Plate Lunch Never Tasted So Good

When it comes to lunch options, there are the usual choices such as sandwiches or leftovers, and then there is Kahai Street Kitchen. Think take-out with gourmet flair.

“It’s all local ingredients and flavors, with a little twist to it,” says chef David Yamamoto.

Full-bodied flavors reminiscent of the Islands are kicked up a notch with sophisticated options at this Kalihi eatery. Every item is the perfect indulgence for days when a midday pick-me-up is a necessity.

The Osso Bucco Style Shepherd’s Pie ($9.95) is popular, according to Yamamoto, and it’s not difficult to understand why. Short ribs are braised for about three and a half hours and are served in individual loaf pans. A torched garlic mashed potato cap tops the entree, which is accompanied by pearl onions, peas and carrots served in a rich demi-sauce. Diners also have the option of enjoying white or brown rice, as well as potato mac or tossed salad.

Another favorite among customers: Stuffed Breast of Chicken ($9.75). Yamamoto fills a tender chicken breast with ricotta cheese, spinach and mushrooms before baking it. The dish is served with a sundried tomato cream sauce and basil tomato relish.

The Korean Kalbi Short Rib Wrap ($8.95) is a flavorful alternative to a homemade sandwich. It’s an especially good choice if you’re anything like me (last name Kim not required) and like to try any variety of local interpretations of Korean dishes. Marinated short ribs are charbroiled and then julienned into thin pieces before they are wrapped in a flour tortilla with a kalbi aioli spread as well as lettuce, tomato, cucumbers, sprouts and kim chee.

At Kahai Street Kitchen, all dishes are made with fresh ingredients. “We serve quality food here,” says Yamamoto.

The venue only serves lunch for a brief time period, so Yamamoto recommends arriving early or phoning in orders. Another plus: Kahai Street Kitchen specializes in catering services, providing memorable flavors for any event.

Kahai Street Kitchen

237 Kalihi St., Honolulu
845-0320
Fax orders for 10 people or more to 842-4273
Tuesday-Thursday, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Fridays, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
KahaiStreet-Kitchen.com