Go ‘catch’ this Pokemon-inspired saimin

Pokemon Go Saimin Special ($7.85 regular, $6.95 August special) ANTHONY CONSILLIO PHOTO

Shiro’s Saimin Haven is a home away from home for many island patrons who can’t resist the taste of the iconic restaurant’s classic local dishes.

“We offer a little bit of everything; it’s basically a melting pot of Hawaiian cultures reflected in the food,” says general manager Bryce Fujimoto. “Besides our saimin, we are known for home-style cooking, so anything that Grandma or Grandpa used to cook back in the day.”

Within the multiple generations of kamaaina who dine at Shiro’s, customers who play the popular game Pokemon Go have already discovered that the eatery is also a PokeStop. Shiro’s latest menu creation supplements the game-playing experience with a dish sure to satisfy any Pokemon-master’s appetite. Pokemon Go Saimin Special ($7.85 regular, $6.95 August special) offers a small portion of char siu saimin prepared with a strip of nori, Chinese cabbage, green onion and a small serving of fish cake right in the middle — all made to look like the ultimate edible Poke Ball.

This “catch” is only available while dining in at the Waimalu Shopping Center location. And as a heads up to all players: Be on the lookout for “lures” Shiro’s throws out during the day to attract Pokemon.

A peak inside the longstanding local eatery. FILE PHOTO

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A scrumptious staple since 1969, Shiro’s has catered to hungry patrons with its extensive menu of more than 60 saimin options, oxtail soup, teri beef, chicken katsu and more. But what really hones its welcoming vibe is its exceptional customer service.

“Some of the service (staff) have been here for over 30 years,” says Fujimoto. “I really think that they provide a certain type of warmth when customers come in, which is not really teachable. They just have it.”

Shiro’s also wants to reassure customers that they won’t have to worry about a Hepatitis A outbreak at the establishment, as all employees are required to be vaccinated. So don’t hesitate to dine-in or cater with Shiro’s Saimin Haven for a feast the whole family will love.

Shiro’s Saimin Haven

Waimalu Shopping Center
98-020 Kamehameha Hwy., Aiea
488-8824
Sunday-Thursday, 7 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 7 a.m.-11:30 p.m.