Dive into steaming, umami-rich hot pot

The interior of Umami-ya Shabu Shabu FILE PHOTO

Since opening in March, Umami-ya Shabu Shabu continues to be a hot spot for hot pot, including shabu shabu, sukiyaki and nabe.

Serving 70 percent authentic Japanese-style cuisine, along with 20 percent Korean flavors and a 10 percent local influence, the restaurant uses high-quality ingredients and meats, including U.S. Choice ribeye ($24.50) and USDA Prime grade ribeye ($28.50).

Pork, Beef, Tofu and Kimchi ($11.95 regular, $5.95 happy hour)

For Shabu Shabu or Sukiyaki, customers can choose from four different broths — house, miso, spicy miso or paitan — and then select their meats (U.S. Choice ribeye, U.S. Prime ribeye, Sterling short rib, kurobuta pork belly, pork shoulder or chicken breast) or seafood medley; and cook to their liking on a tabletop burner. Meal sets come with an umami-rich vegetable platter, zosui (a Japanese rice soup with raw egg) or udon, and ponzu and goma sauces.

There also are a variety of tasty appetizers you can add to your meal, such as Ahi Sashimi ($18.95), Agedashi Tofu ($8.95), Spicy Seasoned Squid ($12.95), Seafood Pancake ($10.95) and Pork, Beef, Tofu and Kimchi ($11.95).

Shabu Shabu or Sukiyaki sets are the perfect way to go when dining at Umami-ya Shabu Shabu. FILE PHOTO

A grand opening special Shabu Shabu Dinner Set ($19.95) is still being offered featuring your choice of Sterling short rib, kurobuta pork belly or U.S. Choice ribeye, and served with house, miso or spicy miso broth; ponzu sauce, goma sauce, umami-rich vegetables, and zosui or udon.

The restaurant also has a nice selection of shochu, sake, beer, spirits and cocktails. Stop by for Happy Hour (4:30-7 p.m. daily) and enjoy drink specials and 50 percent off select appetizers.

Yuzu-licious ($9.95 regular, $7.50 happy hour)

Located next to the new Liliha Bakery on Nimitz Highway, Umami-ya Shabu Shabu features a casual, elegant setting that is family friendly. There also are six private dining rooms that can seat anywhere from 8 to 40 people. Not to mention, there is a host of free parking in front of the restaurant.

Umami-Ya Shabu Shabu

550 N. Nimitz Highway, Honolulu
367-1388
Nightly, 4:30-10 p.m.
umamiyashabu.com