JJ Charts New Course with Second Bistro

JJ Luangkhot, executive chef and owner of the award-winning JJ’s Bistro & French Pastry, has been quite busy over the last month or so after recently changing both the name and concept of his second restaurant, formerly known as J2 Asian Fusion. Now, as you pass the location on Waialae Avenue, you’ll notice that it’s called Le Cacao Bistro. According to Luangkhot, this transformation of sorts took place early last month.

“This is a new concept that I’m presenting here. J2 Asian Fusion was more like a Southeast Asian eatery; now with Le Cacao Bistro it’s more like a New York style bistro,” explains Luangkhot, who also serves as the eatery’s executive chef. “We’re presenting our customers with more steaks, rack of lamb, rack of pork, pizza, pasta and more. I feel like people are enjoying more of this bistro style compared to the Asian fusion cuisine.”

Signature items on the new menu include Pork Rack with Herbal Mustard Cream Sauce ($14.95) and New York Steak ($18.95).

“You see a lot of pork chops these days, but not a lot of pork rack,” Luangkhot says.

The 8-ounce grilled bone-in pork rack is marinated and complemented with a special blend of Dijon mustard and honey sauce, and is accompanied by a medley of sauteed vegetables and mashed potatoes.

“We’re trying to offer larger portions,” he says, adding that the New York Steak is a prime example of that.

This 8-ounce steak is grilled and served with a black pepper, red wine sauce. It’s also paired with a side of mixed vegetables and mashed potatoes — undoubtedly, it will leave the average diner quite satisfied. If you’re a seafood enthusiast, you’ll marvel at delicious entrees, including the Grilled Salmon with Lemon Caper Butter Sauce ($12.95) and the Lobster Brioche ($12.95). Also, take the opportunity to sample the Southeast Fettucini Seafood Pasta ($12.95) or Le Clam Fettucini ($12.95), to name a few savory options.

“We’ve seen a quick response to the changes we’ve made and they’ve all been very positive,” Luangkhot says. “Our famous desserts are offered here as well, such as the gluten-free Warm Chocolate Cake ($5.50) and the Sweet Corn Haupia Parfait ($5.50).”

Beginning next month, Le Cacao Bistro will be serving afternoon tea ($14.95 per person) from 2 to 5 p.m. daily.

Le Cacao Bistro