Posts Tagged ‘Restaurant Review’

On a recent trip to Kauai my wife and I stayed in Poipu and unlike our first trip to the Garden Isle, it was sunny all three days! After working up an appetite surfing just off of Poipu Beach (can’t remember the breaks name) we decided we needed to finally try this Puka Dog thing that we’ve heard about. There is one in Waikiki, inside the International Market Place, so I’m told, and I’ve seen pictures of their creations, but really needed to try one out.

So, after a quick shower, off we went to the Poipu Shopping Center to try out a Puka Dog. When we got there it was packed. A small little hole in the wall, they serve veggie or polish dogs in a very non-traditional way. Puka in Hawaiian means hole. And these hot dogs are literally pushed into a hole in small loaf of bread (the bun.) Top that off with some interesting fixings that aren’t what you’d normally find on

a hot dog (only mustard if you’re traditional) and you have yourself a puka dog.

The ordering process is pretty simple. You first choose polish or veggie, then choose what type of Garlic Lemon Secret Sauce you want, and finally you choose the type(s) of tropical or traditional relish that you want your puka dog bathing in. Hand them your $6.25, and you’re on your way to enjoying a uniquely Hawaii hot dog.

The Garlic Lemon Secret Sauce comes in original, spicy and hot. I went the spicy and although it was quite tasty it didn’t give it the spice I was looking for. Next time I’m going with the hot. Now the truly unique and interesting fixins come with the relish choices you have, the tropical ones. These come in mango, pineapple, papaya, coconut, banana, and star fruit. All of which don’t sound appetizing on a hot dog but I had to try them out. Besides, whats a puka dog without a taste of the islands? So I went with the mango and it did not disappoint!

The lemon garlic, mixed with the mango, and hot dog wrapped in a bun turned out to be a great treat. I’ll definitely be heading down into Waikiki to try it out.

Finally, I washed it all down with fresh squeezed lemonade. The girl at the counter was squeezing it right in front of us, mixing it up with sugar, water, and ice, and serving it up with a smile. It was delicious. And it fit in with my tropical relish flavored hot dog quite nicely.

The staff was fun, seeming to have a good time. The service was fast. The atmosphere was like a Jamba Juice made out of left over Hawaii Tiki attire and crowd kept on coming. It was a perfect lunch spot on our Kauai weekend getaway.

Waikoloa Macaroni Grill – Waikoloa Queen Shops, The Big Island of Hawaii

This medium priced Italian restaurant is part of a chain of Macaroni Grills that can be found all over the U.S. For those of us living in Hawaii, this type of family friendly restaurant is a welcome relief to the high priced dining aimed at tourists. They are open for Lunch and Dinner. 

The Waikoloa Macaroni Grill accommodates quite a big crowd, usually with no waiting for a table during the week. The menu selection is relatively comprehensive and the portions generous. We had ten in our group and everyone was happy with both the service and the meal. I had brick oven pizza for about $12, with a couple pieces left over to take home. I tasted the Caesar Salad ($13.99) and the Chicken Marsala ($16.99), which were very good. And finally we all had a couple of bites of Tiramisu for dessert (delicious).

As with most Big Island restaurants attire is casual but of course you can always dress up for fun. There is a Keiki menu and crayons for the children to write on the paper tablecloths. The atmosphere is typical of large chain restaurants but the ambiance in the rest room was a surprise with the warm voice of a woman giving Italian language lessons.

Definitely worth trying.

Sansei Seafood Restaurant and Sushi Bar – Waikoloa Queen Shops, The Big Island, Hawaii

The Big Island has the newest of the four Sansei Sushi restaurants in Hawaii. As with most sushi restaurants, prices are not cheap and they are only open for dinner. However, the food is delicious and the staff is very efficient and friendly. Plus they stay open later than almost any place on the Big Island.

If you only go for one thing you must try the panko crusted Ahi Sashimi Sushi Roll. This is Hawaiian Ahi Tuna, wrapped in spinach and arugula leaves dipped in potato flakes and flash fried. I have to admit I have ordered this at least half a dozen times since the restaurant opened.

They have an extensive wine menu but I tried a couple of different Saki’s recommended by the waiter and was really pleased. They also make a killer Apple Martini (or so I’ve heard ).

One of the unique things about Sansei’s is that they do early bird specials.  Every day starting from when they open until 6:00pm everyone gets 25% off most of the menu. For Hawaii Residents (yes they check IDs) Sunday and Monday they have a Kama’aina discount of 50%.  I haven’t actually hit it on the right day and time but I have seen the line forming around 4:00pm. If you have a good size group this means considerable savings so probably worth waiting in the line. 

Hours are: Sunday and Monday 5:00 to 10:00, Tuesday and Wednesday from 5:30 – 10:00. Thursday from 5:30 – 10:00 for everyone and then from 10:00 – 12:00am for over 21 (yes they do check IDs), Friday and Saturday from 5:30 – 10:00 and then adults from 10:00 to 1:00am. 

Late night Thursdays they have live music and Fridays and Saturday is free Karaoke after 10:00. 

Definitely worth trying.

Queen’s Market Place, Ste 801 ~ 201 Waikoloa Beach Dr ~ Waikoloa, HI 96738 ~ 808-886-6286

Luke 15:24 The Christian Testament of the Bible, “Bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let’s eat and celebrate!” Not all Koreans are Christians but a majority of Koreans are religious about celebrating all aspects of their lives therefore they have a wonderful habit of eating dinner in a joyfully noisy fashion quite publicly in restaurants such as Choi’s Garden at 1303 Rycroft St, in the heart of Honolulu behind the mega Wal-Mart/Sam’s Club on Keaumoku Street.

A majority of the tables & booths insides Choi’s Garden are large enough to accommodate eight to twelve people with ease and on those occasions when this writer has dined at Choi’s all of them were filled with people celebrating life’s everyday joys; birthdays, anniversaries, promotions, or simply the fact that a friend was back on O’ahu after an absence of a few weeks. Choi’s is noisy in a joyful way; laughter, boisterous conversation amidst the sizzle of meat, the clicking of chopsticks on bowls & plates, the clatter of plates of delicious treats landing on tables. Choi’s is a delightful place, clean and comfortable with terrific painting adorning the walls amongst historic photographs chronicling the history of Koreans in Hawai’i.

Naturally a restaurant has to have more than ambience to be popular and so when it comes to food the folks at Choi’s Garden Restaurant come through with traditional Korean food well prepared and plentiful. Among the delights to be found on the Chef’s Special Menu: Sang Kal Bi (Garlic seasoned prime ‘short’ rib), Gha Dol Bae Ki (seasoned brisket of beef), Yang Goo-E (Seasoned Tripe), Gop Chang Goo-E (Seasoned Beef Small Intestine) and Hong Chang Goo-E (Seasoned Beef Big Intestine), along with variations of traditional Kal Bi and Spicy Marinated Chicken.

Choi’s Garden is famous for stews and soups such delights as Dobu Chi Ke (Tofu Pot Stew), Oh Jing-O Chi Ke (Squid Stew), Jo Ki Chi Ke (Yellow Corvina Stew),Kal Bi Tang (Short Rib Soup) and many more. There is much to be found on the menu, traditional favorites such as Yuk Hae Dol Sot Bap (rice mixed with vegetables and raw beef in hot stone pot) and Bi Bim Naeng Myon (cold noodles mixed with beef & vegetables and a spicy sauce) while those with an adventuresome tongue can enjoy delectables such as Nack Gop Jun Kol (Octopus with Small Beef Intestines) and Hae Naeng Myon (cold noodles with raw fish & vegetables & spicy sauce).

One can explore the menu via http://choisgarden.com/index_eng.html as for pricing, though not inexpensive, for the quality and quantity Choi’s Garden has a comfortable array ranging from $11 to $32 per entrée and most entrees easily serve two to four people plus every meal is served with a selection of cold vegetable plates; the ever welcome kim-chee, seaweed salad, spicy cucumbers, other delights.

Choi’s Garden is open from 10AM to 10PM and reservations are strongly suggested, one can call them via 808-596-7555. There is ample parking and a friendly valet, and once inside the staff if exceptionally courteous and mindful of their customers needs. And after a fantastic meal one gets an unexpected treat, a cup of chilled cinnamon tea that is quite simply fantastic!

Formaggio Grill in Kailua is one of my favorite restaurants on the island.  I have never had a bad thing on the menu from their “beef bourguignon grande mere” for $16.99, ”opakapaka chinoise”  for $31.99, or their special “truffle’d shoestring fries with black pepper” for $7.99.  Formaggio is also known for their extensive wine selection that keeps me coming back again and again.  I have been a loyal customer since their opening early January of 2008 and I have recently discovered that Formaggio has just given me another reason to go there more often, happy hour!

Everyday of the week…yes that’s everyday of the week: Monday thru Sunday, Formaggio is offering happy hour specials from 3-6 pm.  They are offering $3 beer, $4 wine, $5 cocktail, and $6 tapas specials.  I was shocked at the affordable prices and felt a little guilty as I pigged out on a $6 mussel appetizer and sipped my $4 glass of Chardonnay.  What a great way to pau hana!

Formaggio Grill in Kailua is on my list of top eateries.  It is a great place to have a gourmet lunch, dinner, or drinks and an appetizer and don’t forget the yummy desserts too.  I could go on and on about my favorite dishes there, but better you go and try it for yourself, I promise you won’t be let down.  See ya at happy hour!

Looking for a healthy and tasty place to eat for lunch or dinner?  Located on the first floor closer to Borders in Ward Centre, Goma Tei Ramen Restaurant is a popular place to get authentic style japanese noodles.  The portions are generous and the service is fast and friendly.

Goma Tei specializes in “tan-tan ramen”, which is a japanese style soup broth with spicy sesame flavor.  Another favorite here is their ”ban ban ji chicken,” which can be order separate of on top of any dish.  The chicken is all breast meat marinated in sake and other special sauces that is services simply and healthy alongside vegtables.  Goma Tei serves hot and cold noodles, curry dishes, Teishoku (plate lunch), pupus, and even cold beer.  Prices are reasonable considering the portion side about $7-8 an entree and a little more for combo plates.

Dining in, if your lucky you can sit at one of the 5 tables or grab a seat at the “bar/counter.”  There aren’t many seats here and this place does fill up fast.  I have often seen lines outside the door during peak lunch times and dinner.  Restaurant hours are Monday thru Saturday 11:00 am to 9:30 pm, Sundays 11:30 am to 9:30 pm.  For information or to order food to go call (808) 591-9188.

For something new to do on a Friday night you should check out Haiku at Nobu Waikiki.  Goldenchild Entertainment and Partymasters presents this after work hot spot for party-goers to unwind after a busy work week.

The party takes place in the “bar/lounge” area in the famous Nobu Restaurant located in the Waikiki Parc Hotel.  Haiku party is from 6 pm to 12 am and guest DJs play smooth R&B, neo soul, lounge, house, and lite hip-hop music.  This party is sponsored by Salon Blanc and Absolut Mango and 21 and up is welcome.  Valet parking is available complimentary through the Parc Hotel.

Being the curious party-goer I am, I decided to check out the party last Friday.  I arrived after work just after 6 pm and the crowd was just rolling in.  I got a seat at the bar and to my pleasant surprise Haiku had a special appetizer and drink menu to order from.  If you have ever been blessed to eat at Nobu you would know that their food is to die for, but so are their prices.  Absolut drinks were on special and their was also a list of appetizers that would allow you to taste the amazing Nobu food without completely emptying out your wallets.  The full menu was also available to order from.

The bar/lounge area had various seating areas and by around 8 pm there was no place to sit and the standing room began to fill in.  The Haiku crowd was an older, older meaning a 25-40, as opposed to the usual 18-25 party-goers.  The guests were mellow professionals that were there to have a couple drinks and eat some good food after work and didn’t care about taking shots and wild dancing.  I highly recommend Haiku at Nobu on Fridays for sheek new place to have a drink, listen to some lounge music, and relax after work with co-workers or friends.

Need a good dose of vintage Hawaiian tiki ambiance? For the ultimate trip back in time, venture to Sand Island and enter the world of La Mariana Restaurant and Sailing Club. Named after the founder and owner, the late Annette La Mariana Nahinu, this beloved watering hole has enchanted locals and visitors since 1955 and is the last of the grand old bars smothering you with the flair of 50’s Hollywood style Polynesia and some of the best Mai Tai you can find on Oahu.

Hidden in a dusty, industrial neighborhood, the magic starts once you enter through the gate and walk down the tiki and palm tree lined path to the entrance of the restaurant. Beware of the watch parrot! Rest your-weary-from-the-world bones in large rattan chairs and enjoy the view of the boats gently rocking in the small harbor while you sip on your favorite tropical drink.

Large glass float lamps set the mood, as do the fishing nets, the carvings and all of the delightful vintage Hawaiian coconut and pineapple kitsch. La Mariana a true museum of Hawaiian art, souvenirs and the South Seas sailing life throughout the decades. It is a grand celebration of tiki passion and the kind of place that is close to extinction. You’ll might recognize some items from the old Tahitian Lanai, Don The Beachcomber, and Trader Vic’s.

In the evenings you can sing along with the piano player and ask him to play your favorite tune. Sit at the bar and talk story with some old timers and new visitors or just lean back and take it all in before you have to return to the real world.

Visiting La Mariana’s for me is always like a mini-vacation, an attempt of time travel and leaving the rest of the world behind for an hour or two. It never failed!

A little raindrop on the parade – almost no one visits La Mariana for the food. The menu boasts a good selection of sandwiches, salads, soup, fish and chips and various grilled items. The Mahi Sandwich is quite nice, and in general all of the food is fresh and plenty.  However, it lacks the kind of creativity in flavor and presentation that we have become spoiled with by so many excellent restaurants on Oahu.

The excellent drinks and the unforgettable atmosphere make up for every culinary shortcoming before you even notice it.

La Mariana Sailing Club

50, Sand Island Access Road, Honolulu

I have been hearing hype for the past few months about the new burger joint called “Burgers on the Edge,” located in the new Kapahulu Safeway shopping center, so I had to try it out for myself.  I am actually not a huge hamburger fan, so this place needed to be special for me to write a raving review of it.   The place is a quaint venue with some table seating inside and outside.  The decor is modern and fun.  Burgers on the Edge has a mission “to create the best tasting burgers on the planet.”

For a burger joint the menu is quite extensive and as I approached the register and started reading the menu I was stumped.  A friendly employee approached me and explained “the deal” with ordering.  It wasn’t as simple as ordering a hamburger or a cheeseburger.

The friendly employee explained to me that there are 4 steps in ordering your burger.  First, you choose your type of burger: beef, chicken breast, portabello mushroom, or turkey burger.  Second, you choose from 10 different types of cheese.  Third, you choose from 12 different types of gourmet sauces/dressings.  And lastly, you choose 4 toppings from such as applewood smoked bacon to pico de gallo from their 19 different toppings.

After the explanation I was still stumped on what to order, so the very friendly and very patient employee told me that there were also 12 burgers on the menu to choose from for those who can’t make up their minds.  I decided to go with that short list and ordered the “Milano” burger made with ground chuck, lettuce, tomatoes, basil pesto, and gruyere cheese.  To top it off I order some truffle shoestring fries to go with it.  This place also has sweet potato fries, chili, and even salads on the menu.

I found a table to sit at outside in the fresh air and within a few minutes they brought out my order.  The burger was well made with fresh ingredients.  I especially liked the soft hamburger bun.  I came to find out that their bread is made fresh from the Mauna Kea Baking Company.  The pesto sauce gave my burger an extra kick that I also enjoyed.  The fries were a nice addition to burger with lots of added flavor.  I usually stray away from burger joints because of the monotony that they sometimes can have.  This place breaks that generic burger mold.

I will definitely be returning to Burgers on the Edge again.  I may have to study the menu before I come back, so I don’t spend 20 minutes standing at the register again.  If you would like information on Burgers on the Edge, visit their website www.burgersontheedge.com.  Their menu is posted on the website, so for newbees I suggest a look over the menu before you go.

A few months ago I accidentally discovered what Hawaii has been missing: a authentic Mexican restaurant that is aptly named Mexico Restaurant. Growing up in Texas, I was raised on Mexican food and found that Hawaii just does not have good Mexican food — until now.  Mexico opened over a year ago in an unlikely place in the heart of Kalihi.  Even though this restaurant is located off the beaten path (1247 N. School St. near the Bishop Museum and Kamehameha Shopping Center) any time I have ever been there the place is packed.  The restaurant is a casual venue with true Mexican decór and bright colors throughout.

The menu is enormous with traditional items like tamales and tacos, but it also includes their own seafood and fajita specials.  The highlight of the restaurant is their full bar with their Cadillac top shelf margaritas, imported beers, and much more.  Try not to eat too many chips and salsa because the portions are also HUGE.  I either eat until I’m sick or take a to-go container home with me.  Most plates come with pico de gallo, sour cream, and homemade guacamole with no extra charge.

On Fridays and Saturdays there is a mariachi singer that plays guitar and entertains the crowd with with popular Latin songs.  If you have been searching for good Mexican food on the island you have to try this spot.  On the weekends this place can get busy, but sorry, they don’t take reservations.  For hours and directions call (808-845-9059).