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A “Steak” in the Community

Cover Story

June 13, 2021

Story By: Lianne Bidal Thompson | Photos by: ANTHONY CONSILLIO

Roy’s Waikiki executive chef Jason Ichiki showcases the restaurant’s bacon boursin Filet Mignon ($52).

As people venture back out to their favorite restaurants, Roy’s Waikiki, with its fine dining takes on island flavors, is sure to be one near the top of the list. With a menu filled with creative offerings of fresh fish, the finest meats and the best produce from Hawaii’s farms, there’s something to please every palate.

Roy Yamaguchi is one of the founders of the Hawaii Regional Cuisine movement that revolutionized Hawaii’s dining scene. It ensured a strong connection between locally sourced ingredients and the dishes that were served at the islands’ finest restaurants. That tradition continues today with the chefs like Jason Ichiki, who’s worked for Roy’s Restaurants since he started at Roy’s Ko Olina in 2004 at age 19.

Mochi Crusted Mekajiki. This dish is a prime example of executive chef Jason Ichiki’s use of flavors and textures.

“Roy’s Waikiki stands out from other restaurants because we make good food like no one else on the island,” states the location’s executive chef.

He adds that the most popular dishes are Roy’s classics like the original Blackened Ahi ($28/$56) with soy mustard butter sauce; Macadamia Nut Crusted Hawaiian Fish ($34) with “Kona cold” lobster sauce, Parmesan spätzle and asparagus; Misoyaki Butterfish ($24 / $48) with sweet ginger wasabi beurre blanc and Forbidden black rice; Roy’s Kiawe Smoked Szechuan Spiced Baby Back Ribs ($16); and the Chocolate Souffle ($13).

Kanpachi Crudo ($24)

Other favorites include Waikiki classics such as Kanpachi Crudo ($24) served with yuzu kosho, white soy, jalapeño and Kahuku sea asparagus; Ahi 20 Roll ($20) with soft shell crab, truffle ahi tataki and dashi soy; Kauai Prawns ($34) with lump crab ravioli and Kahuku sea asparagus grenobloise; and the Peanut Butter Crunch ($12) bar.

Those desirous of the perfect sampling may opt for the three-course Al Fresco Prix Fixe for $63, available for dine-in only. A vegan prix fixe menu is also available.

Kauai Prawns ($34)

“I always try to make the dishes unique, using different cuisines, trying different methods. When I make new dishes, it’s all about color, texture, freshness, bold flavors and most importantly, it has to taste good and look good.”

Roy’s Waikiki, located within Embassy Suites by Hilton Waikiki Beach Walk, offers dine-in and carryout. Call 808-923-7697 or visit royyamaguchi.com.

Bacon boursin Filet Mignon ($52)

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