Kona Lobster Bisque ($13)
Stage, located in the landmark Honolulu Design Center on Kapiolani Boulevard near Ala Moana, is not your typical restaurant.
With its global menu, unique furniture and art-gallery setting, Stage offers an innovative “world-inspired, local-comfort” dining experience, combining the finest flavors of the world with local favorites. There also is a lounge area with a full bar serving an extended list of spirits, cocktails and craft beers.
According to executive chef Ron de Guzman, a new menu is in the works, but, of course, signature favorites such as Hamachi Sashimi and Kona Lobster Bisque will remain. “We’ve been running different specials to try,” he says, adding that he hopes to introduce the new menu within a month.
Patatas Bravas ($8)
Just outside, at the entrance to Stage, is the popular Amuse Wine Bar with about 100 different selections of wine from around the world, along with live music daily.
And recently, the restaurant also has been busy with private dinners and receptions in its neighboring Cupola Gallery, which reopened this past summer after being closed for renovations.
The elegant private dining area can accommodate 22 guests seated or be used as an open gallery area for up to 150 guests standing.
FILLING UP ON SMALL BITES
For starters at Stage Restaurant, the eatery’s executive chef, Ron de Guzman, recommends Kona Lobster Bisque ($13), featuring yuzu creme and togarashi croutons.
“It’s one of those classic dishes you don’t want to change too much, but we’re trying to utilize our local products, so we use Kona lobster from the Big Island,” he says.
Another must-try appetizer is Patatas Bravas ($8), consisting of crispy potatoes, togarashi-mayo, furikake, katuso, tobiko and smoked paprika. The dish is inspired by tapas (Spanish hors d’oeuvres) and offers a great combination of textures, flavors and temperatures.
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