Formaggio Wine Bar

Digest Step Up to the Plate

March 23, 2014

Story By: Alana Folen | Photos by: Lawrence Tabudlo

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A CLOSER LOOK AT THIS WEEK’S HOUSE SPECIAL: NEPALESE STYLE CHICKEN CURRY BOWL ($14.99; $7.50 HAPPY HOUR)

Wine and dine at Formaggio Wine Bar in Market City Shopping Center. Owned and operated by Niraj Maskey, the restaurant lures in diners with its intimate setting and relaxing atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a date night or dinner with the family.

Formaggio’s menu capitalizes on Italian, French and Mediterranean-style fare and offers wine aficionados an extensive array of close to 80 different wines by the glass.

A relatively new item on the menu, this zesty entree features a tomato base with coconut milk, ginger, garlic and spices, served with basmati rice.

A cinnamon stick evokes a spiced flavor, and is said to cure coughing, sore throats and relieve arthritis pain. Coconut milk enhances the curry’s smooth and palatable texture.

Curry Powder gives the dish a kick thanks to a blend of spices. These include turmeric, cardamom, star anise, cloves, coriander and dried chili pepper. The spices also add vibrant color and rich flavor.

“I am originally from Nepal, so I wanted to introduce an ethnic dish to our local people in Hawaii. And so far they are liking it,” Maskey says.

“We originally featured the chicken curry as a restaurant special, but because of high demand it’s become a regular menu item.”