Page 4 - Dining Out - Sep 19 2021

Story by
KYLE GALDEIRA
Photos by
LAWRENCE TABUDLO
The skilled team at Akira Japanese Restaurant is cooking up an array of delicious dishes available for dine-in and takeout service as local residents and businesses deal with the physical distancing and gathering mandates implemented as part of the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.
Chef and owner Taiki Kawai explains that the restaurant’s new, temporary operating hours are Monday through Saturday from 3:30 to 9:30 p.m. for takeout service, and 4:30-10 p.m. for dine-in service with last call taking place at 9:30 p.m.
“We’re sorry for the inconvenience and hope to be back to regular operations soon.” Kawai says. “I want our guests to enjoy Akira’s food and excellent customer service. I know it’s hard for everyone as we deal with these challenging times, but we are doing the best we can to keep our customers happy here at Akira.”
Situated conveniently in the eleven50 Building on King Street (the parking en- trance is on Young Street), Akira Japanese Restaurant is easily accessible for those stopping in for a dine-in meal, or to enjoy tasty to-go items. When the eatery reopens to full service, it’s the perfect destination for a pau hana get-together, or a de- licious lunch or dinner with family
and friends.
Kawai and his team prepare tra-
ditional Japanese cuisine featuring local ingredients made meticulous- ly to order. Kawai specializes in the kaiseki style of Japanese cooking that incorporates small course meals infused with the freshest ingredients, which results in exquisite flavor, beautiful presentation and a mem- orable “spirit.”
Seared Shine Saba ($7.50) is an
ideal appetizer for guests to start a meal with, as the roasted mackerel is accented with vinegar to enhance the flavor. Grape- fruit Tai Snapper Carpaccio ($12.50) is an- other starter on the a
la carte menu that is centered around the
Akira Japanese Restaurant executive chef/owner Taiki Kawai (right) and his wife Itsuko
firm-yet-flaky fish.
Spicy Hamachi Tataki ($9.50) is another
must-try starter as the grilled yellowtail is prepared with a zesty sauce. Spicy Hamachi
4 / Dining Out / Sept. 19-25, 2021
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