The ‘MAC’ daddy of meat-free

Now, this is the story all about how

My bites come fresh from in the ground

And I’d like to take a moment, so listen with care

I’ll show you how I became a fan of farm fresh fare.

In East Honolulu, boiled and braised,

In the kitchen is where chef spent most of his days

Slicin’ fine, choppin’ kine, spicin’ stuff hot,

Cookin’ some meatballs, sausages and brats.

When a couple of veggies who were lookin’ for food

Started makin’ tofu in the neighborhood

Chef had just one little bite and oh the fanfare!

He said, “I’m groovin’ with this tasty and farm fresh fare!”

And grooving he is. Executive chef James Aptakin currently leads MAC 24/7 Bar & Restaurant in constantly reinventing its innovative and mouthwatering menu. The eatery’s name, MAC, is a clever acronym that stands for “Modern American Cooking,” and nothing could be more modern than an increased awareness of all — catering to include clientele of the vegetarian revolution. MAC 24/7 obviously agrees, as chef Aptakin daily infuses creative and delicious, meat-free dishes into his dining repertoire.

“We definitely recognize the need to offer great vegetarian options, making sure to emphasize the use of fresh, locally grown products, and provide heart healthy, gluten-free and other allergen-conscious dishes,” assures MAC 24/7’s director of food and beverage Mark Nelsen.

Kale & Roasted Beet Salad ($14)

And the 24/7 part of the restaurant’s name? This means that anytime your appetite hits, MAC will be ready and waiting to serve up some solid grinds. Here are just a few vegetarian items that Aptakin and company are offering this week:

Kale & Roasted Beet Salad ($14) features truffled gold and red beets, Hauula tomato, pineapple, macadamia nuts, Naked Cow goat cheese and balsamic Maui onion dressing.

“This dish is popular because when a vegetarian arrives with friends who probably seek our heavier comfort food options, they are happily surprised to see that MAC does cater to their tastes as well, not leaving anyone out,” explains Nelsen.

Sweet Potato Gnocchi ($17) is another great option featuring Molokai pasta dumplings, braised kale, Island basil pesto, kabocha and preserved lemon.

So whistle for a cab, and when it gets here,

They’ll line your plate with fresh, and even holiday cheer,

If anything, I’d start by saying this fare is rare,

But that’s just to begin with — MAC takes it from there.

MAC 24/7 Bar & Restaurant

Hilton Waikiki Beach Hotel
2500 Kuhio Ave., Honolulu
921-5564
Open 24 hours daily
Note: Follow @Mac247waikiki on Instagram and Facebook to keep up-to-date on the restaurant’s latest specials, offers and promotions. Always $3 valet parking when dining at MAC 24/7.
Mac247waikiki.com