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Tracking Kissaten’s Good Eats

Columns Surf and Turf

September 29, 2013

Story By: Steve Murray | Photos by: Leah Friel

Kissaten Coffee Bar is one of those places that has been popular and delicious since it opened in 2010. In that time period, the stylish 24-hour dining establishment has actually gained more and more attention for its flavorful and fresh twist on American comfort foods. And regulars who can’t get enough of Kissaten’s eats can now enjoy its second location, which opened recently on Queen Street.

The eatery presents a slew of great dishes in the Surf and Turf department. Ahi Poke Bowl (market price) is a large portion of fresh fish and white or brown rice highlighted with Kukui nut, Hawaiian salt, green onion, shoyu, sesame seeds and oil and Sriracha. Don’t let the market price scare you, it’s quite affordable. Fresh ahi is brought in daily and the mix of ingredients combines to make a dish that is light, flavorful and very fulfilling.

Another option won’t be around much longer, so take heed. Crab Cake Salad ($12) is a reoccurring special that will bid sayonara to the menu Oct. 15. Why it keeps coming back is obvious upon taking the first bite.

The crab cakes are light and full of flavor, and the side salad — mixed with organic mixed greens, yellow corn, red onion, Japanese cucumber, grape tomatoes and a miso sesame vinaigrette — is a perfect companion to the crab.

One last suggestion that’s great for lunch and late night dining is Gyudon ($8), a traditional Japanese rice bowl featuring thinly sliced beef that has been marinated in sweet soy flavors. The savory beef is served with white or brown rice and topped with green onion and pickled ginger.

In addition to these tasty options, Kissaten offers coffee, espresso drinks and more. You can even purchase the wall hangings, which are created by a diverse range of local artists.

So, if you’re among the few who hasn’t dined at Kissaten yet, do so today at one of the restaurant’s two convenient locations.

Kissaten Coffee Bar

PIIKOI
88 Piikoi St.
593-1200
Open 24 hours

QUEEN STREET
(Located inside Ko’olani Condo)
1177 Queen St.
543-3949
Open daily, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.

kissatencafe.com

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