Hawaii Dining Out 22 Jan 2012

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(from front) Server Kae Yoshikawa,kitchen manager Lennon De Leonand restaurant supervisor HowardUnebasami Jr. with a few favoritesfrom Tony Roma’s, including Steak& Wild Mushroom Flatbread, BabyBack Ribs and Filet MedallionsCombo, and Beef Short Rib.

Tony Roma’s has gone beyond its world-famous babyback ribs, expanding its menu to include seafood, steak,

appetizers and just about everything in between.See page 4 | Leah Friel photo

Big City Diner goes big on taste | 7Authentic Italian fare at Il Lupino | 10

ALSO:Uniquely unagi | 2

Freewheeling adventures

I’m a huge, as in huge, fan of the infa-mously grumpy, quick-wittedAnthony Bourdain and his Emmy

Award-winning Travel Channel series NoReservations. Bourdain explores everycorner of the globe and comes face to facewith foreign foods, eclectic personalitiesand exotic places that help define theinternational cultural landscape we live in.What a job!

I’ve always had the urge to discover myinner-Anthony Bourdain and delve intothe colorful and vibrant foods here athome and around the world. Therefore,this week I decided to explore the some-what outlandish cuisine that’s part of ourethnic melting pot. My first assignment:Tackling into onolicious morsels of unagiaka fresh-water eel. While some maybelieve it to be slightly unappealing, whenprepared the right way, unagi is divine!

Unagi is a common ingredient usedin Japanese cuisine, and special unagirestaurants are widespread in Japan aswell. Not only is unagi Ono, You Knowworthy in flavor and taste, it’s alsohigh in protein, vitamin A and calcium,thus making for a guilt-free meal. With

that said, comealong with me, andlet’s explore someof the best estab-lishments aroundtown that are mak-ing their way intothe unagi universe.

Sushi IchibanSushi Ichiban is

on a roll when it comes toproviding sushi enthusiasts with the high-est-quality creations. Head chef MarcKusaka, who previously worked atMorimoto Waikiki before leading thepack at the Waialae Avenue restaurant,makes it priority to ensure that freshnessis key.

Hungry for some authentic Japanesedishes, I was pleased to know thatKusaka obtains a good por-tion of his fish directly fromJapan. And no matter whatyou’re in the mood for,Kusaka will exquisitely cre-ate a perfect meal for anysushi fanatic — whether itbe California Rolls, SpicyTuna Rolls, Inari or a pletho-ra of sashimi, includingtobiko, ikura, maguro, tako,ebi and more.

On my most recent visitto the restaurant, I had anintense craving for unagi— Unagi Avocado Maki($8) and Unajyu ($15), tobe exact.

“Unagi is fresh-water eel.It’s on the fattier side, whichgives it a lot more taste,”Kusaka says.

Chef Marc delicately pre-pared the delicious Unagi

Avocado Maki right before my very eyesat the sushi counter, and I was thrilled tohave two of my favorite sushi essentials(unagi and avocado) in one roll, enhancedwith nori, sushi rice and sesame seeds onthe exterior. The Unajyu also is a favoriteof mine. It features a whole piece of unagidrizzled with unagi sauce and sprinkledwith a bit of sansho (mild pepper) atop abed of hot rice. Unajyu is the heartier dishof the two, and my top pick when I’veworked up an appetite.

“We make our own sauce, in which wedip the unagi in,” Kusaka explains. “Thesauce isn’t overpowering, but yet it inten-

sifies the natural unagi flavor.”So, the next time you want

to immerse yourself in aworld of

u n a g i ,t h i n k

Sushi Ichiban for No. 1 unagi delights.

Sushi Ichiban3579 Waialae Ave.

737.8820

Genki SushiThe sushi addict in me can never get

enough of Genki Sushi! As Hawaii's pre-mier kaiten-style sushi establishment, andwith 14 locations in the Islands — nine onOahu, two on Maui, one on Kauai and oneon the Big Island — this popular sushieatery is always here to serve you.

Kaiten is the signature style of Genki,meaning all 60 of your sushi favorites areeasily accessible via a revolving conveyor

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Above: The editor digs into Sushi Ichiban’sonolicious Unagi Avocado Maki.

EDITORAlana Folen

Phone: [email protected]

SALES MANAGERSandi SakaguchiPhone: 342.8802

[email protected]

SPECIAL SECTIONS EDITOR

Bill MossmanPhone: 529.4863

[email protected]

Dining OutDining Out is a weekly advertising

supplement published by the Honolulu Star-Advertiser.

Visit us at dining.staradvertiser.com

ono,youknow

– See page 12

By Alana Folen | Photos by Leah Friel

Sushi Ichiban Genki Sushi Curry King

Genki Sushi server Cami Silvaand supervisor Kristine Corpuz

Unagiultimate with

D I N I N G O U T | J A N . 2 2 - 2 8 , 2 0 1 2 | 3

Ph: 677-7744 www.acateredexperience.com

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SUNTORY

OUR NEW MENU ITEMS ARE HERE!

S T A R T E R S & S O U P SSTEAK & WILDMUSHROOM FLATBREADCrisp flatbread topped with grilled, all-natural beef tenderloin, melted Havarti cheese, crumbled Bleu cheese, wild mushrooms, red pepper, chives and creamy horseradish sauce.

ROASTED VEGETABLETUSCAN FLATBREADCrisp flatbread loaded with four Italiancheeses, roasted grape tomatoes, artichoke hearts, red onion, crisp eggplant, Feta cheese, fresh basil and a hint of balsamic reduction.

S A N D W I C H E S

S E A F O O D

NOLITA DELI PANINIThin-sliced smoked turkey, Genoa salami, melted Havarti cheese, homemade Italian spiced pepperoncini and caper sauce piled on toasty Italian bread.

FIRE-ROASTED VEGETABLE AND WILDMUSHROOM SANDWICHRoasted Italian vegetables, and sauteed wil mushrooms piled high on a soft bun. A real vegetarian delight

MINI DESSERTSThe perfect finish. The perfect size.• Golden Apple Tart• Raspberry Brownie Royale• Red Velvet Cake• Strawberry Cheesecake• Chocolate Chunk Cookie Sandwich

DESSERT TRIOTony’s Dessert Trio lets you sample three delicious mini desserts to finishyour meal in grand style.

ICE CREAMAsk your server for flavors of the day.

ICE CREAM TRIOSelect your favorite three flavors to enjoy!

SHRIMP & SALMON PICCATAGrilled Salmon topped with shrimp ina lemon caper wine sauce. Servedwith rice pilaf and broccoli.

GRILLED MAHI MAHI SALADMojo-grilled Mahi-mahi on a bed of Asian greens with house-made pineapple salsa,grape tomatoes, macadamia nuts and cilantro. Served with our Hawaiian dressing andtoasted Italian cheese flatbread.

S A L A D S

S I G N A T U R E S T E A K SFILET MEDALLIONSThree all-natural filet medallions with your choice of up to three gourmet toppings. Served with loaded mashed red potatoes and cole slaw.CHOOSE FROM: Teriyaki Glaze • Peppercorn Sauce Wild Mushrooms • Cabernet Demi-Glace Balsamic Reduction & Dijon Mustard Sauce

HERB CRUSTED MEDALLIONS WITH ROASTEDVEGETABLE REDUCTION*As prepared by Hawaii’s award winningchef, Felipe “Jojo” Molar. Tender beef medallions encrusted with Chef’s special herb coating. Gently grilled and toppedwith a roasted vegetable glaze reduction.Served with TR’s special mashed red potatoes and fire-roasted vegetables.

R I B S & C O M B O SFILET MEDALLIONS* AND...Two perfectly prepared, all-natural, filetmedallions topped with your choice ofone of the select entrees below.BBQ ChickenSouth Miami Fried ShrimpMahi-MahiGrilled SalmonShrimp Scampi

CHICKEN PICCATAGrilled Chicken in a lemon caperwine sauce.

P A S T A

B U R G E R SWILD MUSHROOM HAVARTI BURGER*A juicy sirloin burger topped with buttery Havarticheese and sauteed wild mushrooms.

Made Fresh Daily in Hawaii

WA I K I K I • 1 9 7 2 K A L A K A UA AV E N U E 9 4 2 - 2 1 2 1 P E A R L R I D G E • 9 8 -15 0 K A O N O H I S T R E E T 4 8 7-9911

GIFT CARDSTasty, simple and always appreciated. Ask your server for details

STEAK & WILD MUSHROOM FLATBREAD BABY BACK RIBS & FILET MEDALLIONS COMBO

BEEF SHORT RIBBraised for 12 hours and grilled bone-in short rib topped with Cabernetdemi-glace and fire-roasted zucchini,yellow squash, red peppers and carrots.Served with mashed red potatoes.

NOLITA DELI PANINI

SHRIMP & SALMON PICCATA

MOJO-GRILLEDMAHI MAHI WITHPINEAPPLE SALSASeasoned Mahi Mahi basted withTony’s exclusive citrus and brownmustard Mojo sauce and grilled toperfection. Topped with pineapple salsa made-in-house and served with rice pilaf and broccoli.

D E S S E R T S

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J A N . 2 2 - 2 8 , 2 0 1 2

(from front) Server Kae Yoshikawa,kitchen manager Lennon De Leonand restaurant supervisor HowardUnebasami Jr. with a few favoritesfrom Tony Roma’s, including Steak& Wild Mushroom Flatbread, BabyBack Ribs and Filet MedallionsCombo, and Beef Short Rib.

Tony Roma’s has gone beyond its world-famous babyback ribs, expanding its menu to include seafood, steak,

appetizers and just about everything in between.See page 4 | Leah Friel photo

Big City Diner goes big on taste | 7Authentic Italian fare at Il Lupino | 10

ALSO:Uniquely unagi | 2

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ention those three lusciouswords, “baby back ribs,” andthe first thing that comes tomind is Tony Roma’s. Reveredas one of the most globally rec-ognizable names in the restau-rant industry, Tony Roma’s isthe largest casual theme restau-rant chain specializing in ribs,boasting its success with near-ly 200 restaurant locationsacross the globe, including onein the heart of Waikiki and

another in Aiea.“In the beginning, Tony Roma’s

focused primarily on ribs, withonly a few side dishes such asfrench fries and cole slaw,” saysWaikiki general manager GraceVillagracia, who’s been a part ofTony Roma’s ohana for the past 10years. “The Waikiki locationopened in 1980, and we had a verylimited menu back then, yetthrough the years we’ve evolvedand the concept changed — nowwe offer a little bit of everything,an eclectic array of cuisine.”

The first Tony Roma’s opened itsdoors in North Miami, Fla., inJanuary 1972. Then, four years later, ClintMurchison Jr., a Texas financier andowner of the Dallas Cowboys, wasimpressed by Tony Roma’s product andagreed to purchase the majority of theU.S. franchise rights and establish a joint-ly owned company, Roma Corporation, tofund aggressive growth and expansion.Today, this award-winning restaurant stillserves a multitude of its signature babyback ribs to patrons, but has expanded itsmenu to focus on a variety of culinaryfavorites as well — not just ribs. Theeatery now offers an extensive selectionof steaks and seafood entrees, along withvarious appetizers and desserts.

“For the longest time (because ofour name), people thought we werean Italian restaurant,” Villagraciaexplains. “They would comein here looking for pasta,we wouldn’t have it,and they would walkout. But now, with theevolution of our menuwe do offer pasta —Shrimp Scampi Pasta ($18.99) isone of our biggest sellers, actually.

“The menu had previouslychanged at least once every year, butin the last few years we’ve revampedthe menu every six months or so,”

she adds.In fact, a newly revised version

of the menu was released just lastmonth and has garnered nothingbut a positive response from cus-tomers. Browse through the menuand you’ll find an abundance ofitems to greet all palates and tastebuds, starting with a brand newappetizer, Steak & WildMushroom Flatbread ($12.99). Achef’s recommendation, thisstarter dish features crisp flat-bread topped with grilled, all-nat-ural beef tenderloin, meltedHavarti cheese, crumbled bleucheese, wild mushrooms, redpeppers, chives and a creamyhorseradish sauce. Then continueyour food journey with all-newentrees such as Beef Short Rib($26.99) and Nolita Deli Panini

($12.99).Regional chef

JP Choy has beenworking at TonyRoma’s Waikikisince its incep-

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tion, and makes magic in thekitchen with each and every edi-ble creation. For example, BeefShort Rib presents hungry dinerswith succulent grilled bone-inshort ribs that have been braisedfor 12 hours, and topped with asavory Cabernet demi-glace, andfire-roasted zucchini, yellowsquash, red peppers and carrots,accompanied by mashed red pota-toes. And if you’re in the moodfor a classic sandwich, NolitaDeli Panini is a top-notch pick,with thin-sliced smoked turkey,Genoa salami, melted Havarticheese, homemade Italian-spiced pepper-oncini and caper sauce piled high ontoasty Italian bread.

“The response to the new menu hasbeen very good,” Villagracia says. “A lotof the new items have been sellingextremely well. And although the menuis so diverse, we still sell predominantlybaby back ribs. I would say we sell closeto 300 slabs of ribs per day.”

Of course, it all comes back to the clas-sic Tony Roma’s Original Baby BackRibs ($24.99 Roma Rack, $18.59 halfslab, $28.99 full slab) — tender, leanpork loin meat basted with Tony Roma’soriginal sauce, or your choice of RomaRed Hot Sauce or Carolina Honey — andSt. Louis Ribs ($21.99 Roma Rack,$16.99 half slab, $25.99 full slab) — alarger, meatier cut of pork rib with morenatural marbling, finished with yourchoice of sauce.

“Our ribs are so tender and the meatliterally falls off the bone,” Villagraciaexplains, noting that it’s the sauce thatreally started it all. “The sauce is madefrom a secret recipe, and it’s tangy with ahint of sweetness.

“Now we have a Ribs & Combos sec-tion of our menu that customers love,

especially Baby Back Ribs and FiletMedallions Combo ($29.99). It’s a com-plete meal, and some people tend to shareit because of the rather large portionsize,” she adds.

According to Villagracia, 90 percent ofTony Roma’s Waikiki clientele aretourists, who appreciate the local flairthat exudes from a few of Tony Roma’sdelicious masterpieces, such as GrilledMahi Mahi Salad ($15.99). This newlyintroduced salad is a mouth-watering cre-ation that greets diners with mojo-grilledmahi mahi on a bed of Asian greensadorned with housemade pineapple salsa,grape tomatoes, macadamia nuts andcilantro, served with Hawaiian dressingand toasted Italian cheese flatbread.

However, Tony Roma’s Waikiki isdoing its best to draw in the locals aswell.

“We want more locals to come on overand check out the new menu and look ofthe restaurant. We remodeled last

November — it’s definitelymore up-to-date and theambiance continues to be veryhomey,” she says of this family-friendly establishment that seats128 individuals, offers a full bar,and can accommodate large par-ties.

“We don’t take reservations,so we recommend that peoplecome early, but we do offerfree valet parking from 5:30p.m. daily.

“Here at Tony Roma’s, wewant to start 2012 fresh, andwe’ve been very lucky! We'reextremely grateful to our patrons— we’ve received an excellentresponse regarding our new lookand menu — and we couldn’task for more,” Villagracia sayswith a smile.

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1 Baby Back Ribs and Filet MedallionsCombo ($29.99)2 Tony Roma’s Waikiki regional chef JP Choyand general manager Grace Villagracia withNolita Deli Panini and Grilled MahimahiSalad.3 Beef Short Rib ($26.99)4 Shrimp Scampi Pasta ($18.99)5 Grilled Mahi Mahi Salad ($15.99)6 Nolita Deli Panini ($12.99)7 Steak & Wild Mushroom Flatbread($12.99)

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6 | D I N I N G O U T | J A N . 2 2 - 2 8 , 2 0 1 2

Traditional favoritesSun Nin Fai Lok, Xin Nian

Kwai Le!That’s Happy New Year in

Cantonese and Mandarin respective-ly. It’s the biggest celebration inAsia, with most businesses in China,Hong Kong and Taipei closed forabout a week.

It’s also a holiday full of tradi-tions, including fireworks, liondances and food.

At Golden Duck ChineseRestaurant, customers can enjoyspecial new year treats, such as Gau($13 large, $5-$6 small), MixedDried Fruit ($8.35 per pound) andLucky Candy ($3.95 per bag).

“Gau has a lot of meaning forChinese New Year,” says managerDarlene Fong. “The round shapeand stickiness of gau represents thefamily sticking together through theyear. The red date on top is for goodluck, and the sesame seeds symbol-ize fertility for a lot of

grandchildren. Also the word gaumeans higher, so it represents goinghigher every year.”

As for the traditional ChineseNew Year meal, Fong suggestsGolden Duck’s special Chinese NewYear Jai ($11.95), Steam Sea Bass($11.95), and Salt and Pepper PorkChops ($9.50).

“It’s a Chinese tradition to eat Jaibecause it represents longevity andgood health,” explains Fong. “Weoffer Jai on the menu all the time,but during Chinese New Year wemake a special jai with more ingre-dients — dried oysters, fat choy, reddates, bean curd, a variety of mush-rooms, tofu, long rice, snow peas,black fungus, chestnut and more.It’s also good to have a fish dishbecause fish in Chinese is “yu,”which means surplus, so it repre-sents having more of what you havein the new year. And you usuallyhave a meat dish, and our Salt andPepper Pork Chop is very popular.We use a lot of garlic and greenonion, so there’s a lot of flavor.”

Golden Duck Chinese Restaurant,which is locally owned and operat-ed, serves traditional Chinese foodspecializing in Cantonese-style andsome Szechuan-style cuisine. Therestaurant will be open on Chinese

New Year (Jan. 23), offers afull-service bar and dailyspecials, and is available forprivate parties.

Gau, Assorted MixedDried Fruit and LuckyCandy are from GoldenDuck’s candy store inChinatown, Sing CheongYuan Bakery located at1027 Maunakea St., whereyou’ll find a bigger selec-tion of Chinese treats. Call531.6688.

whatwe’reeatingat

By Nicole Kato

Tucked away in the mid-dle of Chinatown indowntown Honolulu

lies a Chinese restaurant withfood so good it attracts regu-lar visitors from the Mainland— Nevada, to be exact.

Dining Out caught up withHelen and William Chan andtheir daughter Marilyn Lew,who live in Nevada andcome to Hawaii once a yearto celebrate Chinese NewYear. And their first stop isalways Golden PalaceSeafood Restaurant.

According to Helen, sheand her husband are retiredand travel the world. “Butnothing compares to here(Hawaii),” she says.

All dim sum is $1.98, andwith a price like that it’s nowonder Golden Palace isalways busy. And the pricesaren’t the only thing thatkeeps customers comingback again and again. GoldenPalace’s Gary Lam makes agood impression on cus-tomers, as do the rest of thestaff. “He's a nice person, andhe attracts nice customers,”

Helen adds with a smile.

Helen Chan: “We alwaysget Oyster Sauce Chicken($6.95), and they have thebest dim sum in the wholeworld.”

William Chan: “I like allthe dim sum. We can’t get dimsum like this in SanFrancisco, Hong Kong orNevada.”

Marilyn Lew: “My favoritedim sum is the Har Gau,Steamed Shrimp Dumpling($1.98). I like the texture andshrimp. I’ve loved shrimpsince I was a child.”

Golden PalaceSeafood RestaurantWhere:111 N. King St., Honolulu

Call:521.8268

Hours:7 a.m.-10 p.m. daily

(from left) Marilyn Lew, William and Helen Chan

Nicole Kato photo

Golden Palace Seafood Restaurant

New Mui Kwai ChopSuey ChineseRestaurant(Same owner and menu)

Where:132 Oneawa St.

Call:262.7800

Hours:10 a.m.-9 p.m. daily

Special Chinese New Year Jai($11.95)

Gau ($13 large, $5-$6 small),Mixed Dried Fruit ($8.35 perpound), Lucky Candy ($3.95 perbag)Lawrence Tabudlo photos

Golden DuckChinese Restaurant Where:4230 Waialae Ave. (Kahala)1221 S. King St.

Call:737.7188 (Kahala)597.8088 (King St.)

Hours:10 a.m.-9 p.m. daily (Kahala)10:30 a.m.-11 p.m. daily(King St.)

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Big City, big portions, big appetite

Take a few items off themenu and Big CityDiner may no longer be

Big City Diner. Ray Chan’sIsland-Style Poke ($8.99) andThe Really Loco, Loco Moco($9.99) are as much a part ofthe restaurant as its cozy andtraditional décor. The third legin the holy trinity of BigCity’s signature dishes isGrandma’s Incredible KimChee Fried Rice ($8.99).

Made with peas, onion, egg,char sui pork and, of course,fresh kim chee, the appetiz-er/main course menu item is afavorite among guests for avery good reason: It’s creamyand delicious. Yes, the kimchee is a big part of theappeal, but it is the sauce,made with oyster sauce, gin-ger, garlic, shoyu and fewother semi-secret ingredients,that turns this simple menuitem into something special.

Chilled Tofu ($4.99) on adiner appetizer menu mayseem strange, but it works and provides alighter option. The locally produced tofuis topped with chopped green onion andsesame seeds, and served with grated gin-ger, to which shoyu is typically mixed.The mixture provides a bit of kick andtraditional flavor to the creamy tofu.

The mild flavor of the tofu comple-ments the sweet and spicy sauce onanother pupu pick, Wings Over Big City($9.99). With a taste that is a little bitSouthern, a little bit Kansas City and, asassistant manager Ron Ching says, “awhole bunch local,” the sauce has a goodbalance that stays away from being over-powering in any direction. One word ofadvice: Ask for extra napkins. The ten-

der chicken and slightly stickysauce will have you licking yourfingers. On second thought, bypassthe napkins in favor of the morenatural approach.

If barbecue sauce on your chin isbetter left for another day, try theRoasted Garlic Fries ($5.99). Crispyand with enough garlic to offendmost vampires, the fries are a sim-ple and tasty way to share food withfriends while talking story or wait-ing for the main course to arrive. Ordon’t share them. What happens atBig City Diner … well, eventuallygets back to your friends, as some-one you know is likely to be in thebooth next to you.

1 Grandma’s Incredible Kim CheeFried Rice ($8.99) and Roasted

Garlic Fries ($5.99)2 Wings Over Big City ($9.99)

3 Mary Urata with Roasted GarlicFries ($5.99) and Wings Over Big

City ($9.99)

Leah Friel photos

Big City Diner Where:Ward Centers1060 Auahi St. #4, Honolulu(and various locations)

Call:591.8891

Hours:7 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, 7 a.m.-midnight Friday andSaturday

All Bottles and Glasses of Wine

7 am - 10 pm

KAILUA 263-8880

KAIMUKI 738-8855

PEARLRIDGE EAST 487-8188

WAIPIO 678-8868

WARD CENTER 591-8891

www.bigcitydinerhawaii.com

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By Alana Folen

Pay a visit to Ichirikion any given day,and you'll be greet-

ed by the hustle and bus-tle of diners who can’twait to sample the famousnabe, which the eatery isknown for. The alluringaroma of flavorful cuisineand lulling chatter ofpatrons having a goodtime will definitely workup appetite.

The restaurant openedthe doors to its first loca-tion on Piikoi Street in2006, and opened its sec-ond location this pastJune in Westridge, Aiea.Both have garneredmuch success.

“The concept of Ichiriki

is simple: Make our cus-tomers happy,” says co-owner Issei Kazama. “Weserve Japanese nabe (hotpot) including more thana dozen original ones,along with traditionalshabu shabu and sukiyaki.Our food is very healthy,as we don’t use anygrease when it comes toour nabe, and most of thenabe consists of many dif-ferent vegetables.”

Simply put, Ichirikiprides itself on wonder-ful food with great serv-ice to match. So, the nexttime you find yourself atthis premier Japaneserestaurant, Chew OnThis: Seafood KamiNabe ($59.95 for twopeople) and Sukiyaki

Bento ($7.95).Seafood Kami Nabe is a

must-have for any seafoodlover. This nabe featuressnow crab legs, jumbo-sized shrimp, calamari,salmon and scallops.

“Combine the seafoodwith bountiful portions ofvegetables, and have your-self a little party at yourtable,” Kazama exclaims.“It is cooked in our paperpot, so a lot of oil from theseafood gets absorbed intothe paper and not yourbelly,” he adds, noting thatthe nabe comes completewith rice and two orders ofudon or ramen noodles atthe end of the meal to helpyou savor the deliciousshoyu broth.

For people on-the-go,

Sukiyaki Bento is the per-fect choice. In fact, Kazamasays this tatsy bento is thetakeout option of therestaurant’s very popularsukiyaki.

“We recently juststarted offering thisbento that consists ofbeef sukiyaki withour homemadetsukune meatballsand some seasonalvegetables,” he says.Sukiyaki Bento isavailable daily from11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.at both locations,and if you purchasefour, you get onefree.

“We also offersome great dis-counts on our

Facebook page (face-book.com/nabeman) everyweek!”

Treat yourself to healthy,fresh and alluring flavorsat Ichiriki.

chewonthis

Ichiriki

Where: 510 Piikoi St. #102,Honolulu98-150 Kaonohi St., Suite C216, Aiea

Call: 589.2299 (Piikoi)484.2222 (Aiea)

Hours:PiikoiOpen daily11 a.m.–2 p.m. (Lunch)5–11 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, 5 p.m.– midnightFriday-Saturday (Dinner)

AieaOpen daily11 a.m.–3 p.m. (Lunch)5–11 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 5 p.m.–midnightFriday-Saturday, 5-10 p.m.Sundays (Dinner)

Ichiriki’s irresistible nabe, bento

eatthisBy Ali Resich

On Jan. 3, The FatGreek Waikiki cele-brated its one-year

anniversary. In addition tomany local clientele, the AlaMoana Boulevard eatery hasbecome home to a following

of tourists, includinginternational regulars

who revisit the hotspot during theiryearly vacations.

“It’s great theyremember us andwant to eat here

again. They tell usthey’re glad we’re still

here,” says managerGeorge Stephanos.

It’s fresh and flavorfulGreek food that keeps dinerscoming back for more.Favorites like Fresh Fish ofthe Day ($15.95), servedSaganaki style on a sizzlingplatter with tomato sauce,onions, peppers, basmati rice,house salad and pita breadquickly sell out. This dishfeatures daily fresh catchessuch as opah, ahi and mahimahi, and also comesMediterranean style with aspicy salsa.

The Royal Platter (serves 2-4; $39.95) is great for sharing,and includes four lamb chops,eight pieces of garlic shrimp,Greek salad, Greek fries,hummus, pita bread, baklava

and two sodas. Rib eyescooked to order may be sub-stituted for the lamb chopsupon request.

The establishment’sWednesday Special becameso popular that it’s now amenu regular. Succulent FatGreek Kabobs ($14.95) areskewers filled with grilledlamb or chicken and vegeta-bles such as mushrooms andonions. With such savorymeals, it’s no wonder TheFat Greek’s customer basekeeps growing.

When enjoying your Greekfeast, be sure to take advan-tage of validated parkingavailable at the WaikikiMarina structure located

alongside Red Lobster andChart House restaurants onHobron Lane.

The Fat GreekWhere:3040 Waialae Ave. #A3,Honolulu (Kaimuki)

1831 Ala Moana Blvd., Ste. 201, Honolulu (Waikiki)

Call:734.0404 (Kaimuki)941.3444 (Waikiki)

Hours:Open daily, 11 a.m-10 p.m.Specials from 4 p.m.

GoingGreek

Fish of the Day($15.95)

Nathalie Walker photo

Snow Crab Nabe ($59.95)Leah Friel photo

As consumers ofbooks, movies, cars,etc., there is a trend

to go for the best-sellingitems around, the ones thathave proven to be top qual-ity as decided by the pub-lic, reviewers and critics.Well, if you take that samephilosophy and apply it towhat you may choose fordinner at KobeSteakhouse, then youshould certainly gravitatetoward the Steak andShrimp combinationserved ($34.95).

The dish is centeredaround a salt-and-pepper5-ounce steak, whichpairs well with Kobe’sspecial mustard sauce that accentuates thebeefy flavor. Your seven pieces of shrimphave been marinated in butter and lemonbefore being grilled, and their flavor height-

ened by Kobe's ginger sauce. Alsoserved are sprouts, and teppanyaki vegeta-bles, which include zucchini,mushrooms and onions. A great

complement to the Steakand Shrimp combination is aside of Fried Rice ($4).

If shrimp is not your toppick, then Kobe owner RoyNakamura highly suggestsScallops, also priced at$34.95. When asked ifchanges would ever be madeto this Kobe signature dish,Nakamura replies, “I would-n’t mess with perfection.”

So, if it’s ethnic cuisineyou’re searching for, KobeSteakhouse has all your surfand turf favorites to fill yourappetite.

D I N I N G O U T | J A N . 2 2 - 2 8 , 2 0 1 2 | 9

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

Home of the “Milky-White” Paiten Ramen!

Mini Ramen +4 pc. Gyoza +

Curry Plate(choice of 8)

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Home of the “Milky-White” Paitan Ramen!Home of the “Milky-White” Paitan Ramen!

Seafood w/ Tofu Soup3 Lobsters w/ Ginger & Onions

Whole Crispy ChickenBeef w/ Young Ginger & Pineapple

Steamed Fish Fillet w/ GingerSalt & Pepper Shrimp

Choy Sum w/ Meat SauceGarlic w/ Shrimp Fried Rice

Dessert

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Hours:5:30-10 p.m. daily(lounge opens at 5 p.m.)

Kobe’s steak and shrimp shake-up

Steak and Shrimp Combo ($34.95) and Fried Rice ($4)

File photo

The pulse of paradise.www.staradvertiser.com

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your Honolulu Star-Advertiser

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1 0 | D I N I N G O U T | J A N . 2 2 - 2 8 , 2 0 1 2

After working as awaiter at Peter LugerSteak House in

Brooklyn for 40 years,Wolfgang Zwiener spurnedretirement and insteadchose to open his ownchain of immensely pop-ular steak houses. Whilefinding an empty seat atone of his restaurants isas rare as one of the per-fectly cooked pieces ofdry-aged beef, successceases to slow down the72-year-old.

Instead, the former headwaiter of New York’s topsteak haven decided tooffer customers a taste ofhis initial culinary passion:Italian food. Zwiener devel-oped a liking for the delec-table fare while growingup in Europe and spendingtime traveling through Italy.He earned the nickname Il

Lupino, translated to mean“little wolf” in Italian, andhis eatery — which standsdirectly below his highlyacclaimed Wolfgang’sSteakhouse in RoyalHawaiian Center—appro-priately bears the moniker.

Il Lupino Trattoria &Wine Bar offers up stellarcustomer service andauthentic Italian cuisinein a casual, relaxed atmos-phere. Nestled alongsidea tranquil garden and sit-uated behind the historicRoyal Hawaiian Hotel, IlLupino stands out as oneof the center’s culinarycrown jewels. Eaters havethe option of dining alfrescoin the restaurant’s outsidepatio area that features itsown bar, or may remainin the comfortable diningroom that offers views ofthe restaurant’s vast wine

collection and a glimpseinto the open kitchen.

Executive chef NicolaSayada is the mastermindbehind the mouth-wateringmenu, and works tirelesslyto craft dishes that includeauthentic Italian recipesand ingredients, includingpasta imported from Italy.In his work as bothacclaimed chef and restau-rateur, Sayada brings 40-plus years of experienceto the table.

“I bought a whole bunchof Italian cookbooks tosee what the new chefsare doing,” says Sayada,who was trained in Frenchcuisine in San Francisco.“We’re doing some nice,classical cuisine. It’s notregional, it’s all the classicaldishes that Italians havebeen making.”

Linguine alla Carbonara

...dining out ...

inside F E A T U R E. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Royal Hawaiian Center2233 Kalakaua Ave., Bldg. B,Honolulu

922.3400

Open daily 8 a.m.-10:30 p.m., Sunday-Thursday; close at 11:30p.m. Friday and Saturday

Take advantage of multipleHappy Hour specials avail-able daily from 3 to 6:30p.m. Enjoy $7 cocktails,including Il Lupino Mai Taimade with premium rum andfruit juices. Wine by the glassalso is available for $5, asare selected $4 beers. Also,Indulge in Calamari SicilianStyle ($5) or Happy HourPizza ($5).

1

2

Il Lupino excutive chef Nicola Sayadaturns up the heat in the kitchen.

D I N I N G O U T | J A N . 2 2 - 2 8 , 2 0 1 2 | 1 1

($18) features a bed ofnoodles coated withParmesan, pancetta andegg and incorporates toma-toes, bacon and chili flakesfor an added kick. TheBucatini all’Amatriciana($17) and Linguine alleVongole ($19) both featurethe hearty pasta while thelatter includes fresh clamsserved with a choice ofwhite wine or tomato sauce.

“Manila clams open upand have a little muddyflavor to them,” saysSayada of the typical clamserved in pasta dishes else-where. “We get our clamsfrom Florida; they’re lit-tlenecks. They’re muchmore flavorful and havesome more saltiness intheir water; they’re awe-some.”

Those looking for a light

meal are encouraged totry Insalate di Rucola($14), a vibrant greenarugula salad that offers adistinct swath of flavors.“The American palate isnot really set up for thebitter lettuces,” says Sayadawhen describing the tasteassociated with arugula.“So, we came up withthis salad and in order totailor it more toward theAmerican palate, I putpears in it that we pan-sear with vinegar, butterand brown sugar. I glazethem in that and add someextra-virgin olive oil vinai-grette, some Parmesan,and caramelized Marconaalmonds to finish.”

What would a classicItalian eatery be withoutpizza? Il Lupino bakes itsthin-crust pies to order,

including Zucchini eMelanzane ($15) that offersan array of oven roastedzucchini and eggplant withtri-color peppers andParmesan cheese. Othertraditional favorites includePolpettone al Pomodoro($10), a massive veal, porkand beef meatball servedon a bed of tomato sauceand Parmesan cheese, andRavioli ai Funghi ($19),wild mushroom ravioli ina zesty sauce.

“I add a little flavor toenhance certain items, butI don’t bastardize the dish,”Sayada says. “Our pastacomes from Italy, and Idare to say that there’s notone restaurant in Hawaiior in the majority of theMainland that uses ourpasta. It’s the real thing.It’s incredible pasta. You

want to keep it as close tothe root of Italian cookingas possible.”

The “Chef Nic Touch,”as regulars have come toknow it, also comes throughin Il Lupino’s dessert selec-tion. Panna Cotta alCioccolato Bianco ($10)features an Italian whitechocolate crème with arich compote flavored withcardamom, lavender, orangepeel and Madeira wine.Tiramisu al Cioccolato($11) offers fluffy layersof Mascarpone cheese,espresso, eggs and choco-late cake served on a bedof almond crème anglaiseand cocoa powder.

The delectable dessertswill have diners cryingwolf — a positive sideeffect of the Il Lupinoexperience.

...dining out ...

inside F E A T U R E. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

67

8

4

3

5

1 Linguine alle Carbonara ($18)

2 Insalata di Rucola ($14)

3 Zucchini e Melanzane ($15)

4 Tiramisu al Ciocclato ($11)

5 Polpettone al Pomodoro ($10)

6 Il Lupino offers a wide array of authentic Italiandishes.

7 Bucatini all'Amatriciana ($17)

8 Panna Cotta al Cioccolato Bianco ($10)

t

r

1 2 | D I N I N G O U T | J A N . 2 2 - 2 8 , 2 0 1 2

ono,youknow

belt. This form of sushi dining is based onthe idea promoted to create a “fast-foodsushi of sorts.

What’s my immediate must-have or“must-grab,” you may ask? That wouldmost certainly be Genki Sushi’s DragonRoll. Priced at $3.80, the Dragon Roll ismost fitting being that it is the year of thedragon, according to the Chinese zodiac.

“Dragon Roll (four pieces) is a popu-lar pick among our customers,” saysdirector of purchasing, David Moon.“It’s very good!”

With the very first bite, I woulddescribe it as an unagi lover’s take on theclassic California roll, as it consists ofcrab, mayo and avocado wrapped ever sotightly in nori and rice, and topped with aflavorful piece of unagi seasoned in a spe-cial sauce.

“Our unagi is always very tender,”Moon adds. And you’ll indeed notice that

when biting into Genki’s prime Unagi(2.80, two pieces), broiled and sliced atopGenki’s onolicious sushi rice, wrappedwith a strip of nori and accented with theeatery’s scrumptious unagi sauce.

While you’re at it, make room in yourtummy to feast on plates upon plates ofSpicy Tempura Roll, Ahi Poke, SpicyTuna Roll, Inari, Teriyaki Chicken Bowland more. It’s evident that the possibilitiesare endless at Genki Sushi.

Genki Sushi430 Kamehameha Hwy. (and various locations)

485.0227

Curry KingAt Curry King, the crowning moment is

when you are presented with a piping hotbowl of paitan ramen or savory Japanesecurry — just a couple of the many alluringentrees to come out of this establishment.

Located in the food court at WardWarehouse, Curry King opened its doorsthis past September, and according tomanager and chef Shane Yang, his philos-ophy is to offer high-quality cuisine at anaffordable price.

“We specialize in paitain ramen,” Yangsays. “Paitan is pork-based soup, and weleave it to simmer until it turns a naturalwhite. You can order ramen or udon withpaitan soup.”

Yet, with a name like Curry King, it’sonly proper to ask about the curry dishesoffered here. Yang presents diners with aJapanese curry (with rice or ramen),which he says isn’t too spicy, and in factgives off a sweeter flavor.

Is your stomach growling yet? Mine is.However, being that my appetite wasgeared to everything uniquely unagi, I justhad to ask Yang about his unagi special.

“We do have an Unagi Bowl ($9.55),featuring barbecue teriyaki fresh-water

eel,” he says.Diners are greeted with a bowl full of

rice topped with 5.5 ounces of deliciousunagi smothered in a homemade teriyakisauce. A side of mixed greens and tsuke-mono complete the dish.

“Unagi is a favorite with locals and themeat is very tender,” Yang explains.“When you mix the teriyaki unagi withthe hot rice, it’s very delicious. We sellabout 10 to 15 orders of the Unagi Bowlper day.”

Yang oversees the 30-item menu atCurry King and is looking to add moreitems in the near future.

“It’s always exciting to come up withnew ideas and see how our customers likeit,” he says.

Curry KingWard Warehouse

1050 Ala Moana Blvd. #1400591.8855

– From page 2

1 2

3

4

5 61 Curry King’s Unagi Bowl ($9.55)

2 Sushi Ichiban’s Unagi AvocadoMaki ($8)

3 Genki Sushi’s Dragon Roll ($3.80)

4 Sushi Ichiban’s Unajyu ($15)

5 Genki Sushi’s Unagi ($2.80)

6 Shane Yang with CurryKing’s Ungai Bowl.

D I N I N G O U T | J A N . 2 2 - 2 8 , 2 0 1 2 | 1 3

Everyone is going out for dimsum, but you’re hesitant to jointhem as you’re well aware that

vegetarian dim sumis a rarity at mostChinese restaurants.

Don’t worry, behappy.

While dim sumdraws the crowds toHappy Day ChineseSeafood Restaurantin Kaimuki, that’snot all you’ll find onits extensive menu ofCantonese favorites.And don’t let thename make you sad— it’s not all aboutseafood. The

Chinese New Yearfavorite, Jai aka monk’sfood, is a popular choice

here and itcontains nomeat or fish.

“Gung hay fatchoy!” says Happy Day’supbeat owner Lisa Lum,who was indeed happy torecommend the restau-rant’s Jai for Dining Outreaders to celebrate theYear of the Dragon — thelunar new year — or anyday of the year.

Happy Day’s Jai($9.95) is a healthy com-bination of long rice,bean curd, carrots, black

mushrooms, Chinese peas, goldenmushrooms, tofu skin and more in ared bean curd sauce. All those veg-etable flavors and textures work welltogether, and the slippery strands oflong rice provide a nice complementthat’s sure to bring a smile to yourface.

Eating Jai is a traditional way to cel-ebrate Chinese New Year, and luckyfor veggie lovers, you can savor it allyear round at Happy Day.

VO veg’noutwith

Terri Hefner

Star of HonoluluWhere: Docked At Pier 8Aloha Tower Marketplace1 Aloha Tower Drive,Honolulu

Call: 1.800.334.6191 or983.STAR (7827)

Website: StarofHonolulu.com

Hours:Cruises run daily.Premier Whale Watch Cruise11:15 a.m. boarding atAloha Tower Marketplace,noon departure, 2:30 p.m.disembark.Early Bird Whale Watch8 a.m. boarding at AlohaTower Marketplace, 8:45a.m. departure, 10:45 a.m.disembark.

The Star of the SeaBy Ali Resich

For 55 years, the Starof Honolulu haswowed guests with

timeless sunset dinnercruises. The 232-footship, custom built in1992 and recently reno-vated, is Hawaii’s onlymoving restaurant of itskind. Lesser known arethe ship’s exciting, sea-sonal day cruises thatwill leave kamaainaready to hop on board.

The Premier WhaleWatch Cruise ($63,adults; $38, children)includes two-and-a-halfhours of humpbackwhale-spotting, alongwith the Taste of HawaiiBuffet. The vessel makesuse of its four walk-around decks and 60-foot-high observation deck tospot the sea’s “friendlygiants” as it cruises dailyuntil April 15.

“Thankfully, we seewhales every day. I’vebeen on this boat andsplashed from a whale

landing in the water,” saysexecutive chef AdamGilbert.

Now in his fifth year asexecutive chef, Gilbert andhis team provide meals forhundreds of customers at atime. In doing so, produc-ing consistent, high-quali-ty food is his first priority.

To achieve this, Gilbertturns to local produce.“We buy all our lettucefrom Maui. All our toma-toes are local; our tofu’slocally made. Our mari-nades are from rawingredients and our misomarinade is completelyfrom scratch.”

Some of the buffet’smust-haves are Citrus MisoGlazed White Fish,Teriyaki Chicken and theHawaiian Black Sea SaltRoast Beef Carving Station.

Gilbert also ensureseveryone can find some-thing to please their palateaboard the ship. Vegan,vegetarian and glucose-free dishes have beenadded to this year’s menuwith Fried Noodles and

Tofu Poke topping offvegan favorites.

Kamaaina discounts forentire parties are availablefor the Premier WhaleWatch (prices start at$38.07/$22.68) as well asEarly Bird Whale Watch(prices start at$24.26/$14.58) cruises tocustomers who purchasetickets with a valid HawaiiID. Also, with every pay-ing adult, one child (ages 3to 11) can cruise for free.

“Every year I bring myfamily on the whale-watching trips because it’sa lot more local-friendly,”explains Gilbert. “Forpeople who live in Hawaiiand work all the time anddon’t get to the oceanmuch, you get a greatlunch and you see whalesjumping out of the water20-feet from you!”

Don't Worry, Be Happy

Jai ($9.95) | Nathalie Walker photo

Happy Day Chinese Seafood RestaurantWhere: 3353 Waialae Ave., HonoluluCall: 738.8666Hours: Open daily, 8 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

Happy Day owner Lisa Lumwith Jai.

1 Star of Honolulu wows din-ers with its delectable cuisine.2 A humpback whale puts ona show for guests. 3 Star of Honolulu favoritesPhotos courtesy of Star ofHonolulu

1

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3

Kissaten Coffee Bar is the answer tolate-night dining. Whether you arelooking for dinner after a night out or

caffeine to fuel a study session, Kissaten willhave what you need to make it through thoselate nights. With a casual, tranquil environ-ment — and its convenient location on PiikoiStreet — Kissaten is the perfect place to hangout with friends or hit the books. And best ofall, it's open 24 hours a day.

“All throughout the day, there is alwayssomebody here,” says co-owner NeysaTaba. “We have a lot of students who comehere to study, a lot of businesspeople, andthen also the late-night crowd coming inafter they go out.”

Kissaten serves breakfast from 6 to 11a.m., so you can start your day off with tasty

options such as Fruit Plate ($5) or FreshBaked Croissants ($2). Taba says that one ofthe most popular breakfast items is SmokedSalmon & Bagel ($9), with organic mesclungreens, capers and shaved onions. Or for anenergizing morning meal, try Egg WhiteFrittata ($7), with goat cheese, roasted toma-toes and spinach.

For lunch or dinner, one of the most popu-lar menu items is Kissaten Melt ($9), whichfeatures pastrami, mozzarella, caramelizedonions and a mustard aioli on a rosemaryolive loaf. Another customer favorite isGrilled Cheese & Tomato Bisque ($9), whichis offered on the late-night menu. Anotherlate-night standby is Kissaten's Pho NoodleSoup ($7).

Taba describes Kissaten’s cuisine as

Although Kissaten Coffee Bar hasbeen opened just slightly morethan one year, it has already estab-

lished a loyal following of customers who frequent the eatery forits tasty drinks and food offered around the clock. Co-ownersJohn Ishimi, Sean Ishizaki and Neysa Taba started Kissaten asa way to solve their own night-owl dilemmas. Taba says that thethree of them — who all worked together at a bar before open-ing Kissaten — kept late hours and basically lived off of coffee.

“We all had so many things going on,” Taba says. “Jon ownedseveral businesses in the past, and Sean and I always had mul-tiple jobs … And we also do the nightlife thing, so we werealways awake at all hours of the day. And we all love coffee.”

But because of their unusual hours, Taba says, it was some-times hard to find a place to go after work or a night out.

“So we took both ideas — the 24-hour lifestyle and our lovefor coffee — and tried to mash them together,” Taba says.

Today, Kissaten is a haven for night owls like its co-owners.Kissaten’s casual and welcoming environment ensure that youwill have a great experience whether you’re looking for a quietstudy spot or a casual place to meet up with a group of friends.

Even if you stop in to Kissaten often, you’ll likely find somethingnew to try. Kissaten features a rotating set of daily food specials. OnValentine’s Day, guests get a free dessert with the purchase ofKissaten Melt ($9). Kissaten also offers seasonal drink specials.They are currently working on a drink special for Valentine’s Day.

TH

ES

IDE

Kissaten sous chef Brittany Freitas with Homemade Bread Pudding ($3.50).

Kissaten Coffee Bar88 Piikoi St., Honolulu

593.1200

Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week

1 4 | D I N I N G O U T | J A N . 2 2 - 2 8 , 2 0 1 2

with Christina O’ConnorFresh Croissants ($2)

Lawrence Tabudlo photos

ON

1345 S. King Street

Corner of S. King St.

& Sheridan St.

Close to Ala Moana

Shpg Cntr & Wal Mart

TEL.942-4848www.fujio-food.com

Japanese Home Style Restaurant“Hinone Mizunone”

Please enjoy the KAMADAKIGOHAN

cooked completely by “Ogama”.

Choose from • Fried Oyster • Ebi Fry • Ahi Sashimi • Broiled SalmonChicken Katsu • Miso Butterfish • Karaage • Pork Ginger

Sizzling Hamburger Steak • Tempura • Tonkatsu and many more!

Bentos and assorted musubi available daily as well as ala carte specials

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

OPEN DAILY 11am-9pmLunch 11 am - 4 pmDinner 5 pm - 9 pm

Dinner Menu2 Choice

Teishoku Combo$17.75- $22.75

Dinner Menu2 Choice

Teishoku Combo$17.75- $22.75

$15.95 Complete Dinner

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

EARLY BIRD SPECIAL

947-2836Open 7 Days • 2700 So. King St.

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

New Hours 5:30 - 6:45pm

“American comfort food with a twist,” adding that therestaurant likes to add its own, unique flavor to each ofthe dishes. “A lot of our dishes have an ethnic twist —we try to do Japanese, Italian or French twists to every-thing,” she says. “Our dishes often have an ingredientthat you wouldn’t expect.”

Roasted Herb Vegetable Wrap ($8), for example, pairsred pepper hummus with goat cheese. And Kissatenoffers a creative new spin on a classic Grilled Cheesesandwich. Mixed in with the smoked gouda and

Tillamook Cheddar are apples and smoked bacon.And if it’s coffee you’re after, Kissaten offers a range

of flavorful coffee and espresso drinks, including ThaiLatte ($3 for a small), Italian Macchiato ($1.75 for asmall) and Caramella ($3.75 for a small). Tea drinksinclude Chai Tea Latte ($2.75 for a small) and MatchaTea Latte ($2.75 for a small).

Coffee or tea drinks also taste great withKissaten’s sweet desserts, such as Homemade BreadPudding ($3.50).

FREEPARKING

BehindRestaurant

HAPPY HOUR4pm-8pm!

1649 Kalakaua Ave.(808) 447-1492

941-4444

NIGHTLY 5:30 PM - 6:30 PMTeriyaki Chicken . . . . . . . . . . . . .$15.95Daily Fish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$23.95Sukiyaki Steak . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$20.95Teriyaki Steak & Chicken Combo .$21.95Kama‘aina & Military Discount

Available (with proper ID)

1841 Ala Moana Blvd.Between Ilikai & Hilton Hawaiian Village

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

• GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE

• LUNCH SPECIALS STARTING FROM $7.99

SERVED DAILY 10AM-3PM

10% off senior (65 or older)

on tuesdays & thursdays*restrictions may apply.

www.choisgarden.com

7 days open! (808) 596-75551303 Rycroft street • Honolulu • HI 96814

2464 Kalakaua Avenue926-EGGS (3447)

www.eggsnthings.com

Now open at theWaikiki Circle Hotel

Same Great Food Servedin an Eggspressive Fashion

One coupon per order. Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 1/31/12

Kahala Mall738-5696

(KOZO)

Moiliili 951-5696

(KOZO)

Keeaumokuby Wal-Mart946-5696

(KOZO)

Pearlridge483-6805

Pearl Cityby Wal-Mart455-6805

45 pcs.Nigri 12 pcs.Inari 3 pcs.

Makisushi 12 pcs.Hosomaki 18 pcs.

D I N I N G O U T | J A N . 2 2 - 2 8 , 2 0 1 2 | 1 5

foodiefare

1 Egg White Fritatta ($9)2 Smoked Salmon &

Bagel ($9)3 Homemade Bread

Pudding ($3.50)4 Fruit Plate ($5)

1 2

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The pulse of paradise.www.staradvertiser.com

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Advertiser subscriptionCALL

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at the Colony Surf

Please comeshare ournightly sunsets...

Michel’s Early DiningClubTwo course menu for $45 plus a complimentary glass of wine.

5:30 pm Reservations Only! MONDAY THRU SATURDAYON RESERVATIONS MENTIONING THIS AD

Expires 1/31/12

www.michelshawaii.com • 923-6552 • 2895 Kalakaua Ave.FREE VALET PARKING • LIVE ENTERTAINMENT NIGHTLY

CALL FOR BANQUETS, RECEPTIONS & PARTIES 728-3463

New Ye

ar,

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enu!

923 KEEAUMOKU ST.955-3388

Deep FriedFlounder

Best Cantonese Cuisine

OPEN DAILY:10am — midnight

HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR SPECIALHAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR SPECIAL

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

$9.99(Reg. $15.99)

(Whole) withSeasoning Herbs

Jai$8.99

OPEN Tues-Fri: 11am-2pm & 5pm-9pm • Sat: 11am-9pm • Sun-Mon: ClosedParking: turn into drivewaybetween Kokua Market & 4 Kings951-KING (5464) • 2671A S. King St.

Special valid on Meatloaf only. Must present coupon. Exp. 1/31/12

WAIMALU98-020 Kam Hwy.488-8824

WAIPAHU94-256 Waipahu Depot St.

676-2088

EWA BEACH SHOP. CTR.91-919 Fort Weaver Rd.

689-0999www.shirossaimin.com

Dear Hearts and Treasured Friends,

Saimin Havenly Yours,

Shiro‘Manuela Boy’Matsuo

“At times it’s good to ponderUpon things that’s somberOf all the realities and necessities,Integrity must be number oneThis is a must or thy will be done.”

Teriyaki Chicken $7.95Teriyaki Combo (Steak & Chicken) $10.95Fish of the Day $7.95North Shore Garlic Shrimp $9.95

NEW MENU & SUSHI BAR!

Includes Miso Soup,Salad, Rice and Japanese hot teaNot valid with other offers or promotions.Gift Cards Available

BLUE HAWAII SUSHI BAR & RESTAURANT

Early Bird Special 4-5pm

1140 Kuala St. (Across Wal-Mart) Pearl City | 456-2128Sun-Thurs 10:30am-9:00pm | Fri-Sat 11:00am-10:00pm

Nice Day Chinese Seafood RestaurantLiliha Square by Times Supermarket

524-1628

Excludes Set Menus; Roast Pork, Roast Duck, Char Siu& other specials. 5%, 10% and lobster special not tobe combined with any other offer/discounts/specials.Expires 1/31/12. Must present coupon.

Credit Card Sale Only(With Coupon)

Hong Kong Dim Sum & Regular Menu Items

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

10% OFF(Charge) • 15% OFF(Cash)

Dim Sum & Reg. Menu Dine In Special!

5% OFF(Charge) •10% OFF(Cash)

10% OFF

Celebrating 10 Years!

Cash Sale Only (With Coupon)

5% OFF

Happy Day Chinese Restaurant3553 Waialae Avenue

738-8666Excludes Set Menu; Roast Pork, Roast Duck, Char Siu & other specials.

5%, 10% and lobster special are not to be combined with any otheroffer/discounts/specials. Expires 1/31/12. Must present coupon.

Lobster $999

with purchase of Full Price EntreeValid 5-10:30pm

Lobster $999

with purchase of Full Price EntreeValid 5-10:30pm

WHERE TO DINE

Symbol KeyBreakfast

Lunch

Dinner

After Midnight

Alcohol served

Online

Catering

Atlantis Seafood & Steak2284 Kalakaua Avenue922-6868

4 Kings Kitchen2671 S. King St.951-5464

La Palme D’orAla Moana Center - Mall LevelMountain Side, next to Shirokiya941-6161

Napoleon’s BakeryLocated inside of Zippy’s

AMERICAN

BAKERYFendu Boulangerie2752 Woodlawn Dr.Manoa Marketplace988-4310

Tropics Bar & Grill2005 Kalia RoadHilton Hawaiian Village (Ali‘i Tower)949-4321

Larry’s Bakery4369 Lawehana St. (across Target in Salt Lake)422-0059

Eggs n’ Things343 Saratoga Road923-EGGS (3447)

Waikiki Beach Eggspress2464 Kalakaua Ave(Ashton Waikiki Circle)926-EGGS (3447)

Teddy’s Bigger BurgerWaikiki • 926-3444Kailua • 262-0820Hawaii Kai • 394-9100Aiea • 486-2167University • 949-0050Maui • 661-9111

Panya711 Queen St. 597-88801111 Bishop St. #4 536-8363Ala Moana Center 946-6388Royal Hawaiian Center 791-2969

BYOB

• 14 broths • 6 meats • 100 different ingredients

Take $500 OFF

2700 S. King St. (near 7-11 at King St./University) M-Th 4pm-12am | F-Sun 4pm-1am

951-7878

your purchase of $40 or more. exp. 1/26/12. cannot be combined with other offers/specials. must present coupon.

• NEW! Bacon-Wrapped SirloinSteak & Eggs

• Chicken & Waffles• NEW! Cheesy Western Omelette• NEW! Bacon & Cheddar

Hash Brown StackTM

• NEW! Hash Brown Crusted Chicken& Biscuit

• Nutella® Crepes & Eggs• Veggie OmeletteU N D E R 6 0 0 C A L O R I E S

SIMPLE & FIT

©20

12 IH

OP

IP, L

LC

STARTSJAN. 23rd

Valid at Participating Locations:Waikiki (Ala Moana), Hilo, Pearl City, and Windward Mall

Valid at Participating LocationsWindward Mall 235-4467

Pearl City 486-4467 • Hilo 959-2600Waikiki (Ala Moana Blvd) 949-4467

www.ihophawaii.com

1 6 | D I N I N G O U T | J A N . 2 2 - 2 8 , 2 0 1 2

Early BirdSpecial Only

Sauteed Mahi withLobster Sauce

Steak & ShrimpChicken Alfredo Pasta

Call 922-6868for Reservations & Information

2284 Kalakaua Ave.Open 7 Days from 11am-10pm

Lunch 11am - 4pmDinner 5pm - 10pm

at the old Waikiki III TheatresParking available at the Pro-Park locationSeaside Ave. Pay $2 at the Restaurant.

www.atlantisseafoodsteak.com

$12.95 Hee Hing CelebratesThe Year of the DRAGON

449 KAPAHULU AVE., STE 101

For reservations, call

735-5544

Special Year of the Dragon MenuAsian Shrimp Salad with Fresh Melons and Golden Pineapple • Eight TreasureWintermelon Soup • Pot Roast Chicken

Roasted Garlic Live Dungeness CrabBraised Boneless Beef Shortribs with Taro

Sweet and Sour Whole SnapperHamakua Mushroom, Hasu and Chinese

Peas Stir Fry • New Year’s Jai • Red Azuki BeanDessert Soup • New Year’s Gau$289 Table of Ten (reg. $310)

$150 Table of FiveMenu available Jan 15 –February 15, 2012

Year of the Dragon Dinner BuffetAppetizers – Oyster Sauce Poke, Chilled Soya

Meats, Dim Sum, Garlic Wings & more.International Salads

Chinatown Caring Station – Black Pepper RoastPrime Rib, Roast Pig, Char Siu Pork Tenderloin

Chinese Entrees – Roast Duck, Seafood BlackBean, Steamed Fresh Clams, Crablegs. Steamed

Fish, Curry Chicken, Pepper Salt Prawns, VegetableStir Fry, New Year’s Jai, Noodles, Fried Rice & more!Desserts – New Year’s Gau, Almond Float, Fried

Mochi, Red Velvet Cake, Mochi Rice Balls andmuch, much more

Adult- $27.95 Seniors- $26.95 Keikis 4-12 $13.95Served Sunday, Jan. 22 & Monday, Jan 23; 5-9pm

New Year’s Lion DanceSunday, Jan. 22 & Monday, Jan 23 at 6:30pm

$1 OFFAny Breadpurchases over $4

Must present coupon • exp. 1/26/12

DAILY BREAD SPECIALSTUESDAY Rustic Kalamata Olive Bread

WEDNESDAY Sundried Tomato Cheesebread

THURSDAY Foccacia Derecco

FRIDAY Walnut Raisin

SATURDAY Hamakua Farms Mushroom Bread

SUNDAY Buckwheat Fig

“All Natural no added chemicals”

988-43102752 Woodlawn Dr. • Manoa Marketplace

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

841-0931Kam Shopping Center

Open 6am Daily

$1.79Bottomless COFFEE

FREE 2 side Pancakeswith order of any breakfast entrée

BREAKFAST SPECIAL

Your choice of syrups:Sugar Free MapleMaple • Coconut

Strawberry – NEW!Blueberry – NEW!

(excluding entrées From the Griddle)Offer Valid 6am – noon thru 3/31/12

WHERE TO DINE

CATERERSA Catered Experience94-1068 Ka Uka Blvd.677-7744

Koko CafeHale Koa Hotel, 2055 Kalia Road955-0555Call for eligibility details.949-4321

Kissaten88 Piikoi St.593-1200

Anytime CafeMarket City Shopping Center2919 Kapiolani Blvd735-3888

CAFE

CHINESEAina Haina Chop SueyAina Haina Shopping Center820 W. Hind Dr.373-1303 or 373-4632

Canton Seafood Restaurant923 Keeaumoku St.955-3388

Camellia Buffet930 McCully St.951-0511/0611

BUFFET

Makittii2380 Kuhio Ave.923-2260

Makino ChayaWestridge Mall 486-5100

Hee Hing Restaurant 449 Kapahulu Ave. 735-5544

Happy Day Chinese Restaurant3553 Waialae Ave.738-8666

Golden Palace SeafoodRestaurant111 N. King St.521-8268

Golden Duck4230 Waialae Ave., Kahala737-7188

1221 S. King St.597-8088

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

A fi ne steak. A fi ne experience.

wagyu new york strip, 14 ouncesThis Australian, kobe-style beef is masterfully grilled

to provide a juicy and tender treat for your palate.

a cutabove

the rest.

• Dynasty Style Appetizer Platter• Imitation Shark’s Fin Soup w/ Chicken• Lobsters with Garlic & butter Sauce• Steamed Whole FIsh• Steamed Chicken — Dynasty Style

• Sautéed Shrimp & Scallop w/Honey Walnuts• New Year Good Luck “Jai”• Seafood Fried Rice w/Garlic• Mochi Balls in Sweet Ginger Broth

Valid 12.26.2011- 1.31.2012

Happy New Year & Kung Hee Fat Choy$238 for table of 6 ($398 for table of 10)

Ala Moana Center 947-8818

Lion Dance1/22 7:00PM

D I N I N G O U T | J A N . 2 2 - 2 8 , 2 0 1 2 | 1 7

NOW OPEN at900 N. Nimitz Hwy

536-8570

1627 Nuuanu Ave 585-88392955 E. Manoa Rd 988-0212

OUR IMMENSELY POPULAR TAKE-OUT PLATE LUNCH

FOR ONLY...

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

Call For Take Out

$6.65

www.bangkokchefexpress.com

#10EggplantChicken

Available on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday Only––––––––––––––––Beginning––––––––––––––Roasted Butternut Squash and Lobster Bisque Shooterwith a glass of Mionetto Prosecco Gold Label

–––––––––––––––Dessert–––––––––––––––Heart Shape White Chocolate Amore Truffle

–––––––––––––––Appetizers––––––––––––––Fresh Ahi Katsu with Tomato Mango Salsa Wasabi Curry Sauce––––––––––––––––Salad–––––––––––––––––

––––––––––––––––Entrée––––––––––––––Chef Chai’s Signature Thai Style Oxtail Soup and Steamed RiceORGrilled Fresh Local Fish with Curry Sauce and Wakana Sobawith a glass of Au Bon Climat Pinor Noir

$40 per personfor D inner

$15 per personfor Wines

FREE VALET PARKING • www.chefchai.com • 585-0011Aloha Tower Marketplace

Kataifi and Mac Nut Crusted Black Tiger Prawn Saladwith a glass of Esser Chardonnay

5 – Course Dinner $40

Buy onedinner entree,

receive 2nd entree

50% OFFvalid Sun, Mon & Tues

Expires 1/31/12.

Serving Lunch & Dinner • Take-out Available

14 LOCATIONS:Aina Haina 373-4033

Kapahulu 735-7700

Waiau 485-0227

Kaneohe 247-9595

Ala Moana 942-9102

Waikele 678-3180

StadiumMarketplace488-9202

Ewa Town Center683-1003

Ward Center 591-5600

Kapolei 674-4227

Kukui Grove808-632-2450

Maui Mall808-873-7776

Lahaina808-661-0333

Kona 808-327-6776

Chinese New Year

Special Menu for10$179

111N. King St. near Maunakea7am-10pm

521-8268No credit cards accepted for special menu

Dim SumServed 7am Daily

$198Take-out Orders

WelcomedFree Parking in the Rear DINNER HOURS ONLY

Jai(Monk’s Food)

AvailableAll-Day

Ham and Scallop Soup • Chinese Chicken Salad • Peking Duck w/ Buns • Steamed Sea Bass w/ Ginger

& Onions • Walnut Shrimp • Capitol Pork Chops • Boneless Chicken Cake Noodle • Rice

• Jai • Chef’s Dessert of the Day

801 Dillingham Blvd.(next to Costco Iwilei)

Honolulu Hawaii 96817

Waipahu Shopping Plaza94-300 Farrington Hwy., Suite F-1

Waipahu, Hawaii 96797

Cuisine of the Philippines

www.maxschicken.com 951-MAXS (6297)

BUY ONE ENTREE GET THE 2ND ENTREE AT

50%OFF*2nd entree of equal or lesser value; Present coupon at time

of purchase. One coupon per transaction. Exp 1/31/12

Crispy Pata(Crispy Pork Hocks)

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

• Wine Spectator Award-Winning Wine List

• Live Entertainment

• Valet Parking

Proper Attire Required

Reservations Recommended2440 Kuhio Ave.

922 5555www.hyshawaii.com

Receive acomplimentary

Hy’s Cheesecake & Keepsake Photo For Honoree

Celebrate Your BirthdayWith us and

�

OPEN TUE-SUN LUNCH 11AM-2PM, DINNER 5-8:30PM • Closed Monday Lunch & Dinner100 N. Beretania Street #113 (Parking inside Chinese Cultural Plaza) 536-3035

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

$10.95

HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR2 pc. Shrimp Tempura

2 pc. Vegetable Tempura& Miso Butterfish

Steamed Seabass

Fresh Local Opakapaka

Steamed with Ginger,Onions and Mushrooms

$9.95 $16.95

Maple Garden/Yen King909 Isenberg St.941-6641

WHERE TO DINEFAMILY DINING

Seafood VillageHyatt Regency Resort & SpaStreet Level, 2424 Kalakaua Ave, #102971-1818

Waimalu Chop SueyWaimalu Shopping Center98-020 Kam Hwy.488-1616

On On at McCully1110 McCully St.946-8833

ON ONat McCully

Little Villlage Noodle House1113 Smith St.545-3008

Jade Dynasty Seafood Restaurant Ala Moana Shopping Center1450 Ala Moana Blvd. 4th Floor - Ho’okipa Terrace947-8818

BibasHale Koa Hotel, 2055 Kalia Road955-0555Call for eligibility details.

Ert’s Grill99-08 Kauhale St., Aiea488-8898

Lung Fung Chinese Restaurant5724 Kalanianaole Hwy.377-5566

Henry Loui’s2850 Paa St.833-3728

Mandalay (The)1055 Alakea St.525-8585

Nice Day Chinese Seafood RestaurantLiliha Square524-1628

Chinese Restaurant East HonoluluON ON at McCully Aina Haina Chop Suey

Aina Haina Shopping Center373-1303 or 373-4632

1110 McCully St. • 946-8833www.ononhawaii.com

Go to www.ononhawaii.com to view Menus and find $5 Coupon

10%OFFCOUPON

Dine-In and Take-Out

Excludes Special Menus

Exp 1/31/12

Catering AvailableSmall & Large Partiesstarting from $6 per person

for orders $100 or morewithin Honolulu Area

FREEDELIVERY

for orders $100 or morewithin Honolulu Area

1 8 | D I N I N G O U T | J A N . 2 2 - 2 8 , 2 0 1 2

930 McCully St. • 951-0511/951-0611 • PRIVATE PARTY ROOM• CONVENIENT PARKING

*DISCOUNT EXCLUDES ALL BEVERAGES WITH

THIS AD. EXP. 1/31/12.

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

KAL BI, SIRLOIN, CHICKEN,SASHIMI, SPICY PORK

1831 Ala Moana Blvd. (Between Ilikai & Kobe)Open Daily 11am-10pm

Now servingWine & Beer!941-3444

Free Validated parking at Waikiki Marina

10% OFF10% OFFENTIRE FOOD PURCHASEexcluding alcohol. Offer valid at Waikiki Location w/ coupon. Exp. 1/31/12

Restaurant price: Spaghetti & Chicken Plate $6.99, Oxtail Style Turkey Neck Soup $6.29. Offer valid 1/2/12 - 2/5/12. Prices slightly higher at Kahului. Offer not valid with any other promotional offers/discount cards. Other restrictions may apply, see stores for details.

Enter to Win!1 of 21 Trips For Two ToLas Vegas

Premium Class now serving Zippy’s Chili!

Spaghetti & ChickenMixed Plate$5.99fast food

Oxtail StyleTurkey Neck Soup

$5.29fast foodavailable from 10:30am,

while supplies last

2065 S. Beretania St.Honolulu HI 96826

PH: (808)946-7466 | M-Sat: 5pm-12am

FREE Appetizer(up to $10 in value)

Must present coupon. Expires 1/31/12.

1 FREE Shrimp Tempura

HanakiJapanese Cuisine

Expires Jan. 26, 2012

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

MANOA MARKETPLACE (Tons of FREE Parking) 988-1551

With your orderwhen you bring in this coupon, 1 per person

Ala Moana Center – Ho‘okipa Terrace | 808.356.8300Also at Queens’ MarketPlace, Waikoloa Beach Resort | 808.443.5515

www.macaronigrill.com

Something New. Something Classic.

Open Daily – 11AM - 10PM Happy Hour – Daily in the lounge 4PM - 7PM

Vino Thursdays - 25% Off Bottles of Wine

Bring this ad in for a Complimentary Dessert**With the purchase of two entrees. $8.00 Value. Expires 2/29/2012. StarAdv

Make Someone’sDay Special

Order one to two weeksin advance.

Ala Moana Center • Mall Level (Mountain side, next to Shirokiya)

941- 6161

IHOPWaikiki - 1850 Ala Moana Blvd 949-4467

Waikiki - Kuhio & Lewers921-2400

Pearl City - Times Sq. SC486-4467

Kaneohe - Windward Mall 235-4467

Hilo - Prince Kuhio Plaza959-2600

WHERE TO DINE

Kit N Kitchen1010 University Avenue942-7622

Kenny’s Express Hawaiian BBQ2nd Floor, Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center922-9333

Shiro’s Saimin HavenWaimalu 98-020 Kam Hwy. 488-8824Waipahu 94-256 Waipahu Depot St. 676-2088Ewa Beach Shp. Ctr. 91-919 Fort Weaver Rd.689-0999

Panya Bistro • Bakery • BarAla Moana Center, Mauka - Mall Level946-6388

Pagoda1525 Rycroft St.948-8356

JJ Bistro & French Pastry3447 Waialae Ave.739-0993

Restaurant Epic 1131 Nuuanu Ave.587-7877

Rainbow Drive Inn3308 Kanaina Ave.737-0177

Le Cacao Bistro3441 Waialae Ave.626-5368

Kenny’s Restaurant1620 N. School St.841-0931

D I N I N G O U T | J A N . 2 2 - 2 8 , 2 0 1 2 | 1 9

Maple Garden /Yen King909 Isenberg Street • 941-6641www.MapleGardenHawaii.com

Beggar Chicken, Crab Legs, And more

Dinner 5-8:30 pmKids $12 (Ages 5–12)

Adults $20.95

Reservations Recommended*Free parking available at First Hawaiian Bank

Lion Dance Starts @ 6pm1/23/12

Yearof the Dragon

Yearof the Dragon

February 14 5:30 – 8:30

Garlic Scallion Shrimp ORShort Rib Tortellini

❖ ❖ ❖

Spinach Salad❖ ❖ ❖

Fire Roasted Beef Tenderloin,Truffled Mushroom Sauce OR

Grilled Fresh Catch,Blue Crab & Kahuku Corn

❖ ❖ ❖

Chocolate Raspberry Torte

VALENTINE’S DAY

$75ala carte menu not available.

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

O N T H E R I S E

Ocean front dining Valet parking available

COMPLIMENTARY UNCLEMOKI’S LAVA FLOW DESSERT

WITH THE PURCHASE OF2 DINNER ENTREES

Must present coupon. Not valid with any other discounts or specials. Exp 1/2 /12.

OUTRIGGER REEF HOTEL • 2169 KALIA RD. • 923–2277

3579 Waialae Avenue737-8820

Also Available Curry & SteakMonday-Sunday 10:30am-2:30pm, 5pm–10pm

High Qualityat Affordable Prices!

CHIRASHISPECIAL14.95CHIRASHISPECIAL14.95

WHERE TO DINE

GREEK

The Fat Greek3040 Waialae Ave. 734-0404Ala Moana Makai Market 949-2120

Greek MarinaKoko Marina Shopping Center7192 Kalanianaole Hwy.396-8441

Top of WaikikiWaikiki Business Plaza2270 Kalakaua Ave. 923-3877

Stage Restaurant1250 Kapiolani Blvd.237-5429

Chai’s Island BistroAloha Tower Market Pl.585-0011

Hy’s Steak House2440 Kuhio Ave.922-5555

Il LupinoRoyal Hawaiian Center922-3400

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

Sam Choy’s BLC580 N. Nimitz Hwy.545-7979

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

FINE DINING

Max’s Of Manila94-300 Farrington Hwy801 Dillingham Blvd.951-6297

FILIPINO

Fat Greek Waikiki1831 Ala Moana Blvd941-3444

Wailana Coffee House1860 Ala Moana Blvd.955-1764

Zippy’sCall the one nearest you

2 0 | D I N I N G O U T | J A N . 2 2 - 2 8 , 2 0 1 2

AIEA • 484-222298-150 Kaonohi St.

HONOLULU • 589-2299510 Piikoi St.

TWO GREAT LOCATIONS!

ICHIRIKI-ON-THE-GOSUKIYAKIBENTOS $7.95 DAILY

11AM-2:30PM

www.samchoyhawaii.com

Like us on Facebook forSpecial Deals & Offers

580 Nimitz Hwy.545-7979

Oyster FestivalJan 30th to Feb 12th

See Menu at: www.samchoyhawaii.com

What’s happening at Sam Choy’s?Snow Crab Monday Nights

TuesdaysOur Kupunas 60 and older receive a

20% Discount all dayProof of eligibility will be required

Prime Rib Wednesday Nights16 oz. Prime Rib for $20.95

Brewer’s ThursdaysPitchers of Aloha Beer for $10

Aloha FridaysHawaiian Plate all day and LIVE Hawaiian

entertainment from 6:00 - 9:00

Chuckwagon Saturday Nights5:00 - 8:30

Chuckwagon Buffet for $28.95

Keiki Sunday Nights6:00 - 8:00

Kids Eat Free from our Keiki menuwith each Adult entree purchased

Magic by Alan Arita, balloon sculpting, caricature drawing

2# Snow Crab Legs for $29.95

955-1764 • OPEN 24 HOURS1860 Ala Moana Blvd.

Validated Parking

Fri, Sat & Sun

955-1764 • OPEN 24 HOURS1860 Ala Moana Blvd.

Validated Parking

With “All You Can Eat”Salad Bar!

Your choice for only

$1295

New York Steak“The King of Steaks”

Top Sirloin Steak“Buttered & Wined”

Teriyaki Steak“Tender & Moist”

January SpecialJanuary SpecialJanuary SpecialJanuary Special

PPPPPPririiririr cccces sesse aaarrrre se e se se se se sse seee se see se se see se ssse sse sligligligigligligligligliligigligligligligligligliliggliggligliglillilligigliligligiiigliiigiggggghththhththhthththhhthththhthhthtththtsssssssssssssssllllll gggggggggggggggggggggggg lllllllllllllllllllttttt y hy hy hy hy hy hy hhy hy hyy hy hhhyy hhyy hy ighighighhighighighighighighgigghghghhighgghgiigghgggg er ererer erer eer ererereeerer erer atataaataataataatatatattatat atat ttat aatatatatatataatttttyyyyyyyyyyy gggggggggggggggggggggggllllllllll AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAlala la lalalala lalalala lllalaaaaaala aaala lallaa MoMoMoMoMoMoMoMoMoMoMooMooMMoMoMoMoMoMoMMoMMoMMMMMMMMooMolalalalalalalalalalaallallalaalaaa MMMMMMMMMMMMoMoMoMoooMoMoMoMoMoooMoMoooMMMMoMMMooooMMoMMoMMoMoMMoooooooooooooooooaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaannannanana aananannanana na na nannnnnnana nannananannnanaaanannaanaaananannannnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaandndnd nddndndndndnd ndndndnndndnd nndnd nndndnndnndndnnnddnddnndndndndndndddndnnndndnddddddd PPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPeeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaaaaarlrrlrlrrlridgidgidgrrrlrrrrlrlrr idlll idgggeee..Prices are slightly higher at Ala Moana and Pearlridge.

NEW!

Chocolate Banana ‘n

Cream Cake

Chocolate Banana ‘n

Cream Cake

3106 Monsarrat Ave. • Honolulu, HI 96815 • Ph: (808) 737-0080 • Fax (808) 735-0800

FREE House Salad & Soft Drink

with any Pizza, Pasta, orRisotto menu item

Starting from $8.98

Good for any item of equal or lesser value. OriginalCoupon required. Not valid on retail items or bottledbeverages. One discounted item per coupon.Not combinable with any other offer. No cash value.Exp. 1/31/12.

50% OFFBUY ONE ITEM &GET THE NEXT ONE

50% OFFBUY ONE ITEM &GET THE NEXT ONE

88 Piikoi St., Honolulu593-1200 • kissatencafe.com

Voted Best Thai in Hawaii

Walking distance from all Waikiki Hotels

SERVING HAWAII SINCE 1977...

tel. 951-9355tel. 951-9355

THAI CUISINETHAI CUISINE

15% OFF Take OutCoupon required. Not combinablewith other offers. Expires 1/27/12

2028 Kuhio Avenue Dinner 4:30pm - Closing

www.keosthaicuisine.com

WHERE TO DINE

Kozo SushiKahala Mall 738-KOZOKeeaumoku 946-KOZOMoiliili 951-KOZOPearlridge 483-6805Pearl City 455-6805

Kobe Japanese Steak House1841 Ala Moana Blvd.941-4444

Hinone Mizunone1345 South King St.942-4848

Hifumi Japanese RestaurantChinese Cultural Plaza536-3035

JAPANESE

Z PizzaWard Centre Auahi St. Shops596-0066Kailua 151 Hekili St.230-8400

G SushiMarket City Shopping Center2919 Kapiolani Blvd. #23732-9661

IchirikiAiea 98-150 Kaonohi St.484-2222

Honolulu 510 Piikoi St.589-2299

ITALIAN

Curry KingWard Warehouse1050 Ala Moana Blvd. #1400591-8855

Romanos Macaroni GrillAla Moana CenterHookipa Terrace356-8300

Happy Valley Pasta & Pizza3106 Monsarrat Ave.737-0080

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

Blue Hawaii Sushi1140 Kuala St., Pearl CityAcross Wal-Mart456-2128

D I N I N G O U T | J A N . 2 2 - 2 8 , 2 0 1 2 | 2 1

BREAKFAST & LUNCH NOW OPEN DAILY!Monday - Friday & Weekend Brunch Buffet

Eggs Benedict, Homemade Corned Beef Hash and Kalua Hash, Loco Moco,

Belgium Waffles and much more.

New Hours of Operation:Breakfast Service: Monday-Friday 6:30am-10:00am

Saturday and Sunday 6:30am-9:30amLunch Service: Monday-Friday 11:00am-2:00pmBrunch Buffet: Saturday and Sunday 10:00am-2:00pmDinner Buffet: Wednesday-Sunday 5:00pm-9:30pm

A new twist on an old favorite

*For information/reservations callPagoda Restaurant at 948-8356

or go to our website at:Pagodahawaii.com

POPULAR OXTAIL RAMEN

Now featuring our popularBrunch on SATURDAY and SUNDAY

featuring Prime Rib, Crab Legs, Shrimp and Vegetable Tempura,Omelet Station and much more.

Lunch items featured MONDAY - FRIDAYOxtail Soup and Ramen, Prime Rib Sandwich, Classic Burger,

Ahi Katsu Salad, Fresh Catch of the Day and much more.

Inquire about our... VALENTINE’S DAYDINNER BUFFET

2710 South King St.www.fukuyadeli.com

Deli Hours:Wed-Sun 6am-2pm

After hourscatering available

946-2073

Perfect for Birthday Parties,Family get togethers

and more!

All-Occasion CateringAll-Occasion Catering

946-2073

“House of Gau Gee”Waimalu Shopping Center

98-020 Kam Hwy • 488-1616

Continuing the tradition...

FREELive Maine Lobsterwith orders of $50 or more!Dine-in only. Offer good with ad thru 1/31/12.

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

Taste our small Pepperoni Caprese Pizza

for only $5.00with the purchase of any XL pizza

Not valid with any other offer. Offer valid thru 1/31/12.

Offer valid on dine-in orders only. Must present coupon. Cannot be combined with other offers or coupons. Exp 1/31/12

WESTRIDGE SHOPPING CENTER • 488-4900(Next to Makino Chaya) 98-150 Kaonohi St., Aiea

Mon-Sat 10am-10pm • Sun 10am-8pm

facebook.com/phomylienhawaii

Military w/ID receive 10% OFF

January Special $4.99Won Ton Soup

WHERE TO DINE

Choi’s Garden

1303 Rycroft St., Honolulu. HI596-7555

Tanaka of TokyoEast, in King’s Village 922-4233

Central, in Waikiki Shopping Plaza922-4702

West, in Ala Moana Cntr-Hookipa Terrace945-3443

KOREAN

Sushi King2700 S. King St.947-2836

Sushi Ichiban3579 Waialae Ave.737-8820

Sumo Ramen Kaneohe 234-6868Kapolei 693-8808Market City 737-1868Kamehameha Shp Cntr 848-8186Pearl Highlands Cntr 456-808299 Ranch Mapunapuna 833-3139

Sekiya’s Restaurant &Delicatessen2746 Kaimuki Avenue732-1656

Sushi Company 1111 McCully Street947-5411

Restaurant SuntoryRoyal Hawaiian Shpg Cntr 3rd Flr.922-5511

Makino Chaya98-150 Kaonohi St. 486-5100

Sushi Izakaya2065 S. Beretania St946-7466

Sakura Terrace Japanese Cafe1240 South King Street 591-1181 Choon Chun Chicken

1649 Kalakaua Ave.447-4492

3441 Waialae Ave. 626-5368

3447 Waialae Avenue | 739-0993 | jjfrenchpastry.com$24.70 per person

expires 1/31/12

January Special4-Course Meal

SO U P O F T H E DAY

CH O I C E O F AP P E T I Z E RLao Rock & Roll • Baked Lobster

Avocado • Escargot • Crab Rangoon

CH O I C E O F ON E EN T R E EFisherman Pie • Baked Cornish Hen

• Baked Salmon Asian Classic • Cheese Ravioli w/Lobster

PL U S CR È M E BR Û L É E(*$5 for Lamb Wellington)

Le CacaoLUNCH SPECIAL

15% OFF & FREE DRINKwith purchase of

4-course Meal SpecialNow ServingBRUNCH

Daily 10:30am-2pm

January afternoon

TEA SPECIALBook your party of 10

or more people and get

10% OFFplus your

choice of dessert

Bistro &French Pastry

Bistro &French Pastry

Try Our Tasty PORK TOFU!Pork Tofu simmered

in our special broth...Delicious!

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

SEKIYA’S RESTAURANT& DELICATESSEN

Serving Hawaii for 75 Years!

www.SekiyasRestaurant.com

2746 Kaimuki Ave732-1656

ACROSS KAIMUKI H.S.

1111 McCully St.OPEN DAILY 9:30am-10pm

955-8889955-8889

www.123wok.com • order online • HEALTHY CHINESE CUISINE • HAWAIIAN BBQ • HOT POT

FREE Deliverymin. $15

within 4 miles

10% OFFwith Ad

10% OFFfor SeniorCitizens

2 2 | D I N I N G O U T | J A N . 2 2 - 2 8 , 2 0 1 2

Celebrate the New Yearwith our homemade

New Year Goodies

Gau Now Available Through End of January

GOOD LUCK Short Bread

COOKIESHEALTHY, WEALTHY,

HAPPINESS and MOREFOR SALE NOW!

946-6388 • 597-8880 ALA MOANA CENTER WWW.PANYAGROUP.COM Like us on Facebook

• Red Bean Gau • Brown Sugar Nian Gau• Water Chestnut Gau • Gourmet IngredientsCoconut Créme

Nian Gau

Order Now for your Chinese New Year Celebration!

Shrimp Scampi Won Ton Noodle

Also available Pasta • Burgers • Salads • SandwichesOPEN TIL MIDNIGHT!

2919 Kapiolani Blvd., #218 MARKET CITY SHPG CNTR 735-3888

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

Build your own 10” pizza with

unlimited toppings.*Take out only, w/coupon; not to be combined

with any other offer. Expires 1/31/12.

SAKURA TERRACE JAPANESE CAFE1240 South King Street | 591-1181 | Free Parking

www.sakuraterrace.com

Lunch Mon – Sat11:00am–2:30pmDinner Mon – Sat5:00pm–10:00pmSunday 4:30pm–9:30pm

Royal Hawaiian Center, at the Royal Grove • Validated Parkingwww.illupino.com • 808.922.3400

Daily 3:00~6:30 p.m.$4 Beer • $5 Wine • $7 Cocktails$5 Pupus • Pizza • Salumeria (deli)

Happy Hour

salumeria tray

www.themandalayhawaii.com1055 Alakea St. • 525-8585

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

Featuring . . .Jai & GauAnd a variety of Hong Kong Style Dim Sum

• Pork Hash • Shrimp w/Nori Roll • Mochi Rice in Lotus Leaf • Dried ShrimpPuff • Diced Wintermelon Soup • Char Siu Gon Lo Mein • Salt & PepperShrimp • Almond Tofu • Haupia Gelatin Cake and many more choices.

$20.99 Adult $17.99 Seniors(60+) $13.99 Children (3-12)

Excluding all coupons & other discounts. Dine in only.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 10:30am - 9pm

Dim Sum Brunch BuffetSunday, January 22, 2012

Seatings:10:30AM and 12:30PM

LION DANCEMon, Jan 23rd6pm

WHERE TO DINE

Pho My Lien98-150 Kaonohi St.488-4900

Jin Din Rou1491 S. King St.947-1133

VIETNAMESE

Bangkok Chef1627 Nuuanu Ave. • 585-88392955 E. Manoa Rd. • 988-0212900 N. Nimitz Hwy. • 536-8570

THAI

TAIWANESE

3660 on the Rise 3660 Waialae Ave.737-1177

PACIFIC RIM

SHABU SHABUHanaki RestaurantManoa Marketplace2756 Woodlawn Drive988-1551

Keo’s Thai Cuisine2028 Kuhio Ave.951-9355

Fukuya Delicatessen & Catering2710 S. King St.946-2073

OKAZUYA

Shabu Shabu King2700 S King St.951-7878

The Ocean House Restaurant2169 Kalia Rd., Outrigger Reef Hotel923-2277

Saigon Pearl1430 Kona St., #101955-7888

MEXICAN

Yakiniku Million626 Sheridan St.596-0799

El Charro Mexicano Aiea Restaurant99-115 Aiea Heights Drive 488-9727

98-150 Kaonohi St. • Tel: 486-5100

*Menu and prices subject to change.

1 Coupon per group. Must have valid ID. Not com-binable with other discounts. Discounts off regularadult price. No online or photo-copied coupons. Mustpurchase beverage. Expires 2/3/12

KAMA‘AINA SPECIAL!

20% OFFLUNCH & DINNER

BIRTHDAY SPECIAL!FREE BIRTHDAY MEAL FOR ANY AGEWith Family & Group LUNCH & DINNER20% OFFMust have minimum party of 4. One Birthday coupon perparty of 4. Coupon valid on actual birthday, ID required.Not combinable with other discounts. Discounts off regularadult price. No online or photo-copied coupons. Must pur-chase beverage. Excluding holidays. Expires 2/3/12

*Menu and prices subject to change.

Chinese New YearSpecial Set Menu ❖ Jan 19-23, 2012$230/Menu for 10 $100/Menu for 4

NOODLE HOUSE

• Diced Winter Melon Soup• Crispy Lettuce Wrap• Peking Duck w/Steamed Bun• Shanghai Mochi Stir Fried• Salt & Pepper Jumbo Shrimp

• Orange Chicken• Steamed Fish Fillet• New Year’s Jai• New Year’s Dessert

Optional PurchaseKing Crab Leg

50% OFFLimited one order per Special Set Menu

No substitutions. Limited time offer. Cannot combined with any other offers.Management reserved the right to change any menu item without notice

1113 Smith Street • 545-3008www.littlevillagehawaii.com

D I N I N G O U T | J A N . 2 2 - 2 8 , 2 0 1 2 | 2 3

2 4 | D I N I N G O U T | J A N . 2 2 - 2 8 , 2 0 1 2

If you’re looking to bemore adventurous thisyear in your choice of

restaurants and cuisine,there’s no better choice thanJJ Bistro & French Pastry,located in Kaimuki onWaialae Avenue. The restau-rant, which first opened inAiea in 1995 and moved to itscurrent location in 1999, isknown for its unique assort-ment of entrées and pastries,according to owner and chefJJ Luangkhot.

“Our food is a fusion ofLaotian and French cuisine,”Luangkhot says. “Our restau-rant is a unique and elegantpastry shop. We are the onlyone (restaurant) that has this(original) menu.”

Luangkhot recalls that,prior to Sept. 11, 2001, theeatery sold more pastries.However, after 9-11, hedecided to start serving more

entrées at the restaurant.Since then, the menu hascontinued to evolve, asLuangkhot added dishes thatwere initially unfamiliar tolocals but have since grownto be customer favorites.

“Our food is very differentfrom most of the restaurantsin Hawaii,” he says. “We cre-ated our own dishes, some ofwhich locals have never seenbefore. We are using Frenchtechnique with Laotian flair.”

The signature at JJ Bistro &French Pastry is FishermanPot Pie ($12.95), an assort-ment of scallops, salmon,shrimp, bamboo, eggplant,red bell pepper and zucchiniwith green curry sauce, andserved on a puff pastry shell.Other customer favoritesinclude Asian Classic ($9.95)— a mix of scallops, salmon,shrimp and rice pasta withshiitake mushrooms and

roasted garlic sauce — andSeafood Brioche ($9.95), anassortment of salmon, scal-lops, shrimp, leeks, shiitakemushrooms, red bell peppersand the chef’s special blackpepper cream sauce.

“Asian Classic is a verypopular (choice),” statesLuangkhot. “It’s like aseafood (mixture) withroasted garlic sauce with therice pasta.”

Baked Salmon ($9.95),served with French bread, andCheese Ravioli with Lobster($12.95) — one of the newestadditions to the restaurant’smenu — also are frequently-ordered entrées. But theunique menu doesn’t just stopwith entrées. For dessert, cus-tomers can find a plethora ofelegant and delicious choices.The eatery is known for itsChocolate Pyramid ($5.25), astructure of dark chocolate

mousse comprising a combi-nation of three different typesof chocolate. Other populardesserts include those withfruity flavors.

“The Chocolate Pyramidis our signature dessert,”Luangkhot says, “but sincewe are in Hawaii, we creat-ed new dishes withHawaiian flair.

“We came up withChocolate Fruit Basket($4.75), and ChocolateLilikoi ($4.75) is one of ourbest-sellers.”

Last year, because of limitedseating at his restaurant,Luangkhot decided to openanother bistro right down thestreet. He explains that the sis-ter restaurant, Le Cacao Bistro,is based on the same conceptas JJ Bistro but features a com-pletely different menu.

“There are different entrées(at Le Cacao Bistro),” he

says. “Le Cacao is more of aNew York-style bistro.”

Le Cacao Bistro also dif-fers from JJ Bistro in that itoffers a menu for “DeAfternoon Tea” ($14.95 per-son, 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. daily),including delicacies such as aTrio of French Macaroonsand mini croissant sandwich-es. From Jan. 15, Le CacaoBistro also will introduce abrunch option.

“‘De Afternoon Tea’ has itsown menu, and brunch willbe from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.every day,” adds Luangkhot.

As far as goals for 2012,Luangkhot is trying to focusmore on Le Cacao Bistro andintroduce new items to itsever-expanding menu.

“We want to create a newmenu for our sister restaurantto make it more affordableand make it a more simple,bistro style,” he says.

orderoftheday

Story by Kelli Shiroma Photos by Nathalie Walker

JJ French Bistro & Pastry

Where: 3447 Waialae Ave.,Honolulu

Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m-9 p.m., Sundays, 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

Website: jjfrenchpastry.comCall: 739.0993

Cheese Ravioli with Lobster ($12.95) Asian Classic ($11.95)Fisherman Pot Pie ($12.95)