Cafe Grace

A CLOSER LOOK AT THIS WEEK’S HOUSE SPECIAL: Paniolo Pork ($10.45)

As the expression goes, “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.” Well, at Cafe Grace, where there’s a plate, there’s a bagel — the eatery’s main attraction — and lots of will to make an array of enticing eats. The cafe opened August of last year on the ground level of Imperial Plaza on Kapiolani Boulevard. Originally from Tokyo, owner Terumi F. Drake, who also owns Lox of Bagels, previously resided in New York, and desired to take the bagel scene from the Big Apple to the Aloha State.

“I wanted to introduce a new style of the bagel creation,” says Drake.

All bagels come from Lox of Bagels and are made from scratch every day. Beyond the cozy and picturesque ambiance is a menu of Asian, Hawaiian and western influences, which incorporates bagels as its staple serving. This unique menu, which comes complete with a healthy edge, complements its art-friendly setting, while extended hours and live music may be expected down the line. Any bagel lover can attest that the ones from Cafe Grace come second to none, and this week, Dining Out highlights Paniolo Pork, a unique island twist on a pulled pork sandwich with a killer barbecue sauce.

Cafe Grace

Imperial Plaza, ground level
725 Kapiolani Blvd.
492-1470
Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–4 p.m.;
Saturday, 7 a.m.–3 p.m.; closed Sunday