January 4, 2015
Mamaya
Being the youngest of three siblings growing up, I learned at an early age that compromise and sharing were edicts, not options. I also was taught the tried-and-true lesson of the last-born — that from hand-me-down clothing to twice-used toys,…
January 4, 2015
Japengo
So impressed, I almost say, “Shut up,” to chef de cuisine Jon Matsubara from Hyatt’s Japengo when he describes the dish I am about to photograph. “It’s a loco moco with foie gras,” he says. Somehow, I manage to suppress…
January 4, 2015
Asian Mix
Typically, when looking for a place to eat, you have to think in terms of tradeoffs. If you want something fast, the quality might not be up to par. And if you want a truly high-quality meal, time shouldn’t be…
January 4, 2015
Sekiya's Restaurant
Since its opening almost 80 years ago, generations of families have been dining at Sekiya’s Restaurant & Delicatessen near Kapahulu. Even restaurant operations are spearheaded by the third generation, with the grandchildren of founders Taisuke and Katsuko Sekiya running the…
January 4, 2015
Mac 24/7 Bar & Restaurant, Yogurstory
Happy New Year! Let’s begin 2015 with something sweet and a little bit savory. I bet you’re thinking, oh no, more sugary desserts and sinful holiday fare? Nope, that’s not it. I’ve definitely had my fill of cookies, cakes, pies…
December 28, 2014
Romano's Macaroni Grill
For many of us, each new year symbolizes the chance to start anew in one form or another. On a recent visit to Romano’s Macaroni Grill, Ali Carte discovered that the same mentality holds true within the restaurant industry, as…
December 28, 2014
Max's of Manila
According to Max’s of Manila Dillingham branch manager Elizabeth Joven, the restaurant really prides itself on being a family-friendly eatery. Because of such ethos, Max’s of Manila likes to create a special menu just for the holiday season. The restaurant…
December 28, 2014
Hung Won Seafood Restaurant
Though we’ve never met, Kevin Li immediately bids me a warm welcome as soon as I enter his Chinese eatery. And as I take a seat at one of the tables next to the window that’s filling the clean, spacious…
December 28, 2014
Fairwood Drive Inn and Pho 27 Cafe
If variety is the spice of life, then that explains why food from Fairwood Drive-Inn & Hi-Yip Cuisine is chock-full of vitality and flavor. Ever the picture of versatility, the Kaimuki eatery — previously known as Fairwood Drive Inn &…
December 28, 2014
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue
Since its opening in 1995, Windward City Shopping Center’s L&L Hawaiian Barbecue in Kaneohe has become a generational favorite for many families in the neighborhood, much like it is at other L&L locations throughout the state. “I’ve watched a lot…
