Tasting menu’s variety is the spice of life

Strawberry Arugula Salad

If you’re looking to dine in a chic yet reasonably priced restaurant, set your sights on Restaurant Epic. Its name speaks for itself, so you’ll get nothing short of an epic experience at the Chinatown eatery, which takes pride in having something satisfying for everyone.

“We wanted to create a restaurant that everybody likes because the culture is so diverse in Chinatown,” says general manager David Chang.

Similar to the neighborhood’s diverse culture, Restaurant Epic offers a little bit of everything, from Japanese fusion and American favorites to Italian specialties. Perfect for first timers is the eatery’s tasting menu, which changes each month. For just $35, patrons may indulge in some of the most popular menu items.

“When I create a tasting menu, I’m trying to attract new customers that haven’t been here, and that way they can taste the uniqueness of this restaurant,” explains Chang.

Chocolate Decadence Cake

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The March Tasting is only offered for dinner Monday-Thursday, and starts off with Strawberry Arugula Salad, which consists of mixed greens, candied walnuts, feta cheese and strawberries topped with balsamic vinaigrette. Next up, entrees: Restaurant Epic’s signature Lamb Chop, Miso Butterfish, Full Moon Ravioli and a side of Bacon Mashed Potatoes.

The Lamb Chop is macnut crusted and glazed with blueberry vanilla bean and port demi; the Miso Butterfish is served as a tasty black cod fillet; and the Full Moon Ravioli is stuffed with spinach, mushrooms and ricotta, and topped with roasted mac nuts, pesto cream sauce and tomatoes.

Lamb Chop, Miso Butterfish and Full Moon Ravioli; all dishes pictured are part of the March Tasting Menu ($35).

All of this savory goodness finishes with Chocolate Decadence Cake, which is flourless, topped with peanut butter creme anglaise and served with blueberries.

Restaurant Epic

1131 Nuuanu Ave., Chinatown
587-7877
Lunch: Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; happy hour: Monday-Friday, 4:30-6:30 p.m.; dinner: Monday-Saturday, 4:30-9 p.m.; closed Sunday