You’ll Want to be Served at this ‘Court’

In this day and age, hearing that one is being “taken to court” is a declaration normally met with an ominous sense of doom, elevated blood pressure and sheer panic. But when Dining Out got the call informing us of our own upcoming day at court — Prince Court, that is — we couldn’t have been more pleased.

Overlooking Ala Wai Yacht Harbor, Prince Court is an award-winning restaurant located within the Hawaii Prince Hotel in Waikiki. Known for its contemporary island cuisine, this fine dining establishment offers both a la carte items as well as boundless buffets to enjoy. From poke to sushi, with carving, salad and somen stations, scratch-made desserts and more, the only thing intimidating about going to this court is having to choose among its endless options.

“Prince Court is an established buffet, having been in business for a long time, and remains a kamaaina favorite,” explains director of food and beverage Ward Almeida. “This past Father’s Day, we served over 1,100 for brunch and over 400 for dinner.”

Impressive numbers, but not surprising once we set our eyes on the sumptuous feast that nightly awaits at Prince Court’s seafood dinner buffet ($52 adult; $26 children ages 6-10).

Executive chef Kirby Wong rolls out the red carpet when it comes to Prince Court’s assortment of nigiri sushi and made-to-order handrolls from the Sushi Station. Colorful and aesthetically appealing, each minute detail — right down to the lovely leaf-shaped wasabi — reveals the artful care that’s been taken. And the taste? That’s fresh.

Baked Oysters also bring bold, fresh flavor to the table. And with the sauce, seasonings and style changing weekly — at Chef’s creative discretion — the sky’s the limit with these half-shell sensations.

For those craving crab, you should see the legs on this buffet! Boasting both Chilled Crab Legs and Steamed Santolla King Crab Legs, diners can choose to heat things up or keep it cool. Keeping with the seafood motif is a smattering of assorted tempura (shrimp or vegetable), served alongside dipping sauce and daikon.

Against all odds, you must leave room for dessert, as nightly, at least 10 in-house creations (which rotate to include cream puffs, flan, bread pudding and much more) await to usher you into sweet oblivion.

Prince Court also is popular for large social gatherings, including private parties, offering a gorgeous private dining room on premises. And for seniors (age 50 and up), Monday through Thursday dinner buffet also is on special ($42).

With such addictive offerings on this court’s menu, you can’t help but want more. So, go ahead, summon all of your friends and loved ones to join you in a meal at Prince Court.

Prince Court

Hawaii Prince Hotel Waikiki
100 Holomoana St.
944-4494
BREAKFAST: Monday-Saturday, 6 a.m.-10:30 a.m., Sunday, 6 a.m.-8:30 a.m.
BRUNCH: Sundays only, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
LUNCH: Monday-Saturday, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
DINNER: Daily, 5:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.