Diving Into a Sea of Bountiful Goodness

“Do you like Chinese food?” asks Andy Ancog, executive general manager at Seafood Village. “It’s one of my favorites.” Try a few of the Chinese eatery’s classic lunchtime favorites, and you’ll soon be a fan too. Share these dishes among friends, co-workers or family, or not; loyalty to one dish isn’t a shortcoming.

An allegiance to Kalua Short Ribs ($18.95), for example, is understandable. Dredged in flour and seasonings, the bone-in short ribs are deep-fried, then stir-fried in a wok with malty and mellow black vinegar and sugar, which gives the ribs their rich color and glaze. The ingredients are the golden combination for the slightly tangy, sweet bite-sized morsels that beg to be savored and salivated over, down to the bone. “It’s a popular dish,” Ancog confirms.

If you’re a fan of bountiful seafood and also would appreciate a serving of edible tableware, order the Wok Fried Ocean Harvest Basket ($22.95). Shrimp, fish filet, calamari and scallop are stir-fried in a light gravy with broccoli, carrots and mushrooms, and served in a crispy potato basket, deep-fried in a metal net to achieve the shape. The “novelty” of the basket is a draw for diners, says Ancog. That’s right, have your basket and eat it, too. The eye-catching dish is just an example of what makes Chinese food a favorite. “The presentation is delicate and attractive,” he says. “When you eat Chinese food, it’s not heavy.”

Another visually appealing, let alone tasty dish stays in the vein of the restaurant’s theme. Served on a bed of crunchy-fried candied walnuts and sesame seeds, the Honey Glazed Walnut “Kahuku” Prawns ($22.95) are tender and creamy with an addictive sweet-salty flavor. The prawns receive seasoning before deep-frying, and then mayonnaise and condensed milk are added with honey as a sauce. Orange slices and maraschino cherries add the final touch to the plate.

Seafood Village’s quick, friendly service makes it ideal for lunch breaks. Reservations are requested for larger parties.

Seafood Village Chinese Cuisine

Hyatt Regency Waikiki Resort and Spa (Ewa Tower)
2424 Kalakaua Ave., Waikiki
971-1818
Daily, 11 a.m.2 p.m. (lunch), 5-10 p.m. (dinner)
Note: $3 validated self-parking and $4 valet parking at Hyatt Regency