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Japanese Restaurant Aki

Step Up to the Plate

March 18, 2018

Story By: Ellise Kakazu | Photos by: ANTHONY CONSILLIO

A CLOSER LOOK AT THIS WEEK’S HOUSE SPECIAL: YAKITORI ($2-$6)

Lately it seems like everyone is visiting Japan. And while there are many reasons to take a trip to the Land of the Rising Sun, one of the most popular reasons is to taste its food.

Luckily for those without a plane ticket in hand, Japanese Restaurant Aki can help one take a bite out of Japan without leaving the island. The eatery, located on 11th Avenue in Kaimuki, provides customers with an authentic Japanese experience from start to finish.

One step into the restaurant will make patrons say, “I’m not in Hawaii anymore.” From its delicious food and friendly staff to the eatery’s tea house-esque decor (no floor seating), Japanese Restaurant Aki is the place to be when craving Japanese food.

Customers can indulge in items like Oden, Hot Pot, Agedashi Tofu, and an assortment of sushi, sashimi and yakitori (grilled meats and vegetables).

Restaurant manager Eric Rogers notes that the establishment aims to provide customers with quality food at reasonable prices, as well as a fun experience — diners can pair their meal with an assortment of wines, Japanese sakes and shochu.

With everything this hot spot has to offer, Japanese Restaurant Aki should be at the top of everyone’s need-to-visit list.

Hot Stuff

Yakitori is grilled and cooked over Binchotan charcoal, a type of charcoal used in Japan.

Sweet or Salty?

Customers can choose to have yakitori flavored with either salt or teriyaki sauce.

Take Your Pick

Diners can choose yakitori skewers individually ($2-$6 for each skewer) or have the chef surprise them with five assorted yakitori for $12.

Made To Order

These goodies take about two to five minutes to cook on the grill.

Level Up

For extra flavor, diners can use wasabi, lemon or the restaurant’s spicy miso sauce to take the skewers to the next level.

Honolulu, HI 96816

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