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August is a special month for my friend and me — we both celebrate our birthdays! Last year, we marked the occasion with dinner at Miro Kaimuki, and we loved it so much that we decided to keep the tradition alive with another Chris Kajioka restaurant. This year, we chose Leila in Kaimuki, and once again, it did not disappoint.
While Leila has a different concept from Miro, the excellence in food and service carried through — same chef, same level of greatness!
The menu at Leila is prix fixe, with a few optional add-ons. We started with a non-alcoholic drink intriguingly named Mango Ricotta. We had to ask our server about it — ricotta in a drink? Turns out, the ricotta adds texture but doesn’t affect the flavor (thankfully!). Strange name, surprisingly good drink.
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The prix fixe lineup featured:
Endive
Carbonara
Beef Cheek
Crème Brûlée
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We couldn’t resist adding on the Wagyu Brioche ...
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and the focaccia -- and we're so glad we did!
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Every dish was incredible. The food was rich — definitely not everyday fare, but perfect for a special celebration. The Wagyu was melt-in-your-mouth tender, the Carbonara (served not on pasta, surprisingly) was unique and delightful, and the Beef Cheek stole the show with its depth of flavor. We ended on a sweet note with a well-executed Crème Brûlée.
And of course, the service was five-star — attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable, just as we’ve come to expect from a Kajioka restaurant.
All in all, Leila was the perfect place to celebrate another trip around the sun. Different vibe than Miro, but every bit as memorable. If you're looking for a refined dining experience in Kaimuki with thoughtful dishes and top-notch service, Leila should be on your list.
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