Monkeypod Kitchen Waikiki

Bulgogi pork tacos

If dinner with a sunset view and gorgeous ocean seating is on your radar, then Monkeypod
Kitchen Waikiki is a great option. Located in the Outrigger Reef Waikiki, this location is the
largest of Merriman’s Monkeypod Kitchens in the state, but rest assured the menu is structured the same with fan favorites like the garlic truffle fries and their famous cream pies. One thing that is different is that the Waikiki location offers breakfast.

We were glad we made reservations because the restaurant was packed and the wait for walk-ins was over 45 minutes. Bar seating is first come first serve. Although we had a reservation, we waited for an ocean side table to become available.

Garlic truffle fries

Kalua pork and pineapple pizza

Gorgeous view

Before arriving to the restaurant I knew the Outrigger charged $15 for valet parking for four hours with restaurant validation. I must admit, I was a little salty about it, but after my dining experience I didn’t mind as much. The restaurant has a great ambience, our food was delcious, and our server was excellent. It made for such a wonderful and fun night that I could overlook the higher-than-normal parking charge.

Monkeypod Kitchen Waikiki2169 Kalia RdHonolulu, HI 96815

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Dinner at Merriman's Waimea

I had one of the best meals in recent history when I dined at Merriman's Waimea for dinner last month.

I was bummed that I missed Chef Chad once again, but the dinner and service were both fabulous.

Ceviche

We were presented with some Ceviche, courtesy of Chef Loetree.  The bright notes of citrus rounded out the ceviche, which paired nicely with the Molokai sweet potato chips and Hirabara Farms baby romaine.

Vine-Ripened Tomatoes from Hawai`i Island

Don't let this simple dish fool you.  The tomatoes were big on flavor, accompanied by blue cheese, crispy capers, and a delightful basil-lemon vinaigrette.

Homemade Buttermilk Biscuits

I've tried the Biscuits at the Honolulu location (where they are very popular), so I couldn't resist ordering them at the Waimea location.  They were nicely-sized and "just like grandma used to make."  I may or may not have eaten all but one of the biscuits...

Braised Lamb from Kahua Ranch

The Braised Lamb was served with housemade pappardelle, Hamakua mushrooms, and smoked pecorino.  The friend who ordered this kept exclaiming how it was "so f****** good."  And I agree - the pasta was perfect, and the lamb was delicious - not gamey at all!  

Potatoes

I decided to just go with small plates for my main meal, one of which was the Potatoes. Roasted with Parmesan, they were perfectly crisp on the outside, and so soft on the inside.

 

Kalua Pig & Sweet Onion Quesadilla

I've had the popular Quesadilla at other Merriman's locations, and it did not disappoint!  It was served with a housemade kim chee, and a tangy mango chili sauce that complemented the quesadilla nicely.  

I was actually too stuffed for dessert and was not planning on getting any, but our server, Tom, presented us with a Strawberry Cream Pie.  I am not a huge pie fan, but I LOVE the pies at Merriman's.  The pies originated at the Waimea location, and they are looking to bring it back on the dessert menu.  I hope they do, because the pies are just heavenly!

I already can't wait to go back for dinner!

Merriman's Waimea

65-1227 Opelo Rd B

Waimea, HI 96743

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