Caramel Popcorn Ice Cream ($8)
Unlike a traditional izakaya, an informal Japanese pub, the ambiance, service and menu items at Waioli Grill and Cafe were designed around a new-American cuisine concept with a Japanese twist.
The healthy lunch sets are served ichiju sansei style — with a soup and three sides — to provide a balanced, customized meal tailored to each diner’s tastes. During dinner service, the Japanese cafe switches up the vibe to a cozy bistro with fresh fish, seasonal classics and teppanyaki-style meats.
Beef Curry with Chicken Karaage ($12)
General manager Seiya Nakano explains that the restaurant opened six months ago, and “little by little, guests are discovering us.”
“For lunch, it’s a healthy cafe with balanced options — a fancier version of a plate lunch, but with more nutritious options and soup as well,” explains Nakano. “During dinner, we offer excellent meat choices, and our chef can prepare these various proteins very well. Our soups are made from scratch using the stocks from specific meats.”
Mamaki Tea ($4.50)
Mamaki Tea ($4.50) prepared with house-made, fresh-brewed tea with Kahuku Farms lilikoi syrup is a perfect choice as temperatures heat up.
Beef Curry with Chicken Karaage ($12) is presented with soup and is available at lunch. Guests get two dishes in one, as the flavorful curry and hearty portion of multigrain rice and green salad is accompanied by two pieces of tender, crispy golden-brown fried chicken.
It will be added to the menu soon, but Dining Out readers can ask for it now from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
For dessert, try Caramel Popcorn Ice Cream ($8), a simple, yet delicious, parfait with vanilla ice cream accompanied by caramel popcorn and locally made salted caramel sauce drizzled all over.This sweet treat is available throughout the day, and while it’s not on the printed menu, diners are encouraged to order it! Walk-in guests are welcome, but reservations are preferred.
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