Where sumptuous seafood shines

Pier 38 Fish Burger ($13.25)

For the past 15 years, Oahu fishermen and locals who live and work around Pier 38 have known that they don’t have to go far to enjoy the finest, freshest seafood anywhere in Hawaii.

Around Lent, which began this year on Feb. 26 and ends on April 9, the restaurant fills with guests craving something delicious from the Pacific.

Fried Ahi Belly ($13.95)

“This is generally a busy time for us,” says chef Nico Chaize. “We’ve been a great place to eat during Lent for many people for many years! We’re easy to get to, with free parking and fast service.”

If you’re craving a cheeseburger on a Friday afternoon but determined to abstain during Lent, the Pier 38 Fish Burger ($13.25) is a spectacular alternative.

As seen on Diners, DriveIns and Dives, the sandwich begins with fresh fi sh ground with citrus and dill. It’s shaped into a patty, grilled, placed on a bun and topped with basil aioli.

Furikake Pan Seared Ahi ($13.95)

“That’s the most tender seafood burger I’ve ever had!” exclaimed Guy Fieri, host of the Food Network show, when he took his first bite. “I would order that again without question.”

Those observing Lent can also opt for the Catch of the Day, which is market priced at about $12-15, according to Chaize.

“Today, it’s lobster tomato cream sauce over fresh ahi, coated with panko, garlic and oregano, then seared to order,” he adds.

Catch of the Day ($15.95)

Fresh from the auction, Furikake Pan Seared Ahi ($13.95) features sashimigrade tuna coated with furikake and sesame seeds, and cooked to the temperature you specify. It’s accompanied by Nico’s scrumptious ginger garlic cilantro dip.

At $13.95, the decadently delicious Fried Ahi Belly is Chaize’s own personal favorite of these featured dishes.

“It’s a nice fatty piece of ahi belly, fl our-coated and deep-fried, and it comes with a lomi tomato sauce — tomatoes, onion, green onion, shoyu, sesame oil,” Chaize says. “It’s very popular!”

No matter what time of year you visit, lunch at Pier 38 is a delightful treat.