A Fresh Start at Odoriko

Much has changed in Waikiki since Odoriko opened its doors 34 years ago. Hotels have come and gone, and shopping centers have opened, closed and changed names. But the tasty Kyoto-style menu at the King’s Village Shopping Center restaurant has remained.

The Takei family opened the eatery in 1978 as a companion to their Ilikai Hotel restaurant, Maiko, which they opened six years prior. Today, the family is still in charge and outdoing its signature pupus in a fast and friendly style.

Believe it or not, the six course Sushi-Kaiseki ($47.50) is designated as a one-person appetizer/main-course menu item. Whether it’s a pupu or something more is up to the diner. The adventure begins with pickled vegetables, soup and rice. After that comes the sashimi, shrimp and vegetable tempura, nigiri and ahi sushi, beef teriyaki and butterfish misoyaki. If you’re still hungry, desserts are on the menu as well.

A particular favorite was Garlic Shrimp ($12.95). Six pieces of moist shrimp are de-shelled and sauteed in a garlic, butter broth. The result is a sweet dish of shrimp served on a dainty dish and with just enough garlic to ward off vampires, but not dinner guests.

In that same vein — but different — is Garlic Buttered Clams ($10.95). The clams are simmered in a seaweed and bonita soup, and mixed with garlic and butter. Light, flavorful and sweet, it’s what clams should be.

If you’re a fan of Kalbi (And who isn’t?), Barbecue Combo ($13.50) may just be what you’re looking for. The beef is sweet and smoky with just the right amount of char. The tanginess of the teriyaki chicken is a nice complement to the beef, and both go well with an ice-cold mug of Asahi or Sapporo beer.

One more chicken appetizer to mention is Chicken Karaage ($10.50). Deep-fried, tender and tasty, the chicken is coated in a flour, egg and garlic mixture that just goes with everything. You may want to schedule more than one visit to test the theory.

Odoriko

King’s Village Shopping Center
2400 Koa Ave., Honolulu
923.7368
Open daily
(Breakfast) 6-11 a.m.
(Lunch) 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
(Dinner) 5 p.m.-midnight
(Sushi Bar) 5-11 p.m.