Sawara Tataki ($16)
While Akira Japanese Restaurant is based on traditional Japanese cuisine, it also incorporates the best of Hawaii’s own ingredients. Owner and chef Taiki Kawai was born in Hyogo, Japan. Kawai has been refining his cooking skills since 1995. He became chef of Kaimana Beach Hotel in 2005. Then, in 2018, he became the chef at Akira Japanese Restaurant, where he continues to perfect his craft.
Located in the eleven50 Building — the parking entrance is on Young Street — the eatery offers various menus for guests to choose from, including lunch, a la carte, happy hour and takeout.
Its teishoku menu allows patrons to choose any one or two items for a set price (other items are available for a small upcharge). The meal comes with an appetizer, salad, pickles, rice, miso soup or mini udon.
Its kaiseki-style menu features beautifully presented small course meals. It typically includes an appetizer, sashimi, sushi, an assortment of steamed, grilled, simmered and fried dishes, soup and dessert.
We spoke to Kawai to learn more about his favorite Akira Japanese Restaurant menu items.
DO: What makes Akira Japanese Restaurant unique from other eateries?
TK: Akira Japanese Restaurant is unique because we offer a wide range of prices and a wide variety of menu items.
DO: Is there any special meaning behind the restaurant’s name?
TK: The restaurant’s name is special because Akira is my father’s name.
DO: Can you tell us about four to five of your best drinks/dishes?
TK: My favorite drink is the Yuzu Beer ($8.50) and the Satsuma Shiranami Imo Shochu ($32 for a bottle). Popular a la carte dishes are the Boiled Tofu ($7.50), Seared Marinated Mackerel ($8.50), and Gindara Saikyoyaki ($14). They are perfect to go with alcohol.
DO: What’s your favorite dish on the menu?
TK: My favorite dish is the Horse Mackerel (seared) for $16.
DO: What’s in store for Akira Japanese Restaurant in 2024?
TK: We will be holding our sixth anniversary event soon.
DO: What would you say to encourage people to dine here?
TK: I would say, “please come to Akira and enjoy our service and food.”
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