Plan Your ‘Escape’ to Italy

If a trip across “the pond” is out of the question this summer, Romano’s Macaroni Grill offers up hearty portions of authentic Italian food coupled with an ambience similar to that found on a food-filled European vacation. And the best part, one doesn’t have to travel farther than Ala Moana Center’s Hookipa Terrace to find it.

Flavors and aromas abound upon entering the eatery, and are no doubt proliferated by the presence of Macaroni Grill’s popular pupus. The Tomato Bruschetta ($8.99) features ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic and extra virgin olive oil combined as a topping for fresh focaccia bread. Tomato fans also will appreciate the Mozzarella Alla Caprese ($9.99) as large slices of vine-ripened tomatoes are topped with buffalo mozzarella cheese and surrounded by extra virgin olive oil, aged balsamic vinegar and fresh basil.

The Roasted Veggies ($8.99) features a platter of yellow and red peppers, eggplant, zucchini and red onions roasted with extra virgin olive oil and fresh herbs. Also popular among Macaroni Grill guests is the Calamari Fritti ($9.99) that comes with fresh lemon and a zesty arrabiata sauce.

Stop in for Happy Hour specials available daily from 4 to 7 p.m. in the lounge area. Enjoy appetizers for half off regular price as well as $3 house wines, $3 draft beers, $3 domestic beers and $4 imported beers all while relaxing in front of the televisions at the bar — talk about the perfect pupu paradise.

Also, Macaroni Grill makes for a great Father’s Day gathering with special offerings of steak and pork chops in addition to the regular menu choices. “We’re the only Macaroni Grill to have pork chops,” says executive chef Michael Longworth, aka Chef Mike. “There was so much demand. Why change something people love?”

Romano’s Macaroni Grill

See more articles from: Romano's Macaroni Grill