A Pupu Haven by the Sea

Yes, real men eat hummus. Especially when it’s made from edamame, served in a won ton bowl, spread over fried tofu and enjoyed overlooking Waikiki beach. Writing about food can be such a burden. But not this time. Edamame Hummus ($11.50) at Ocean House in Outrigger Waikiki Reef Hotel is fantastic. Recently introduced by executive chef Craig Yasaka, the traditional chick pea spread gets a local twist that creates a taste that general manager David Nagaishi correctly says, “… tastes like the island. It has all the local mixes in there.”

The creamy edamame is a perfect complement to the moderately spicy Baked Seafood Dynamite ($14.50). Comprised of lobster, shrimp, scallops and topped with a garlic chili aioli, the seafood medley is light and naturally sweet. The clean, fresh taste fits perfectly with the casual elegance that eptiomises the restaurant’s decor.

Not enough seafood for you?

Try Island Style Sashimi ($13.50) or Coconut Lobster Skewers ($14.50). Where Baked Seafood Dynamite has some kick, Sashimi’s Hot Hawaii Chili Sauce offers some serious heat. No need to worry if temperature is a concern. The sauce is served on the side, offering a tantalizing option for the daring. Either with the chili sauce or without, the sashimi is top-grade and buttery. Topped with a hot sesame peanut oil and set on a bed of radish sprouts, Maui onion and green onion, it’s a pupu wanting to be a meal.

Lobster Skewers, served on a wedge of Maui Gold Pineapple, is perhaps the most “Hawaiian” in presentation, but don’t let the Visitor’s Bureau look fool ya, this is some seriously good local grinds. Made with Slipper Lobster tail that is brought in fresh daily, the sweet and tender meat is covered in a coconut breading and served with a sweet chili lime dipping sauce.

Finally, Seared Peppered Sea Scallops ($12.50) are made with pan-seared jumbo scallops and served with mushrooms and a soy, sake and garlic butter sauce. What more needs to be said? It’s scallops in soy, sake and garlic butter! How can that not be good?!

Ocean House

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