Set a Course for Seafood Village

Navigating nearly any restaurant’s menu for the first time can be a challenge for vegetarians, to say the least. But when the menu describes the dishes in a different language, it’s so alien that doubt and confusion can send you into orbit — or at least out the nearest exit.

Don’t let it make you trek out of there. Just boldly go where no non-meat eater has gone before.

At Seafood Village, the titles of the dishes on its extensive menu are in English, but the descriptions are all in Chinese characters. But whether or not you can read Chinese, the friendly, professional staff is more than happy to help you seek out a meal that meets your dietary preferences.

Steve Matsuno, executive general manager of the enterprise located in Hyatt Regency Waikiki, knows that the stars shine on everyone, not just carnivores.

“I don’t see why we would stop trying to please vegetarians,” he says.

Yes, despite its name, Seafood Village does have meatand fish-free dishes, and manager Johnson Ma assures Veg’n Out readers that they are happy to adjust a dish (but, of course, please be reasonable).

Ma’s first recommendation doesn’t need any adjustment, though. Its name says it all. Crispy Vegetarian Spring Rolls ($4.95 for two) live up to their name. Even after sitting awhile, the rolls, filled with carrots, cabbage and cellophane noodles, are quite crispy outside and tender moist within, and they’re served with a sweet and sour sauce for dipping.

There’s a Chinese belief that long noodles are the key to a long life. So, live long and prosper with Pan-fried Longevity Noodles with Shiitake Mushrooms ($14.95). It’s a dish traditionally served on birthdays, to celebrate the new year and on other special occasions. The long, flat noodles are complemented by crisp-tender mung bean sprouts and earthy shiitakes stir-fried in a very light shoyu sauce, which leaves the noodles pleasingly al dente. This is a dry-fried, not saucy dish, allowing the individual flavors to shine through.

So don’t space out on the name. Just set a course for Seafood Village.

Seafood Village Chinese Cuisine