Da Nang Beach ($19)
Opened just two years ago, Vegan Hills has won the hearts of folks from all over Oahu and beyond, many of whom, never dreamed that vegan fare could be so downright delicious.
With carefully tended planters of fresh herbs just outside its back door, this little Kaimuki bistro is the real vegan deal. Those herbs, along with other organic and local ingredients, are used to create fantastic sandwiches, bowls, soups and salads. For those who enjoy spirits, Vegan Hills offers organic wines and cocktails, available all day long. Carnivores won’t miss their chops and burgers a bit, and true vegans will find much to celebrate.
Spicy Da Kalbi ($18 lunch, $19 dinner)
A dish that becomes an instant favorite of everybody who tries it is Spicy Da Kalbi ($18 lunch, $19 dinner), according to manager Kellee Comeau.
“My boyfriend is super non-vegan and claims this is the best vegan dish he’s ever had,” she reports.
The bowl features house-marinated soy curls that mimic kalbi beef, spicy red miso paste and Korean chili threads (also known as dragon whiskers), all of which are served atop brown rice and mixed greens with Tamari-sesame oil dressing.
Tu-Not Melt ($18)
Bright with the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine, Da Nang Beach ($19) comes with chilled rice noodles topped with mixed greens, house-marinated soy curl “chicken,” deep-fried tofu, red cabbage, carrots, cilantro, watermelon radish, pea tendrils, sweet and spicy dressing, and house-made peanut sauce.
Tu-Not Melt ($18), available only at dinnertime, is a panini made of country bread with vegan provolone, house-made soy “tuna,” avocado and house-made dill mayo.
“Inspired by the classic American after-school treat, it’s another favorite for non-vegans,” says Comeau.
Vegan Hills fills up fast, so reservations are strongly urged at least 45 minutes in advance for weekend brunches and dinners.
“We also recommend getting people to join you, so you can try everything family-style,” says Comeau. “The more people you bring, the more dishes you can try.”
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