‘Little Wolf’ presents bold Italian flavors to hungry customers
A La CarteDecember 2, 2018
Story By: Kyle Galdeira | Photos by: FILE PHOTOS
Smoked Salmon Benedict ($16)
Il Lupino Trattoria & Wine Bar, which bears the “Little Wolf” childhood nickname of owner Wolfgang Zwiener, offers stellar customer service, authentic Italian cuisine and an astounding wine collection within a sophisticated yet casual atmosphere at Royal Hawaiian Center.
Executive chef Adam Kekahuna joined Il Lupino in January after returning home from Portland, Oregon, where he operated four restaurants and a catering company over the past two decades, and even served as Iron Chef Portland in 2005. Prior to that, he worked as the executive chef at multiple well-established restaurants on Oahu and Maui. Now, he is excited to “settle down” here at home with his family and culinary team.
Bistecca Florentina ($125)
“As far as my approach, it’s about elevating the dining experience to ensure we hone in on the natural ingredients, while creating dishes with locally sourced, sustainable products and really focusing on those flavor profiles,” says Kekahuna.
Il Lupino serves breakfast, lunch, tapas and dinner in addition to happy hour specials and weekend brunch, and represents an inviting oasis for kamaaina and visitors alike. To start off the day on a high note, reel in Smoked Salmon Benedict ($16) as cold smoked salmon is paired with Hauula tomato, local poached eggs and hollandaise sauce.
A few options found on the Salumeria (deli) Menu.
While enjoying one’s favorite wine selection during lunch and dinner, diners are encouraged to mix and match selections of artisanal cured meats and cheeses imported from Italy within the Salumeria (deli) Menu. Choices include Prosciutto di Parma (dry-cured ham), Hot & Dry Salami and Salami Barolo as well as Gorgonzola Dolce, Cambozola and Double Cream Gouda cheeses (prices vary depending on the choices and amounts selected).
For dinner, guests rave about Bistecca Florentina ($125), a hearty 32-ounce premium porterhouse steak that is served with rosemary roasted potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
