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Chai’s Choice

Chai's Choice Columns

June 11, 2017

Story By: Caitlin Basilio | Photos by: A. Consillio

Fresh Kumamoto Oyster on Ice with Lemongrass Garlic Mignonette ($10 happy hour)

Food lovers know and admire the name Chef Chai. World-renowned chef Chai Chaowasaree not only cooks food, but he also creates art with every dish he makes, bringing tastes, textures and colors together to ensure each bite is perfect.

Chef Chai is located on Kapiolani Boulevard across the street from Neal S. Blaisdell Center. It’s the best place for a night on the town or a quick happy hour before a show. The restaurant boasts both elegance and tranquility, inviting kamaaina and tourists alike to enjoy a memorable dining experience.

Chaowasaree opened the restaurant almost four years ago and takes pride in offering his signature, innovative Asian fusion cuisine. He recently sat down with Dining Out to discuss his daily happy hour selections, which offer dishes in the same portions and presentation as they are on the regular menu, but for special prices. Happy hour takes place from 4 to 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. to closing.

DO: What is unique about dining at Chef Chai?

CHAOWASAREE: Our food is Asian fusion with French cooking techniques and a contemporary style of plating. And our happy hours and Early Bird Dinner make us the perfect place to be before going to a show, movie, etc.

DO: What kind of specials can guests expect on Chef Chai’s happy hour menu?

CHAOWASAREE: Our happy hour is available in the bar area of Chef Chai and offers drink specials such as $3 domestic beers, $4 imported beers, $5 wines and Ketel One Vodka — and 50 percent off pupus!

DO: What’s especially popular on the happy hour menu?

CHAOWASAREE: The Fresh Ahi Tartar in Mini Waffle Cones for $8 is a big hit.

It features small-diced ahi mixed with sweet onion, gochujang (Korean chili paste), sesame oil and Hawaiian sea salt in a waffle cone, and on the bottom there is avocado mousse.

Customers really love the Half Dozen of Fresh Kumamoto Oyster on Ice with Lemongrass Garlic Mignonette for $10, too.

Chef Chai

Pacifica Honolulu
1009 Kapiolani Blvd., Honolulu
585-0011
Nightly, 4-11 p.m.; happy hour, 4-6 p.m. and 9 p.m.-closing
chefchai.com

Honolulu, HI 96814

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