X

JJ Bistro & French Pastry

Digest Step Up to the Plate

April 14, 2013

Story By: Alana Folen | Photos by: Leah Friel

A CLOSER LOOK AT THIS WEEK’S HOUSE SPECIAL: GRILLED LOBSTER TAIL FETTUCCINE ($29.70 FOR ONE LOBSTER TAIL, FOUR-COURSE MENU SPECIAL; $39.70 FOR TWO LOBSTER TAILS, FOUR-COURSE MENU SPECIAL; $18.95 A LA CARTE)

JJ Bistro & French Pastry appeals to diverse palates with its array of Eurasian-inspired cuisine and sinfully sweet desserts. Owner and chef JJ Luangkhot first opened the restaurant in 1995 in Aiea, and then four years later relocated the establishment to Kaimuki, where it stands today.

The restaurant’s Four-Course Meal Specials are a big draw, as it consists of a soup or salad, appetizer, entree and dessert. Luangkhot says Grilled Lobster Tail Fettuccine ranks among the top entrees of the bunch, and for good reason.

Created by Luangkhot himself, this entree is a tribute to the signature Eurasian flair of JJ Bistro. Italian influences are brought forth with the fettuccine, shiitake mushrooms add an Asian twist, and the cream sauce is inspired by French culinary techniques.

Maine lobster tails are shipped in once a week from Maine and are the show-stopper of the dish. The tails are flavored with garlic and butter prior to grilling, resulting in meat so tender, sweet and savory. “The lobster meat goes very well with the sauce and brings a nice texture to the dish. It doesn’t need a lot of seasoning because its taste is already wonderful as is,” says Luangkhot.

Shiitake mushrooms, sweet peas, red bell peppers, carrots and asparagus play up the dish nicely, adding to the exquisite presentation, at which Luangkhot is known for succeeding in each one of his creations.

A mound of fettuccine is the canvas for this dish. It’s cooked al dente and topped with a creamy white wine (Chardonnay) sauce infused with fresh garlic and tarragon, which makes for an alluring aroma.

A best-seller at the restaurant, this dish made its debut on Valentine’s Day. It received such rave reviews from guests that it quickly made its way onto the regular menu.

JJ Bistro & French Pastry

3447 Waialae Ave., Honolulu
739-0993
Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-9 p.m.
Sundays, 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.
jjfrenchpastry.com

Honolulu, HI 96816

Ilima Awards
Hawaii's Best