Where Dessert Comes First

Desserts at JJ Bistro & French Pastry in Kaimuki aren’t just delicious, they’re a taste of art.

From the front entrance, customers are immediately greeted by a display of 45 different sweet concoctions, including JJ’s signature Chocolate Pyramid and the popular Chocolate Lilikoi and Lady in Red Guava Bavarian.

Just one glance and you’ll be tempted to order dessert first. And that’s totally acceptable. After all, owner/chef Jinjie “JJ” Praseuth Luangkhot started his business creating desserts. He also makes pastries for Chai’s Island Bistro, Singha Thai Cuisine, Pagoda Hotel & Restaurant and Tsukiji Fish Market and Restaurant.

“My style is something very simple, yet it looks elegant and is tasty,” explains Luangkhot, who is the winner of the 2011 Honolulu Star-Advertiser Ilima Award for Diamond Head Theatre Show Stopper Best Dessert.

JJ’s signature Chocolate Pyramid features a dark chocolate mousse made of a combination of three different types of chocolate, and comes with or without fresh raspberries. It tastes like a chocolate truffle that just melts in your mouth.

“I loved mathematics when I was a kid and that’s the reason I created the Chocolate Pyramid,” says Luangkhot. “It looks very simple, but with one missing number it won’t be the shape, and that’s one thing that was interesting to me when I came up with the mold. Also, I just like to look at it. I’ve never seen the (Egyptian) pyramids, but whenever I look at my pyramids I feel like I’m there. I just feel a connection.”

While JJ Bistro & French Pastry is known for its mouthwatering desserts, the restaurant also offers a full menu, including salads, soups, pizza, pastas and specialty entrees such as a Cheese Ravioli with Lobster dish for only $12.95.

In August, a special Afternoon Tea menu was added, and earlier this year, Luangkhot opened Le Cacao Bistro, conveniently located next door. It’s a New York-style bistro offering more steak and seafood dishes, although customers can still order from a menu that naturally includes JJ’s award-winning desserts.

JJ’s Bistro & French Pastry