Comfort ‘Meats’ Flavor at Asahi

Perhaps the most surprising thing about Asahi Grill is that it’s not as old as you think. For whatever reason, Asahi is the sort of restaurant that just seems to have been around forever, even though it served its first plate just six years ago. Maybe it’s the timeless combination of local and Asian flavors that is a signature of familiar and flavorful comfort food.

It’s most famous dish is the Our (or their) “Famous” Oxtail Soup ($11.95). With three top awards for best oxtail soup on Oahu, the clean and aromatic bowl of classic Hawaii cuisine deserves every accolade it has received. The tender oxtail is a perfect match for the delicate broth, as the fresh Chinese parsley and green onion add the aroma that signifies a good bowl of soup.

A tasty alternative to the oxtail is the hearty Kalbi plate ($14.25). Served bento style, these sweet and tangy grilled Korean-style short ribs are paired with miso soup with rice noodles, mac salad, tofu, green salad and pickled veggies. During lunch, the dish is served with miso soup, whereas at dinner, the soup switches to a fish-based offering. This is a real pleaser. Nearly every flavor is represented and the star item — the short ribs — is just outstanding.

As this page is dedicated to the wonderful world of protein, I would be remiss not to mention the Ribeye Steak ($22.95). The grilled steak is served on a sizzling platter and topped with sauteed onions and button mushrooms. Ponzu and goma sesame dipping sauces add an additional flavor profile to the wonderfully tender and crispy steak. Sides of green salad and rice complete the dish.

One final menu item to note is the Spicy Chicken ($8.95). Served as either an appetizer or a main-course option, the fried chicken is crispy, moist and properly seasoned thanks to the Sriracha mayo topping that adds not only heat, but creaminess to the dish. It’s fantastic, just like the rest of Asahi Grill’s meaty sensations.

Asahi Grill

515 Ward Ave., Honolulu
593-2801
Sunday-Thursday, 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m.
Friday-Saturday, 6:30 a.m.-11 p.m.