A Remarkable Dining Experience Awaits at The Mandalay

Nestled in the heart of downtown Honolulu, The Mandalay serves as an oasis, where customers can escape the hustle and bustle of the surrounding metropolis and enjoy fine Asian cuisine, including everything from Cantonese-inspired dishes to Hong Kong-style dim sum.

The spacious Alakea Street restaurant features two floors of dining pleasure, including a main room that holds 190 people and a mezzanine level that is capable of accommodating 130 patrons. The Mandalay is adept at hosting all sorts of special occasions, from weddings to birthday parties and graduation celebrations, and also offers a full banquet and catering menu for groups of all sizes.

Owner Linda Chan and her skilled, friendly staff are standing by to welcome both new and loyal returning customers as they enjoy a meal at The Mandalay. Chan, a native of Hong Kong, opened the restaurant eight years ago and brings more than 20 years of culinary experience to the table.

Throughout October, customers may enjoy a Whole Lobster for just $12.99 with the purchase of another entrée at regular price (other discounts and special offers do not apply, dine-in customers only), and the dish can be prepared to meet any taste. From lovely sautéed ginger to heartier sauces and seasonings, each preparation adds layers of flavor and texture to the lobster. Diners may also choose to enjoy the dishes on top of noodles for just $3 more.

“People tend to celebrate special occasions and holidays in November and December, so we want to encourage customers to celebrate this month,” Chan says. “Most people choose the ginger and onion sauce, but the lobster also goes really well with black bean sauce and salt and pepper, too.”

Shanghai Dumpling (three pieces for $3.95) is the featured dim sum selection of October, and like the 40-plus varieties of dim sum served daily at The Mandalay, each dim sum choice is made to order. The Mandalay serves dim sum daily from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and options range from $2.95 to $4.95. Dessert items and Baked options such as Barbecue Pork Pastry ($3.50), Pan-Fried Shrimp and Chive Dumpling ($4.50), and steamed selections including Scallop with Spinach Dumpling ($4.50) and pork-filled Shanghai Dumplings ($3.95) also steal the show.

“Our dim sum is cooked to order, and that way it’s fresh,” Chan says. “When dim sum is served on a cart, it tends to overcook with so much heat. By preparing each dim sum order individually, we ensure the best taste and freshness.”

Sticking with the theme of the season, and in anticipation of Halloween, The Mandalay is offering a house special Mixed Seafood with Curry in Pumpkin ($36, at least two hours notice required for preparation). This visually appealing and appetizing selection serves 10 people and is great for dinner parties and special get-togethers. Shrimp, fish fillet, scallops and cuttlefish are stir-fried with vegetables and coupled with a curry sauce that is prepared as mild or spicy, as a party prefers. The items are then stewed within the pumpkin to bring out all the unique flavors and textures.

Those looking for a quick meal on the go may take advantage of The Mandalay’s express menu, which is available Monday through Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The menu allows customers to build their own meal, starting with one entrée choice ($5.50), and diners may add additional choices for just $1 each. The menu features rotating entree selections daily, and delicious options such as Beef Broccoli, Mushroom Chicken, Orange Chicken and Stir-Fried String Beans are waiting to be enjoyed.

The Mandalay also offers Pau Hana take-out specials weekdays from 3 to 6 p.m., and gives customers a great dinner opportunity in the comfort of their own home. For just $23, with tax included, diners may select three entrees, including Crispy Gau Gee Mein, Salt & Pepper Fish Fillets, Kung Pao Chicken, Mongolian Beef and Choy Sum with Oyster Sauce. White or brown rice may also be added to the mix for $1.50 per order.

To make one’s dining experience easier, fully validated parking is available across the street at the Bishop Square parking lot Monday through Friday after 5 p.m., and all day Saturday and Sunday. On weekdays before 5 p.m., diners are encouraged to park at Alii Place, a municipal parking lot that offers excellent rates starting at 75 cents per half hour for the first two hours, and $1.50 per hour thereafter.

The Mandalay

1055 Alakea St., Honolulu
525-8585
Open daily, 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.