For the ‘sake’ of seafood

Sushi Surf and Turf Maki Roll ($7.50)

Nico’s Pier 38 in Honolulu has established itself as a premier seafood restaurant featuring some of the best fresh island fish, line caught by Hawaii’s longline fleet. However, if you live on the Windward side and don’t feel like making the trek to town, Nico’s Kailua opened in April 2017 and offers the same high-quality fish and local fare.

Located near Aikahi Park Shopping Center, Nico’s Kailua features 125 seats overlooking the scenic Kawainui Canal and a cozy, mellow vibe. Chefs prepare daily specials showcasing an array of the best fish our islands have to offer and also recipes from all around the world.

Earlier this year, Nico’s Kailua launched Sushi & Sake, held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4 to 6 p.m. Chefs offer an ever-changing selection of sushi and sashimi along with a wide selection of sake and martinis from the bar. Recent selections include Surf and Turf Maki Roll ($7.50) and Blackened Ahi Tatake ($9).

Blackened Ahi Tatake Sashimi ($9)

Need something to wash down that delicious seafood? Try a Sake To Me Saketini ($7). Ozeki Sake, Yuzuri Yuzu and Domaine de Canton Ginger Liqueur are mixed with fresh lemon and honey sour. The resulting cocktail offers clean, vibrant flavors that perfectly complement the sushi rolls and sashimi. Or opt for a Juicy Ginger Bae ($7), made with Lemongrass Ginger Shochu, Grey Goose la Poire and fresh line sour topped with a float of Domaine de Canton Ginger Liqueur.

Other drink options include Kirin Ichiban beer ($4, bottled) chilled Yuzuri Yuzu Shot ($5) and Suntory Toki Japanese Whisky ($5).

In addition to Sushi & Sake, Nico’s Kailua offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. During lunch, guests can enjoy fresh fish and local fare served in takeout containers. It’s great food and a great value.

Kirin Ichiban beer ($4, bottled), left, Yuzuri Yuzu shot ($5), Sake To Me Saketini ($7), and Suntory Toki Japanese Whisky ($5)

At dinner, the restaurant goes into full-service mode complete with torchlight dining, creative nightly specials, an eclectic array of fresh seafood and live local music. Nico’s Kailua also has a grab-and-go corner containing seafood items, sashimi and poke platters are available for pick up with 24-hour notice.

If you’re a townie tempted by Sushi & Sake at Nico’s Kailua, don’t feel left out: Sushi & Sake will be coming to Nico’s Pier 38 sometime soon. Until then, you can always take a trip over the Koolau Range to enjoy all the fine things Nico’s Kailua has to offer.