There really aren’t words sweeter than “all you can eat,” especially when the buffet selection includes endless seafood, local Japanese fare and an overwhelming amount of dessert options.
For more than 10 years, Makino Chaya in Westridge Shopping Center has supplied a buffet experience like no other. And, after renovations in October of last year, the Aiea staple now is even more spacious and welcoming, with wall murals depicting ocean life quintessential to Hawaii.
Ahi, salmon and hamachi sashimi from the dinner menu. Lawrence Tabudlo photo
Every buffet station features fresh food, from the restaurant’s sushi bar stocked with nigiri and various rolls, to the hot-food section, showcasing local favorites such as tempura, steamed fish and one of the newest seafood additions to the dinner buffet, blue crab.
Lunch only is $14.98 Monday-Friday, and $19.98 Saturday and Sunday, while dinner is served nightly for $32.98. Military and Seniors (65 years and older) receive 5 percent off of lunch and 10 percent off of dinner with valid I.D. Keiki 4-5 feet tall pay half price, 3-4 feet receive 75 percent off and under 3 feet tall eat for free.
SURF, TURF AND DESSERT
Before indulging in the display case of desserts — including lemon bars and warm bread pudding, the frozen-yogurt dispenser and chocolate fountain, among others — there are dinner specialties that will fill you to the point of almost passing on dessert — emphasis on almost.
The carving station remains the highlight of Makino Chaya’s buffet spread, offering gourmet cuts of roast beef and ribs, while ham is available for a limited time, and roast pig and prime rib make an appearance during holidays.
The eatery’s sashimi also is a show-stopper and can be ordered during dinnertime from the menu (but not during The Early Bird Special from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday).
Always-fresh cuts of fish, including salmon and hamachi, as well as ahi bought at the daily morning auctions, easily melt in your mouth. This combination of value and quality isn’t one you’ll find at most buffets, proving that Makino Chaya prides itself on standing apart from the rest by giving customers the very best it can offer.
Makino Chaya
Westridge Shopping Center,
98-150 Kaonohi St., Ste. B219, Aiea
Lunch: Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; Dinner: Sunday-Thursday, 5:30-8:30 p.m.;
Friday-Saturday, 5:30-9 p.m.; Holiday hours vary
Aiea, HI 96701
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