A CLOSER LOOK AT THIS WEEK’S HOUSE SPECIAL: WONUTS ($10)
If you’ve traveled to Waikiki lately, a few things might look unfamiliar to you. With the exquisite and bustling International Market Place (IMP) now open, as well as various shops and eateries popping up alongside Kalakaua and Kuhio avenues, the once mostly tourist destination now offers more options for locals — especially when it comes to food.
In fact, directly across the street from IMP, connected to Hilton Garden Inn, stands the fresh — and fiery, if you will — TR Fire Grill, which opened this past December and whose flagship restaurant resides in Florida.
With the goal of elevating American comfort food, chef Richard Miller explains that the Waikiki eatery is a “new concept in Hawaii with the sole purpose of bringing smoked flavors to food with a twist.” And although other restaurants have dabbled in similar feats, Miller reiterates that when it comes to TR Fire Grill, smoked cuisine is showcased on a much bigger stage.
The best way to get a feel for the restaurant’s style is to sample its “local” hour (happy hour) menu with hot new items such as Kilauea Smoked Ahi Poke, Blackpoint Ceviche, a new version of Huli Huli Chicken, Spicy Edamame and a Fire Grill Sandwich — each spewing smoky and robust flavors. Also choose from a selection of hand-crafted cocktails, wine, and craft and local beers (The establishment proudly serves Maui Brewing Co. on draft.) at TR Fire Grill’s trendy bar located on the lower level of the establishment.
With split-levels for dining, there is ample space for customers and larger parties. There also is a “Chef’s Corner” on the top level where guests are able to observe the cooking process through an open-kitchen layout, as well as chat with Miller.
TR Fire Grill takes familiar comfort foods and upgrades them through its main menu with dishes such as its take on meatloaf, embellishing the classic by wrapping it in smoked bacon and dousing it in leek-onion gravy. Or take the popular dessert, Wonuts, which fuse waffles and donuts together for a must-have treat.
Ultimately, diners will find something nostalgic on the menu and will delight in seeing their childhood favorites turned up a notch with a little bit of heat from TR Fire Grill.
TR Fire Grill
2330 Kuhio Ave., Waikiki (connected to Hilton Garden Inn)
921-2330
Daily, 6 a.m.-10 p.m.; “local” hour, 2-7 p.m.
Honolulu, HI 96815
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