Hawaii Mom Blog: waikiki

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Showing posts with label waikiki. Show all posts
Showing posts with label waikiki. Show all posts

November 6, 2025

Botanico Now Open - Waikiki's Urban Italian Retreat

Spaghetti Pescatore

Botanico, the 12th Hawai’i restaurant and newest concept from the Zetton Group has opened and is now serving lunch and dinner. Located in the Waikiki Shopping Plaza, the Italian eatery is meant to be warm and inviting; a sort of hideaway from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki. 

On the menu are pasta, fresh seafood, and a curated menu of Mediterranean favorites by Executive Chef Yuta Tamano. My favorites from the media preview dinner were the House Bolognese, Braised Beef Cheek, and the Moussaka with Pinsa Bread. Gluten-free spaghetti is also available on the menu. 

Charcuterie

Moussaka with Pinsa bread - Greek style eggplant gratin, beef ragu, bechamel sauce, potatoes

Beet & Cauliflower Hummus

Burrata & Tomato

Pan Seared Ahi & Mediterranean Vegetables

Vongole E Bottarga Conchiglie - clams, bottarga, garlic white wine sauce

Carbonara with Housemade Pancetta

House Bolognese

Braised Beef Cheek

Pork Milanese

Gorgeous dining area

Outside seating

Botanico is open daily from 11:30am to 11pm and provides 3 hours validated parking at Waikiki Shopping Plaza. Reservations are available via OpenTable and walk-ins are also welcome.

Botanico
Waikiki Shopping Plaza 1F
2250 Kalakaua Ave #101
Honolulu, HI 96815
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May 6, 2025

HALEKULANI'S LA MER ANNOUNCES SPECIAL TASTING DINNER WITH CHÂTEAU CHEVAL BLANC + May events

 

On June 27,  2025, La Mer proudly welcomes the Grands Vins of Château Cheval Blanc, St.-Émilion, along with its  esteemed Cellar Master, Carole AndréGuests will embark on an unforgettable journey through a meticulously curated menu paired with some  of the most iconic vintages from Château Cheval Blanc, Cheval des Andes, and Château d'Yquem. Each  dish, crafted by La Mer's Executive Chef Alexandre Trancher, will be harmoniously paired with  exceptional wines selected by Sommelier Kevin Toyama and guided by Maître d’ Stephen Oyadomari

Ms. André will guide attendees through an immersive tasting experience, exploring the rich heritage and  history of one of Bordeaux's most celebrated Châteaux. As a pivotal figure in the wine industry, Ms.  André oversees the cellar teams across three estates, enhancing the precision and quality of their wines. 

Guests will begin the evening with Champagne Krug, Grand Cuvée 169ème Édition Brut, setting the  stage for a spectacular dining experience. The menu celebrates culinary artistry and wine excellence,  beginning with a Scallop-Kiwi Salad accompanied by Lemon Parsley Sorbet, Caviar-Sesame Tuiles, paired  with Le Petit Cheval Blanc 2021. Diners will then savor Abalone-Escargot complemented by Roasted  Cauliflower Mousseline and Cheval des Andes 2021. The journey continues with Steamed Turbot  Matelote, Maui Onion Stew, and Chasseur Garnish, paired with Château Cheval Blanc, Premier Grand  Cru Classé 2012, followed by Wagyu Beef with Pea Purée and Sugar Pea, paired with Château Cheval  Blanc 2009 and 2006. To conclude, a delightful Vanilla, Banana, and Apricot dessert paired with Château  d'Yquem, Sauternes 2016. 

Date: June 27, 2025 
Time: 6:30 pm 
Location: La Mer – Halekulani – 2199 Kalia Road, Honolulu, HI 96813 
Price: $675.00 per guest (inclusive), 21 and over only. 
No menu substitutions


UMI BY VIKRAM GARG IS CELEBRATING ITS TWO-YEAR ANNIVERSARY


On Sunday, May 11th, UMI by Vikram Garg celebrates its second anniversary and Mother's Day with a special five-course dinner menu featuring spring vegetables and fruits, inspired by Chef Garg's mother and mother-in-law.


Enjoy a seafood-centric menu with seasonal ingredients and bold global flavors. For more information or reservations, call 808-724-4244.


Breakfast Served Daily: 7:00 am -11:00 am (Last Seating 10:30 am)

Sunday Brunch: 9:00 am - 12:30 pm (Last Seating 12:30 pm)

Dinner Served Wednesday to Sunday: 5:30 pm -10:00 pm (Last Seating 8:30pm)


LEWERS LOUNGE PRESENTS CLOVER CLUB & MILADY'S TAKEOVER. MAY 18-19, 2025
For two nights only, New York City's acclaimed bars, Clover Club and Milady's, bring their signature cocktails to Lewers Lounge. Julie Reiner, renowned mixologist and owner of both establishments, returns to her Oahu roots to craft exclusive creations alongside our Director of Mixology, Tuda Sarian. Savor Clover Club's award-winning classics, like the Clover Club Cocktail, on Sunday, May 18, and experience Milady's vibrant energy on Monday, May 19. A rare chance to indulge in world-class cocktails, island style


THE WAITIKI 7 RETURNS TO HOUSE WITHOUT A KEY! MAY 23-25, 2025

    

Back by popular demand, The WAITIKI 7 will captivate audiences with their "Exotica" music—a blend of easy listening instrumentation and faraway soundscapes. Featuring unforgettable music in a serene island setting and perfectly themed drinks, this experience is not to be missed! A $7.00 per person entertainment cover charge will apply. To reserve your table, please call 808-518-2019. Inquire about the VIP Pass to meet the band before the concert.

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January 23, 2025

Roy's Waikiki Brings Back Lunch!

Roy's Signature Cocktail - Pineapple Dream

Starting this week, Roy's Waikiki will be open daily for lunch from 11:30am to 2pm. Dine in and be treated to live music while enjoying new lunch exclusives and complimentary valet parking at the Embassy Suites Hotel from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. 

New items on the lunch menu include the "Hapa" BBQ Duck Confit Monte Cristo and Chef's pick Sambal Plum Glazed C.A.B. 8 oz. Burger while Roy's Classics like the Bigeye Blackened Ahi, Misoyaki Butterfish, and Chinese Style Steamed Snapper will also be offered during lunch. After lunch, happy hour specials begin from 2pm to 4pm.

 

Sambal Plum Glazed C.A.B. 8 oz. Burger


Chinese Style Steamed Snapper

Misoyaki Butterfish

"Hapa" BBQ Duck Confit Monte Cristo

Bigeye Blackened Ahi

Frying Dragon Roll

Kanpachi Crudo

HK Style Crab Cakes

Roy's Waikiki
226 Lewers Street
808-923-7697


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January 14, 2025

Redfish Poke Bar Waikiki

Thank you to our sponsor for this complimentary meal. All reviews and opinions are my own.


Redfish Poke Bar by Foodland, tucked away in a quieter corner of Waikiki, is a hidden gem that offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of the main streets. The location, off the beaten path, makes it easily accessible by car and provides a more laid-back vibe, perfect for those seeking a relaxed, open-aired dining experience.





What sets Redfish apart is its innovative approach to poke. The menu features a creative array of poke varieties, available in unique flavor combinations that are sure to satisfy any craving. Whether you're a traditionalist or looking to try something new, there's something for everyone. In addition to their poke, Redfish offers a selection of "small bites" — perfect for appetizers — and "medium bites," which are ideal for sharing family-style.

For families, the keiki menu is a great option, and for those looking to unwind, the happy hour (2 PM - 5:30 PM daily) is not to be missed. The beverage menu is just as diverse, featuring both boozy and non-boozy drinks that complement the fresh, flavorful dishes.

We had the pleasure of trying a few dishes during our visit, and we were impressed by the bold flavors and fresh ingredients. 



Okonomiyaki Fries








Crispy Chicken Wings


Poke Flight


Hamachi (Ginger Scallion +$3)

Salmon (Hawaiian)

Ahi (Hawaiian)


Short Rib Loco Moco





Shrimp & Garlic Noodles








Malasada Bites



Chocolate Haupia Sundae

The highlight of the meal was definitely the Poke Trio. The poke was incredibly fresh and packed with flavor. The Okonomiyaki Fries would delicious but it would have been even better if the fries were served hot. The malasada bites were our favorite dessert of the two desserts we tried. 

A big thank you to our sponsors for inviting us to experience one of Waikiki's best spots for local favorites and poke!



Hours:
Sunday - Thursday, 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Friday & Saturday, 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Located in the Wayfinder Waikiki
2375 Ala Wai Blvd.
Honolulu. 96815

(808) 921-3220

Validated Parking: $6 for 3 hours (valet only)

Kama'aina Discount: 10% off with Hawaii I.D.




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December 19, 2024

Skybox Taphouse

We recently got takeout from Skybox Taphouse at the International Marketplace.

Skybox Taphouse offers a nice menu of sports bar type eats - pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, and a nice selection of appetizers.
 

Fried Pickles

The Fried Pickles were addicting.  I loved the crunchy, coated sour pickles!  

Tenders & Fries

Chicken Tenders & Fries always satisfies.  I thought the chicken was tastier than the original waffle-battered strips I tried the last time.  
Fried Chicken Sandwich with Bacon
Wagyu Smash Burger

Aloha Pizza

We all enjoyed the food!


Skybox Taphouse
2330 Kalakaua Ave Suite 302
Honolulu, HI 96815
(808) 378-8542
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July 25, 2024

Sansei Seafood Restaurant & Sushi Bar in Waikiki


On our Staycation in Waikiki, we popped into Sansei Seafood Restaurant & Sushi Bar, located on the third floor of the Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa.  It's been ages since we dined here (last time was definitely before the arrival of our twins) and it's still a great place for sushi and other local favorites, with a breathtaking view of Waikiki Beach. 

The husband ordered the Chirashi, which consisted of generous cuts of sashimi.




I had to get the Panko Crusted Ahi Sashimi, which is one of their award-winning appetizers. 


My son just loves his salmon nigiri. This one did not disappoint.


He also ordered a tekka maki roll. 


Mom's Teriyaki Steak was a heaping pile of juicy, grilled teriyaki steak. 


The other son ordered the Grilled Prime New York Steak. It comes with choice of sauce but he opted for it plain. It actually needs no sauce - it was quite tasty and juicy on its own!


Here's the view from the restaurant's balcony. I highly recommend dining here before the sun goes down, so that you can enjoy this view!!



 P.S.  They have an Early Bird Special on Sundays and Mondays from 5 pm - 5:30. Seating is limited and on a first come first served basis (I've heard people line up before the restaurant opens to ensure they get in on this deal (50% off - some menu items are excluded).

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SANSEI SEAFOOD RESTAURANT & SUSHI BAR
2552 KALAKAUA AVENUE
808-931-6286

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