegetarian dry mein, shrimp look fun and tapioca dessert. ——— 1170 Nuuanu Ave., No. 102; 531-3268. Breakfast, lunch, dinner. $

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•TOPR E STAU RANTS | M MICHEL’S AT THE COLONY SURF Perched over the beach with wide-open sliding windows, Michel’s offers an exquisite combination of oceanfront experience and fine French cuisine. The all-but-changeless menu, the table-side service and the formal atmosphere delight regulars who have celebrated special occasions at Michel’s for 40 years. Recommended: lobster bisque, abalone, escargot, Steak Diane, cherries jubilee. ——— Colony Surf Hotel, 2895 Kalakaua Ave.; 9236552; www.michelshawaii.com. Dinner daily, Sunday brunch (first Sunday monthly). $$$$

MITSU-KEN Though this plate-lunch window on School Street offers a varied okazuya menu and does a brisk before-light takeout breakfast business, you can sum up its reputation in two words: garlic chicken — tender boneless chicken morsels, breaded in rice flour batter which is laced with garlic powder, and then deep-fried and dressed with sweet sauce. Recommended: besides the chicken (which can

DRIVE - IN

be purchased in individual pieces, in plate lunch or in catering trays), the breakfast combo with fried rice, bacon and garlic chicken. ——— 1223 N. School St.; 848-5573. Breakfast, lunch (closed Sun-Mon). Cash only. $$

MIX CAFE 1 AND 2 See ‘Ilima Awards Critics Choice, Page 13.

MOLLY’S SMOKEHOUSE The caboose-sized smoker in the parking lot is your first clue that this is THE place on Oahu for authentic, slow-cooked Southern-style barbecue. The second is the eager crowd of Southerners from nearby military bases enjoying pulled pork, brisket and baby back ribs and brandishing handfuls of napkins. Recommended: pulled pork and brisket combo, mac and cheese, corn bread and okra sides. ——— 23 S. Kamehameha Highway, Wahiawa; 621-4858. Lunch, dinner. $$

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2002

Smoked meats from an outside smoker are the specialty of Molly Walker, owner of Molly’s Smokehouse in Wahiawa.

Thank You, Hawaii For voting us Hawaii’s Best Plate Lunch!

French Cuisine

Serving You Since 1961

Kapahulu • 737-0177 • 3308 Kanaina Avenue •

3446 Waialae Ave 734-2737

2008

2007

Hours: 5:30pm-10:30pm (final seating 9pm) Tuesday - Sunday

Try Our Famous OXTAIL SOUP!

private party rooms available see website for full menu

Customer Favorites: Saimin • BBQ Stick • Ahi Nitsuke Corned Beef Hash Tempura Marinated Fried Chicken

cafemirohawaii.com

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

SEKIYA’S RESTAURANT & DELICATESSEN Serving Hawaii for 75 Years!

2746 Kaimuki Ave • ACROSS KAIMUKI H.S.

‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

732-1656 H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

TOPR E STAU RANTS | N-O•

NICO’S PIER 38 It took a white-tablecloth French chef to see the possibilities in an informal dockside setting in Honolulu Harbor for fresh fish and casual but carefully prepared breakfasts, lunches and early dinners. Picnic table dining. Recommended: furikake salmon or ahi, fried ahi belly with a lomi tomato salsa, calamari salad with sweet chili dressing. ——— 1133 N. Nimitz Highway; 540-1377; www.nicospier38.com. Breakfast, lunch (closed Sun). $$

NOBU WAIKIKI Chef Nobu Matsuhisa drops in a few times a year to check on the progress of his island outlet, often preparing special menus. The rest of the time, the chefs he trained prepare his trademark “global Japanese” cuisine in this pricey, sometimes standoffish, sleek cocktail lounge, sushi bar and sit-down restaurant. Recommended: sushi, miso butterfish, selections from the sake menu. ——— Waikiki Parc Hotel, 2333 Helumoa Road; 237-6999; www.noburestaurants.com. Dinner, late night. $$$$

OJIYA Serving the foods of Niigata prefecture, as well as sushi and izakaya-style appetizers and small plates, Ojiya is perhaps best known for introducing the islands to a bet-youcan’t-guess-what-this-is bar snack popular in Japan, gobo chips (deep-fried burdock root). Recommended: tender, chewy Japan-made fresh noodles produced from seaweed paste, baked hanpen (surimi) with mozzarella cheese, pork loin with ginger sauce. ——— 1718 Kapiolani Blvd.; 942-3838; www.ojiyausa.com. Lunch (Tues-Sat), dinner (Tues-Sun), closed Mon. $$

OLA AT TURTLE BAY His restaurant all but spilling onto the sand from a beautiful beach pavilion, chef Fred DeAngelo showcases a contemporary island menu that embodies his philosophy not just of eating but of life: that which is rooted in the aina (land) and the kai (sea), that which is seasonal, local and harvested in an ecologically sensitive manner, that which is healthful but also pleasurable. Recommended: Kalua Pork and Goat Cheese Nachos, Hamakua Mushroom Orzo. ——— Turtle Bay Resort, 57-091 Kamehameha Hwy., Kahuku; 293-0801; www.olaislife.com. Lunch $$, dinner $$$

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

Serving Lunch & Dinner • Take-out Available H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

•TOPR E STAU RANTS | O OLIVE TREE CAFÉ

ORCHIDS

Modern, hip, affordable and representative of an underrepresented cooking style here, that of Greece and its Mediterranean neighbors, Olive Tree Café is a frenetically busy, counter-order, eat-in or take-out spot. Expect the usual: souvlaki, hummus, tabbouleh, fish, lamb, pita sandwiches, avgolemono, Greek salad. Daily specials. ——— 4614 Kilauea Ave.; 737-0303. Dinner. $

This gorgeous beachfront restaurant, draped with its namesake flowers, is a business lunch and date night favorite, and the Sunday brunch spread is eye-popping. Chef Darryl Fujita and executive chef Vikram Gorg collaborate on a refined and sophisticated seafood-driven menu. Recommended: warm Big Island goat cheese, shrimp ravioli, chocolate with roasted banana ice cream. ——— Halekulani, 2199 Kalia Road; 923-2311; www.halekulani.com. Breakfast, lunch, dinner Monday-Saturday; brunch and dinner Sunday. $$$$

‘ONO HAWAIIAN FOODS If you ever drive by and see no line outside ‘Ono Hawaiian Foods, keep driving — they’re closed. This funky little room, crowded with elbow-to-elbow tables, is where Waikiki visitors try to get a taste of indigenous foods. But unlike many visitor magnets, it’s also beloved by locals. Recommended: the supersized laulau equipped with that all-important chunk of fat and copious luau leaf and the chunky lomi salmon. ———

ORINE SARANGCHAE See ‘Ilima Awards Critic’s Choice, Page 11.

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2008

726 Kapahulu Ave., 737-2275 Lunch, dinner (closed Sun). Cash only. $

Nozomi Asai holds two Ojiya Restaurant dishes: Kanpachi Tataki and Gobo Chips.

Since 1990

Open Daily 11am-3am 1785 S. King St.

947-6065 52

‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

TOPR E STAU RANTS | P•

PAH KE’S CHINESE RESTAURANT Chef-owner Raymond Siu spent time in high-end hotel kitchens and here, in a family restaurant he operates with his chef brother and hostess wife, he dresses up a menu of well-done Cantonese standards with surprising specials. Recommended: Raymond’s salads and desserts, plus the kau yuk with steamed bun. ——— 46-018 Kamehameha Hwy.; 235-4505; www.pahke.com. Lunch, dinner. $$

PA‘INA CAFÉ For a light, lower-cal meal of bright flavors and fresh preparations, what better than salads and seafood? Pa‘ina Café’s menu focuses on unusual poke bowls and pa‘ina plates (with choice of white or brown rice, seafood and vegetarian entrées, salads and a choice of sauces and dressings). ———

PANCAKES & WAFFLES See The Newbies, page 25.

PANYA BISTRO AND BAR This Ala Moana Center café has one of the most extensive menus we’ve ever seen, with a mind-boggling range from Asian tavern snacks (spring rolls and spicy wonton) to noodles (try the Malaysian-style laksa), from Vietnamese braised fish to spaghetti. The bakery up front specializes in Japanese-style pastries. ——— Ala Moana Center, 1450 Ala Moana Blvd.; 9466388; www.panyabakery.com. Breakfast, lunch, dinner. $$

PAVILION CAFE, THE Spilling out into a sun-splashed, sculpturelined courtyard through tall, windowed doors, Mike Nevins’ popular cafe is unchanging for good reason: Its large clientele of regulars loves the piadina or portobello sandwiches and Nicoise or mahi-soba salads just the way they are, thank you. Desserts, delightfully, change daily. ——— Honolulu Academy of Arts, 900 S. Beretania St.; 532-8734; www.honoluluacademy.org. Lunch (Tues-Sat), dinner (second Thurs monthly). $$

PHO 1 VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT Go for the beef pho (noodle soup) with its deeply flavored broth and wealth of meats, barbecue pork bun, papaya salad, bun (rice noodle) dishes and spring rolls. Service isn’t their strong point. ——— 1617 Kapiolani Blvd.; 955-3438. Lunch, dinner. $

Ward Warehouse, 1050 Ala Moana Blvd.; 356-2829; www.painacafe.com. Lunch, dinner. $

H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

•TOPR E STAU RANTS | P PINEAPPLE ROOM, THE

PYRAMIDS, THE

See ‘Ilima Awards Critic’s Choice, Page 12.

Greek, Egyptian and Mediterranean specialties are the fare here on a steam table buffet at lunch and with wait service at dinner. Recommended: rejash (marinated lamb) and shawarma (marinated beef and lamb strips). ——— 758 Kapahulu Ave.; 737-2900. Lunch, dinner. $

POKE STOP When chef Elmer Guzman left Sam Choy’s to open a poke store, we thought, “Huh?” Now we think, “Wish there was one near me.” Guzman offers a dozen or so varieties of poke, sushi and sashimi, boutique plate lunches and bentos, and smoked meat by the pound. ——— Waipahu Town Center, 94-050 Farrington Hwy.; 676-8100; 95-1840 Meheula Parkway, Mililani, 626-3400; www.poke-stop.com. Breakfast, lunch, dinner. $$

PRINCE COURT Chef Khamtan Tanhchaleun presides over this many-windowed room with its view of Ala Wai Yacht Harbor. Dinner offers a choice of three fixed-price, four-course dinner menus or a seafood buffet in an East-West style. Recommended: crab hash, curries, oxtail soup with condiments. ——— Hawaii Prince Hotel Waikiki, 100 Holomoana St.; 944-4494; www.princeresortshawaii.com. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, Sunday brunch. $$$

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2007

The back wall sparkles in the evening at Panya Bistro at Ala Moana Center.

LUNCH SPECIALS DAILY 10am-3pm Starting from $5.99

K O R E A N

C U I S I N E

New York City style bagels made with Aloha Over 20 Flavors - Baked Fresh Daily Deli-Style Bagel Sandwiches, Breakfast Bagels,Bagel Danishes, Bagel Dogs, Bagel Chips Homemade Cream Cheeses, Gourmet Espresso Drinks

Home of the Famous Bagels Puffs

RETAIL • WHOLESALE • CATERING • TAKE-OUT

www.bagelshawaii.com

111 Sand Island Access Rd., Rm 1-2

845-2855

Orine Sarangchae Meaning: In traditional Korean housing they invite their family and friends to gather under their family tree for food & drinks.

Open Everyday 10am-2am Free Valet Parking Service with parking validation stamp from tenants. (tipping not required)

‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

Orine Sarangchae

RYCROFT ST

KAHEKA ST

905-A Keeaumoku St.

LIONA ST Enter 1st driveway on right

AHANA ST

955-0646

KEEAUMOKU ST

We Invite You To Our Family Tree

DINE-IN • TAKE OUT • CATERING

Hawaii’s Favorites: Roast Pork, Roast Duck, Minute Chicken with Cake Noodle, Crispy Gau Gee Mein, Steamed Fillet with Ginger Onion, Beef Broccoli, Dim Sum & More.

3611 Waialae Avenue 735-6779

Plate Lunch Specials! Everyday from 8am-2pm

H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

TOPR E STAU RANTS | R•

RAINBOW DRIVE-IN

RUMFIRE

A 49-year-old island institution known for local food served fast at rock-bottom prices. Rotating daily specials have regulars coming in on their “favorite” days for roast pork with gravy, long rice with pork, barbecued ahi and other dishes with the Rainbow touch. Recommended: barbecue pork sandwiches, chili, Loco Moco. ——— 3308 Kanaina Ave., Kapahulu; 737-0177; www.rainbowdrivein.com. Breakfast, lunch, dinner. $

Contemporary “baja-Hawaii” bar food, specialty drinks heavy on the rum, live music, flames dancing in the fire pits on the oceanview patio make up the menu here. Recommended: sampler appetizer (ribs, tacos, empanadas), kim chee fried rice, grilled pineapple Portuguese sausage with smoked sea salt fries. ——— Sheraton Waikiki, 2255 Kalakaua Ave.; 922-4422; www.rumfirewaikiki.com. Lunch, dinner. $$$

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE

THE RANCH HOUSE See Diamond Head Producers Award, Page 16.

ROY’S RESTAURANT See ‘Ilima Awards Star Circle, Page 18.

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2008

Butterfish Misozuke, as served at RumFire, includes an edamame purée with fukujinzuke relish.

We’re not big on chain restaurants, as a rule, but this is a worthy exception. Founder Ruth Fertel created a formula that works: butter-sizzling, flavor-rich steaks, select wine cellars, well-trained staff, side dishes you can get lost in. Recommended: any of the steaks, of course, asparagus with hollandaise, bread pudding with whiskey sauce. ——— Restaurant Row, 500 Ala Moana Blvd., 599-3860; 226 Lewers St., Suite 233, Waikiki, 440-7910; www.ruthschris.com. Dinner. $$$$

RYAN’S GRILL See ‘Ilima Awards Star Circle, Page 19.

Leeward Drive Inn

Since 1964

PH: 671-7323 • Serving Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Ultimate Mix Plate

BBQ Burger with Hand Cut Fresh Fries

The Original Leeward Fried Noodles

Buy any 1 plate plus 2 Fountain drinks, and receive any 2nd plate

(of equal or lesser value)

Leeward Drive Inn H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

94-209 Pupukahi St. • Waipahu, HI 96797 • www.Leewarddrivein.com Hours: Sunday - Thursday 4:30am - 11:00pm • Friday - Saturday 4:30am - 12:00am ‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

•TOPR E STAU RANTS | S

SAM CHOY’S BREAKFAST, LUNCH & CRAB

SHOKUDO JAPANESE RESTAURANT & BAR

A raucous blend of family restaurant and brewpub, with a fishing boat for the kids to climb over, this last Sam Choy outpost serves up large portions of Hawaii regional cuisine, including Choy’s trademark seared poke and multiple mocos. Recommended: Pork Chop Moco, Beef Stew Omelet, crab legs, short ribs. ——— 580 N. Nimitz Hwy.; 545-7979; www.samchoy.com. Breakfast $, lunch $$, dinner $$$.

Known for unusual small plates and an eclectic crowd that grows steadily younger and louder as the wee hours approach, Shokudo (“dining room”) serves food until 2 a.m. on weekends. Whatever you try, be sure to order the oddball but ono ice cream-topped honey toast. Recommended: Beef Tataki Sushi, Garlic Shrimp Rice (in sizzling stone bowl), Yuzu Hamachi Carpaccio, Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice. ——— 1585 Kapiolani Blvd.; 941-3701; www.shokudojapanese.com. Lunch, dinner, late night. $$

SANSEI SEAFOOD RESTAURANT & SUSHI BAR Try the torched Kona kampachi, Crab in Truffle Broth, Ginger Hoisin Smoked Duck Breast, Calamari in Spicy Sauce. ——— Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa, 2552 Kalakaua Ave., third floor; 931-6286; www.sanseihawaii.com. Dinner, late night (Fri-Sat). $$$

SHILLAWON At this popular Korean restaurant specializing in yakiniku (grill-ityourself) meals, they pile on the meats for an all-you-can-eat experience. Or order Korean standards. Recommended: lunchtime shabu shabu, King Kalbi, banchan (side dishes), cinnamon tea. ——— 747 Amana St.; 944-8700. Lunch, dinner. $$

Bringing Family & Friends Together for 15 Years in Hawaii

SIAM GARDEN CAFE Popular with Southeast Asian émigrés and their second-generation hipsters, this Nimitz Highway hangout features Thai and Laotian videos and karaoke and some of the most vibrant Thai food in town. Recommended: whole fish topped with spicy chili sauce, tamarind papaya soup, meat or seafood and long beans stir-fried in ginger-chili paste (pad phrik khing). ——— 1130 N. Nimitz Highway, Suite A130; 523-9338; www.siamgardencafe.com. Lunch (except Sun), dinner. $

Voted #1 for BEST BURGERS OLD FASHIONED BBQ BURGERS

Grandma’s Secret Teriyaki BBQ Sauce Unique Tasty French Fries.

Authentic homemade udon noodles made fresh daily using quality ingredients direct from Kyoto, Japan

W&M

BAR-B-Q BURGERS

Serving Hawaii for 54 years!

OPEN: WED - FRI 10AM - 4:30PM SAT & SUN 9AM - 4:30PM

3104 WAIALAE AVE. 734-3350

Affordable & Reasonably Priced 40 types of Udon Dishes (Including Hot & Cold Udon, Tempura, Curry & More!)

No MSG!

FIRST PLACE

Lunch Tue - Fri 11am - 2pm Dinner 7 days a week 5:30pm - 10pm

BYOB - NO CORKAGE! 1137 11th Ave. • Ph:735-1122 www.himalayankitchen.net

‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

TOPR E STAU RANTS | S• SIDE STREET INN It’s a sports bar. It’s a karaoke club. It’s a broke-damout’ diner serving heaping family-style plates of local favorites. There’s even a decent wine list. There’s no place quite like Colin Nishida’s Side Street Inn unless it’s Side Street on Da Strip in Kapahulu. Recommended: the best deep-fried pork chops and fried rice on the planet; also boneless kalbi, haupia puffs. ——— 1225 Hopaka St., 591-0253; Side Street Inn on Da Strip, 614 Kapahulu Ave., 739-3939; sidestreetinn.com. Afternoon pupu, dinner. $$

SEOUL GARDEN YAKINIKU

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2004

Side Street Inn may have started out as a bar, but has become known for its big plates of food.

Korean food spoken here — no sweet teriyaki flavors in the authentic marinades for the grill-your-own meats and the fiery chigae soups. Seoul Garden is known for its larger-than-usual selection of banchan (free side dishes) — kim chee, daikon, potato, bean sprout, pepper leaf, eggplant, mushroom and more. Recommended: tender bulgogi, spicy sundubu (seafood, tofu, veggie soup), hae mul pae jun (seafood pancake). ——— 1679 Kapiolani Blvd.; 944-4803. Lunch, dinner. $$

5:34 a.m.

@ Honolulu Fish Auction

lunch today?

What’s for

FISH.

FRESH. YES.

Weekly Senior & Military Specials

Open Daily: Lunch 11-2 pm • Dinner 5-9 pm

nicospier38.com H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

803 Kamahamaha Highway, Pearl City 455-5888 www.souvaly.com ‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

•TOPR E STAU RANTS | S SORABOL This is the largest Korean restaurant in the islands, serving the universe of Korean foods, from kalbi to samkaetang (ginseng chicken stew, a healthful hangover remedy). Recommended: steamed butterfish, dolsot bibimbap (egg, rice and kalbi on rice in a hot stone bowl), kalbi chim (braised beef ribs). ——— 805 Keeaumoku St.; 947-3113; www.sorabolhawaii.com. Open 24 hours. $$

SOUL See The Newbies, page 25.

SOUL DE CUBA CAFE The first and still only ristorante Cubano in Hawaii, Soul de Cuba looks like your Auntie Maria’s living room, with family

pictures on the walls, and feels like a lively party with friends. Recommended: medianoche (roast pork Cuban sandwich), ropa vieja (Cuban-style pot roast, lejon asado (mojo-marinated pulled pork). ——— 1121 Bethel St.; 545-2822; www.souldecuba.com. Lunch, dinner, late night (Thurs-Sat). $$

SOUVALY THAI See ‘Ilima Awards Critic’s Choice, Page 14.

SPICES SOUTHEAST ASIAN CUISINE At Spices, you don’t have to choose a single Southeast Asian cuisine, you can sample creative twists on the food from a quartet of countries: Thailand, Vietnam, Laos and Burma. Recommended: Laotian sausage appetizer, pork-

stuffed shrimp, kaffir limeade (when available), housemade tropical fruit and aromatic ice creams and sorbets. ——— 2671 S. King St.; 949-2679; www.spiceshawaii.com. Lunch, dinner (closed Mon). $$

STAGE Chef Elmer de Guzman, sous chef Brian Nagai and dessert chef Cainan Sabey produce sophisticated contemporary Asian-American cuisine in a cutting-edge atmosphere. Recommended: seared-ahi Caesar sandwich and apple blueberry crisp at lunch, kurobuta pork chops and housemade ice creams at dinner. ——— Honolulu Design Center, 1250 Kapiolani Blvd., second floor; 2375429; www.stagerestauranthawaii.com. Lunch, dinner. $$-$$$

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2008

Sorabol offers a wide selection of traditional Korean dishes.

STARTING IN NOVEMBER OPENING ON MONDAYS AND 6:30 AM EVERYDAY

European Style Bakery

Open Tues-Saturday 7:30am-7pm Sunday 7:30am-3pm

Hearth Baked Breads, Vennoiseries, Elegant Desserts, Special Occasion Cakes, Rustic Gourmet Pizzas, Sandwiches and More! Multigrain Breads are our Speciality. 100% All Natural, No Added Chemicals, No Hydrogenated Oils. We only use Olive Oil, Vegetable Oil & Fresh Butter.

988-4310

2752 Woodlawn Dr. • Manoa Marketplace Located in Manoa Marketplace on the corner of Longs Drugs

Locally Owned & Operated for

Over 50 Years! Come try our famous Cheeseburger, Beef Stew & Hamburger Steak!

Wolfgang Zwiener makes a special toast to all our patrons for making us one of O‘ahu’s Best! We hope to see you, again, soon for lunch, dinner weekend brunch and our daily happy hour. 3 HOUR S FREE VA LIDATED PA R K I N G Royal Hawaiian Center, B uilding C, L e ve l 3 808. 922. 3600 • w w w.w olfgangsteakh o u se .n e t 58

‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

Steamed Opakapaka Every Thursday & Friday 743 Waiakamilo Rd. Home of the Award-Winning Beef Stew

845-3943 H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

TOPR E STAU RANTS | S• STARBUCKS

SUSHI IZAKAYA GAKU

SUSHI SASABUNE

See ‘Ilima Awards Star Circle, Page 19.

See ‘Ilima Awards Critic’s Choice, Page 12.

Don’t go here if you don’t like being told what to eat and don’t have deep, deep pockets. But if your tastes in sushi are sophisticated and you’re willing to put yourself in the hands of a master, chef-owner Seiji Kumogawa is your man. Many say Sasabune was the best sushi experience of their lives. You can order off the menu but be prepared for a stern look from chef Seiji. Recommended: Whatever the chef sends over. ——— 1417 S. King St.; 947-3800. Lunch, dinner. $$$-$$$$

SUSHI MASA SUGOI BENTO & CATERING

Sushi chef Masa Nakayama can make or break the experience here. But when he’s in the right head space, he’s funny, charming and eager to impress (though in a restrained and dignified way). Luckily, the quality of his sushi doesn’t depend on his mood; it’s always perfection, beginning with the addictive sushi rice. Recommended: smoked salmon chazuke, pickled eggplant sushi, grilled octopus tentacles. Best bet, just let

Contemporary plate lunches and interesting choices are the specialties here. Recommended: Breakfast Egg Wrap (fried rice wrapped in a meatSTAR-ADVERTISER / 2006 and-vegetableZack Lee serves up a bento with garlic chicken at flecked omelet), Sugoi Bento and Catering. Garlic Chicken, Ahi Moco, yaki choices him choose. (soba, udon or chow fun bowls). ——— ——— Ward Centre, 1200 Ala Moana Blvd.; 593-2007. Lunch, 1286 Kalani St., Ste. B106, 841-7984. dinner. $$$ www.sugoihawaii.com Breakfast, lunch. $

SWEET HOME CAFE If you can get in the door (reservations are a must), you’re in for an experience at this Taiwanese hot pot spot. Pick your broth, pick your ingredients, pick your sauce, cook your meal. Don’t forget to burp politely. Recommended: the spicy broth (no, maybe the curry broth), the dizzying selection of meats and veggies, the complimentary shave ice with tapioca and sweetened condensed milk. ——— 2334 S. King St., Suite 102; 947-3707. Dinner. $$

Home Of The Baked Manapua Since 1974

• Manapua - 11 varieties • Dim Sum • Roasted Meats • Catering Services • Plate Lunches Gift Certificates Available

Phone: 524-4461 / 524-2843 Chinatown Cultural Plaza (Near Kukui & River Streets) Honolulu, HI 96817 Monday - Friday 5:30am - 4:30pm • Saturday 6:30am - 4:30pm • Sunday 6:30am - 2:30pm H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

CHA SIU BAO n 1. A Chinese pork-filled bun. 2. Known in Hawaiian as mea’onopua’a - a delicious thing or pastry made with pork; a term often mispronounced as “manapua.” ‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

•TOPR E STAU RANTS | T

3660 ON THE RISE

TACO RICOS

See People’s Choice Awards, Page 6.

See ‘Ilima Awards Critic’s Choice, Page 10.

12TH AVE. GRILL

TANIOKA’S SEAFOODS & CATERING

Good, honest food — it doesn’t sound like an over-the-top accolade, but it is. Kevin Hanney’s contemporary American diner can be relied on for satisfying, familiar and delicious dishes. Recommended: fried calamari with housemade preserved lemon, macaroni and cheese, grilled pork chops, Samantha Choy’s desserts. ——— 1145C 12th Ave.; 732-9469; www.12thavegrill.com. Dinner (closed Sun). $$$

TAI PAN DIM SUM Tai Pan is a favorite of dim sum aficionados who willingly wait for a seat in this cozy, busy restaurant, even sharing tables. Open early and cheap, cheap, cheap. Recommended: gnau yok (meatballs), mochi rice with pork, carrot mochi, shrimp and chive pancakes. ——— Chinese Cultural Plaza, 1100 N. Beretania St.; 599-8899. Breakfast, lunch, dinner. Cash only. $

See ‘Ilima Awards Critic’s Choice, Page 14.

TANGO CONTEMPORARY CAFE Beneath Marimekko fabric panels hinting at his Finnish background, diners enjoy the fresh, clean flavors of Euro-bistro creations by chef Goran Streng. Lesser known than many of his chefly brethren, Streng long deserved a showcase and here he has it. Recommended: crispy skin gravlax, roasted beet salad, sautéed moi, mushroom risotto with garlic shrimp, affogato di gelato (vanilla bean ice cream with espresso), Swedish pancakes at breakfast. ——— 1288 Ala Moana Blvd. (off Ala Moana in the Hokua complex); 593-7288. Breakfast, lunch, dinner. $$-$$$

izakaya with a twist! 10% OFF CHECK

Everyday Happy Hour 5pm to 7pm Late Night Happy Hour Fri & Sat 10pm to close

Senior Lunch Special (60+) (Tues-Sat) • Large Party reservations available • Take-Out available • Bentos available for pre-order

4 7 7 K A PA H U L U A V E .

| 739-7017 |

W W W . Z E N S H U H AWA I I . C O M

www.ginasbbq.com

ON DA’ STRIP 614 Kapahulu Ave. • 739-3939 Hours: 3pm-12am HOPAKA, ALA MOANA Time subject to change for special events 1225 Hopaka Street • 591-0253 Football Season - Now open on Sunday Dinner Everyday: 2pm-2am • Lunch Mon-Fri 10am-2pm During Mornings @ 6:30am (only Kapahulu) Watch ALL the NFL games here! UH Pay-Per-View Sports Package Available

Valet Parking Available • Karaoke Nightly After 10pm • Full Service Catering Private Parties • WWW.SIDESTREETINN.COM 60

‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

Market City Shopping Center 2919 Kapiolani Blvd.

735-7964

SUN - THURS: 10 AM - 10 PM • FRI - SAT: 10 AM - 11 PM • CATERING AVAILABLE

FIRST PLACE

H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

TOPR E STAU RANTS | T• TAORMINA SICILIAN CUISINE Southern Italian food often gets a bad rap in America, but here you see what it’s all about when it’s at home — and it’s not your grandma’s tomato gravy. No cream sauces or butter here, just the bright, palateteasing flavors of tomatoes, fresh herbs, garlic, fresh cheeses and fruity olive oil. Recommended: Bucatini Fresh Sardine, Sautéed Cod with Fava Bean Souffle, mushroom risotto served with foie gras. ——— 227 Lewers St., Waikiki; 926-5050; www.taorminarestaurant.com. Lunch, dinner. $$$

TEDDY’S BIGGER BURGERS This ’50s-style minichain strives for purity: pure ground chuck burgers, straight-on fries, made to order. Admittedly, they have a little fun with the sides: you can get peanut butter or grilled pineapple on your burger. And this is one of the few places you can still get a malt. ——— Koko Marina Shopping Center, 7192 Kalanianaole Hwy., 394-9100; 539 Kailua Road, 262-0820; 134 Kapahulu Ave., 926-3444; www.teddysbiggerburgers.com. Lunch, dinner. $-$$ STAR-ADVERTISER / 2008

Sautéed Moi with Tomato Fennel Coulis is served on ratatouille of vegetables at Tango Contemporary Café.

“Best Island Creperie”

TravelChannel.com

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, dessert and in-between. Serving a selection of delicious sweet & savory crepes and a variety of gourmet loose-leaf teas.

Our Ahi and Eggs was just voted by Food Network Magazine as the Best Breakfast in Hawaii

Mondays & Wednesdays 4pm-8pm Buy 2 Savory Crepes and get 50% Off Any Dessert Crepe.

BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER 6 AM -2 PM • 5 PM – 10 PM 7 DAYS A WEEK

343 Saratoga Road (Across the Waikiki Post Office)

923-EGGS (3447) • www.eggsnthings.com H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

2009 & 2010 Ilima Award Winner Critics Choice

131 Hekili Street, #106 • Open every day but Tuesday • 808-263-4088 ‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

•TOPR E STAU RANTS | T THELMA’S RESTAURANT

TOKKURI TEI

TOWN

Like a visit to Tita’s kitchen, this busy, no-frills, family-friendly restaurant serves up inexpensive Filipino standards with both buffet and table service. Recommended: pork adobo, squid guisantes, lechon kawali, halo halo dessert. ——— 94-366 Pupupani St., Waipahu; 677-0443. Lunch, dinner. $

Order “bata” dishes (sautéed in butter) or kushi yaki (broiled on skewers) or chef Hideyaki “Santa” Miyoshi’s signature Spider Poke (an award winner involving fish, roe and a chili vinaigrette). Exceptional sake menu. Recommended: noritos (battered stuffed nori) and soshitos (grilled green pepper), hamachi kama (fried fish collar), squid pancake. ——— 611 Kapahulu Ave.; 739-2800. Lunch (Mon-Fri), dinner. $$

TO CHAU Nothing complicated here: It’s the broth, baby. This restaurant is all things pho (Vietnamese beef noodle soup) though they do serve a few rice and bun dishes. Just check the line out front day after day. They’re there for the huge portions, the richly flavored broth and the rock-bottom prices. ——— 1007 River St.; 533-4549. Lunch. $

TONKATSU GINZA BAIRIN WAIKIKI You truly have not experienced tonkatsu as it should be until you’ve found this tucked-away outpost of a Tokyo restaurant famed for its way with breaded pork cutlets. Forget the greasy, dry, stringy versions you may have tried; the kurobuta center-cut loin here is so tender you can cut it with a chopstick. Recommended: besides the tonkatsu, the scallopine-like sautéed ginger pork cutlet. ——— Outrigger Regency on Beachwalk, 255 Beach Walk, street level rear of hotel; 926-8082. Lunch, dinner (late night (FriSat). $$$

See ‘Ilima Awards Critic’s Choice, Page 8.

TSUKENEYA ROBATA GRILL The only izakaya of its type here, Tsukeneya is a Nagoya-style pub specializing in skewered, grilled and fired foods cooked over super-hot white charcoal, which imparts a slightly smoky flavor without harshness. Recommended: tsukune (deep-fried “lollipop” croquettes), deep-fried chicken in miso sauce. ——— 1442 University Ave.; 943-0390; www.tsukeneyarobatagrill.com. Dinner. $-$$

SIAM KITCHEN EXPRESS

Mahalo Hawaii!

The closest Hawaiian can get to THAI Cuisine Perfection!

Best Thai Restaurant

Best American Food & Best Social Media Campaign

Truly Authentic Thai Quality

98-020 Kam Hwy., Aiea Ph: 488-8985

(Waimalu Shopping Center, across from Best Buy)

Sun-Thu 10:30am to 9pm • Fri & Sat 10:30am to 10pm

Dine-In • Take-out • Catering

- 2010 Star-Advertiser

FIRST PLACE

KAIMUKI

738.8855 KAILUA

263.8880 WAIPIO

678.8868

PEARLRIDGE EAST

487.8188

Best Restaurant Under $20! - Hale ‘Aina Award

WARD ENTERTAINMENT CENTER

Best Family & Casual Restaurant

591.8891

- `Ilima Award

FIRST PLACE

www.bigcitydinerhawaii.com

‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

TOPR E STAU RANTS | V-W•

V LOUNGE See ‘Ilima Awards Critic’s Choice, Page 10.

VINO Master sommelier Chuck Furuya and chefrestaurateur D.K. Kodama love good food and great wine, and in this cozy wine bar, they indulge their passion. Furuya often hosts events that feel more like a private party in his home. And chef Keith Endo creates enticing contemporary Italian bar food. Recommended: Ligurian shrimp, threecheese gnocchi, sweet potato ravioli, crispy pork belly. ——— Restaurant Row, 500 Ala Moana Blvd.; 524-8466; www.vinohawaii.com. Dinner. $$-$$$

One of the

BEST SUSHI Restaurants In Hawaii Japanese Restaurant

AKASAKA 1646-B Kona Street

Paid Parking reimbursed by restaurant.

942-4466

WAILANA COFFEE HOUSE The Wailana is the kind of place where you can still get one of those complete diner meals (soup or salad, entrée, vegetable, starch and something like Jell-O or sherbet for dessert), visit a salad bar or order a French dip from a waitress who’s been at it longer than you’ve been alive. Breakfast all day. Big portions, small prices. Recommended: all-you-can-eat pancakes or French toast with coconut syrup, chicken cutlet. ——— 1860 Ala Moana Blvd.; 955-1764. Open 24 hours. $

WHOLE FOODS MARKET The deli here is like a culinary trip around the world: On any given day there might be Middle Eastern humus or tabbouli salad, Thai noodles, Vietnamese spring rolls, Italian pizza and panini. And there are many healthful and vegetarian selections. Recommended: fresh, hot pesto pizza, smoked brisket. ——— Kahala Mall, 4211 Waialae Ave.; 738-0820; http://wholefoodsmarket.com/storesbeta/honolulu/. Takeout morning to evening. $$

Serving Hawaii’s Families for over 50 Years!! Prime Rib Dinner for 2 . . .$3495 Lobster Nabe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$2795 TAKE OUT LUNCH COUNTER Mon - Fri 10am - 2pm Mini, Regular & Large Plates $4.50 - $6.50

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New Eagle Cafe “Just Fine Food”

1130 N. Nimitz Hwy.

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www.SpicyHouseHawaii.com • 668-6646 H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

545-2233

www.neweaglecafe.net ‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

•TOPR E STAU RANTS | W-Z

Y-Z

WILLOWS, THE The Willows truly is one of a kind: an acre of lush gardens and koi ponds, seating in “floating” pavilions and daily old-style Hawaiian buffets at lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. Recommended: chicken and shrimp curry, suckling pig (Friday and Saturdays only), coconut bread pudding and fried haupia. ——— 901 Hausten St.; 952-9200; www.willowshawaii.com. Lunch, dinner, Sunday brunch. $$

WOLFGANG’S STEAKHOUSE

YANAGI SUSHI

Wolfgang Zweiner, a Peter Luger protege, infuses his German heritage into the traditional American steakhouse model, creating a neo-classic dining experience. Recommended: sizzling Canadian bacon appetizer, dry-aged porterhouse steak, housemade steak sauce. ——— Royal Hawaiian Center, third floor, 2301 Kalakaua Ave.; 922-3600; wolfgangsteakhouse.com. Lunch, dinner. $$$$

At chef-owner Haruo Nakayama’s restaurant, expect everything possible in a Japanese restaurant: tables, tatami rooms, a sushi bar, kaiseki dinners, donburi bowls, nabemono (hot pot), izakaya-style small plates, tempura and yakitori and late-night hours, too. Recommended: pristine fresh sashimi and classic as well as contemporary sushi, late-night snack specials. ——— 762 Kapiolani Blvd.; 597-1525; yanagisushi-hawaii.com. Lunch, dinner, late night. $$

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2005

The Willows is known as much for its tranquil setting as for its Hawaiian buffets.

Zippy’s. See ‘Ilima Awards Star Circle, Page 19.

HANDMADE HANDMADE FROM FROM SCRATCH SCRATCH DAILY DAILY WITH WITH FRESH FRESH INGREDIENTS INGREDIENTS & & LOTS LOTS OF OF LOVE LOVE & & ALOHA! ALOHA! Grown, Bread, Fed...Local

Serving 100% Big Island Burgers • Our Beef is homegrown, grass fed on the free range. • We strive to use local products.

Just a few of the favorites… Amazing Plain, Lilikoi, Blueberry, Kahlua, Red Velvet, Chocolate Haupia, Keylime, Chocolate Peanut Butter & more!

Order by the slice or the whole pie

Chocolate Chip Cookies Brownies Strawberry Ginger Lemonade

Cheesecake Sandwich

Chocolate Espresso Milkshake

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834-OTTO (6886) Open Daily 10:30am - 9:00pm • Free parking next to restaurant

1295 S. Beretania St. • Ph. 626-5202

See our website www.honoluluburgerco.com for our menu and specials 64

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M-Th 10am-6pm Fr-Sa 10am-8pm Sun 10am-3pm

H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

READ MORE ABOUT IT• KEEP UP WITH THE ISLE DINING SCENE The Honolulu Star-Advertiser offers a full menu of tasty and informative articles, reviews, blogs and event calendars on Hawaii’s food and dining scene:

where

FOOD Check the Today section on Wednesdays for our weekly Food coverage, including features exploring local food traditions and trends, farmers market listings, wine recommendations, and Betty Shimabukuro’s popular “By Request” column.

satisfaction is measured in

ounces. Whether you choose an exceptional 10-ounce Filet Mignon, or our exquisite 16-ounce Wagyu Rib Eye, every bite of a beachhouse steak is tender, juicy and absolutely flavorful. Indulge your palate in our elegant, oceanfront setting and discover the true art of fulfillment.

THE WEEKLY EATER Don’t miss dining diva Nadine Kam’s frank and revealing reviews of local restaurants in Wednesday’s Today section and online at www.staradvertiser.com.

PAU HANA PATROL Find out who’s got the best Happy Hour deals on palate-pleasing pupu and creative cocktails in this weekly feature in the TGIF weekend entertainment guide, published on Fridays.

mahalo for voting beachhouse as one of o‘ahu top restaur ants

QUICK BITES Get the latest info on special events and deals at local restaurants in this weekly TGIF feature.

TAKE A BITE Nadine Kam and other Star-Advertiser staffers discuss their latest meal experiences and other foodie news, complete with photos, on this lively blog at http://honolulupulse.com.

PULSE Get on-the-spot photo and story coverage of Honolulu’s hippest food and beverage happenings and find out where the fun is tonight at www.honolulupulse.com. H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

A ﬁ ne steak. A ﬁ ne experience.

DINING OUT Look for chef interviews, restaurant features, eatery listings, recipes and enticing photos in this Sunday advertising supplement.

beachhousewaikiki.com • 921-4600 Complimentary valet parking.

‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

•DININGETIQUETTE TIPS ON TIPPING A tip is a recognition of good service in a restaurant. It is often shared by your server with the kitchen and bus staff. How much should you tip? >> Sit-down dining: 15 to 20 percent; 25 percent for extraordinary service. >> Casual restaurants: No tipping is necessary if you order at the counter, even if the food is delivered to your table. If you receive other service, such as refilling of drinks, a 5 to 10 percent tip is nice. >> At buffets: If your server takes drink orders and checks on you, $1 to $2 per person is appreciated. At fancy buffets a gratuity is often automatically added to the bill, especially for large parties. >> Tip jar: Optional, but if your order is large or complicated, a 5 to 10 percent tip is considerate. >> At the bar: 10 to 15 percent of bar bill. >> If the owner or chef serves you: You should still tip. The cash will probably go to the kitchen and dining room staff. >> And remember: Base your tip on the value of your meal before any discounts such as coupons or gift certificates are applied. If the chef sends out a complimentary dish, take that into account as well. Source: itipping.com, What’s Cooking America

BRUCE ASATO / BASATO@STARADVERTISER.COM

Vince Balao sets tables at Alan Wong’s, an Oahu establishment where reservations are critical. If you plan ahead and are flexible, though, it’s not that hard to get a table.

EL HARRO MEXICANO AIEA RESTAURANT “Experience the Flavors of Mexico” Homestyle Mexican Cuisine

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1221 Kapiolani Blvd. #105 Tel: 589-2989 H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

DININGETIQUETTE• YES, YOU CAN GET A RESERVATION Think you don’t have a shot at scoring a reservation at the hottest new eatery in town? What about claiming the best table at the busiest? Yes, you do, says Amy Finsilver, general manager at XV Beacon Hotel and former chef concierge at the Four Seasons Hotel in Boston. So how do you do it? Get to know the people at the restaurant you want to visit. If it’s an exclusive restaurant, plan in advance. Many restaurants use OpenTable, the online reservation service at www.opentable.com. Learn how to use it so you can see what’s going on before you make your first call. Finsilver offered these tips: SO THERE’S WIGGLE ROOM?

There is flexibility and accommodation. Any restaurant can make room for you, if you can make adjustments for them. If you say, “I’d like to come in on a weeknight,” or “I want to eat around 7 p.m.,” we can look and see what we’ve got on the books. Maybe you come in at 6:45 p.m. on a busy night. Restaurateurs want your business. If you can be flexible, usually we can accommodate you. BUT DOESN’T THAT ONLY WORK FOR REGULAR CUSTOMERS?

A regular guest already has a built-in rapport. If you don’t know a restaurant or it’s new, call them up and say, “I’m interested in dining at your restaurant,” and take it from there. When I worked as a concierge, I always had my staff call ahead and ask the restaurant about when they might have an opening. That would work. Also, you can just tell them, “I’d like to eat at your restaurant. Call me when you have any openings.” They are going to call because they don’t want to leave a table open. And there are always cancellations. SOME PLACES INSIST THEY DON’T TAKE RESERVATIONS. IS THERE ANY WAY AROUND THAT?

There are restaurants that don’t take reservations, but they will still accommodate you for a special event — an anniversary or a large party — because they don’t want to get slammed any more than they want to lose your business. Asking in person can help. And being flexible is key. If you call and ask what time you have the best chance, you’re probably going to get an answer that lets you get dinner. You might have to wait at the bar, but at least you know going in.

H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

SOMETIMES IT SEEMS LIKE VIPS GET WHISKED RIGHT IN WHILE THE REST OF US ARE LEFT TO COOL OUR HEELS. DOES THAT HAPPEN?

No. It might look like they do, but, of course, they called ahead. When we’ve had heads of state or someone in the public eye where security is an issue, we might have a team that comes in before. Often we have bodyguards or security or staff concerns, and they might be seated at tables next to them. And even when they don’t eat, they pay for the service and the tables. Sometimes this frustrates other guests, but they have to know the discussion about that dinner probably started weeks in advance. WHAT’S THE WORST TIME TO TRY TO GET A RESERVATION?

It’s always hard to get in when a restaurant first opens or after it is reviewed in the newspaper. Some people want to be at the restaurant right at the beginning. That’s fine, but I always tell people it might be better to head back later when things have settled. I always wait for a few weeks until the new staff gets everything the way they want it. WHAT ABOUT GETTING THE BEST TABLE?

There’s no such thing as one great table in any restaurant because what’s a great table to you might not be a great table for me. One person thinks the best table is in the center. Another wants to be off to the side. It’s all perception. Or it changes by occasion. We’ll get calls where a guy says he wants to propose, and he doesn’t want to be the center of attention, so the best table for him is the one in the corner. ——— Boston Globe

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•BESTBAKERIES

Here are some of the best bakeries that Oahu provides

AGNES’ PORTUGUESE BAKE SHOP

CHAMPION MALASADAS While they’re most popular for their, well, malasadas, they also make glazed doughnuts, hot cross buns and chiffon cakes. And breakfast bentos. ——— 1926 S. Beretania St.; 947-8778; open 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesdays to Saturdays and 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays.

Agnes’ fills a niche for those seeking Portuguese fare by offering not just baked goods, but Portuguese bean soup and vinha d’ahlos (pickled pork). There’s also a full line of bakery and espresso drinks for coffee lovers. Other must-tastes: malassadas, raspberry Russian tea biscuits and healthful breads. ——— 46 Hoolai St., Kailua; 262-5367, www.agnesbakeshop.com; open 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays to Saturdays and 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sundays.

FENDU BOULANGERIE See Top Restaurants, Page 37

GRAND CAFE & BAKERY See Top Restaurants, Page 38

CAFÉ LAUFER Some of this bakery’s popular desserts include a Banana Oreo Cookie Torte and white wine gel with assorted fresh fruits. They also do dinner specials, such as Beef Stroganoff, Chicken and Sausage Paella, and Fish with Lemon Caper Butter Sauce. ——— 3565 Waialae Ave.; 735-7717, www.cafelaufer.com; 5 to 9 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays to Saturdays.

CAKE COUTURE Cake flavors change daily — from spice cupcakes to coconut and the bakery’s best seller, red velvet. Also

HOKULANI BAKE SHOP STAR-ADVERTISER / 2005

Various pastries at Cafe Laufer in Kaimuki. available during the holidays are seasonal flavors for Thanksgiving and Christmas, including pumpkin, egg nog and gingerbread. ——— Aina Haina Shopping Center, 820 W. Hind Drive; 373-9750, www.cakecouture .com; open 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Mondays to Fridays and 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays. Also at Davies Pacific Center, 841 Bishop St., Suite 151; 585-9750; open 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Mondays to Fridays.

CAKE WORKS Cake Works specializes in custom cakes for any occasion — “If you can dream it, they can make it.” In addition to their popular red velvet cake and house-made tiramisu, they’re also known for their scones, which come in a variety of flavors. ——— 2820 S. King St.; 946-4333, www.cakeworkshi.com; open 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays to Saturdays and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays.

Cupcakes come in more than a dozen varieties, including top-seller Southern red velvet with cream cheese frosting. Other flavors: lilikoi with lemon cream cheese frosting and strawberry guava with cream cheese frosting. ——— Restaurant Row; 536-2253, www.hokulanibakeshop.com; open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays to Fridays and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays;Pioneer Plaza, 900 Fort Street Mall, ground floor; open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays to Fridays.

JJ BISTRO & FRENCH PASTRY See Diamond Head Theatre Showstoppers, Page 16

Cupcakes from Hokulani Bake Shop. STAR-ADVERTISER / 2010

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H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

BESTBAKERIES• LEONARD’S BAKERY In addition to their wildly popular malasadas, Leonard’s other best-sellers include pao doce (sweet bread) wrapped around savory goodies like Portuguese sausage, hot dogs or ham and cheese. New desserts include banana cream cheese squares and pumpkin cream cheese squares. ——— 933 Kapahulu Ave.; 737-5591; www.leonardshawaii.com; open 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays to Thursdays and 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturday.

LILIHA BAKERY & COFFEE SHOP See Top Restaurants, Page 47

NANDING’S BAKERY Best sellers include Spanish rolls and ensemadas, which come plain, ube-flavored or with strips of coconut. Other favorites are baked chicken empanadas and pianono (jelly rolls) with butter, cream cheese, guava or pineapple fillings. ——— 918 Gulick Ave., Kalihi; 841-4731; open 4:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays and Mondays, 4:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays to Thursdays, and 4:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; cash only. Also at 94-216 Farrington Highway, Waipahu; 678-0828; open 4:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2005

PANYA BISTRO & BAR See Top Restaurants, Page 53

SUGAR RUSH BY FRANCES See ‘Ilima Awards Critic’s Choice, Page 14.

TED’S BAKERY The dessert that automatically comes to mind when this bakery is mentioned is Ted’s chocolate haupia pie and other cream pies. But Ted’s is also known for plate lunches, including garlic shrimp, barbecue chicken and mahimahi, as well as loco moco breakfasts. ——— 59-024 Kamehameha Highway, Haleiwa; 638-8207, www.tedsbakery.com; open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily; no checks; $ H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2007

At top, Leonard’s malasadas, a local favorite. Above, the Spanish rolls are Nanding’s Bakery’s best sellers.

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2009

At left, Ted’s Bakery manager April Teixeira with their popular chocolate haupia pie. ‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

•BEST OF PAU HANA PATR O L

Some of the best in TGIF’s weekly happy-hour column

BAR 35

STAR-ADVERTISER STAFF features@staradvertiser.com

When a full meal isn’t absolutely necessary — or when reasonably priced cocktails are — leave it to Honolulu’s thriving bar scene to provide a number of food and drink options. All of the following establishments have been featured in “Pau Hana Patrol,” the Star-Advertiser’s weekly happy-hour column in TGIF, receiving high praise from our critics. A few restaurants, among them 12th Avenue Grill, Shokudo and Sam Choy’s, would also be on this list, but they have already been noted elsewhere in this year’s guide, so they’re not duplicated here. Another bar, V Lounge, is definitely worth a visit; see Page 63 for details. The following list is in alphabetical order. Pay a visit to any of these places during happy hour and you’ll find tasty morsels and yummy libations that will help soothe the soul after a long day on the job.

35 N. Hotel St., 537-3535, www.bar35hawaii.com. Happy hour: 4-8 p.m. Monday-Saturday

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2010

The interior of Apartment3 at Century Center.

APARTMENT3 1750 Kalakaua Ave., 955-9300, www. apartmentthree.com. Happy hour: 6 p.m.2 a.m. Tuesday; also 6-8 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 7-8 p.m. Saturday Australians of a certain age should be able to recall — granted, with various degrees of clarity — what was once called the “6 o’clock swill.” This not-so-happy-hour ritual became part of weekday life down under after the Australian equivalent of Mothers Against Drunk Driving got a law passed that forced bars to close at 6 p.m. That gave people who got off work at 5 p.m. just one short hour to “swill” as much as they could before last call. Fortunately, saner minds eventually prevailed and the law was repealed. There might be establishments in Honolulu today where the pau hana vibe is about speed-drinking and bottom-ofthe-well pours, but Apartment3 offers a far more mature and sophisticated happy-hour experience. Whether the plan is to stop in after work or to start the night there with a few cocktails and a light dinner, the Century Center hideaway owned by Flash 70

‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2010

Bar 35’s outside patio. The gourmet pizzas are a must-try. Hansen, Matt “Matty Boy” Hazelgrove and Charles “Chip” Jewitt is a great choice for adults interested in atmosphere as well as affordable food and a well-stocked bar. An easy choice from the happy-hour menu is any one of the thin-crust pizzas ($5), which are a smaller version of the standard entree but still more than enough to share with friends. Another is the K.F.C. ($1 each), chicken drumettes twice fried and doused in a Korean chili sauce. The standard menu is too tempting to

ignore, and the prices aren’t outrageous. Consider the Mini Sammies ($4 each or three for $11) or the Cheese and Honey plate of fruit and cheese drizzled with honey ($12). And, if you’re not the designated driver of the group, be sure to take advantage of the pau hana drink specials and sample one or two of the Apartment3 specialty cocktails. Unlike the unfortunate Australians of years past, there’s no need to race the clock at Apartment3. — John Berger, Star-Advertiser

This bar not only has the most delicious gourmet pizza in town, but also is a beer connoisseur’s dream, offering more than 100 different beers from around the world. When you walk into the bar, your eyes will need a minute to adjust because the room is dark. This feels a little strange when you have just come in from the bright afternoon sun on Hotel Street, but don’t let that deter you from trying out this place. The indoor space at Bar 35 is large, with open areas to walk or stand and plenty of seating on high bar stools and comfy, oversize love seats and couches throughout. If you enjoy being outside, there is also a relaxing patio area in the back that is great for lounging. The atmosphere during happy hour is more laid-back than during the bar’s typically crazy weekend nights. The crowd here is young and the turnout is great, and you can’t beat the happy-hour prices with $3 Skyy cocktails as well as discounted beers. Pupu at Bar 35 are not discounted, however, and the menu is limited. The gourmet pizzas come with a variety of inventive toppings and have clever names. I would not even categorize it as bar food. Try the Sweet Bangkok pizza, which is prepared with Chinese sausage, sweet chili sauce, cilantro, tomato sauce and mozzarella. Looking for something to do while you drink? Every night at Bar 35 features a different event. Mondays are Wii game nights, with bowling tournaments and happy-hour prices all evening. Wednesday nights feature “House of Brews,” a beer tasting with complimentary pizza samples from 6 to 8 p.m. An impressive beer list, amazing pizza, great crowd and friendly bartenders make Bar 35 the place to be after work in downtown. — Carey Reynolds, Special to the StarAdvertiser

H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

BEST OF PAU HANA PATR O L• ‘H.A.B.I.T.’ AT BONSAI 500 Ala Moana Blvd., 525-5080, www.bonsaihonolulu.com. Happy hour: 5:30 p.m.-midnight Tuesday When Hanson Nguyen decided he wanted a new place to go on Tuesday nights for drinks and down time with friends, he did the only thing he could do: He planned and launched the party himself. “H.A.B.I.T.” — Hospitality and Bar Industry Tuesday — launched in June, with different party choices for guests bringing distinct groups of people into the restaurant at Waterfront Plaza during different times of the night. The multilevel space with additional outdoor seating gives Nguyen plenty of real estate to execute different vibes within the same location. On the other side of the room, a table of women lounged next to a couple enjoying drinks and pupu. Soon, the first movie of a scheduled double-feature would start, followed by resident DJ KT jumping on the decks — and TV screens — with his style of video mixing until midnight. Throughout the evening, Nguyen added, the upstairs dining room at Bonsai would remain available for those looking for a slightly quieter place to hang out. — Jason Genegabus, Star-Advertiser

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2010

Hanson Nguyen demonstrated how to drink a sake bomb during “H.A.B.I.T.” at Bonsai. At right, some of the dishes offered at Bonsai include (from top) Spicy Tempura, $7; Garlic Shrimp, $8; and Chicken Karaage, $6.

CAFE DUCK BUTT 901 Kawaiahao St., 593-1880. Happy hour: 5-8 p.m. daily

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2010

One of the popular dishes of Cafe Duck Butt is the Korean-style tacos stuffed with pork belly, chicken and kalbi along with chili sauce and cabbage and other vegetables. H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

Cafe Duck Butt is a strange bird, but I enjoy the hell out of it. From the goofy name to the electric color scheme to the extensive menu, this karaoke joint is a jolt to the senses. The main room is bathed in neon colors — lime green, electric blue, violet. The tables are booth style, with comfortable bench seats, set up for convivial gatherings. Korean karaoke videos play nonstop on multiple screens. The effect is contempo-budget-Asian, slick, bright and comfortable. Come early enough during the daily happy hour, and you may be the only party or see just a few other people. But later in the evening, on weekends particularly, Cafe Duck Butt may fill to capacity with karaoke-room revelers and tables full of in-the-know locals who have the good grinds and reasonable drink prices wired. The food is good, the service relatively fast and friendly. When I visited with a party of four, the manager dropped by to check on our reaction to the Korean tacos recently added to the menu, of which he was justifiably proud. While I’m neither young nor Korean — the primary crowd at Duck Butt — I’ve been a few times now, and each time I’ve been greeted quickly, with my questions answered promptly and food served right away. The karaoke rooms, one of which I recently experienced at a friend’s going-away party, are similarly comfortable, and the service (order by wall phone) is just as responsive. Staffers were even good-natured when my big karaoke party’s members insisted on starting beaucoup individual tabs. That’s when you know you’ve got a professional, patient crew. — Elizabeth Kieszkowski, Star-Advertiser ‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

•BEST OF PAU HANA PATR O L GENIUS LOUNGE 346 Lewers St., 626-5362. Happy hour: 6-8 p.m. daily The happy-hour drink specials at the Genius Lounge are great, but the biggest thrill about this buzz-worthy hangout is the location itself. Genius is the kind of place that makes you think, “Why didn’t I know about this already?” And then, “How soon can I come back?” It’s cute and cheery, with a hip, Japanese sensibility. It’s comfortable but not shabby. It’s in Waikiki! And yet it’s not that pricey. If I lived in Waikiki, I would probably stop in to Genius often — honestly, it’s that attractive. Just skip up the stairs around the side of the Genius Outfitters boutique on Lewers Street, and the crush and noise of touristville fade away. At the top of the stairs: Boom! Complete change of environment, from concrete jungle to airy hideaway. The word “pretty” comes to mind as I gaze on the back lanai — the first thing you see upon scaling the stairs. It’s small but well ordered, ideally suited to catch the late-afternoon sun, then transition into a softly lit landing place, scattered with cocktail tables and a love seat, and embellished with a candle-lit wall. Inside, there’s a bar and a few tables, with repurposed home furnishings serving as side cabinets. It’s shabby chic — but more chic than shabby. Keep going toward the front, and another lanai overlooks Lewers, high enough to keep you above the fray. As the sun sets, small lights strung along the wrought-iron fencing give the place a twee glow. Value drinks in a charming setting: That’s enough to make you feel a bit smarter than before you discovered the joint. — Elizabeth Kieszkowski, Star-Advertiser

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2010

Above, a detail of the squash and bacon pupu at the Genius Lounge in Waikiki. At right, happy-hour specials include homemade sangria $3.50, Kirin or Bud Light beer for $2.50 and the house sake for $5.

HIDEAWAY BAR 1913 Dudoit Lane, 949-9885. Happy hour: 6-7 p.m. daily Bars are a little like recording artists and their songs: Some put out hits for a short time and then fizzle out, while others entertain generations of fans. Some are great during the holidays, and others just can’t be remade. Then sometimes Michael Bolton takes a great thing and goes and stamps his creepy mark on it and ruins it for the world. Thank God I don’t care about transitions, because writing about a Michael Bolton bar would be terrible. Instead, I get to write about a bar that’s much more like the Ramones. The Ramones didn’t offer much refinement or production value in their music, and I’d really be surprised if there were more than four chords to any Ramones recording before 1985. They didn’t need it. Same goes for the Hideaway Bar on the fringe of Waikiki. You won’t find gimmicks here, just cheap drinks. But it’s not only punk-rock types who frequent this prototypical dive bar. Club kids looking for a place to start (or end) their nights as well as businessmen are often seen sharing space with heavily tattooed bikers. The Hideaway appeals to many different kinds of people, and those who are too intimidated by its surly reputation are probably more Michael Bolton’s crowd anyway. During “Power Hour” from 6 to 7 p.m. daily, all domestic beers and well drinks are $1. “Power” is fitting, since I’ve never had a watered-down drink here. Normal drink prices are what most other bars call their happy-hour specials, so even if you don’t make it during “Power Hour,” you’ll never overpay for drinks. Unfortunately, about the only food available is the gum stuck to the bottom of a few of the tables. But hey, the Ramones never ate. They only drank, right? There’s really no excuse to pass on a trip here. They open at 6 in the morning and sell cheap drinks that get even cheaper at dinnertime. And they are nothing like Michael Bolton. — Kawika Kanae, Special to the Star-Advertiser 72

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STAR-ADVERTISER / 2010

The Hideaway Bar in Waikiki has some of the lowest happy-hour beer prices. H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

BEST OF PAU HANA PATR O L• KOCHI RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE 1936 S. King St., 941-2835. Happy hour: 5-7 p.m. daily

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2010

Bartender Ron Nakamura grabs a few bottles of beer to accompany the smorgasbord of happy-hour menu items at Kochi Restaurant and Lounge.

When I was growing up, a visit to 1936 S. King St. meant just one thing: a short stack of pancakes from King’s Bakery. Now that I’m all grown up, a visit to the same spot means happyhour drinks and pupu at Kochi Restaurant and Lounge, owned by the same family as Gulick Delicatessen located next door. There’s no mistaking the space Kochi resides in as a coffee shop, since it was completely redone when the establishment first opened in 2007. About a dozen bar stools surround the square-shaped bar in Kochi’s lounge, with a handful of small tables designed to seat two or three customers and a pair of longer tables that can accommodate larger groups. Couches round out the seating options, which are designed to provide a clear view of the flat screens that hang in the lounge. Food options are plentiful, with a variety of Japanese and localstyle pupu plus a couple of surprises. You can’t go wrong with the Chicken Katsu ($5) or Spicy Teri Edamame ($3.95), but also consider the Popcorn Tako ($5) and the Corned Beef Hash Balls ($5). The former is a nice substitute for popcorn shrimp, while the latter goes surprisingly well with beer (guess you really can deep-fry anything and serve it in a bar). Pau hana regulars at Kochi tend to skew a bit older, so don’t expect the same type of people who might also visit bars like Tsunami’s or Uncle Bo’s. Still, if you’re looking for a quiet spot to finish the day with drinks and food, Kochi is a worthy pick. — Jason Genegabus, Star-Advertiser

THIRTYNINEHOTEL 39 N. Hotel St., 599-2552, www.thirtyninehotel.com. Happy hour: 4-8 p.m.

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2010

Thirtyninehotel serves half-priced mixed drinks during happy hour. H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

New happy-hour options in Chinatown have sprung up in recent years, but the best place for pau hana continues to be a cornerstone of the neighborhood’s renaissance since it opened six years ago. The really cool thing about thirtyninehotel is the variety of experiences it offers. Visit on a First Friday and the place is in total art mode, serving as a gallery for local artists and a meeting place for those who love to express their creativity. Show up on the last Friday of the month for “Soul Clap,” on the other hand, and the Nocturnal Sound Krew’s DJ Eskae and friends keep the same room jumping all night with solid party bangers and Chinatown’s cool kids. But my favorite time to be at thirtyninehotel is during pau hana from 4 to 8 p.m. Anyone who has tried bar manager Christian Self’s creations will tell you they’re worth the $10 they normally cost — but get there during happy hour and they’re all $5 each. As someone who has sat at Self’s bar from his days at the nowclosed TGI Fridays, for me it’s nice to see how far he’s come as a mixologist. It’s also nice to know he pours his cocktails with a heavy hand, but that’s just me. Food is available at thirtyninehotel as well, with a variety of small plates available after 5 p.m. Items are affordably priced, although the one-man kitchen can easily get bogged down when it gets crowded. The solution? Order as soon as you can find a place to sit. — Jason Genegabus, Star-Advertiser ‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

•BEST OF PAU HANA PATR O L TONY ROMA’S PEARLRIDGE 98-150 Kaonohi St., 487-9911. Happy hour: 3-6 p.m. weekdays.

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2010

The shrimp cocktail served during happy hour at the Tony Roma’s Pearlridge.

If you can come to terms with visiting Tony Roma’s and not ordering ribs, happy hour at the national restaurant chain’s Aiea location is one of the best deals on the Leeward side of Oahu. From 3 to 6 p.m. weekdays, some of the most popular appetizers on the menu here are discounted more than 50 percent off regular prices. The only catch? You have to sit at one of about 10 bar stools at the bar proper. Happyhour drink specials, on the other hand, are available to all customers in the restaurant. Even if you weren’t planning on sitting at the bar, once you discover the perennial Tony Roma’s favorite, the Onion Loaf ($4), is on special, you won’t want to sit anywhere else. And when you realize the Kickin’ Shrimp ($4) and Red Hot Buffalo Wings ($4) normally cost $8.99 and $9.99, respectively, you’ll end up staying put at the bar. Can’t make it out that early in the day? Head to Tony Roma’s between 9 and 10 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and all the same specials will be in effect — just keep an eye on the time, since most of the employees are focused on getting a jump on cleaning up the place at the end of the night. On Fridays you’ll get an extra hour to cruise, thanks to an 11 p.m. closing time. While there might be more true barlike environments in the surrounding neighborhood, the convenience of having a quiet place to sneak away for a drink and some pupu makes Tony Roma’s a viable pau hana pick. — Jason Genegabus, Star-Advertiser

TROPICS CAFE BAR & GRILL 1020 Auahi St., 591-8009. Happy hour: 4-7 p.m. weekdays

STAR-ADVERTISER / 2010

Above, Sheila English shows a garlic ahi pupu plate at Tropics Cafe bar in Ward Farmers Market. At right, Tropic Sliders and garlic fries with a pitcher of beer. 74

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Wander through the Ward Entertainment Complex and you’ll find a number of options for drinks and pupu, from a complete restaurant experience to the neighborhood bar complete with regular customers and friendly owners. Go ahead and mark your mental checklist now — Ryan’s, Paparazzi, Ka, Dave & Buster’s, Bucca di Beppo, Kincaid’s. Plenty of restaurants and what passes for nightclubs these days. But a neighborhood bar? Tropics Cafe Bar & Lounge sounds like a mouthful when you say it, but wander inside the bar on the edge of the Ward Farmers Market property closest to the movie theater complex, and you’ll find a cozy little spot with a seemingly secret second floor. And, yes, despite the drawn blinds and closed door, Tropics is open for happy hour from 4 to 7 p.m. weekdays. The early start is why everything looks shuttered from the outside; indoors it’s nice and dim, with plenty of booths and tables to go with the handful of bar stools at the first-floor bar. This isn’t the Tropics that most associate with weekend reggae ragers that feature live bands downstairs and an upstairs lounge that offers darts and pool in addition to another full bar. Most of the pupu here are of the fried variety, especially if you’re ordering off the happy-hour menu. The Wing Dings ($3) are available in varying degrees of hotness, while tried-and-true items like garlic fries ($3), gyoza ($3) and cheese quesadillas ($2) round out the offerings. The catch, however, is that Tropics cuts the happy-hour servings down in order to keep costs low. Be sure to check out the entire food menu if you’re hungry, because there are a number of other options if you’re willing to spend a few extra bucks. The garlic ahi ($10.95) is one of those dishes that isn’t on special, but order it seared and the buttery slices of fish with heaping mounds of garlic on top will disappear very quickly when accompanied by a cold pitcher of beer. If that’s not true happiness, what is? — Jason Genegabus, Star-Advertiser H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

R E S TA U R A N T I N D E X | A L P H A B E T I C A L •

A A Cup of Tea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Agnes’ Portuguese Bake Shop. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Alan Wong’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Alley, The (at Aiea Bowl). . . . . 10 Apartment3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Assaggio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Azure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Diamond Head Market & Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Doraku Sushi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Downtown @ the HISAM . . . . . 36 Duc’s Bistro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

F Fendu Boulangerie . . . . . . . . . . 37 Formaggio Wine Bar. . . . . . . . . 37

Ba-Le Sandwiches & Bakery. . 28 Banzai Sushi Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Bar 35 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Beachhouse at the Moana . . . 28 Beijing Chinese Seafood Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Big City Diner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 BLT Steak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Bonsai. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Boots & Kimo’s Homestyle Kitchen. . . . . . . . . . 29 Brasserie du Vin . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Bruno’s Forno . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Buzz’s Original Steak House . . 29

Gaan Sushi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Genius Lounge . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 Gina’s Bar-B-Q . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Golden Palace Seafood Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Grand Cafe & Bakery . . . . . . . . 38 Gulick Delicatessen . . . . . . . . . 38 Gyu-kaku . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

C Cafe Kaila . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Cafe Laufer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Cafe Maharani . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Cake Couture. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Cake Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Casablanca Moroccan Cuisine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Castagnola’s Pizzeria . . . . . . . . 21 Chai’s Island Bistro. . . . . . . . . . 30 Champion Malasadas . . . . . . . 68 Chef Mavro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Choi’s Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Cinnamon’s Family Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Contemporary Cafe . . . . . . . . . 32 Counter, The . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Crepes No Ka ‘Oi. . . . . . . . . . . . 32

D d.k Steakhouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Da Spot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Dean’s Drive-Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

H Ha Long Pho Noodle House . . 39 Hale Modern Macrobiotic Cuisine. . . . . . . . . 39 Hale Vietnam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Haleiwa Eats Thai . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Haili’s Hawaiian Foods. . . . . . . 40 Hank’s Haute Dogs . . . . . . . . . . 10 Hapa Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Hee Hing Restaurant . . . . . . . . 41 Helena’s Hawaiian Food . . . . . 41 Hideaway Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 Himalayan Kitchen. . . . . . . . . . 42 Hiroshi Eurasion Tapas . . . . . . 14 Hog Island BBQ. . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Hokulani Bake Shop. . . . . . . . . 68 Hoku’s. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Honolulu Burger Co. . . . . . . . . 22 Hy’s Steak House . . . . . . . . . . . 16

I Imanas Tei . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Indigo Eurasian Cuisine. . . . . . 42 Izakaya Nonbei . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Izakaya Tairyo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Izakaya Nonbei . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Izakaya Tairyo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

J JJ Bistro & French Pastry . . . . 16 Jimbo Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . 43

K Ka Restaurant & Lounge . . . . . . 3 Kahumana Cafe. . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Kai Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Kaiwa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Kakaako Kitchen. . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Kalapawai Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Kanpai Bar and Grill. . . . . . . . . 44 KCC Farmers Market . . . . . . . . . 8 Keo’s in Waikiki . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Kincaid’s Fish, Chop & Steak House . . . . . . . . 16 Kirin Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Kochi Restaurant and Lounge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Kua ‘Aina Sandwich Shop . . . . 44

L L & L Drive-Inn/L & L Hawaiian Barbecue . . . . . . . . . . 3 La Mer at Halekulani . . . . . . . . . 3 Le Bistro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Le Guignol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Legend Seafood Restaurant . . 46 Leonard’s Bakery . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Like Like Drive Inn . . . . . . . . . . 46 Liliha Bakery & Coffee Shop. . 47 Little Village Noodle House . . 47 Lobster King . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Loving Hut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Luibueno’s Mexican & Seafood Restaurant . . . . . . . . . 47

M MAC 24/7 Bar + Restaurant. . . 48 Maguro-Ya . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Maile Thai Bistro . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Mana Bu’s. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Mariposa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Matsugen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Max’s of Manila . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Mediterraneo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Mei Sum Dim Sum Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Michel’s at the Colony Surf. . . 50 Mitsu-Ken. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Mix Cafe 1 and 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Molly’s Smokehouse . . . . . . . . 50

N Nanding’s Bakery . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Nico’s Pier 38. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Nobu Waikiki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

O Ojiya . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Ola at Turtle Bay. . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Olive Tree Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 ‘Ono Hawaiian Foods. . . . . . . . 52 Orchids. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Orine Sarangchae . . . . . . . . . . . 11

P Pah Ke’s Chinese Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Pa‘ina Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Pancakes & Waffles . . . . . . . . . 25 Panya Bistro and Bar . . . . . . . . 53 Pavilion Cafe, The. . . . . . . . . . . 53 Pho 1 Vietnamese Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Pineapple Room . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Poke Stop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Prince Court . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Pyramids, The. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

R Rainbow Drive-In . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Ranch House, The . . . . . . . . . . 55 Roy’s Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . 18 RumFire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Ruth’s Chris Steak House . . . . 55 Ryan’s Grill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Soul de Cuba Cafe. . . . . . . . . . . 58 Souvaly Thai . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Spices Southeast Asian Cuisine. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Stage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Starbucks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Sugar Rush by Frances . . . . . . 14 Sugoi Bento & Catering . . . . . . 59 Sushi Izakaya Gaku. . . . . . . . . . 12 Sushi Masa. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Sushi Sasabune . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Sweet Home Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . 59

T 12th Ave. Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 3660 on the Rise . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Tacos Ricos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Tai Pan Dim Sum. . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Tango Contemporary Cafe . . . 60 Tanioka’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Taormina Sicilian Cuisine . . . . 61 Teddy’s Bigger Burgers . . . . . . 61 Ted’s Bakery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Thelma’s Restaurant . . . . . . . . 62 thirtyninehotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 To Chau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Tokkuri Tei. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Tonkatsu Ginza Bairin Waikiki. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Tony Roma’s in Pearlridge . . . 74 town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Tropics Cafe Bar & Grill. . . . . . 74 Tsukuneya Robata Grill. . . . . . 62

V V Lounge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Vino Italian Tapas & Wine Bar. 63

W Wailana Coffee House . . . . . . . 63 Whole Foods Market . . . . . . . . 63 Willows, The . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Wolfgang’s Steakhouse . . . . . . 64

Sam Choy’s Breakfast, Lunch & Crab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Sansei Seafood Restaurant & Sushi Bar . . . . . . 56 Shillawon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Yanagi Sushi. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Shokudo Japanese Restaurant & Bar . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Siam Garden Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Side Street Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Seoul Garden Yakiniku. . . . . . . 57 Zippy’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Sorabol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Soul . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Y Z

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• R E S TA U R A N T I N D E X | BYC AT E G O RY FINE DINING Alan Wong’s. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Azure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Beachhouse at the Moana . . . . . . . 28 BLT Steak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Chai’s Island Bistro . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Chef Mavro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Grand Cafe & Bakery . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Hoku’s. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Hy’s Steak House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Kincaid’s Fish, Chop & Steak House. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 La Mer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Le Bistro. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Mariposa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Michel’s at the Colony Surf. . . . . . . 50 Nobu Waikiki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Ola at Turtle Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Orchids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Prince Court . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Roy’s Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Stage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 3660 on the Rise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 12th Ave. Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Wolfgang’s Steakhouse . . . . . . . . . . 64 CASUAL/FAMILY Alley, The (at Aiea Bowl). . . . . . . . . 10 Big City Diner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Boots & Kimo’s Homestyle Kitchen . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Cafe Kaila . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Cinnamon’s Family Restaurant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Counter, The . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Dean’s Drive-Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Hapa Grill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Jimbo Restaurant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Kahumana Cafe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Kakaako Kitchen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Kalapawai Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Liliha Bakery & Coffee Shop. . . . . . 47 MAC 24/7 Bar + Restaurant . . . . . . 48 Molly’s Smokehouse . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Nico’s Pier 38. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Olive Tree Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Pa‘ina Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Panya Bistro and Bar. . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Pavilion Cafe, The . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Pineapple Room . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Ranch House, The . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Sam Choy’s Breakfast, Lunch and Crab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Side Street Inn. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Spices Southeast Asian Cuisine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Soul . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Tango Contemporary Cafe . . . . . . . 60 Teddy’s Bigger Burgers . . . . . . . . . . 61 Tony Roma’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 Wailana Coffee House . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Willows, The . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Zippy’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

AMERICAN CONTEMPORARY/FUSION Chai’s Island Bistro . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Contemporary Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Downtown @ the HISAM . . . . . . . . . 36 Hale Modern Macrobiotic Cuisine. . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Hiroshi Eurasion Tapas. . . . . . . . . . 14 Indigo Eurasian Cuisine . . . . . . . . . 42 Kalapawai Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 MAC 24/7 Bar + Restaurant . . . . . . 48 Mariposa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Ola at Turtle Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Pavilion Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Pineapple Room . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Roy’s Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 RumFire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Sam Choy’s Breakfast, Lunch & Crab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Tango Contemporary Cafe . . . . . . . 60 town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 12th Ave. Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 BAKERY Agnes’ Portuguese Bake Shop . . . . 68 Cafe Laufer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Cake Couture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Cake Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Champion Malasadas . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Fendu Boulangerie. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Grand Cafe & Bakery . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Hokulani Bake Shop. . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Leonard’s Bakery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Liliha Bakery & Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Nanding’s Bakery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Panya Bistro and Bar. . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Sugar Rush by Frances . . . . . . . . . . 14 Ted’s Bakery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Kochi Restaurant and Lounge . . . . 73 thirtyninehotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 RumFire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Sam Choy’s Breakfast, Lunch & Crab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Shokudo Japanese Restaurant . . . 56 Side Street Inn. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Tokkuri-Tei. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Tropics Cafe Bar & Grill . . . . . . . . . 74 Tsukuneya Robata Grill . . . . . . . . . 62 V Lounge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Vino Italian Tapas & Wine Bar . . . . 63 EAST-WEST Banzai Sushi Bar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Chai’s Island Bistro . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Doraku Sushi. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Duc’s Bistro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Hiroshi Eurasion Tapas. . . . . . . . . . 14 Indigo Eurasian Cuisine . . . . . . . . . 42 Kaiwa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Mana Bu’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Nobu Waikiki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 RumFire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Sansei Seafood Restaurant and Sushi Bar . . . . . . . . 56 Spices Southeast Asian Cuisine. . . 58 CHINESE

Hog Island BBQ. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Molly’s Smokehouse . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Beijing Chinese Seafood Restaurant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Golden Palace Seafood Restaurant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Hee Hing Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Kirin Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Legend Seafood Restaurant . . . . . . 46 Little Village Noodle House . . . . . . 47 Lobster King . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Mei Sum Dim Sum Restaurant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Pah Ke’s Chinese Restaurant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Tai Pan Dim Sum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

BREAKFAST

CUBAN

Cafe Kaila . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Cinnamon’s Family Restaurant . . . 32 Crepes No Ka ‘Oi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Grand Cafe & Bakery . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 KCC Farmers Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Pancakes & Waffles . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Soul de Cuba Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

BBQ

COFFEE & TEA A Cup of Tea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Starbucks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 COCKTAILS & FOOD (SMALL PLATES, PUPU) Apartment3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Bar 35 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Bonsai. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Cafe Duck Butt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Genius Lounge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 Hideaway Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 Kanpai Bar and Grill. . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

FILIPINO Max’s of Manila. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Thelma’s Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 FRENCH Brasserie du Vin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Cafe Laufer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Chef Mavro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Fendu Boulangerie. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Formaggio Wine Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 La Mer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Le Bistro. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Le Guignol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Michel’s at the Colony Surf. . . . . . . 50 HAWAIIAN Haili’s Hawaiian Foods . . . . . . . . . . 40 Helena’s Hawaiian Foods . . . . . . . . 41

‘Ono Hawaiian Foods. . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Willows, The . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 INDIAN Cafe Maharani. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Himalayan Kitchen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 ITALIAN Assaggio. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Castagnola’s Pizzeria. . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Mediterraneo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Mix Cafe 1 & 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Taormina Sicilian Cuisine . . . . . . . . 61 JAPANESE Doraku Sushi. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Gaan Sushi. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Hale Modern Macrobiotic Cuisine .39 Imanas Tei . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Izakaya Nonbei . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Izakaya Tairyo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Jimbo Restaurant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Kaiwa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Maguro-Ya . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Mana Bu’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Matsugen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Nobu Waikiki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Ojiya . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Shokudo Japanese Restaurant & Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Sushi Izakaya Gaku . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Sushi Masa. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Sushi Sasabune. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Tokkuri Tei. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Tonkatsu Ginza Bairin Waikiki . . . . 62 Tsukuneya Robata Grill. . . . . . . . . . 62 Yanagi Sushi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 KOREAN Choi’s Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Gina’s Bar-B-Q. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Orine Sarangchae. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Seoul Garden Yakiniku. . . . . . . . . . . 57 Shillawon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Sorabol. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 MEDITERRANEAN /GREEK Casablanca Moroccan Cuisine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Da Spot. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Olive Tree Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Pyramids, The. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 MEXICAN Luibueno’s Mexican & Seafood Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Tacos Ricos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 THAI Haleiwa Eats Thai. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Keo’s in Waikiki. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Maile Thai Bistro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Siam Garden Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Souvaly Thai . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Sweet Home Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 VIETNAMESE Ba-Le Sandwiches & Bakery. . . . . . 28 Duc’s Bistro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Ha Long Pho Noodle House . . . . . . 39 Hale Vietnam. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Loving Hut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Pho 1 Vietnamese Restaurant . . . . 53 To Chau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 MEAT-EATERS (STEAKS, BURGERS, HOT DOGS) Buzz’s Original Steakhouse . . . . . . 29 Counter, The . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 d.k Steakhouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Hank’s Haute Dogs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Hog Island BBQ. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Honolulu Burger Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Hy’s Steak House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Teddy’s Bigger Burgers . . . . . . . . . . 61 PLATE LUNCH/TAKEOUT Bruno’s Forno . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Deans Drive-Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Diamond Head Market & Grill . . . . 35 Gulick Delicatessen . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Kakaako Kitchen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 L&L Drive-Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Mitsu-Ken. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Mix Cafe 1 and 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Pa‘ina Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Poke Stop. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Rainbow Drive-In . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Sugoi Bento & Catering . . . . . . . . . . 59 Soul . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Whole Foods Market deli . . . . . . . . 63 Zippy’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 SEAFOOD Chef Mavro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 La Mer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Luibueno’s Mexican & Seafood Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Nico’s Pier 38. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Roy’s Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Sansei Seafood Restaurant & Sushi Bar. . . . . . . . . . 56 24 HOURS Like Like Drive-Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Liliha Bakery & Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 MAC 24/7 Bar + Restaurant . . . . . . 48 Wailana Coffee House . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Yanagi Sushi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Zippy’s (some locations) . . . . . . . . 19 WINE (WINE BARS AND WINEDRIVEN MENUS) Brasserie du Vin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Chef Mavro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Doraku Sushi (sake). . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Formaggio Wine Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Stage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Vino Italian Tapas & Wine Bar . . . . 63

H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

R E S TA U R A N T I N D E X | BYN E I G H B O R H O O D • GREATER HONOLULU (Airport to Kaimuki — except Waikiki and Chinatown/Nuuanu)

Max’s of Manila . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Mediterraneo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Mitsu-Ken . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Mix Cafe 1 and 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Molly’s Smokehouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Nico’s Pier 38 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 ‘Ono Hawaiian Foods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Orine Sarangchae . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Pa‘ina Cafe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Pancakes & Waffles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Panya Bistro and Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Pavilion Cafe, The . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Pho 1 Vietnamese Restaurant . . . . . . . . 53 Pineapple Room. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Pyramids, The . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Rainbow Drive-In . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Ranch House, The . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Ruth’s Chris Steak House . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Ryan’s Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Sam Choy’s Breakfast, Lunch & Crab. . 56 Shokudo Japanese Restaurant & Bar. . 56 Siam Garden Cafe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Side Street Inn. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Seoul Garden Yakiniku . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Sorabol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Soul . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Spices Southeast Asian Cuisine . . . . . . 58 Stage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Sugar Rush by Frances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Sugoi Bento and Catering. . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Sushi Izakaya Gaku . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Sushi Masa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Sushi Sasabune . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Sweet Home Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 thirtyninehotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Tokkuri Tei . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Tsukuneya Robata Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Tropics Cafe Bar & Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 V Lounge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Vino Italian Tapas & Wine Bar. . . . . . . . 63 Willows, The . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Yanagi Sushi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Alan Wong’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Apartment3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Bonsai . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Bruno’s Forno. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Cafe Duck Butt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Cafe Kaila. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Cafe Maharani . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Castagnola’s Pizzeria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Chai’s Island Bistro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Chef Mavro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Choi’s Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Contemporary Cafe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Da Spot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Downtown @ the HISAM. . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Fendu Boulangerie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Formaggio Wine Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Gina’s Bar-B-Q. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Ha Long Pho Noodle House. . . . . . . . . . 39 Hale Modern Macrobiotic Cuisine . . . . 39 Hale Vietnam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Haili’s Hawaiian Foods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Hank’s Haute Dogs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Hee Hing Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Helena’s Hawaiian Foods . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Himalayan Kitchen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Hiroshi Eurasion Tapas . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Hog Island BBQ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Honolulu Burger Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Imanas Tei . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Izakaya Nonbei. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Izakaya Tairyo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Jimbo Restaurant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Kakaako Kitchen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Kanpai Bar and Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 KCC Farmers Market. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Kincaid’s Fish, Chop & Steakhouse . . . 16 Kirin Restaurant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Kochi Restaurant and Lounge. . . . . . . . 73 Kua ‘Aina Sandwich Shop . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Le Guignol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Lobster King . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 CHINATOWN/NUUANU Loving Hut. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Bar 35 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Maguro-Ya . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Brasserie du Vin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Mana Bu’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Duc’s Bistro. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Mariposa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

Golden Palace Seafood Restaurant . . . 38 Grand Cafe & Bakery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Indigo Eurasian Cuisine . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Legend Seafood Restaurant. . . . . . . . . . 46 Liliha Bakery & Coffee Shop . . . . . . . . . 47 Little Village Noodle House . . . . . . . . . . 47 Mei Sum Dim Sum Restaurant. . . . . . . . 49 Soul de Cuba Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 3660 on the Rise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 12th Avenue Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Tanioka’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 To Chau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Le Bistro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Maile’s Thai Bistro. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Olive Tree Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Whole Foods Deli. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

WINDWARD OAHU (Waimanalo to Waimea)

A Cup of Tea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Boots & Kimo’s Homestyle Kitchen . . . 29 Buzz’s Original Steak House . . . . . . . . . 29 Casablanca Moroccan Cuisine . . . . . . . 30 Cinnamon’s Family Restaurant . . . . . . . 32 Crepes No Ka ‘Oi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 WAIKIKI Dean’s Drive Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Beachhouse at the Moana . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Pah Ke’s Chinese Restaurant. . . . . . . . . 53 Beijing Chinese Seafood Restaurant . . 28 BLT Steak. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 d.k steakhouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 LEEWARD OAHU Diamond Head Market & Grill . . . . . . . . 35 (Pearlridge to Waianae) Doraku Sushi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Alley (at Aiea Bowl), The . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Gaan Sushi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Buzz’s Original Steak House . . . . . . . . . 29 Genius Lounge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 Hapa Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Hideaway Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 Kahumana Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Hy’s Steak House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Max’s of Manila . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Kaiwa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Poke Stop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Keo’s in Waikiki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Souvaly Thai . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 La Mer at Halekulani . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Thelma’s Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 MAC 24/7 Bar + Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . 48 Tony Roma’s Pearlridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 Matsugen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Michel’s at the Colony Surf . . . . . . . . . . 50 Nobu Waikiki. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 NORTH SHORE Orchids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 (Kahuku to Waialua) Prince Court Waikiki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Banzai Sushi Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 RumFire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Haleiwa Eats Thai . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Ruth’s Chris Steak House . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Kua ‘Aina Sandwich Shop . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Sansei Seafood Restaurant Luibueno’s Mexican & & Sushi Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Seafood Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Tacos Ricos. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Ola at Turtle Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Tai Pan Dim Sum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Tango Contemporary Cafe. . . . . . . . . . . 60 MULTIPLE LOCATIONS Taormina Sicilian Cuisine. . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Tonkatsu Ginza Bairin Waikiki. . . . . . . . 62 Assaggio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Wailana Coffee House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Ba-Le Sandwiches & Shops . . . . . . . . . . 28 Wolfgang’s Steakhouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Big City Diner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Gulick Delicatessen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 L&L Drive-Inn/L&L EAST HONOLULU Hawaiian Barbecue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 (Kahala to Hawaii Kai) Roy’s Restaurants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Counter, The . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Starbucks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Hoku’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Teddy’s Bigger Burgers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Zippy’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

•ADVERTISERINDEX 11th Avenue Mexitlan Grill 1137 11th Avenue, Kaimuki 737-5678. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Don Ho's Island Grill Aloha Tower Marketplace 528-0807. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Ige's Restaurant & 19th Puka 98-761 Oihana Place 486-3500. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Aiea Bowl 99-115 Aiea Heights Drive 488-6854. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Down to Earth Honolulu, Kailua, Pearlridge downtoearth.org . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Jimbo 1936 South King St. 947-2211. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Akasaka Restaurant 1646-B Kona St. 942-4466. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Eggs 'n Things 343 Saratoga Rd. 923-3447. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Kahai Street Kitchen 237 Kalihi St. 845-0320. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Aloha Salads 4 Locations on Oahu alohasalads.com . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

El Charro Mexicano 99-115 Aiea Heights Dr. 488-9727. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Kaimuki Chop Suey 3611 Waialae Ave 735-6779. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Anytime Café 2919 Kapiolani Blvd., Market City SC 735-8833. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Fat Greek, The 3040 Waialae Ave. 734-0404. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Kaiwa 226 Lewers St., 2nd Floor 924-1555. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Assaggio 6 Locations on Oahu 942-3446. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Fendue Boulangerie 2752 Woodlawn Dr., Manoa Marketplace 988-4310. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Kenny's Restaurant Kamehameha Shopping Center 841-0931. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Banana Leaf 1960 Kapiolani Blvd., #103 946-3338. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Gazen Izakaya 2840 Kapiolani Blvd. 737-0230. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Beach House Moana Surfrider, 2365 Kalakaua Ave. 923-2861. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Genki Sushi Locations Islandwide genkisushiusa.com . . . . . . . . . . 51

Bella Mia Italian 1137 11th Avenue 737-1937. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Bella Mia Pizzeria 2222 S. Beretania St. 941-4400. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Gina's BBQ 2919 Kapiolani Blvd, Market City SC 735-7964. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Gyu-Kaku Kapiolani & Waikiki Locations 589-2989. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Big City Diner 5 Locations on Oahu bigcitydinerhawaii.com. . . . . . . 62

Gyotaku 3 Locations on Oahu gyotakuhawaii.com . . . . . . . . . . 62

Café Kaila 2919 Kapiolani Blvd., Market City SC 732-3330. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Hee Hing Restaurant 449 Kapahulu Ave., #101 735-5544. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Café Miro 3446 Waialae Ave. 734-2737. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Himalayan Kitchen 1137 11th Ave., 2nd Floor 735-1122. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Chan's Gourmet Buffet 3131 N. Nimitz Hwy. 833-3366. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Hokulani Bake Shop HokulaniBakeShop.com 536-CAKE (2253). . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Chinatown Express Ala Moana, Winward Mall, Chinatown, 783-7901 . . . . . . . . . 20 Crepes No Ka Oi 131 Hekili St. 263-4088. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

‘ I L I M A AWA R D S

Honolulu Burger Company 1295 S. Beretania St. 626-5202. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Hy's Steakhouse 2440 Kuhio Ave. 922-5555. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Kim Chee II Restaurant 3569 Waialae Ave. 737-7733. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Kobe Japanese Steak House 1841 Ala Moana Blvd 941-4444. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 La Palme D'or Ala Moana Center, Mall Level 941-6161. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Le Bistro 5730 Kalanianaole Hwy. 373-7990. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Leeward Drive Inn 94-209 Pupukahi St. 671-7323. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Loulen's Restaurant 1125 N. King St. 853-2212. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Lox of Bagels 111 Sand Island Access Road #1-2 845-2855. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Mai Tai Bar Ala Moana Center – Hookipa Terrace 947-2900. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Maile's Thai Bistro Hawaii Kai Shopping Center 394-2488. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Makitti 2380 Kuhio Ave. 923-2260. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Max's of Manila 94-300 Farrington Hwy., 801 Dillingham Blvd. 951-MAXS (6297) . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Meg's Drive-In 743 Waiakamilo Road 845-3943. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Side Street Inn 1225 Hopaka St., 591-0253 614 Kapahulu Ave., 739-3939. . . 60 Souvaly Thai Cuisine 803 Kam Hwy, Pearl City 455-5888. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Monsoon India 1778 Ala Moana Blvd, #213 941-5111. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Spicy House Thai Cuisine Express 87-730 Farrington Hwy., Ste. #A 668-6646. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

New Eagle Café 1130 N. Nimitz Hwy, 545-2233. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Sugoi Bento & Catering 1286 Kalani St., #B106 841-7984. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Nico's At Pier 38 1133 N. Nimitz Hwy. nicospier38.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Sumo Ramen & Curry 6 Locations on Oahu . . . . . . . . . 30

Orine Sarang Chae 905-A Keeaumoku St. 955-0646. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Otto Cake 1160 Smith St. 834-OTTO (6886) . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Pho One 1617 Kapiolani Blvd. 955-3438. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Rainbow Drive In 3308 Kanaina Ave. 737-0177. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Royal Kitchen 100 N. Beretania St. 524-4461. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Sam Choy's Breakfast, Lunch & Crab 580 Nimitz Hwy. 545-7979. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Sanoya 1785 S. King St. 947-6065. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Sekiya's Restaurant & Delicatessen 2746 Kaimuki Ave 732-1656. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Sushi To Go 227 Lewers St. #R126 924-0555. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Tanaka of Tokyo 3 Locations on Oahu tanakaoftokyo.com . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Tanaka Saimin, Inc. 888 N. Nimitz Hwy. #103 524-2020. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Tanioka's Seafood & Catering 94-903 Farrington Hwy. 671-3779. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Thai Village Waipio Gentry SC, 678-2878 Kunia SC, 676-0843 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Tropic Rush 4510 Salt Lake Blvd. 853-4949. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 W&M Bar-B-Q Burgers 3104 Waialae Ave. 734-3350. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Wailana Coffee House 1860 Ala Moana Blvd. 955-1764. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Wolfgang’s Steakhouse 2301 Kalakaua Ave. 922-3600. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Shokudo Japanese Restaurant & Bar 1585 Kapiolani Blvd. 941-3701. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Zen Shu 477 Kapahulu Ave. 739-7017. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Siam Kitchen Express 98-020 Kam Hwy, Aiea 488-8985. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Zippys "Next Stop Zippys" Zippys.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

H O N O L U L U S TA R - A D V E R T I S E R

Dine In Take Out Catering Open for Lunch and Dinner 7 Days - 11am-10pm Bring your own alcohol Check our website for the full menu and weekly specials. WWW.FATGREEK.NET Waikiki and Ala Moana Food Court Locations Coming Soon! (scheduled to open November 2010)

3040 Waialae Ave (Corner of St. Louis & Waialae)

734-0404

Birthday Photo with HELLO KITTY *Reservation parties only

50% OFF Birthd

ay Meal

Minimum p includes 1 arty of 4 adults Birthda *Must have valid ID on y person actual Birth day

Kuhio Ave

Tel: 808-923-2260 2380 Kuhio Ave. www.makittii.com

BUS STOP Bus Numbers that arrive here: #2 #13 #23 Letter E #4 #19 #24 #8 #20 #42

Kalakaua Ave

Old Perryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Location

Kanekapolei St

Food Pantry

Kaiulani Ave

Wailina St

Ala Wai Blvd.

Breakfast 7:00 am - 10:30 am Lunch 10:30 am - 2:00 pm Afternoon Tea 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Dinner 5:30 pm - 9:00 pm