Hawaii Dining Out 31 Jul 2011

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Home away from Home

Guests are always treated like family at Ocean House at the Outrigger Hotel, where casual elegance and a delicious oceanfront dining experience are always on the menu.

See page 4 | Leah Friel photo

Ocean House dining room manager Peter Dietrich offers up a toast to delicious cuisine such as (from left) the Goat Cheese Salad, Seafood Lau Lau and The Ocean House Cut Prime Rib.

An amazing burst of flavors at Jin Din Rou | 12 Le Cacao Bistro takes on New York flair | 14

ALSO: Opa! It’s time to go Fat Greek | 8

ono, you know

By Alana Folen | Photos by Leah Friel

Talking up

ing.

Therefore, this week’s assignment was a breeze. Nothing beats being able to eat tacos to your heart’s content and getting paid to do it, right?! So, I gladly ventured around town, scoping hat’s your ethnicity? I’m asked out some of the best “Ono, You Know” that on a regular basis, and I’ve taco spots. I welcome Mexican cuisine found it quite entertaining to with open arms and will happily devour keep people guessing. You’ll be surprised kalua pork, fish, beef and chicken tacos to hear that more often than not, people anytime of the day or night! follow the first question with “Are you Mexican?” The answer is no, but I can see Edge of Waikiki This week, I ventured back to the why many would think that. First off, I love Mexican cuisine — no exaggeration here! Sheraton Waikiki, this time to its new sigYou name it, I adore it, everything from nature pool bar, the Edge of Waikiki. burritos, to ceviche, enchiladas, guacamole Adjacent to the hotel’s Infinity edge pool, and more. Tacos, however, are my ultimate this bar pays homage to the old Hollywood weakness. I’ve been known to eat 10 tacos days of Waikiki from the 1920s to 1960s. in one sitting — no lie! There’s just Now frequented by locals and visitors something about the varied flavors, colorful from around the globe, Edge of Waikiki decoration, and variety of spices and offers a lively, adult-only atmosphere, deliingredients of this dish that has me drool- cious cocktails and unbeatable cuisine prepared by chef Colin Hazama.

The menu features a wide array of irreAbove: The editor shows her love for tacos sistible items, including artisan sandwiches, while ready to indulge in the Edge of Waikiki’s hot island favorites and pupus, salads, onolicious Fish Tacos — Pier 38.

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Tacos

seafood appetizers, brick oven pizzas, and desserts to tempt every sweet tooth.

What is my food of choice, you ask?

Well, for starters, the Brick Oven Pizza topped with Italian herb sausage, pepperoni, local ham and bacon ($15) is a sure bet, but I can't pay a visit here without overly indulging in the Fish Tacos — Pier 38 ($17), of course!

These magnificent tacos are made to perfection, as soft flour tortillas are filled to the brim with freshly caught Pier 38 mahi mahi marinated in a zesty chimichuri sauce and grilled with sweet Kahuku corn relish on a bed of housemade guacamole and shredded head cabbage. A side of Hamakua tomato salsa and a refreshing lime wedge completes the dish.

The mahi mahi is so tender in itself, and every ingredient that follows plays an integral part in the overall result. As a tried and true lover of guacamole and salsa, I couldn’t think of anything I would rather satisfy my appetite with after a dip in the pool.

The Edge of Waikiki is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, with happy hour set from 5 to 6 p.m. Also, take in the sweet sounds of some of Hawaii's famed musicians from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. nightly.

The Edge of Waikiki Sheraton Waikiki Hotel 2255 Kalakaua Ave. 922.4422 – See page 16

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

EDITOR Alana Folen Phone: 695.6307 diningout@staradvertiser.com

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

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

Visit us at dining.staradvertiser.com

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eel at home at Ocean House, located beachfront in the Outrigger Reef Hotel, where casual elegance epitomizes all things offered here. Within a relaxing setting, guests are greeted with the finest in breakfast and dinner cuisine prepared by executive chef Craig Yasaka, while soaking in the breathtaking views of Waikiki and Diamond Head. A perfect choice for those on their honeymoon or those enjoying a family dinner out, Ocean House caters to all.

Dining Out recently visited this awardwinning establishment, where we had the opportunity to sit down with dining room manager Peter Dietrich, who, over spectacular cuisine, revealed just what makes Ocean House the restaurant of choice for locals and visitors alike.

DO: What is the concept behind Ocean House and what can diners expect?

Dietrich: When it comes to Ocean House, we really want to make people feel at home. The atmosphere is very

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homey and welcoming, and we treat you as if you’re a guest of our house. We offer upscale, casual dining here — everything from prime rib, to steak, to seafood, to wonderful salads — island fare. In addition to dinner, we also have a great breakfast that caters to the healthy lifestyle.

DO: Executive chef Craig Yasaka has done a fantastic job with the food here.

What are some must-have signature items on the menu?

Dietrich: Yes, our chef is very consistent. My favorite dish of the moment is the Parmesan Crusted Opah ($33.50), served with a lemon caper wine butter cream sauce and jasmine rice. The Macadamia Nut Crusted Mahi ($31.50) is outstanding, with a coconut ginger cream sauce, sweet chili, and paired with jasmine rice as well. And it’s safe to say that a good quarter of our business comes from our prime rib entrees, such as The Ocean House Cut ($32.50), a hearty portion of juicy tender beef. All prime rib entrees are served with traditional English peas, creamy horseradish and Maui onion mashed potatoes. The Seafood Lau Lau ($31.50) is another highly requested item on the menu ($31.50), featuring an assortment of mahi mahi, shrimp, scallops, luau leaf and sweet

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potato sauteed with garlic soy sake, wrapped in ti leaf and served with jasmine rice.

DO: OK, now that mouths are watering, give us a glimpse of some of the delicious salads and desserts we can expect.

Dietrich: When it comes to salads, our Goat Cheese Salad ($11.50) is awesome.

It consists of Mesclun greens, mango, candied walnuts and sun-dried cherries, topped with a champagne vinaigrette. As for desserts, Uncle Moki’s Chocolate Lava Flow Cake ($9.95) is a must-have — it’s a triple chocolate semi-sweet chocolate fudge cake served with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.

DO: For the early risers, what are some remarkable breakfast items that will help ensure a great start to any day?

Dietrich: We have many great sunrise specialties, including the Eggs Benedict ($14), Granola and Fresh Fruit ($11), Outrigger Omelet ($13) and Belgian Waffle topped with bananas or wild berries ($14), to name a few.

DO: Ocean House recently has been incorporating new trends into the culinary experience. What can patrons look forward to?

Dietrich: The menu itself is designed to have a little something for everyone, and it really does. We’re offering various

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dining out

coverstory story by

AlanaFolen photos by

LeahFriel

Ocean House J U LY 2 5 - 3 1 , 2 0 1 1

a

Home away from Home

Guests are always treated like family at Ocean House at the Outrigger Hotel, where casual elegance and a delicious oceanfront dining experience are always on the menu.

See page 4 | Leah Friel photo

Ocean House dining room manager Peter Dietrich offers up a toast to delicious cuisine such as (from left) the Goat Cheese Salad, Seafood Lau Lau and The Ocean House Cut Prime Rib.

ALSO: Opa! It’s time to go Fat Greek | 8

An amazing burst of flavors at Jin Din Rou | 12 Le Cacao Bistro takes on New York flair | 14

Where: Outrigger Reef Hotel, 2169 Kalia Road Call: 923.2277 Hours: Breakfast, 7 to 11 a.m.; dinner, 5 to 10 p.m., daily

Website: www.oceanhousewaikiki.com

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portion sizes to accommodate different styles of eating — a lot of people want to sample many different dishes and flavors. We also feature nightly specials, which are fantastic, showcasing a nice amount of seafood.

DO: Does the restaurant obtain any of its products locally?

Dietrich: Yes, we use a lot of local, line-caught seafood, and a lot of our vegetables and garnishes consist of micro-greens, sprouts and salads that are all grown here in the islands.

DO: Do you offer wine pairings to accompany specific dishes?

Dietrich: Yes, our servers are very knowledgeable about wines. Right now we’re pairing up our famous prime rib with the Robert Mondavi Private Selection Chardonnay, which is a seasonal wine. Our servers also

Top photo, opposite page: Ocean House dining room manager Peter Dietrich

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attend wine tastings, and most of our servers have been here anywhere from five to 10 years, so they’re very knowledgeable about the product.

DO: Share with us something special about Ocean House that most people wouldn’t be familiar with.

Dietrich: Originally Ocean House was part of the Shorebird restaurant.

It’s said the bar was where we are today. Then the hotel and the clientele of the area demanded a more upscale restaurant. The best thing that we have here that most people don’t realize until they dine here, is that we’re right on the beach, and our view and our ambiance are unmatched. Dinner is quite our forte here at Ocean House, and we serve more than 200 meals a night.

DO: Who are the majority of your

clientele here?

Dietrich: Mostly tourists, I would say. But we are getting more and more locals dining here all the time despite the fact that a lot of locals aren’t traveling into Waikiki because of parking and the cost and such, but we have a lot of good deals on the menu. Our prices are very reasonable and below the real high-end, gourmet restaurants, but we still offer that same impeccable service and dining experience.

DO: Is there any advice you would give to first-time diners?

Dietrich: We do have a small dining room, so reservations are highly recommended. We do have tables right along the ocean that are even more in demand, so we also take requests for oceanfront seating.

1 Uncle Moki's Chocolate Lava Flow Cake ($9.95)

3 The Ocean House Cut ($32.50)

5 Macadamia Nut Crusted Mahi ($ 31.50)

2 Ocean House staff Peter Dietrich, Cindy Vicoy, Krisjen Nobriga and Jeff Santini

4 Seared Pepper Scallops ($12.50)

6 Goat Cheese Salad ($ 11.50)

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order of the day

ith more than 180 items on its menu, the options are numerous at 123 Wok. The restaurant, which first opened in Singapore in 1994, moved to Maui in 2004. Since then, the restaurant has 1 moved again, opening its current location on McCully Street just four months ago.

Even though 123 Wok recently opened, manager Wendy Li has wasted no time in creating a diverse menu for her customers … a factor that contributed to choosing the eatery’s name.

“We serve Chinese food, Hawaiian local flavor and a hot pot option — 1, 2, 3,” Li explains. “(We also chose this

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name because) our first restaurant was in Singapore, the second one was on Maui and the third one is here on Oahu.”

Li also emphasizes that 123 Wok serves healthy cuisine, using only fresh ingredients in their products.

“We are known for our Chinese healthy cuisine,” she says proudly.

“There is no MSG in our products.”

When it comes to appetizers, a popular choice is the Crab Rangoon ($6.25), six pieces of deep-friend won ton filled with crab meat and cream cheese. In terms of entrees, some of the most popular include General Tso’s Chicken ($8.95), Hong Kong Steak ($12.95), Shrimp and Asparagus ($11) and

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Orange Chicken ($8.95).

“General Tso’s Chicken is our signature item,” Li says. “It’s boneless chicken with chunks of broccoli, sautéed in a special sauce. Our Orange Chicken is also popular — tender, sliced, white meat chicken with broccoli served in our special orange sauce.”

When it comes to the ever-popular Char Siu Gon Lo Mein ($6.99) — one of the restaurant’s chow mein dishes — customers have a choice of noodles: Hong Kong noodles or Shanghai noodles, according to Li. “The Hong Kong noodle is skinny and crunchy; the Shanghai noodle is bigger

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and softer,” Li explains. “We noticed more people here [on Oahu] like the Shanghai noodles; on Maui, people liked their Gon Lo Mein with Hong Kong noodles.”

For customers who prefer Hawaiian-style favorites, 123 Wok also includes local entrees on its menu. Popular choices include the BBQ Mixed Plate ($7.25) — BBQ short ribs, BBQ chicken and teri steak — and the Seafood Combo ($7.75), which contains mahi, deepfried shrimp and a choice of BBQ short ribs, teri steak and BBQ chicken.

A variety of combination options and Hot Pot dishes are available to the customer as well. Each individual hot pot ($8.99) is served with noodles, rice and healthy soup.

“Our two most popular hot pot dishes are ‘Wendy’s Seafood Hot Pot,’ which includes squid, shrimp, Chinese crab, fishcake tofu, mussels, mushrooms, Chinese cabbage and spinach,” shares Li, “and the ‘Lamb Hot Pot’ — sour cabbage with lamb, tofu, egg and dried bean curry.”

Li explains that the restaurant is the busiest during lunch hours because of the eatery’s lunch specials. For the Lunch Special ($6.99), customers choose any three of 30 entrees — including dishes like Mochiko Chicken — and receive steamed rice or lo mein, the soup of the day and a free Boba Milk Tea.

order of the day

The “Healthy Lunch” option is also popular among customers.

“Our ‘Healthy Lunch’ options are served from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.,” Li says. “All our ‘Healthy Lunch’ options — including the popular Home Style Tofu ($6.99) — are served with a spring roll, steamed rice, Chinese salad on the side and free Boba Milk Tea.” 123 Wok attracts customers not only because of its diversified menu, but also because the restaurant offers take-out options. For larger parties, customers can order party trays (small, medium or large sizes). The Fried Chicken Wings and Legs party trays remain the most popular, according to Li. After 4 p.m., customers whose orders are worth $30 or more are given a free promotion, which varies by the day.

“When your bill is $30 or up, we give one promotion of the day,” Li says. “Sometimes it will be one order of Mochiko Chicken; other times, it’ll be an order of crispy gau gee or fried rice.”

While the take-out and dine-in menus are the same, Li notes one difference during the dinner hours.

“After 4 p.m., during dinner time, we give our customers dessert,” Li says. “We give our customers a shaved ice dessert. For our takeout menu, there is no dessert option.”

123 Wok Where: 1111 McCully St., #B Honolulu, HI 96826

Hours: Open daily, 9:30 a.m.–10 p.m.

Web: 123wok.com 1 Hong Kong Steak ($12.95) 2 Shrimp and Asparagus ($11) 3 Choy Sum with Oyster Sauce ($8.75) 4 Owner Wendy Li presents diners with the best of Chinese cuisine. (Leah Friel photo) 5 Wendy’s Seafood Hot Pot ($8.99) 6 Shrimp with Honey Walnuts ($12.95)

photos courtesy of 123 WOK

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D I N I N G O U T | J U LY 3 1 - A U G U S T 6 , 2 0 1 1 | 7

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... dining out ...

inside

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

The Skinnyon

Fat Greek Story By Kyle Galdeira Photos by Lawrence Tabudlo

hen Francois Provenza set out to design The Fat Greek’s Waikiki location, he aimed to present guests with an authentic Mediterranean experience. Everything from the ambiance to the fresh, healthy Greek cuisine has made the Ala Moana Boulevard eatery a hit among visitors and kamaaina.

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1 Elie Provenza with the Salmon Special 2 Lamb Souvlaki ($11.75) 3 The Papa Special ($19.95) 4 Salmon Special ($12.95) 5 Calamari ($6) 6 Cook Norman Galinato works the grill in the kitchen.

7 Hummus ($6) 8 House Shrimp Special ($12) 2

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Waikiki marks the third location in the chain’s collection that also includes stores on Waialae Avenue in Kaimuki and a kiosk in Ala Moana Center. It has now been open for more than six months, and offers customers full-service dining that takes guests around the world without ever having to leave the dining table.

“One big thing is that guests come to us to start their vacation, they’ll come to us first,” says George Stephanos, Provenza’s business partner and adviser, when discussing the eatery’s burgeoning popularity.

“Then, they’ll go somewhere else (to eat), and will come back a few more times before they leave because they fall in love with it. It’s like home with a touch of the Mediterranean.”

The Fresh Fish ($12.95) has become a guest favorite, and upon Dining Out’s recent visit, included fresh-grilled salmon topped with Mediterranean salsa and served with basmati rice, Greek salad and pita bread.

The Calamari ($6) appetizer and Shrimp House Special ($12) also have reeled in their fair share of diners as the delicious, plump garlic shrimp are served along with a hearty Greek salad.

Stephanos credits Waikiki’s success to the restaurant’s ability to carry fresh seafood selections that are used for both the regular and rotating special menu offerings.

“We bring in fresh fish at least twice a week from the auction,” Stephanos explains. “It’s the little touches like that which really add to the experience.”

The Fat Greek also offers a variety of entrée platters that include numerous menu favorites presented in large portions on a familystyle dish. The platters allow diners to build their own unique plates with their

favorite items, including those on the Royal Platter ($38) that boasts four lamb chops, eight garlic shrimp, Greek salad, Greek fries, hummus, pita bread, baklava and two sodas.

“Nobody else makes platters like that,” says Provenza. “Even when you go to the Mainland, Greek restaurants are very simple — nothing like this.”

The Papa Special ($19.95) is another example of how Fat Greek earned the honor of “Best Greek Food” in the 2011 Honolulu StarAdvertiser’s Hawaii’s Best People’s Choice Awards.

The dish features a New Zealand rack of lamb marinated in a special house sauce, rosemary and garlic, and comes with Greek salad and zesty potato wedges.

The Souvlaki ($11.75) is another Fat Greek favorite that features a choice of chicken, fish or lamb marinated with lemon, olive oil, garlic pepper and Greek oregano and comes served with pita bread, tzatziki sauce and a side salad.

Fat Greek’s Waikiki establishment also offers a full wine list, and allows diners to bring their favorite vino for a minimal corkage fee. Stephanos says that he hopes the perks will help “add more to our loyal regulars. The table service allows us to do all this.

We’re one of the highest-rated restaurants on (food critic Website) Yelp, so we really have to put out a good product.”

Windward residents will soon be getting a taste of what Fat Greek has to offer as Provenza states that Fat Greek is coming to Kailua’s Enchanted Lake Shopping Center “soon, by year’s end.”

In the meantime, check out the Waikiki eatery for excellent Greek cuisine and no fuss. Talk about the perfect staycation.

... dining out ...

inside

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

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The Fat Greek Where: Kaimuki: 3040 Waialae Ave. #A3, Honolulu; Waikiki: 1831 Ala Moana Blvd., Suite 201 Call: 734.0404 (Kaimuki), 941.3444 (Waikiki) Hours: Open daily, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

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Notes: Take-out orders and private catering packages are available. Also, Fat Greek is coming soon to Kailua in the Enchanted Lake Shopping Center.

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A Thai twist on shabu shabu

The Crispy Shrimp Wraps ($7.95) offer large, juicy pieces of shrimp encased in fried pastry shells with water chestnuts and spices, and come with fresh cucumber slices and a vinaigrette dipping sauce. Customers also rave about the Thai Beef Salad ($9.95) that features a hearty serving of thinly sliced beef atop a base of salad that includes mint, onion, Chinese parsley, lime and roasted chili all tossed together.

Get down to Shabu Shabu Bangkok, and get cooking!

Shabu Shabu Bangkok Where: 49 Kapahulu Ave., Honolulu

Call: Hours: Notes:

732.7666 Open daily, 5-10 p.m.

Limited free parking available in lot behind restaurant on Kaimuki Avenue. Double-parking is allowed; just alert the front desk upon seating. Metered street parking also available.

1 Stuffed Bangkok Wings ($7.95), Thai Beef Salad ($9.95) and Crispy Shrimp Wraps ($7.95) 2 Teresa Youn with the Thai Beef Salad Tony Grillo photos

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n the mood for some Thai-riffic cuisine? Shabu Shabu Bangkok on Kapahulu Avenue offers a warm, inviting atmosphere and allows diners to prepare food to their liking in the “hot pots” available on dining tables.

The eatery draws its name from the shabu shabu style of cooking, which in Japanese, translates to mean “swish, swish,” as in the sound food makes when one dips and cooks various meats and vegetables in the flavorful broth and sauce combinations. The Thai version of the cooking style is referred to as SukiYaki, and customers can select multiple “sets” of food combinations and spices

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$30 Weeknight Dinner Special Every Tuesday-Thursday

August Prix Fixe Menu Salmon Mousse Scented with Dill, on Toast Points

Beef Goulash

Over Egg Noodles

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— the ultimate made-to-order meal option.

Shabu Shabu Bangkok also offers an a la carte menu from which diners can order meals from the kitchen, including their popular pupu offerings. One of the eatery’s top sellers is the Stuffed Bangkok Wings ($7.95) that offer up a unique take on the popular finger food. The de-boned chicken wings are filled with mushrooms, chicken, carrots, long rice and spices and after receiving a coating of rice flour, are fried to crispy perfection and served with a peanut-infused dipping sauce.

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M-Sat 11am-2pm Dinner Nightly 5pm-10pm Validated Parking

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ou’re thinking of trying a veggie diet, but you already feel hunger pangs as you can’t kick the vision of a scrawny rabbit nibbling on lettuce. What are you going to eat?

Carrots, celery? Luckily, you can calm that rumbly tummy because these days there are meatless versions of just about any dish that comes to mind, and they often involve that ubiquitous vegetarian item: tofu.

Being that it’s the Year of the Rabbit, let’s head to a Chinese restaurant, home to another little

Golden Duck Where: 4230 Waialae Ave. Call: 737.7188 Hours: Sun.-Thurs.

10 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri. and Sat. 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Where: 1221 S. King St. Call: 597.8088 Hours: 10 a.m.-11 p.m. daily

critter, of the feathery kind: Golden Duck. Walking in the door of the Kahala location, you’re greeted by the customary good luck Welcome Cat, actually two of them, and other authentic oriental paraphernalia, which makes the brick accents on the walls of the two-room eatery conspicuous, but in a homey sort of way. Add to that, the spaciousness of the place and you’re in for a comfortable dining experience.

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(Auahi Streetfront)

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1200 Ala Moana

151 Hekili Street

596-0066

230-8400

Dinner Menu

“We do a lot of parties — birthdays, baby showers, weddings, graduations, retirements — every weekend we fill up,” said owner/manager Darlene Fong.

Fong scurries to seat diners and retrieve orders from the kitchen.

Out comes a steaming, plump arrangement of tofu and veggies.

It’s the Black Mushroom with Tofu and Choy Sum ($7.95), covered in a garlic sauce.

“If you’re a strict vegetarian,” said Fong, “we don’t put any chicken broth base, no fish, no oyster sauce. We can accommodate any special requests for our customers.”

Fong adds that the dish is popular among both vegetarians and those who prefer their duck on a plate. Also included in her top-rated items under the Vegetarian listing are the Chinese Broccoli with Garlic ($7.95), Spinach with Garlic ($8.95) and Ong Choy with Garlic ($7.25).

You’ll hop in hungry, but all those garden-fresh goodies with some hearty chunks of tofu might find you waddling out, fully satisfied — no meager lettuce chomping happening here.

Apparently rabbit people are a bit sheepish, but no matter your zodiac sign, Chinese dining always spells family and group fun. These furry, floppy bunnies are especially compatible with sheep, pigs and dogs. Golden Duck Kahala is ready for the whole baaahing, oinking, barking gang — the kind that walk on two legs, of course — and you just may find the tortoise has already beat you to the table!

2 Choice Teishoku Combo $

17.75- $22.75 Served with rice, miso soup, two side dishes, and pickles.

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

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

OPEN 11 am - 9 pm Lunch 11 am - 5 pm Dinner 5 pm - 9 pm Closed Sundays

Contact Rasa Fournier at diningout@staradvertiser.com Japanese Home Style Restaurant “Hinone Mizunone” Please enjoy the KAMADAKIGOHAN cooked completely by “Ogama”.

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

942-4848

TEL.

www.fujio-food.com

DELICIOUS PARTY TRAYS Black Mushroom with Tofu and Choy Sum ($7.95) Leah Friel photo

me ES lco RTI e W A We UP P

O GR

Hawaii’s 1st Choice For Catering!

941-2835 KIDS EAT FREE MONDAY & TUESDAY KIDS - Ages 2 to 7 years old.

1 Child per Adult

* *

FREE ENTREE ON YOUR B-DAY! BIRTHDAY PERSON w/Valid ID & 2 ADULT (guests) to qualify.

FREE ENTREE (up to $19 value).

*

ALA MOANA CENTER, MALL LEVEL, MAUKA NEXT TO VICTORIA’S SECRET

946-6388

1936 S. King St. Local Japanese Style Dining Dinner 5 - Midnight • Late Pupus 10 - 2am

* *

CATERING HOTLINE 783-7901 www.ilovecountrycafehawaii.com www.chinatownexpress-hawaii.com D I N I N G O U T | J U LY 3 1 - A U G U S T

6, 2011 | 11

on the menu

Dining on tasty dumplings

By Alana Folen

in Din Rou has been wowing diners with Taiwanese cuisine infused with a bit of Japanese fare since opening its doors last February on South King Street.

Manager Bob Suzukawa says he’s grateful for the warm welcome this chic and modern restaurant — known for its Xiao Long Bao, or soup dumplings — has received.

“Business has been doing really well. We sell close to 1,000 Xiao Long Bao a day,” he states.

With 10 varieties of Xiao Long Bao to satisfy all appetites, including Steamed Dumpling with Seafood Broth and Steamed Dumpling with Spicy Chili Flavor, the orig-

J

inal Pork Xiao Long Bao Long Bao contain the fla- or white vinegar sauce, as and Oolong Xiao Long voring of Oolong tea.” well as an accompanying Diners are recommend- dish of sliced ginger, for Bao, Jin Din Rou has quickly become a fave spot for ed to dip each Xiao Long additional flavor.

Bao in either black vinegar all dumpling lovers.

“Xiao Long Bao can be enjoyed at any “The dumpling time of the day or skin is filled with a night,” Suzukawa savory broth and says. “We also various fillings, so serve a wide it really is a burst array of soup nooof flavors in your dle like our signamouth,” Suzukawa ture Tan Tan explains.

“The Noodle and other Pork Xiao Long Taiwanese-style Bao and Oolong dishes, such as Xiao Long Bao are Sweet and Sour both filled with Pork and Mixed pieces of pork, Fried Rice. however, the “And we use dumpling skin absolutely no and soup of the MSG.” Oolong Xiao 1

How to Rou the world Jin Din Rou’s most famous dishes never cease to warm the hearts and souls of hungry diners.

Pork Xiao Long Bao (4 pieces, $5.90; 6 pieces, $7.90; 10 pieces, $12.50) Jin Din Rou’s original soup dumpling filled with pork and a tasty broth is wrapped ever so perfectly in a dumpling skin made from cake and bread flour.

Oolong Xiao Long Bao (4 pieces, $6.50; 6 pieces, $9.50) While similar to the Pork Xiao Long Bao, this specific dumpling caters to the Oolong tea lover.

Skilled chefs, like Hiromasa Yamanaka, place the dumpling skin in freshly grounded Oolong tea leaves to soak up the flavor. Filled with pork and a unique broth with a bit Oolong tea, it’s no wonder this creation has gained such a large fan base among patrons.

Tan Tan Noodle ($9.99) Jin Din Rou’s most popular soup noodle features a large portion of flour noodles in a thick sesame-based broth. The sesame seeds used in the broth are ground fresh every day.

Jin Din Rou Where: 1491 S. King St., Ste. 105

Call: 947.1133 1 General manager Bob Suzukawa holds Shaomai with shrimp ($9.50) and Taiwanese Steamed Dumpling ($7.90) 2 Steamed Dumpling with Oolong Tea Flavor ($9.50, six pieces) 3 Tan Tan Noodle ($9.99)

Hours: Open daily, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. (lunch) and 5-11 p.m. (dinner)

Leah Friel photos 2

3

First NY Style Oyster Bar in Hawaii

NOW OPEN 24 HOURS

LUNCH

All Day Special

Mon – Fri 11am to 2:30pm DINNER DAILY

5pm to 12am HAPPY HOUR

8:30pm to 11pm FREE PARKING

All You Can Eat!!!

WAIMALU 485-8883

MANOA 988-5923

98-1277 Kaahumanu St. (across from Safeway)

2752 Woodlawn Drive

AT BACK OF BUILDING

Adult $19.95 Child $16.95

808.946.1888 903 KEEAUMOKU STREET 1 2 | D I N I N G O U T | J U LY 3 1 - A U G U S T 6 , 2 0 1 1

BYOB

Short Rib, Seasoned Short Rib, Rib Eye, Seasoned Beef, Brisket, BBQ Chicken, Tripe, Pork Belly, Spicy Pork, Tongue, Also includes Seafood Pancake & Korean Miso Soup

www.paesanohawaii.com

Sam Sung Plaza • 655 Keeaumoku Street #108 • 949-2890

SushiSan

The freshest sushi sold in a sleek venue

Where: 1409 Kapiolani Blvd.

Call:

R

944.0670

Hours: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Above Interiorshot of Sushi San 1 Garlic Awabi ($5.80) 2 Hirame ($4.80) 3 Fresh seafood — Awabi, Namako and Hoya — from Japan and Korea 4 Fresh Seafood from Japan and Korea -Hirame Lawrence Tabudlo photos

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aiten sushi joints might be popping up everywhere you look, but as soon as you walk into SushiSan, you’ll know you’re in for something a little bit different. The venue has an upscale feel to it — chic, modern, elegant.

And according to restaurant owner Jay Kim, the food is different, too. “We want to keep developing our new menu and bring up the quality of the food with freshness,” he said. “We make our food from professional chefs … and SushiSan is looking to be a sushi bar with quality food.”

SushiSan opened its doors in March and already has exciting, innovative dishes under way. Last week, SushiSan launched its “Air Freight Menu,” which includes fresh seafood imported from Korea and Japan. Kim explains the eatery is bringing in sea squirt, sea cucumber, abalone, Hotate and white fishes such as Hirame, Aka Tai, Suzuki and Bora. “I believe this seafood makes a food quality difference between us and other kaiten sushi restaurants,” Kim says.

The restaurant also offers a number of creative sushi dishes that other places might not have, such as White Button Mushroom ($3.20), King Oyster

Mushroom ($3.20), Kapa Spicy Tuna ($2.20) and Unagi and Egg ($3.20). Kim says that other popular menu items include Spicy Ebi Roll ($4.80), Beef Steak ($3.20), Garlic Awabi ($5.20) and Garlic Salmon ($3.20). The menu also includes hot donburi items, and all customers receive free miso soup that may be refilled as often as they desire.

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Although still new, SushiSan already is proving to be a worthy competitor to other sushi restaurants in Hawaii. Kim stresses that good customer service, food quality and reasonable prices are SushiSan’s goals. “Myself and our staff members will make these three things balance and make our customers happy,” he says.

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D I N I N G O U T | J U LY 3 1 - A U G U S T 6 , 2 0 1 1 | 1 3

eat this

JJ charts new course with second bistro

J Luangkhot, executive chef and owner of the award-winning JJ’s Bistro & French Pastry, has been quite busy over the last month or so after recently changing both the name and concept of his second restaurant, formerly known as J2 Asian Fusion. Now, as you pass the location on Waialae Avenue, you’ll notice that it’s called Le Cacao Bistro. According to Luangkhot, this transformation of sorts took place early last month. “This is a new concept that I’m presenting here.

J2 Asian Fusion was more like a Southeast Asian eatery; now with Le Cacao Bistro it’s more like a New York style bistro,� explains Luangkhot, who also serves as the eatery’s executive chef. “We’re presenting our customers with more steaks, rack of lamb, rack of pork, pizza, pasta and more. I feel like people are enjoying more of this bistro style compared to the Asian

J

fusion cuisine.�

Signature items on the new menu include Pork Rack with Herbal Mustard Cream Sauce ($14.95) and New York Steak ($18.95). “You see a lot of pork chops these days, but not a

Le Cacao Bistro Where: 3441 Waialae Ave.

Call: 626.5368 JJ and fare in front of his newly named restaurant, Le Cacao Bistro

Hours: Open daily 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

lot of pork rack,� Luangkhot says.

The 8-ounce grilled bonein pork rack is marinated and complemented with a special blend of Dijon mus-

tard and honey sauce, and is accompanied by a medley of sauteed vegetables and mashed potatoes. “We’re trying to offer larger portions,� he says, adding that the New York Steak is a prime example of that.

This 8-ounce steak is grilled and served with a black pepper, red wine sauce. It’s also paired with a side of mixed vegetables and mashed potatoes — undoubtedly, it will leave the average diner quite satisfied. If you’re a seafood enthusiast, you’ll marvel at delicious entrees, including the Grilled Salmon with Lemon

Pork Rack with Herbal Mustard Cream Sauce ($14.95) Caper Butter Sauce ($12.95) and the Lobster Brioche ($12.95). Also, take the opportunity to sample the Southeast Fettucini Seafood Pasta ($12.95) or Le Clam Fettucini ($12.95), to name

New York Steak ($18.95) Leah Friel photos

a few savory options. “We’ve seen a quick response to the changes we’ve made and they’ve all been very positive,�

Luangkhot says. “Our famous desserts are offered here as well, such as the

gluten-free Warm Chocolate Cake ($5.50) and the Sweet Corn Haupia Parfait ($5.50).�

Beginning next month, Le Cacao Bistro will be serving afternoon tea ($14.95 per person) from 2 to 5 p.m. daily.

Try Our Delicious BBQ Chicken & Shrimp Plate

(previously Bob’s Giant Malts & Bar-B-Que) Same Owners & Same Delicious Food 4510 Salt Lake Blvd. • Honolulu, Hawaii 96818 (next to Ice Palace at the Stadium Mall)

Open Daily 10am–9pm

New: “TAKE HOME MEALS�

Pick up a restaurant quality dinner on your way home.

Special packages for 2, 3 and 4 people starting at $9.99 Mon - Fri 2pm - 4:30pm Call us at 526-1777 999 Bishop St First Hawaiian Center see our menu at:

www.1132CAFE.com

487-6600

Catering Available FREE Delivery min. $13 within 4 miles FREE plate of Mochiko Chicken w/orders over $30 (after 4pm)

Daily 9:30am - 4pm Served Spring Served with Spring Roll, SteamedRice, Rice Roll, Steamed & Salad.

(Over Salad & BOBA Milk35Tea. (Over 35 Healthy Choices) Healthy LunchLunch Choices)

$6.95 - $7.59

1111 McCully St. OPEN DAILY 9:30am-10pm HEALTHY CHINESE CUISINE • HAWAIIAN BBQ • HOT POT

955-8889

1 4 | D I N I N G O U T | J U LY 3 1 - A U G U S T 6 , 2 0 1 1

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The purest of pizza pies at Zpizza ho doesn't love pizza? You anticipate its arrival at your dining table or home as your mouth begins to water. The combination of chewy dough, savory sauce, warm melting cheese and a crunchy crust finale sends pleasure to a pizza lover’s heart. There are plenty of arguments about where and who invented the first pizza. Did it truly originate from Italy, or did it take its pie shape in Greece or Egypt? Yet, when it comes down to it, does it really matter? Whether you’re a Chicago style deep dish fanatic, a big New Yorker buff, or a fresh vegetarian connoisseur, Zpizza brings flavor and nutrition to each pie that comes out of its ovens. “Zpizza is for everyone, but more for people who are a little more health conscious, for people who love pizza and are really watching what they eat,� says Zpizza Hawaii franchise owner, Cesar Llarenas.“At Zpizza, we call it 'The Pure One' which means we only use the highest quality ingredients, that are all natural and better for you.�

For a limited time, now through Aug. 31, Zpizza is offering its own creation of Hawaiian style pizza. Zpizza’s Hawaiian Pizza ($12.95 small, $23.95 large and $26.95 extra large) starts with its organic whole wheat dough covered in a plum sauce.

Added to the Hawaiian Pizza mix is kalua pork, Chinese cabbage, caramelized onions and fresh pineapple. After another light drizzling of plum sauce, green onions top off this summer pizza special.

W

Zpizza Where: 1200 Ala Moana Blvd.

Honolulu

Call:

596.0066

Hours: Sunday-Thursday 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

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

Where: 151 Hekili St. Kailua Call:

230.8400

Hours: Sunday-Thursday 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Friday and Saturday 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

Hawaiian Pizza ($12.95 small, $23.95 large, $26.95 extra large) Leah Friel photo

10.95 Chicken Salad with Oriental Dressing. $

per person (10 people min)

4 Types of Dim Sum (BBQ Pork Bun, Nori Spring Roll, Pork Hash, Seafood Dumpling) Beef & Broccoli.

Kalua Short Ribs.

Stir-Fried Assorted Vegetable.

Seafood Fried Noodle.

Dessert- Mango Pudding.

24.95 Duck Salad with Oriental Dressing. $

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

Seafoodvillagehawaii.com Ask about our Kama‘aina Discount

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

per person (4 people min)

Shrimp & Scallop Wrapped in Bacon.

Live Dungeness Crab - Country Style.

Honey Glazed Walnut Shrimp.

Roasted Peking Duck.

SautĂŠed Seasonal Vegetable.

Chef So’s House Fried Rice.

Dessert- Mango Pudding.

Zpizza customers also should know that with each order of The Hawaiian Pizza they will receive a $5 off coupon which is valid towards their next large or extra large pizza purchase. Another summer special to complement your pizza is Zpizza’s Strawberry Goatcheese Salad ($8.50 small, $10.95 large). It may be rare, but Zpizza’s combination of apple pie and pizza is a scrumptious dessert.

Apple Pie Pizza ($10.95) starts with organic flour, mascarpone cheese and cinnamon, brown sugar and caramelized Fuji apples. After cooking, the Apple Pie Pizza is topped with a caramel sauce, almonds and powdered sugar.

8e fZ\Xe]ifek m`\n kf jXmfi n`k_ jk\Xbj Xe[ j\X]ff[ ^i`cc\[ kf fi[\i%

N\Ă‹i\ Z\c\YiXk`e^ fli ,'k_ Xee`m\ijXip n`k_ X jg\Z`Xc *$Zflij\ d\el ]fi ,'% 1st Course: Yukon Potato “Loadedâ€? Soup or Islands’ Bounty or Crispy Lump Crab Cake 2nd Course: Pan Roasted Mahi Mahi or Charred Filet Medallion of Beef or Prime Rib of Beef 3rd Course: Macadamia Nut Chocolate Bar sSelection of USDA Prime Meats & The Freshest Pacific Seafood sRelax at the Martini Bar at Paradise Lounge nearby

/'/ 0+0$+*)( \ok\ej`fe +* Special price is per person. Coupons or additional offers may not be included. Maximum of 6 persons per reservation. Evening and aloha attire. Dress shorts acceptable. No t-shirts, casual, swim shorts, tank tops or slippers. Information subject to change without notice.

5:00 pm – 9:00 pm Tuesday – Saturday Rainbow Tower Hilton Hawaiian VillageŽ Validated Valet and Self-Parking Available

D I N I N G O U T | J U LY 3 1 - A U G U S T 6 , 2 0 1 1 | 1 5

ono, you know

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2

1 El Charro’s Taco Plate ($9.50) 2 El Charro’s Mexican Tacos ($10.50) 3 Edge of Waikiki’s Fish Tacos — Pier 38 ($17) 4 Wahoo’s Kahala general manager Randall Transfiguracion presents a variety of taco options to hungry patrons.

5 Wahoo’s Two Tacos Combo Platter ($8.99)

1

– From page 2

Wahoo's Fish Taco When craving a good ole' fish taco, expect nothing less from Wahoo’s Fish Taco at Ward Gateway Center and Kahala Korner. This California-based chain first came to the islands in 2006 when sisters Stephanie Gambetta and Noel Pietsch believed it would be the go-to choice for those yearning for the best in “CaliforniaMex” cuisine.

The restaurant gives off a beachy vibe, welcoming to patrons just off the beach or those stopping by for an office meeting. Wahoo’s specializes in cuisine that is not only tasty, but healthy, and I’m probably not the first one to admit it, but the fish tacos are off the hook!

“In our fish tacos we use ono, cheese, fresh cut cabbage and homemade salsa wrapped in soft-shell corn tortillas,”

says Wahoo’s Kahala general manager Randall Transfiguracion.

I, personally, can't resist the Two Tacos Combo Platter ($8.99), filled with flamebroiled fish. This is one meal in particular that will leave you feeling stuffed, but guilt-free, and what can be better than that?

If fish is not your forte, however, have your taco with blackened or flame-broiled chicken, pork, steak, mushrooms, banzai veggies or tofu. Combo plates also come with ahee rice and black beans or spicy cajun white beans.

Wahoo's Fish Taco Ward Gateway Center, 940 Auahi St. Kahala Korner 4614 Kilauea Ave. 591.0642 (Ward), 732.9229 (Kahala)

El Charro Mexicano Aiea Restaurant Husband-and-wife team and owners of

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3

El Charro Mexicano Aiea Restaurant John and Sofia Ramirez sure know a thing or two about authentic Mexican cuisine.

Upon setting foot in the eatery located on the third level of Aiea Shopping Center, it was as if I had been whisked away to a favorite hot spot in Mexico.

With a menu that crosses all borders, the taco dishes were tantalizing, to say the least. For example, for the reasonable price of $9.50, diners receive the renowned Taco Plate with two crispy or soft corn tortillas with their choice of ground beef, shredded chicken or beef, pork and kalua pork. And for an additional $2, choose from grilled chicken, steak or beef tongue.

And taco lovers listen up, I have more tasty news coming your way. A bestseller that's not on the menu, but definitely worth trying is El Charro's Mexican Tacos ($10.50). This entree features three corn tortillas (crispy or soft) filled with

5

sizzling slices of grilled steak, onions, cilantro, lemon and lettuce. Better yet, all classic plates are served with rice and beans to satisfy any appetite.

“We make our tortillas and sauces fresh every day,” says El Charro's manager and executive chef Bob Burns, noting that breakfast burritos also are quite popular here. “We start off by making everything mild, but we can always spice it up upon request,” he adds.

What I love most about El Charro is the fact that all cuisine is served throughout all hours of operation. Craving Mexican Tacos at 9 a.m.? You got it!

El Charro Mexicano Aiea Restaurant Aiea Shopping Center 99-115 Aiea Heights Drive, Suite #304 488.9727

T

or locals, ramen is one of the ultimate comfort foods. The warm broth, the tasty meat and vegetables, and the satisfying sluuuuuurrrp of soft, wiggly noodles is a familiar experience for many who have grown up in Hawaii.

At Ton Ton Ramen, owner Ken Cho has taken the lovable ramen and paired it with another island favorite, oxtail soup. After letting customers tastetest his new recipe over the past month, Cho decided it was time to put Oxtail Ramen ($10.95) on the regular menu.

“We let the customers try it first because we wanted to improve it. We listened to the customers, what they wanted and needed, and this final Oxtail Ramen is maybe the third (variation) we’ve made,” says Cho. “Everyone knows about oxtail soup, but they’ve never had anything like this. We’ve changed it up.”

The secret to the Oxtail Ramen lies in the soup base. Cho says he concocted the broth from a special mix of chicken, pork and beef bone, along with five other secret ingredients he cannot divulge.

“No other restaurant has done this before,” he says.

(BTW: None of those secret ingredients is MSG. In fact, all items at Ton Ton Ramen are MSG-free!)

After the broth has developed, Cho makes sure to

F

Contact Sarah Pacheco at diningout@staradvertiser.com

THESIDE

Slurp up Ton Ton’s special oxtail ramen

ON

o say there are a ton of ramen choices at Ton Ton Ramen is an understatement. There’s Chicken Katsu Ramen ($7.75), Soft Rib Ramen ($8), Curry Ramen ($7.50), Ippin Ramen ($8), Gyoza Ramen ($7.50), Kim Chee Ramen ($7.50), Vegetable Ramen ($6.95) and, yes, there is even a dish named Ton Ton Ramen ($8.95).

That’s just a few popular picks found on the first page of the menu. Keep looking and there are four more pages packed with ramen, curry, fried rice, seafood dishes, combo plates and sides like handmade Gyoza ($2.95 for four pieces, $3.75 six pieces) and Mochiko Chicken ($3.95 for eight pieces).

Every item offered at the restaurant is made from an original recipe created by owner Ken Cho, who honed his skill for Japanese-style cuisine over many years of trial and error.

“Nobody will give you an original recipe, so you have to try on your own, one time, two times, three times. You fail many, many times before you get it right,” says Cho, who opened Ton Ton Ramen in Waipahu Town Center in 2004. “I’ve failed many, many times. But now, I know what is good and what is no good.”

Cho also relies on his two uncles, who are both chefs, and wife Yuki for their honest opinions.

“She gives me a lot of opinions about my food,” Cho says with a laugh. “She is Japanese, so she can help me with this.”

Customers usually can expect to find some sort of new special in the works at Ton Ton Ramen, as Cho believes it is important to keep changing with the times.

“In Japan, there are so many ramen restaurants, and if your restaurant is not popular, you cannot survive. They have to keep updating their menu to what is popular now,” he explains. “That makes me want to do that too.”

– See page 19

1 Oxtail Ramen ($10.95) 2 Free three piece Gyoza from 2 to 6 p.m. with any regular order.

Lawrence Tabudlo photos

Owner Ken Cho with the Black Sesame Tan Tan Ramen ($8.50) 1

2

D I N I N G O U T | J U LY 3 1 - A U G . 6 , 2 0 1 1 | 1 7

recipe

Kahala Mall 738-5696 (KOZO)

Lobster and strawberry salad

Moiliili 951-5696 (KOZO)

45pcs. (Nigri 12pcs. / Inari 3pcs. / Makisushi 12pcs. / Hosomaki 18pcs.)

One coupon per order. Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 8/15/11

Keeaumoku

by Wal-Mart 946-5696 (KOZO)

Pearlridge 483-6805 Pearl City

by Wal-Mart 455-6805

By Chef Chai Chaowasaree Ingredients: • 4 ounces lobster claw meat • 2 ounces diced then creamed ripe avocado • 2 fresh ripened strawberries • 1 tablespoons tarragon mayonnaise • 1 ounce baby arugula • 1 ounce strawberry sauce (see method below) • Garnish with sliced strawberries, strawberry sauce and micro greens.

Strawberry sauce: • 10 ounces frozen strawberries • 1 1/4 cup water • 6 ounces sugar Preparation: • Combine ingredients and puree in a blender. Set aside.

Salad assembly: • Gently mix lobster meat, tarragon mayonnaise, baby arugula, strawberries and avocado.

• Drizzle some of the strawberry sauce onto a plate, then place a ring mold in the center of the plate.

• Fill the mold with lobster salad then gently remove the mold.

• Garnish with micro greens, sliced strawberries and strawberry sauce.

For questions related to your Honolulu StarAdvertiser subscription CALL

538-NEWS(6397 Request a vacation stop • Make a payment Billing or delivery questions Start a new subscription

The pulse of paradise. www.staradvertiser.com

R TRY OU NU E NEW M S! ITEM

CHEF KAPO’S

The TYRANT’S TOFU SALAD We Ca te too! r

Upscale American Bistro Plate Lunch

951-KING (5464)

OPEN: Mon-Sat 11am-9pm

Parking: turn into driveway between Kokua Market & 4 Kings

2671A S. King St.

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Cannot be combined with other offers. Exp. 8/4/11

Dumplings • Ramen • Fried Rice • More Mon-Sat 11am-3pm, 5pm-11pm Sunday 11am-3pm, 5-10pm Private Party rooms available

947-1133 1491 King St. #105 (corner of King & Kaheka) Lots of Parking in Back

RHYTHMS at the REEF Live Hawaiian Music Nightly One Night Only.

Following a record-breaking pre-sale of his solo CD release, we proudly present Kuana Torres Kahele (pictured) on Sunday, July 31, 6 -9 p.m. Hear original compositions from his CD “Kaunaloa” that topped Billboard World Music and iTunes World Digital charts. Kahele is founding member of the group Na Palapalai…

Mai Tai Toppers.

Congrats to John Abreu (pictured) and Raymond Cruciana for their entries into the preliminaries of the third annual “Don the Beachcomber Mai Tai Festival Mix-Off.” Abreu will represent Kani Ka Pila Grille at the finals in Kona on August 13, competing against 100 bartenders to concoct the world’s best mai tai…

Let’s Play Music. Mon: Sean Naauao. Tues: Weldon Kekauoha. Wed: Cyril Pahinui.

Thu: Kawika Kahiapo & Mike Kaawa.

Fri: Kaukahi. Sat: Manoa DNA. 6-9 p.m.

Located poolside at the Outrigger Reef on the Beach 2169 Kalia Road, Honolulu, HI 96815 ph. 808.924.4990 Kamaaina Rates From $179 per night 1.800.OUTRIGGER outriggerreef.com

what we’re eating at...

By Christina O’Connor

I

Judy Nakata and Baul Umemoto enjoy the fresh, local cuisine at 4Kings Kitchen. Christina O’Connor photo

Baul Umemoto: “We are splitting the Chef Kapo's Mochiko Chicken ($11). Usually Mochiko Chicken comes in strips, but this one is right off the bone, so it has more flavor.”

Judy Nakata: “We also have The Tyrant's Tofu Salad ($11). It comes with fresh vegetables and the tofu is pan seared. We also got it with the Roasted Garlic and Hawaiian Ogo dressing, which is a seaweed vinaigrette.

It's perfect and the seaweed flavor is not over-powering.”

the black sesame. For one, there is less oil in the black sesame than in the white sesame,” says Cho. Black sesame seeds also are a good source of copper, magnesium and calcium, which each provide numerous health benefits. For example, copper relieves rheumatoid arthritis, while magnesium supports vascular and respiratory health.

Some people even believe that long-term consumption of the seeds helps keep hair shiny and beautifies the skin.

“It’s good for the hair, good for the skin, people believe it makes the whole body healthier,” Cho says.

As an added treat, customers receive a free three-piece Gyoza with any regular order made between 2 and 6 p.m. any day of the week.

– From page 17

4Kings Kitchen

f you're craving local favorites, look no further than 4Kings Kitchen. The South King Street eatery offers classics like Seared Ahi Poke Salad ($11), 4Kings Fried Rice ($11) and Local Style Beef Luau Stew ($11).

And for many of its dishes, 4Kings Kitchen brings a another meaning to local favorites — it uses fresh, local ingredients, meaning that you can enjoy your favorite dishes with a healthier spin. The beef luau, for example, uses locallyraised beef. And the Garden Isle Bone-In Short Ribs ($14) is made with ribs fresh from the island of Kauai and kale from Otsuji Farms. Enjoy any of the sandwiches and entrees with a side of salad made with MA‘O Farms lettuce.

Judy Nakata and Baul Umemoto recently dined at 4Kings Kitchen. The two are quickly becoming regulars and say that they enjoy 4Kings because it offers classic dishes, but is a higher quality than most similar venues.

foodie fare

4Kings Kitchen Where: 2671 S. King St.

Call: 951.5464 Hours: 11 a.m.- 9 p.m.

Monday-Saturday

measure out exactly one pound of raw oxtail for each dish. The meat is then slow-cooked for one-and-a-half hours in the broth, with green onion and Chinese parsley added right before the plate makes its way out of the kitchen.

“Some restaurants, they cook the oxtail too long and it is too soft but you cannot taste the oxtail,” Cho says. “The way we do it, you can really taste the oxtail. The customers try it and they say they’ve never had that kind of taste before.”

Customers can choose either white rice or ramen noodles with the meal, but Cho suggests going with the slurp-factor and ordering the noodles.

“We use a special noodle. It’s a little bit thick, so it doesn’t get overcooked,” he says.

Another specialty only available at Ton Ton Ramen is the Black Sesame Tan Tan Ramen ($8.50).

The traditional Japanese dish consists of char sui belly, green onion, fresh choy sum, noodles and is topped with a half-cooked egg.

But Cho takes things up a notch by adding black sesame seeds.

“There’s a very big difference between the white sesame and

Ton Ton Ramen Waipahu Town Center 94-050 Farrington Hwy. 677.5388 Open 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. FridaySaturday Ample free parking available

Military and Locals with valid ID receive

15% OFF 5 -10pm

TOTAL BILL

Coupon required Exp. 7/31/11

Sunday Lunch Buffet

Delicious, Healthy, Low-Fat Chinese Cuisine Ala Moana Center

(Between Macy’s & Radio Shack)

947-1332

SALT & PEPPER OCEAN SEAFOOD Shrimp, Scallops, and Calamari battered fried with spicy sauce

11:30AM - 2:30PM

$19.95

Not valid for take-out or retail items Not valid with any other offers or promotions

LIMITED T IME ONLY!

per person

www.eggsnthings.com

Children under 12 eat for free

Kama‘ainas & Military get 10% OFF Seniors 55+ get 15% OFF Offer shall not be combined with other discount specials.

NEW LOCATION! MOILIILI 2071-A S. Beretania•947-9022 M-F 11-5:30pm Sat-Sun 11-4pm

PEARL CITY 98-718 Moanalua Rd•484-0052 T-F 12-5pm Sat-Sun 10-3pm

www.madeinhawaiifoods.com

New Menu Launched with Reduced Pricing

Vegetarian Items Available & Endless Naan

Discovery Bay (next to Buffalo Wild Wings) 1778 Ala Moana Blvd., Ste 213

www.MonsoonIndiaOahu.com

941-5111

343 Saratoga Road

(808) 923-EGGS (3447)

FREE Furikake French Fries

with purchase of any Plate Lunch and this ad.

Not to be combined with any other offer. Exp 8/10/11.

akfast Also Serving Bre 11am Sat & Sun 8am–

Make It An IHOP Day ALA MOANA BLVD. (Waikiki) • KUHIO AVE (Waikiki) • PEARL CITY • KANEOHE • HILO Ala Moana (Free Parking)

@IHOP_Hawaii

NOW OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 45-1118 Kam Hwy 235-POKE (7653)

3109 Waialae Ave. 735- POKE (7653)

www.fcsauces.com

D I N I N G O U T | J U LY 3 1 - A U G . 6 , 2 0 1 1 | 1 9

WHERE TO DINE Ige’s Restaurant & 19th Puka

AMERICAN

Symbol Key

4 Kings Kitchen

Breakfast

2671 S. King St. 951-5464

Lunch

Waikiki • 926-3444 Kailua • 262-0820 Hawaii Kai • 394-9100 Aiea • 486-2167 University • 949-0050 Maui • 661-9111

2284 Kalakaua Avenue 922-6868

After Midnight

d.k Steakhouse

Online

Willows, The

343 Saratoga Road 923-EGGS (3447)

Full Service Catering & Event Planning

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

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

Eggs n’ Things

Catering

2752 Woodlawn Dr. Manoa Marketplace 988-4310

Tropics Bar & Grill

2552 Kalakaua Ave., Waikiki Marriott Beach Hotel 931-6280

Alcohol served

Fendu Boulangerie

Teddy’s Bigger Burger

Atlantis Seafood & Steak

Dinner

BAKERY

98-761 Oihana Place, Aiea 486-3500

Larry’s Bakery 4369 Lawehana St. (across Target in Salt Lake) 422-0059

Napoleon’s Bakery

901 Hausten St. 952-9200

Located inside of Zippy’s

l k 1st cia-Wee uly 3 e J p e ,

S f-th un. h-o u S Dis ly thr

FILIPINO FOOD FESTIVAL

on ved r e s

August 1 thru August 14

Pork Barbeque Sticks Fried Shrimp on Green Papaya Atchara Chicken Vegetable Lumpia Pansit Pork & Shrimp Sari Sari Pinakbet Pork and Peas Chicken or Pork Adobo Chicken with Papaya Soup

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

Ph:

677-7744

www.acateredexperience.com

Introducing

Pan Fried Halibut and Shrimp | $27.95

New York Style

Served with Caramelized Pineapple and Roasted Macadamia Nut Butter Sauce.

August Special!

GLUTEN FREE Desserts Available

10% OFF Entire Menu at Le Cacao Bistro

cannot be combined with any other offer

at Le Cacao Bistro

Now Available...

FRENCH MACAROON $ 18 00 per dozen

Dine-in or Carry-out Available MONDAY

10 AM - 3 PM |

TUES

-

SUN

5pm - 6pm only @ Le Cacao Bistro

Now Serving...

Affordable 4-Course Meal starting at $15.50

Steak, Seafood, Pizza, Pasta, & Pastry Open Daily 11a – 9p for Lunch, Dinner & Afternoon Tea 3441 Waialae Ave • 626-5368 JJ Bistro - 3447 Waialae Ave • 739-0993 www.lecacaobistro.com 2 0 | D I N I N G O U T | J U LY 3 1 - A U G U S T 6 , 2 0 1 1

10 AM - 9 PM

WATERFRONT at PIER 38 | N. NIMITZ | 275-0063 Entrance one block Diamond Head from Young Brothers

Join us for LUNCH & DINNER | Plenty of FREE Parking

by Chef JJ

20% OFF Weekday Early Bird Special

Layers of Sherbets & Ice Cream piled high, covered with Snowfluff & drizzled with Sweet Strawberries

Become a friend of Jade Dynasty and recieve a

955-1764

Open 24 Hours 1860 Ala Moana Blvd. Validated Parking

8000 Square Foot Restaurant • 32 ft. long stage • 7 private rooms

Complimentary • Sound & projection video system Basket of Dim Sum RESER VATIONS till Aug 10th (808) 947-8818

Affordable Elegance

on Saturdays

Carved Slow Roasted Garlic Crusted Prime Rib, Onolicious Fried Chicken, Finger Licking Paniolo BBQ Ribs, Pepper Salt Shrimp, Salads, Mac & Cheese, Baked Beans, Desert & More! $28.95 Adults $16.95 Keikis 5 to 12

Perfect for any Wedding or Event

Seafood Restaurant

Introducing Our New

Chuckwagon Buffet

Open 10:30am to 10:00pm Ala Moana Shopping Center (above Macy’s)

jadedynastyhawaii.com

580 Nimitz Hwy. 545-7979

Dim starts Sum @ $2 .95

WHERE TO DINE Panya

Makino Chaya

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

Aloha Tower Mkt place 585-6360 Westridge Mall 486-5100

999 Bishop Street • 526-1777 1132 Bishop St. Ste.131 • 521-1837

Anytime Cafe Market City Shopping Center 2919 Kapiolani Blvd 735-3888

Ho Ho Chinese Cuisine

Koko Cafe

Kahai Street Kitchen

Canton Seafood Restaurant

237 Kalihi Street, 845-0320

Hale Koa Hotel, 2055 Kalia Road 955-0555 Call for eligibility details.

949-4321

Duck Yun

123 WOK

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

1111 MCully Street 955-8889

Chinese Restaurant

East Honolulu

1110 McCully St. • 946-8833

Aina Haina Shopping Center 373-1303 or 373-4632

(Corner of McCully & Young St.)

923 Keeaumoku St. 955-3388

CHINESE

ON ON at McCully

Handpicked,

162 N. Hotel St. 521-3788

94-1068 Ka Uka Blvd.

677-7744

930 McCully St. 951-0511/0611

590 Farrington Hwy 692-9880

Canton House Restaurant

A Catered Experience

CAFE

Camellia Buffet

Ala Moana Shopping Center, Ground Level (between Macy’s & Radio Shack) 947-1332

1132 Cafe

Yakiniku Camellia Buffet 2494 S. Beretania St. 944-0449

BUFFET

California Wok

CATERERS

SUMMER SPECIALS Bento Choice of Two:

BYOB Customers’ Favorite

• 2pc Shrimp & 2pc Vegetable • Chicken Karaage Tempura • Ahi (plain, salted or teriyaki) • Chicken Katsu • Sashimi, Salmon or Unagi • Chicken, Beef or Pork Teriyaki add $2 more to meal price Includes Miso Soup, Cold Tofu, Tsukemono, Gyoza and Tea

Shrimp Pepper Salt

so it falls right off the

bone.

$7.95

11.95

$

reg. $11.95

12.99

$

No coupon necessary. Exp 8/4/11

Live Lobster with purchase at On On only

OPEN TUE-SUN LUNCH

11AM-2PM, DINNER 5-8:30PM • Closed Monday Lunch & Dinner

100 N. Beretania Street #113

Find menus and $5 coupon at www.ononhawaii.com

(Parking inside Chinese Cultural Plaza)

536-3035

moyer farms bone-in rib eye,20 ounces A prime cut of artisan, Amish-raised cattle. Grilled on an open flame with a gentle rub of our special herbs and spices.

A fine steak. A fine experience.

2380 Kuhio Ave • Tel: 923-2260 $2/2 hr. parking Miramar at Waikiki Mon-Fri 5:30-10pm • Sat & Sun All Day

SENIOR SPECIAL

30% OFF Lunch 50% OFF Dinner *Excluding Happy Buffet beachhousewaikiki.com • 921-4600 • Complimentary valet parking.

Not combinable with other discounts. 65 or older w/Coupon & ID. No online or photo-copied coupons. One coupon per person. Discounts off regular adult price. Expires 8/31/11

98-150 Kaonohi St. • Tel: 486-5100

BIRTHDAY SPECIAL FREE BIRTHDAY MEAL FOR ANY AGE With Family and Group

LUNCH & DINNER

20% OFF

*Excluding Happy Buffet

Must have minimum party of 4. One Birthday coupon per party of 4.

Coupon valid on actual birthday, ID required. Not combinable with other discounts. Discounts off regular adult price. No online or photo-copied coupons. Expires 8/31/11

*Menu *Menu and and prices prices subject subject to to change change

KAMA‘AINA SPECIAL! LUNCH & DINNER

20% OFF

*Excluding Happy Buffet

1 Coupon per group. Must have valid ID. Not Combinable with other discounts. Discounts off regular adult price. No online or photo-copied coupons. Expires 8/31/11

D I N I N G O U T | J U LY 3 1 - A U G U S T 6 , 2 0 1 1 | 2 1

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

Golden Palace Seafood Restaurant

Jade Dynasty Seafood Restaurant

Maple Garden / Yen King

Ala Moana Shopping Center 1450 Ala Moana Blvd.

4th Floor - Ho’okipa Terrace 947-8818

909 Isenberg St. 941-6641

Little Villlage Noodle House

2065 S. Beretania St. 946-3828 new

Happy Day Chinese Restaurant

Lung Fung Chinese Restaurant

3553 Waialae Ave. 738-8666

5724 Kalanianaole Hwy. 377-5566

Island Favorites

August 1 thru August 31 • Chinese Chicken Salad • Rainbow Tofu Seafood Soup • Lemon Chicken • Maine Lobster w/ Ginger Scallions on Lo Mein • Grilled Garlic Shoyu Shrimp • Mongolian Pork Chop • Sauteed Fish Fillet w/ Chinese Peas & Snow Cabbage • Steamed Rice $199 Table of Ten (Reg. $239) (Two (2) tables max. on Saturdays & Sundays)

5pm - 10pm

MAINE LOBSTER & DIM SUM LUNCH FOR TWO • Chinese Chicken Salad • Whole Maine Lobster E Mein • Baked Char Siu Bao • Har Gau • Chicken Siu Mai • Custard Tart $39 For Two

MAINE LOBSTER DINNER FOR TWO

• Chinese Chicken Salad • Mu Shu Pork • Maine Lobster w/ Ginger Scallions • Mongolian Beef • Sauteed Chinese Broccoli $49 For Two *this coupon required: expires Aug. 31, 2011

449 KAPAHULU AVE., STE 101

735-5544

Available starting August 1st!

Angelo Pietro Honolulu 1585 Kapiolani Blvd. #110 941-0555

Bibas Hale Koa Hotel, 2055 Kalia Road 955-0555 Call for eligibility details.

Liliha Square 524-1628

Halo Halo A delightful mix of Filipino sweetened fruits & rice flakes served over shaved ice and topped with flan and a scoop of ube ice cream

• Chinese Chicken Salad.............$30/sm.pan • Korean or Yakitori Chicken.....$33/sm.pan • Chow Mein................................$15/sm.pan • BBQ Beef Tri-Tip.......................$45/sm.pan • Mahi Mahi.................................$28/sm.pan • Sweet & Sour Pork...................$36/sm.pan

Max’s HAPPY HOUR at Dillingham only Monday thru Friday 3pm - 6pm

841-0931

Kam Shopping Center Open 6am Daily

LET US DO THE COOKING Menu For Four • Chinese Chicken Salad • Wintermelon Soup • Lemon Chicken • Ma Po Tofu • Mongolian Beef • Pepper Salt Shrimp • Rice $49 For Four

FAMILY DINING

Nice Day Chinese Seafood Restaurant

TRY OUR POPULAR CATERING DISHES! BACK to SCHOOL MENU

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

Kam Shopping Center 1620 N. School Street, #120 847-1234 / 841-8668

1055 Alakea St. 525-8585

449 Kapahulu Ave. 735-5544

Seafood Village Hyatt Regency Resort & Spa

New Liu’s Chop Suey

Mandalay (The)

Hee Hing Restaurant

946-8833

Mini Garden Orient & Vegetarian Cuisine

1113 Smith St. 545-3008

111 N. King St. 521-8268

On On at McCully

ON ON at McCully 1110 McCully St.

New York Steak & Mahi Mahi New York Steak & Fried Shrimp Prime Rib & Half Maine Lobster Prime Rib & Snow Crab Legs Atlantis Loco Moco

$16.95 $16.95 $38.95 $38.95 $18.95

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

Build your own 10� pizza with unlimited toppings.

922-6868

Call for Reservations & Information 2284 Kalakaua Ave.

Open 7 Days from 11am-10pm

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

OF

An individual serving of a light sponge cake, filled with a sweet and tart lemon filling, rolled and dusted with powdered sugar.

Price slightly higher at Ala Moana, Pearlridge and Kahului.

LEMON ROLL 2 2 | D I N I N G O U T | J U LY 3 1 - A U G U S T 6 , 2 0 1 1

Starts Tomorrow Aug. 1st

(6297) 951-MAXS www.maxsofmanila.com

Tanaka’s Happy Rush Hour Daily from 3-6pm

Also available Pasta • Burgers • Salads • Sandwiches OPEN TIL MIDNIGHT! 2919 Kapiolani Blvd., #218

MARKET CITY SHPG CNTR 735-3888

Serving Assorted Beer, Wines & Pupus!

20% OFF PUPUS

524-2020

Shrimp Scampi

Won Ton Noodle

DISJTUNBT JO BVHVTU THE

Since 1945

94-300 Farrington Hwy, Waipahu (next to Savers)

*Take out only, w/coupon; not to be combined with any other offer. Expires 8/15/11.

DFMFCSBUF

TRY OUR

“Cuisine of the Philippines�

801 Dillingham (next to Costco)

#PPL B )PMJEBZ 1BSUZ JO UIF .POUI PG "VHVTU GPS PS NPSF HVFTUT BOE SFDFJWF B (JGU $FSUJm DBUF GPS B 'VUVSF 7JTJU QMFBTF DBMM ZPVS OFBSFTU SVUI T DISJT GPS SFTFSWBUJPOT PS NPSF JOGPSNBUJPO

888 N. Nimitz Hwy. #103 Mon-Thurs 6am-9pm • Fri 6am-11pm • Sat 7am-11pm • Sun 7am-9pm SAIMIN, PLATE

LUNCHES, SANDWICHES & MORE

Hanaki Shabu Shabu

2ESTAURANT 2OW \ \ !LA -OANA "LVD 7AIKIKI "EACH 7ALK \ \ ,EWERS 3TREET !LSO 3IZZLIN !T -AUNA ,ANI "IG )SLAND ,AHAINA #ENTER -AUI \ 4HE 3HOPS AT 7AILEA -AUI

XXX SVUITDISJTIBXBJJ DPN

11:30 am-2:30 pm; 5 pm-9:30 pm (Closed Tuesdays)

MANOA MARKETPLACE (Tons of FREE Parking) 988-1551

WHERE TO DINE Shakey’s Pizza Parlor

Fresh Catch

JJ Bistro & French Pastry

Kit N Kitchen

45-1118 Kam Hwy 235-POKE (7653) 3109 Waialae Ave 735-POKE (7653)

3447 Waialae Ave.

1010 University Avenue 942-7622

Waipahu Town Center 94-060 Farrington Hwy., #D3 677-1919

Le Cacao Bistro

Star of Honolulu Cruises & Events

739-0993

Kani Ka Pila Grille I Love Country Cafe

3441 Waialae Ave.

2169 Kalia Rd,

626-5368

Outrigger Reef on the Beach 924-4990

Panya Bistro • Bakery • Bar

885 Queen St. 4725 Bougainville Dr. 783-7901

IHOP

Tanaka Saimin

Ala Moana Center, Mauka - Mall Level 946-6388

Kenny’s Restaurant Waikiki - 1850 Ala Moana Blvd • 949-4467 Waikiki - Kuhio & Lewers • 921-2400 Pearl City - Times Sq. SC • 486-4467 Kaneohe - Windward Mall • 235-4467 Hilo - Prince Kuhio Plaza • 959-2600

1540 South King Street 983-STAR (7827)

1620 N. School St. 841-0931

888 N. Nimitz Hwy #103 524-2020

Rainbow Drive Inn

Wailana Coffee House

3308 Kanaina Ave. 737-0177

Kenny’s Express Hawaiian BBQ

1860 Ala Moana Blvd.

955-1764

Restaurant Epic

2nd Floor, Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center 922-9333

Zippy’s

1131 Nuuanu Ave. 587-7877

Call the one nearest you.

Try Our Tasty PORK TOFU! Pork Tofu simmered in our special broth...

Delicious!

Featuring Our

RESTAURANT

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

SUNTORY

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

Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center, 3rd Floor

2746 Kaimuki Ave

restaurantsuntory.com

732-1656

922-5511

ACROSS KAIMUKI H.S.

www.SekiyasRestaurant.com

New! Salad Bar Included with Entrees MON: Free Karaoke • TUES: Tableside Magic w/ Santos Kidd WED-SAT: Live Music • THURS: Hawaiian Music

RESTAURANT & 19TH PUKA 98-761 Oihana Place, Aiea • Ph: 486-3500 www.igesrestaurant.com

Signature dishes offered as Daily Specials Open for Plate Lunch Tue - Fri 10:30am - 1:30pm Mini Okinawan Sweet Potato & Kalua Pork Cakes

Ricotta Stuffed Chicken

Catering Available Everyday!

Soft Shell Crab Alfredo

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

237 KALIHI ST. (Corner of Kahai and Kalihi)

ph 845-0320 fax 842-4273 kahaistreet-kitchen.com

Cupcake Bouquets Custom Cookies • Cakes Gift Baskets • Fundraising Back by Popular Demand Our Famous Cinnamon Bread!

Best d Foo Greek wn! o in T

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

Buy one dinner entree, receive 2nd entree

50% OFF

MAKANA

Aug 5 & 12 Only

Koko Marina Shopping Center

TUES-SUN 6AM-11AM

20% OFF

KOREAN CUISINE • LUNCH $15.95 10:30AM - 2:30PM • DINNER $23.95 2:30PM-10PM

SPECIAL GUEST APPEARANCE

Kal Bi, Sirloin, Chicken, Sashimi Spicy Pork, (Oysters served Fri/Sat/Su)

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

396-8441

NEW

valid Sun, Mon & Tue with ad BROTHERS CAZIMERO Expires 8/9/11.

Every Wednesday SUNDAY . . . . . . . Melveen Leed MONDAY . . . . . . . Jerry Santos & Hula TUESDAY . . . . . . . Robert Cazimero & Hula THURSDAY . . . . . Sista Robi & Jeff Rasmussen SATURDAY. . . . . . Danny Couch

(Limit 1 per customer.

Not combinable with other offers.

Equal or lesser value.) Exp. 8/31/11.

SENIOR DISCOUNT 60+ older, applies to breakfast only

$2.99

BREAKFAST SPECIAL 1-scoop fried rice, 1-egg (any style), 2-bacon

*DISCOUNT EXCLUDES ALL BEVERAGESWITH THIS AD. EXP. 8/31/11.

YAKINIKU

Since 1989

MILLION 596-0799 930 McCully St. • 951-0511/951-0611

• PRIVATE PARTY ROOM • CONVENIENT PARKING

626 SHERIDAN ST. (backside of Walmart) SUN, TUE, WED, THUR 6 AM - 12 MID

FRI & SAT 6 AM - 2 AM

MON 11 AM - 12 MID

D I N I N G O U T | J U LY 3 1 - A U G U S T 6 , 2 0 1 1 | 2 3

WHERE TO DINE Hy’s Steak House

FILIPINO

GREEK

2440 Kuhio Ave. 922-5555

Max’s Of Manila

Greek Marina

Ruth’s Chris Steak House

94-300 Farrington Hwy 801 Dillingham Blvd.

951-6297

3040 Waialae Ave. 734-0404 1831 Ala Moana Blvd 941-3444 Ala Moana Food Court 949-2120

580 N. Nimitz Hwy. 545-7979

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

INDIAN

Manoa Marketplace 2752 Woodlawn Dr. 988-5923

Monsoon India Discovery Bay (across Buffalo Wild Wings) 1778 Ala Moana Blvd., Ste 213 941-5112

Waikiki Business Plaza 2270 Kalakaua Ave. 923-3877

Aloha Tower Market Pl. 585-0011

Paesano Ristorante Waimalu Plaza (across Safeway) 98-1277 Kaahumanu St. #119 485-8883

Stage Restaurant 1250 Kapiolani Blvd.

237-5429

Top of Waikiki

Chai’s Island Bistro

Ala Moana Center Hookipa Terrace 356-8300

The Fat Greek

Sam Choy’s BLC

Bali Steak and Seafood

Romanos Macaroni Grill

Koko Marina Shopping Center 7192 Kalanianaole Hwy. 396-8441

Restaurant Row 599-3860 Waikiki Beach Walk 440-7910

FINE DINING

ITALIAN

$1 OFF Any Bread purchases over $4 Must present coupon • exp. 8/4/11

DAILY BREAD SPECIALS TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY

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

BYOB

Fresh Broiled Salmon

no corkage fee

with Mediterranean Sauces, Basmati Rice, Pita Bread and Greek Salad. www.thefatgreek.net

“All Natural no added chemicals”

988-4310

www.sushisan.com

2752 Woodlawn Dr. • Manoa Marketplace

Open Daily 11am – 9pm • 1411 Kapiolani Blvd., Suite 1 • (808) 944-0670

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

Waialae - 734-0404

Waikiki - 941-3444

Ala Moana - 949-2120

3040 Waialae Ave. (Corner of St. Louis & Waialae) Open Daily 11am-10pm

1831 Ala Moana Blvd.

(Between Ilikai & Kobe) Open Daily 11am-10pm

Ala Moana Food Court Mall Hours

WEEKEND PRIME RIB & ALASKAN SNOW CRAB LEG BRUNCH BUFFET • SATURDAY & SUNDAY • for only Dinner Daily from 4:30pm 949 Kapahulu Avenue (corner of Kapahulu and Kaimuki Ave.)

OD ONLY 10% OFF 4:FO30 - 6:30pm Betweethnthis coupon wi g Alcohol Now Servin

732-7666

This coupon cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 8/5/11

FRESH

SIMPLE

AFFORDABLE

HO HO Chinese Cuisine 590 Farrington Hwy Kapolei Marketplace

692-9880

Side Chinese Chicken Salad

4230 Waialae Ave., Kahala 737-7188 • 737-7288

1221 S. King St. 597-8088

MON-THUR 10AM-10PM/FRI-SUN 10AM-11PM

10:30AM-11PM EVERYDAY

2 4 | D I N I N G O U T | J U LY 3 1 - A U G U S T 6 , 2 0 1 1

*For information/reservations call Pagoda Restaurant at 948-8356

228

$

Special Price for Table of 10 Chicken Salad Imperial Scallop Soup Peking Duck with Bun Salt & Pepper Shrimp Seafood w/Vegetables in Taro Basket Steamed Fish Fillets w/Ginger Scallion Black Mushroom with Baby Pak Choy Steamed Rice, Dessert

Book Your’s NOW!

Live Whole Main Lobster

w/any entrée purchase w/ad. exp. 8/4/11 Dine-in or Take-out. Offer good at King St. and Kahala

Ala Moana Center • Mall Level

(Mountain side, next to Shirokiya) 941- 6161

SUMMER IS PARTY TIME

DIM SUM

FREE

Order one to two weeks in advance.

New Hours of Operation: Breakfast Service: Monday-Friday 6:30am-10:00am, Saturday and Sunday 6:30am-9:30am Brunch Service: Saturday and Sunday 10:00am-2:00pm Lunch Service: Monday-Friday 11:00am-2:00pm Dinner Buffet: Wednesday-Sunday 5:00pm-9:30pm

KAHALA LOCATION

w/ entree purchase

Make Someone’s Day Special

A new twist on an old favorite

NOW SERVING

$11.99

$25.95

Enjoy a great dining experience with great food while surrounded by a waterfall garden setting, pond full of colorful koi and ulua fish

Call For Group Rates!

9 50 15 95

Seafood Lunch ...... starting at $ Seafood-Crableg Dinner Buffet ...... starting at $

Pork Hash Manapua Special Shrimp Half Moon Steamed $1.25 Dumplings $.70 Baked $1.35 $.70 Manapua Station • Open Mon.-Sat. 6AM • Sun. 8AM

1055 Alakea St.

525-8585

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

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

WHERE TO DINE Z Pizza

Hifumi Japanese Restaurant

Ward Centre Auahi St. Shops 596-0066

Chinese Cultural Plaza 536-3035

Kailua 151 Hekili St. 230-8400

Hinone Mizunone 1345 South King St. 942-4848

Sansei Seafood Restaurant Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort 2552 Kalakaua Ave, 931-6286

Sekiya’s Restaurant & Delicatessen 2746 Kaimuki Avenue 732-1656

Makino Chaya 98-150 Kaonohi St. 486-5100

Kobe Japanese Steak House

JAPANESE

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

Sumo Ramen

1841 Ala Moana Blvd.

941-4444

G Sushi Market City Shopping Center 2919 Kapiolani Blvd. #23 732-9661

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

Restaurant Suntory

Kochi

Royal Hawaiian Shpg Cntr 3rd Flr. 922-5511

1936 South King St. 941-2835

737-1937

6

$ 74

941-4400

1137 11th Ave.

2222 S. Beretania St.

✁

BEST AUTHENTIC FAMILY STYLE ITALIAN RESTAURANT

(Dine-in Only) Everything is Made by Hand with Fresh Ingredients Everyday Lunch & Dinner Specials

Weekly Special

Pastas • Pizzas Hot Subs • Pizza Rolls Stromboli • Calzones Salads & More

Coupon required.

One Set/Coupon/Person.

Some restrictions apply.

Expires 8/7/11

(Regular $8.99)

Captain Cook

GRAND OPENING SPECIALS

Out 20% OFF Take Orders FREE DESSERT with any purchase; Dine in only. with any purchase; Dine in only.

at Beretania

OPEN DAILY: 10am — midnight 923 KEEAUMOKU ST.

Best Cantonese Cuisine

Sunday Aug.7 th!

Open Daily 11am-10pm

2065 S. Beretania Street • 946-3828

955-3388

at the Colony Surf

MoAr re

Lots of FREE Parking!

10% OFF

Whneirne gs

See You 1st

Cash Sale Only (With Coupon)

g

in Breathtak

1st Sunday Champagne Brunch!

New Menu Changes Monthly!

5% OFF

Hong Kong Dim Sum & Regular Menu Items

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

2440 Kuhio Ave.

922 5555 www.hyshawaii.com

Liliha Square by Times Supermarket

524-1628

Celebrating 10 Years!

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

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

5% OFF

(Charge) • Happy Day Chinese Restaurant 3553 Waialae Avenue

FOR BANQUETS & PRIVATE PARTIES CALL 728-3463

NOW OPEN at 900 N. Nimitz Hwy 536-5870 536-8570

Call For Take Out www.bangkokchefexpress.com

Nice Day Chinese Seafood Restaurant

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

6.25

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

Excludes set menus; Roast Pork, Roast Duck, Char Siu & other specials. Not to be combined with any other offer. Expires 8/31/11.

Zack Shimizu Kool Guitar/Vocals, experience the gentle crashing waves, pure ocean breezes and awesome beauty of Hawaii.

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

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

1627 Nuuanu Ave 585-8839 2955 E. Manoa Rd 988-0212

Credit Card Sale Only (With Coupon)

PLEASE CALL FOR RESERVATIONS

…Only at Michel ’s

Celebrate Your Birthday

Under New Management Not to be combined with any other offer.

Lunch starting at $5.99 Dinner starting at $7.99

Basil Chicken

738-8666

10% OFF(Cash) Must present coupon Expires 8/31/11

Excludes set menu; Roast Pork, Roast Duck, Char Siu & other specials.

HAPPY HOUR FRIDAYS 5:30-11pm

50% OFF DRAFT BEERS

Parking along left side of Bldg and right side of bldg all stalls except 1-10

D I N I N G O U T | J U LY 3 1 - A U G U S T 6 , 2 0 1 1 | 2 5

WHERE TO DINE Sushi Company

Ton Ton Ramen

Yakiniku Million

1111 McCully Street 947-5411

95-050 Farrington Hwy, Waipahu 677-5388

626 Sheridan St. 596-0799

Made In Hawaii Foods

Sushi King

KOREAN

2700 S. King St. 947-2836

2071-A South Beretania St. 947-9022

MEXICAN

Frog House Restaurant

Sushi San 1411 Kapiolani Blvd, Suite 1 944-0670

1604 Kalakaua Ave. 951-9370

El Charro Mexicano Aiea Restaurant

Tanaka of Tokyo

Richo

99-115 Aiea Heights Drive 488-9727

Sikdorak Korean Restaurant Sam Sung Plaza 655 Keeaumoku St., #108 949-2890

Personalized Catering

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

2710 South King St. www.fukuyadeli.com

100 For 10 People

Available Daily for Dine-in or Take-out

Fukuya Delicatessen & Catering

940 Auahi St. #140 591-1646

New Hours 5:30 - 6:45pm

$11.45 Complete Lunch

946-2073

Cannot combine with other discounts

OKAZUYA

Wahoo’s Fish Taco

EARLY BIRD SPECIAL $15.95 Complete Dinner

From Bentos to Banquets & Picnics to Potlucks!

Seaweed Tofu and Pork Soup Deep Fried Crispy Whole Chicken Salt and Pepper Shrimp Pork Chop w/Orange Sauce Steamed Fish Fillet w/Black Bean Sauce Vegetable w/Garlic NEW! Beef Vegetable Noodle Kids Menu for Steamed White Rice $3.99

98-718 Moanalua Rd. 484-0052

3008 Waialae Ave. 734-2222

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

$

MOCHI

2710 S. King St. 946-2073

40 Types of Dim Sum

$

Best Dim Sum in Hawaii!

2.08

FREE Dessert with Dine In order & coupon.

& after 10:30 p.m.

LOBSTERS $11.99 with purchase of 1-Entree

162 N. Hotel St. 521-3788

(next to Maunakea Market in the center of Chinatown)

Open Daily 7am - 4pm

50% OFF

Take-Out & Catering Welcomed

NIGHTLY 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM

Valid Monday thru Friday dinner only. For up to 20 people. Not to be combined with any other offer or discounts.

Call for info on our

FREE LOBSTER SPECIAL

377-5555 or 377-5566 Lungfunghawaii.com • Open Daily 11am-9pm 5724 Kalanianaole Hwy • Niu Valley Shopping Center LOTS OF FREE PARKING

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

NO MSG

Open Daily 10am to 9:30pm FREE Ample Parking @ FHB after hours

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

10% OFF Take Out Orders with coupon.

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

Buy Two Entrees or Buffets Get 3rd one at 50% OFF! Party Room Available for 20-80 people

Popular Items: Look Funn & Rice Soup

947-2836

Open 7 Days • 2700 So. King St.

1841 Ala Moana Blvd.

Between Ilikai & Hilton Hawaiian Village

941-4444

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

Call 955-9609 or visit www.halekoa.com for more information and/or complete eligibility.

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WHERE TO DINE PACIFIC RIM

Shabu Shabu House

Uncle’s Fish Market

3660 on the Rise 3660 Waialae Ave. 737-1177

The Ocean House Restaurant

1491 S. King St. 947-1133

Manoa Marketplace 2756 Woodlawn Drive 988-1551

Pho Kitchen 2919 Kapiolani Blvd.

735-8488

THAI

SEAFOOD

Bangkok Chef

Shabu Shabu Bangkok

Pho My Lien

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

“Thai Style” Hot Pot 949 Kapahulu Ave. 732-7666

903 Keeaumoku St. 946-1888

VIETNAMESE

Jin Din Rou

Hanaki Restaurant

Broadway Seafood & Oyster Bar

803 Kam Hwy. 455-5888

TAIWANESE

SHABU SHABU 2169 Kalia Rd., Outrigger Reef Hotel 923-2277

Souvaly Thai Cuisine

“Japanese Style” Hot Pot 1221 Kapiolani Blvd. #108 597-1655

Waterfront at Pier 34B 275-0063

159

98-150 Kaonohi St. 488-4900

$ $

Sunday, August 14th (10am-5pm) Saturday, September 17th (5pm-9pm) Sunday, October 16th (11am-7pm)

.25 Hamburger .25 Saimin $1 .00 Chili Plate $

Anniversary Specials will be sold only at the parking lot tent •Limit 5 items each

•No phone orders

•While supplies last

3308 Kanaina Avenue

26 H 20MARC

, 2011

“

847-1234

Ham and Scallop Soup • Chinese Chicken Salad Special Menu • Peking Duck w/ Buns • Steamed Sea Bass w/ Ginger & Onions for10

• Walnut Shrimp • Capitol Pork Chops • Boneless Chicken Cake Noodle • Rice Chef’s Dessert of the Day 111 N. King St. near Maunakea Dim Sum 7am -10pm Served 7am Daily

521-8268

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

Dining Out

has helped us to broaden our

cover story

BANGKOK

Aside from a menu that’s won high praise from customers, Bangkok Chef’s Nimitz location is recognized for its quality decor — exposed brick walls, and rustic high ceilings, chairs and benches.

DELICIOUS

Patrick Chang

BY KEEPING ITS MENU SIMPLE, BANGKOK CHEF DELIVERS ON ITS PROMISE OF BRINGING DELICIOUS, AFFORDABLE

THAI CUISINE TO THE MASSES STORY BY

SARAH PACHECO PHOTOS BY

NATHALIE WALKER

Owner Patrick Chang with two of the most sough-after menu items: Naam Toak Moo ($8.50) and Spring Rolls ($6.50/$7).

business.”

S

imple.

Delicious.

Affordable. began selling fresh, local produce in what These three words best describe was known as Nuuanu Open Market. By Bangkok Chef, “where Thai food is the following year, the couple had begun simply delicious.” offering homecooked Thai “That’s our motto,” says food to shopowner pers, calling their tiny operation Bangkok Patrick Chang. “We try to make our Chef. food as simple as we can.

When you “My wife’s family has a go to other restaurants, they restaurant in try to Bangkok, so that’s what Bangkok Chef make it sophisticated with garnish- refers to,” Chang explains. “Gradually we es and everything else. But ours is changed the whole operation to a restaujust a simple dish — green curry rant. Nuuanu is the original one, and two is just green curry, pad thai is just years ago we opened one in Manoa.” pad thai — without adding anyWhen space became available thing extra.” in the developing warehouse building This commitment to quality at 900 N. Nimitz Hwy., Chang saw of ingredients, taste and service the perfect opportunity to expand business has served the local restaurant even further. well, helping Bangkok Chef grow “This area is starting to build from a small produce store up, and in there’s a lot of people here, either driving Nuuanu to a popular plate lunch- along the highway or working in town or style eatery with three locations at the harbor,” he says. “I think there is a islandwide. need for Bangkok Chef here, “Many people don’t know and whenevwe er there’s a need, we go there.” started as a produce market,” Bangkok Chef’s third location Chang confesses. opened just last month, bringing with In September 2001, Chang it the same and menu of simple, delicious, affordable wife Sansane Pornchairattan akun Thai food that has won high praise and a

Owner, Bangkok Chef 1627 Nu‘uanu Ave., Honolulu (808) 585-8839 2955 E. Ma ¯noa Rd., Honolulu (808) 988-0212 900 N. Nimitz Hwy., Honolulu (808) 536-8570 bangkokchefexpress.com

Over many years, Dining Out has helped us to broaden our business. We have expanded Bangkok Chef and now have three locations in Nu‘uanu, Ma¯noa and Nimitz, to better serve our customers. When we want to announce new menu items or exciting things happening at our restaurant, we always know that we can turn to Dining Out to help us get the word out. When we are featured in one of the numerous editorial stories we receive throughout the year, we see an increase in sales and many new customers walking through our doors to taste our food. Bottom line, Dining Out works!

1

$ 98 Take-out Orders Welcomed

Taste Our Signature Dish prepared with Forgotten Recipe

Salt & Pepper Porkchop LUNCH & DINNER SPECIAL

4.75

$

+ tax

Kam Shopping Center | 847-1234 • 841-8668 | M-Sun 10:30am - 8:30pm

Oahu’s LARGEST PRINT AUDIENCE:

376,700* SUNDAY READERS Oahu’s LARGEST ONLINE AUDIENCE:

19 million* MONTHLY PAGE VIEWS Sources: *Scarborough Research 2011 R1, Google Analytics.

Find Dining Out every Sunday in Star-Advertiser and online dining.staradvertiser.com

We make your business move.

For more information on Dining Out, contact Sandi Sakaguchi.

342-8802 | ssakaguchi@staradvertiser.com

D I N I N G O U T | J U LY 3 1 - A U G U S T 6 , 2 0 1 1 | 2 7

tableside

tableside @ Canton House

Above: May Li, Yat Lee and Peggy Li present dim sum favorites.

Inset: Pork Siu Mai, Pot Sticker, Chicken Feet, Shrimp with Chives Dumpling, Shanghai Pork Dumpling (all $2.08)

C

anton House Restaurant serves up exquisite Cantonese cuisine to loyal patrons on a daily basis. Located in the heart of Chinatown, this well-known eatery offers close to 40 varieties of dim sum favorites, including spare ribs, shrimp with chives dumpling, spring rolls and more. Canton House is located on 162 N. Hotel St. and is open daily from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 521.3788.

1 | Chanthal Azarpour and Jenna Chung 2 | Henry Kimura, Betsy Ho, and Rosa and Laurence Lao | 3 John Madali 4 | Michelle and Demi Galvez 5 | Yat, Chae, Aya, Kaya, Juria and Haruki Lee

Lawrence Tabudlo photos

1

5

4 2 8 | D I N I N G O U T | J U LY 3 1 - A U G . 6 , 2 0 1 1

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2