Merging two Manoa mainstays

Waioli Chicken Curry Salad with Chutney ($10.95)

Two of Manoa’s most beloved gems are joining forces at Treetops Restaurant. After Waioli Tea Room closed at the end of 2014, a lot of memories, history and delicious recipes were almost lost, until recently, when the staff at Treetops Restaurant decided to reintroduce some of Waioli’s popular dishes.

This includes Waioli Chicken Curry Salad with Chutney ($10.95). The salad is made with romaine lettuce or a spring mix, tomatoes, cucumbers and spinach, and is topped with chicken curry and served with homemade mango chutney. Executive chef Tess Panoncillo adopted the recipe from the cooks at Waioli Tea Room, explaining that “it’s made with mango, brown sugar, butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Guests can either mix it into the salad or eat it on the side.”

Shrimp Plate ($13)

Treetops hostess Lisa Tam, who used to work at Waioli Tea Room, credited Waioli’s previous owner, Brian Jhanke, with creating the historical and beautiful spot that was loved by many. “After they closed, I ran into lots of the guests in Manoa who would explain how much they miss Waioli,” Tam says.

Sesame Ginger Chicken ($12)

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According to Panoncillo, the staff is excited to introduce the flavors customers loved most at Waioli to her own menu. Treetops will add some other new bites to its menu as well, but guests will still be able to enjoy its famous buffet and a la carte dishes — including Banana Pancakes ($11, served all day), Shrimp Plate ($13) and Sesame Ginger Chicken ($12).

Treetops Restaurant

3737 Manoa Road, Manoa
988-6839
Daily, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.