Culture and Cuisine

STIX ASIA CEO Frank Clark and Scratch Xpress owner Gary Chen present the premier food hall’s popular dishes.

With Hawaii’s unique “melting pot” of Pacific Rim cultures, languages and food on full display, guests at STIX ASIA will quickly grow fond of newly discovered items and longtime favorites all under one roof.

Here, taste buds can do the traveling, as diners absorb the alluring aromas coupled with the intriguing sights and sounds at STIX ASIA. Chefs from various countries including China, Japan, Korea, Singapore and Taiwan transport guests through authentic interpretations of stellar cuisine. Diners are encouraged to ask questions and learn about the new experiences while indulging.

Ramen Akatsuki: Akatsuki Chashu Ramen ($20)

Located in the lower level of Waikiki Shopping Plaza in the heart of Waikiki, STIX ASIA makes it possible for guests to enjoy a foray into food and beverages as they gain a profound knowledge of cultural roots through various cooking styles, flavors and techniques.

Guests have an array of choices when visiting STIX ASIA as 16 restaurants and a bar compose the robust food hall. Choices range from Michelin Guide-rated ramen to Asian-inspired cocktails. Simple dishes include soba noodles, Taiwanese noodles, freshly made udon noodles, Korean and Cantonese food, crispy tempura, and musubi enhanced with skillfully contrasted flavors and textures. Diners can even end the experience with a green tea parfait as the well-rounded culinary experience is reminiscent of Tokyo’s Tsukiji Market, known as Japan’s “Food Town.”

Tempura Kiki: Kiki Tendon ($19)

“If you love ethnic foods and looking for an authentic experience, STIX ASIA is the perfect dining venue,” says CEO Frank Clark. “Imagine trying various cuisines in one location; that’s what STIX ASIA offers.”

Sushi Matsuri has introduced a new menu that features Matsuri Makanai Bowl with Miso Soup ($16.75 at lunch only), while Shingen has also rolled out a new menu that includes refreshing Moringa Seiro ($12.80) noodles rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatories.

Scratch Xpress: Scratch Signature Croffles ($13.95), One Buta Bara Bao ($5.95), Croffle Eggs Benedict (prices vary) and Salmon Toro Don ($18.95)

Guests can keep an eye out for new restaurants joining the STIX ASIA restaurant family, including Tempura Kiki and the delicious Kiki Tendon ($19), Ramen Akatsuki featuring Akatsuki Chashu Ramen ($20), as well as new items being introduced to keep menus fresh and exciting.

Scratch Xpress is another new addition to the STIX ASIA array, and customers are already enjoying local favorites like Buta Bara Bao ($5.95), Scratch Signature Croffles ($13.95) and Salmon Toro Don (salmon belly, $18.95).

Shingen: Moringa Seiro ($12.80)

Check out the Shanghai Bar for happy hour specials available daily from noon to 5 p.m., including shot specials ranging from $5 to $9; red, white and sparkling wine varieties for just $9; and food deals including French Fries with Garlic Lemon Salt, Deep-Fried Calamari Ball and Onion Rings with Furikake ($5 each).

Shanghai Bar: happy hour menu (prices vary)

“STIX ASIA offers authentic affordable food from various Asian countries in an attractive dining experience,” Clark says. “Your taste buds will tingle as you explore cuisine from various countries, each offering a peek at its rich culture and history, ultimately expanding your horizons.”

Sushi Matsuri: Matsuri Makanai Bowl with Miso Soup ($16.75, lunch menu only)

Local diners are encouraged to check out STIX ASIA as all its restaurants and the bar offer kamaaina discounts. Additionally, two hours of validated parking are available from 5 to10 p.m. Mondays-Fridays and 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays at Waikiki Shopping Plaza. (To receive the parking validation, customers must present receipts from that day’s visit totaling at least $35 to receive a one-hour validation and at least $70 for a two-hour validation.)