JJ’s Opaka Confit a Classic Fusion Dish

Fusion-style restaurants have been increasing in popularity since the 1970s, thanks to their ability to successfully blend separate ethnic foods and cultures onto one plate. These eateries are particularly popular in locations where various ethnic groups live closely together, hence their steady growth in Hawaii.

J2 Asian Fusion is one of the newest fusion-style restaurants on Oahu, and its owner and chef, Praseuth “JJ” Luangkhot, is well-versed in the art of fine cuisine. His Poached Opaka Confit dish, for instance, is a classic example of what happens when you take an exotic dish and present it in a beautiful manner.

“It looks more like a French dish, but tastes more Asian,” says Luangkhot.

The Poached Opaka Confit ($12.95) is a filet of opakapaka delicately poached and plated with a light butter sauce. The fish is served over choi sum, topped with green onions, shiitake, fresh ginger and a light shoyu sauce. It also is served with a bed of jasmine rice on the side.

“This dish is more on the light and healthy side with the way the (opakapaka) is prepared and served,” says Luangkhot. “It is a blend of a Chinese sauce with a French technique of cooking, something very interesting and unique.”

J2 Asian Fusion focuses its menu on homestyle comfortability and care, while giving guests a bit of flair and excitement. “I invented this opaka dish because J2’s is more like a mom and pop-type of cooking, except we bring it to the next level with our presentation,” Luangkhot adds. The dish is served on both the lunch and dinner ala carte menus.

J2 Asian Fusion