New Establishments

[Pomai]

While we continue to discuss those disappearing establishments (http://www.hawaiithreads.com/showthread.php?t=7134), it's also important to note those new establishments that take their place. Or any new restaurant or related business that you've heard about, seen or visited. Here's the place to discuss them.

Here's the former Jack in the Box in Waikiki on the corner of McCully and Kalakaua Ave...

http://www.96seven44.com/images/jack_box_mccully_closed.jpg

And here's the new establishment...

http://www.96seven44.com/images/jibwaikiki_buffet.jpg

It appears the only name they go by is
Japanese
Chinese
American
Buffet

Which sounds more like a description of the restaurant than their business name. I don't know. Haven't walked in yet. They appear to have been steady with business ever since opening up. Easy to understand with the price listing on the window which states "All You Can Eat" & "All You Can Drink" @ $7.99 for breakfast, $9.99 for lunch and $11.99 for dinner. When they first finished the renovations, the entire building was painted that hideous pink color. Probably someone complained, so now the only pink remaining is under that gazebo near the entrance.

Today I also spotted a new Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf (http://coffeebean.com) on the corner of Monsarrat Ave. and Cambell Ave (Diamond Head/Kapahulu area, across the street from the former Burgerland). It's a newly-built stand-alone establishment that used to be a gas station. Looks like they're trying to beat those "Star Guys" to the punch, getting that precious corner-lot space. It was open for business, although the lot was empty. I'm sure they get busy during the morning and after-dinner hours.

On a side note, today I got my Ahi-Ogo Poke at Aina Haina Foodland then sat down and enjoyed it at Kahala Beach. It was an absolutely GORGEOUS beach day. Gorgeous.

[DannyWilliams]

:confused:

Don't wanna be jumpin the gun but the new place looks
howshouldisay


TACKY?



I will always remember it as JACQUE IN THE BOX:D

[joshuatree]

One thing I've noticed about new independent "mom & pop" startups that take over former fast food locations. They usually leave the fast food architecture intact and simply provide a new coat of paint and some minor tweaks, that's it. Guess when you don't have a huge budget, architecture becomes second priority. I've seen former Taco Bell locations become Pho places. Kinda wierd eating Asian cuisine in a Hacienda-style joint. :D

[Pomai]

One thing I've noticed about new independent "mom & pop" startups that take over former fast food locations. They usually leave the fast food architecture intact and simply provide a new coat of paint and some minor tweaks, that's it. Guess when you don't have a huge budget, architecture becomes second priority. I've seen former Taco Bell locations become Pho places. Kinda wierd eating Asian cuisine in a Hacienda-style joint. :DI totally agree. Boston's North end Pizza did the same thing when they took over a few former Pizza Hut Restaurants around the island. But at least that was along the same theme.

Reminds me of the movie Coming to America, where they had a "McDowell's".

Legalities aside, imagine if these chinese buffet folks at this former Waikiki Jack in the Box location named the place "Jacky Chan in the Box". :D

With offerings like the "Lup Cheong Jack" and "Schezuan Seasoned Curly Fries". :cool:

With their mascot being the Jack CEO, but instead of round eyes, they would be slanted, with a "Fu Man Chu" goatie. lol

[joshuatree]

I think I'll pass on Jack's Lup Cheong, just doesn't sound right. :p

[Random]

What's with the pink paint?

Oh, I'm sorry. "Hot Pink."

[MonkeyMan]

I wonder if any of them remember when Jack Cione brought in a bunch of pigs and was raising them on that property? Waaaay back.

[CranBeree]

for all u Nico's fans...here's another place for you to try!!

http://www.khon2.com/news/local/8101297.html

don't forget to click on the video!

[tikiyaki]

Today I also spotted a new Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf (http://coffeebean.com) on the corner of Monsarrat Ave. and Cambell Ave (Diamond Head/Kapahulu area, across the street from the former Burgerland). It's a newly-built stand-alone establishment that used to be a gas station. Looks like they're trying to beat those "Star Guys" to the punch, getting that precious corner-lot space. It was open for business, although the lot was empty. I'm sure they get busy during the morning and after-dinner hours.

On a side note, today I got my Ahi-Ogo Poke at Aina Haina Foodland then sat down and enjoyed it at Kahala Beach. It was an absolutely GORGEOUS beach day. Gorgeous.

Regarding Starbux and Coffee Bean....

What's your guys' take on one vs the other ?

For my basic everyday addiction....triple espresso over lots of ice...SBux all the way. But when I want a blended icy treat...Coffee Bean's ice blended are better to me than the SBux Frappacinos. Their Black Forest ice blended is super ono....ice, espresso, mocha mix, chocolate covered espresso beans, and marashino cherries, blended up and topped with whipped cream. SO good.

Their ice blended vanilla is great too.

[CranBeree]

Regarding Starbux and Coffee Bean....

What's your guys' take on one vs the other ?

For my basic everyday addiction....triple espresso over lots of ice...SBux all the way. But when I want a blended icy treat...Coffee Bean's ice blended are better to me than the SBux Frappacinos. Their Black Forest ice blended is super ono....ice, espresso, mocha mix, chocolate covered espresso beans, and marashino cherries, blended up and topped with whipped cream. SO good.

Their ice blended vanilla is great too.


after trying other coffee places around here..i have discovered that SBux makes coffee flavored milk :P

[WindwardOahuRN]

after trying other coffee places around here..i have discovered that SBux makes coffee flavored milk :P


I am SO out of the loop.

Gimme the trucker's coffee---7-11. Lotsa caffeine, fix it yourself stuff.

[Pomai]

for all u Nico's fans...here's another place for you to try!!

http://www.khon2.com/news/local/8101297.html

don't forget to click on the video!Mahalo for the tip Cran'! I watched the whole video. Long one!

When I drove by Nimitz yesterday I noticed the "Uncle’s Fish Market and Grill" banner. So they'll open next week Wednesday. Nicely done place.

GRILL. FLAMES. Teriyaki Fish Burgers. 11 oz. Opah. Ono. OMG! Plus fish 'n chips made with your choice of FRESH fish. Reminds me of Alexander's in Kihei. In fact, the owner apparently is from Maui.

They even have an "Ahi room". Get a load of that! I want one of those.

I imagine the menu prices might get steep ("based on market value"), but hopefully it will be within reason to go for a typical day's lunch.

'

[1stwahine]

I watched the Video dat Cran put up on onnada Forum.;)

I wuz so excited, I rushed into my room and got ready while PK watch the rest of the Video. He was too excited to realize it will open next week.:eek: We went to Uncle's. And soon learned the place wuz CLOSED!:o

HAHAHAHAHAHA

Took pictures, will post laterz.:

Auntie Lynn

[1stwahine]

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w161/1stwahine2/HPIM2356.jpg
Uncle's @ Pier 38!:D

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w161/1stwahine2/HPIM2357.jpg
In the front/left of Uncle's!

Auntie Lynn

[scrivener]

When I drove by Nimitz yesterday I noticed the "Uncle’s Fish Market and Grill" banner. So they'll open next week Wednesday. Nicely done place.
That sign's been there for more than a month. I'll give it a try, but it's going to be tough to beat Nico's.

[Pomai]

Auntie, you should've shook and pounded on the door and yelled, "Let me in, gunfunnit! Do you know who I am? I'm Auntie Lynn.. da' beautiful and honorable Princess and Queen of Honolulu's Chinatown!" :D

'Den invite all us folks heah at HT fo' one pre-opening sample of da' grilled fish action!

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w161/1stwahine2/HPIM2356.jpg
Uncle's @ Pier 38!

Auntie Lynn

[1stwahine]

Auntie, you should've shook and pounded on the door and yelled through, "Let me in, gunfunnit! Do you know who I am? I'm Auntie Lynn.. da' beautiful and honorable Princess and Queen of Honolulu's Chinatown!" :D

'Den invite all us folks heah at HT fo' one pre-opening sample of da' grilled fish action!

I did...I pounded dee door!!! PK got sked.:p HAHAHAHAHA

We walked around and found Nico's. We'll be going back there to try it too. I was disappointed Uncle's wasn't opened. We went to McDonald's instead.hehehe On our way home, we stopped at HCC and bought Huli Huli Chicken.

On the stove I'm making Spaghetti with Italian Sausage. I go take picture wen pau!

Auntie Lynn

btw: I'm neither a Queen, Princess and Beautiful! I'm just ME!! Auntie PuPule!!;)

[Pomai]

Re: Uncle’s Fish Market and Grill, opening on Wednesday, June 27th at Pier 38
That sign's been there for more than a month. I'll give it a try, but it's going to be tough to beat Nico's.Goes to show how often I drive west-bound past the greater downtown area.

I've never been to Nico's (http://www.nicospier38.com/). Attempted once, but it was so busy, we drove off for Bob's Bar-B-Que up the street. What's recommended at Nico's?

I'm also curious how this Pier 38 area thrives during dinner and late-night hours. Seems somewhat risky if your business model mostly depends on the work-week breakfast and lunch hour rush. Especially being tucked away in industrial Kalihi -- waterfront location notwithstanding.

[scrivener]

I've never been to Nico's (http://www.nicospier38.com/). Attempted once, but it was so busy, we drove off for Bob's Bar-B-Que up the street. What's recommended at Nico's?
I eat there two or three times per week. It's all good. Get the catch of the day or the furikake ahi. I took a visitor there once, and he had the fish and chips and really liked it.

[CranBeree]

the ahi belly and calamari salad is good at Nico's.

oh and does it really matter cuz Nico's gets their fish the same place as Uncle's. so i think its more of a different style of cooking/menu.

and the biggest difference is you have either a choice out outdoor/indoor seating as opposed to just outside seating.

just a few observations, mind you.

[Pomai]

Sighted last night at Waikiki Beach Walk on Lewers, a new restaurant named Holokai Grill (http://www.holokaigrill.com/postindex/index.htm) on the top floor. Big place. What's with the big screen plasma TVs in every restaurant nowadays? They all wanna' be sports bars too, or what? Otherwise nice looking place. See link for menu.

Also recently opened right next door to Holokai Grill is Ruth's Chris Steak House. Very elegant setting.

Had a nightcap at the Yard House. Pretty busy for a Sunday night.

[glossyp]

As Pomai notes, there are a slew of new places to eat in town including Persian, Jamaican and a new Chinese restaurant at Westridge in Aiea. Trying to keep up with all of them, I created a new category for easy viewing. Freshly opened restaurants (http://www.hawaiidiner.com/directory/results.php?format=75).

[shaveice]

i should have known you guys on top of everything! was planning to eat at nico's but saw that uncle's was open so i had lunch there and took some pictures to let everyone know but you guys are way ahead of me.

overall, i'd say the food was good but i'm not particularly impressed. i think i'm too picky. i had the seafood pasta and poke. a little pricey: about $14 for the pasta. i didn't order one but i recall that the burger was about $8.50. i think most dishes run around $14.

there are a lot of other dishes that i didn't sample so i'll leave it up to you guys to try and test.

i did like the tv screens with scenes of stuff like tuna fishing.

[CranBeree]

has anyone else eaten at Uncle's? wanna see what the reviews say before i eat there.

[Pomai]

Trying to keep up with all of them, I created a new category for easy viewing. Freshly opened restaurants (http://www.hawaiidiner.com/directory/results.php?format=75).Thanks to your wonderful article about the Mock Dinner at Roy's Waikiki (http://www.hawaiidiner.com/articles/article.php?article=488) over at HawaiiDiner.com, we decided to try it.

OMG, it was OFF THE CHARTS!

Here's a few dishes...

http://www.96seven44.com/images/roys_waikiki_monchonglobstersauce.jpg
Macadamia Nut Crusted Monchong with Main Lobster Cream Sauce

http://www.96seven44.com/images/roys_waikiki_braisedbeefrib.jpg
Slow Braised and Broiled Short Ribs of Beef

http://www.96seven44.com/images/roys_waikiki_birthdayparfait.jpg
Complimentary Birthday Parfait

More at my blog link...

[Erika Engle]

Hey MonkeyMan!
re: "I wonder if any of them remember when Jack Cione brought in a bunch of pigs and was raising them on that property? Waaaay back."

I worked in radio back then and it wasn't Jack Cione, but the infamous Gary Henig. The name of the business?

As he said to me ON TAPE (a soundbite I kept for many years):

"The dirty-nasty Tiki Torch, where naked ladies used to dance right in front of your face!"

He got so much gov't/community opposition for his strip bar and developed business problems ... and put the pig(s) on the property to thumb his nose at everybody. He eventually went away.

[MonkeyMan]

Aiyah! My bad! But I remembered the incident! :D

[leashlaws]

I have to say, I was as excited as many of you to know there was another place for lunch at Pier 38, Uncles. After seeing the video and walking by there before they opened I had high hopes and couldn't wait to eat there. Well let me say this, Nico has nothing to worry about and if anything will become even busier. First though, it is a lovely establishment in terms of decor and interior. There are flat screen TV's mounted showing fishing DVD's, Hawaiian music, they warehouse overhead ducts are murals of fish underwater. The seats are comfortable (and expensive, Smith & Hawken) - they have these at Windward Mall and I know shipping from that company is outrageous so I've been trying to think about how these places are getting them, maybe some wholesaler, anyway they're finished teak and very glossy and quite comfy.

You order your food at the counter from chalkboards posted overhead. Flashing pagers are given like Nico's to let you know to pick up your food. They print is kind of small and hard to read and is multi-colored which is pretty but not so practical. Of course they have at least 4 different fresh fish options prepared in as many ways in addition to the fish and chips style. I ADORE Nico's F&C, I love his wasabi cilantro sauce on the side and the malt vinegar, the fish (whatever type) flavor characteristics shine through his crunchy not overly thick batter. Uncle's was a mass of bland unseasoned panko smothering what should have been a delicious Opah. I'll give them credit that the little baskets they serve in are most attractive and unusual and if you love french fries your arteries will clog with joy because they give massive amounts. Served with a bland not even worthy of a bottle tartar sauce and a cocktail sauce that made myself and my companion cringe upon tasting. It's supposed to be wasabi but I'm not sure that would describe it, it was memorable in not a flattering way.

My friend ordered right behind me, a tuna fish sandwich ($9.50) and a take out order of Opah prepped with the olive oil and herbs. Almost 20 minutes after I had received my meal, 5 skinny sticks of overcrusted Opah, her sandwich was a cold tuna salad (which she expected), it was served on a large hamburger type roll that I'll grant was toasted, at some point because it was cold and probably prepped earlier. She ordered a side salad and the dressing was mediocre fat free from a bottle no doubt. The tuna salad seemed like it was mixed with cole slaw which gave it texture from the carrots and maybe more creamy than I would like due to the dressing. At that moment all I could think of was how good a tuna melt would have been. Her carry out of Opah was two huge slabs of fish that were dry and tasteless with white rice and again, that stinkin' same tartar sauce. Nico does such a great job of making so many different sauces to accompany his dishes, bravo! And as we tried on of the pieces of fish our immediate response was "this is not Opah" and it wasn't. It was overdone Mahi, we later found out that the other fish was indeed Opah but unfortunately flavorless despite the attempted preparation.

They do serve beer and wine and fountain drinks. I did not take time to look at the fresh fish and poke available for purchase adjacent to the counter ordering area although from far away it looked attractive.

The prices are almost double of Nico's, I wouldn't mind paying more if it were flavorful and worthy of the amount. My F&C were $13.65 (with tax)
and I was most disappointed, I saw the prep on the video and was watering at the mouth to try some. The fish dish was $14.95 and I don't think it will carry for what the outcome was. I can say I've been there and finsh with
Nico, you'll see me again and again and again, you've nothing to fear!;)

[1stwahine]

Mahalo for letting us know what you thought of Uncles. PK and I will be going there soon. I love Seafood. Especially, Fish. It's in my daily menu.:)

I'll be back with my report.;)

Auntie Lynn

[pzarquon]

Wow, thanks for the great writeup, leashlaws (http://www.hawaiithreads.com/member.php?u=4778). Of course I imagine most of us are curious enough to see for ourselves (read: learn the hard way), but it's nice to read a first-hand account!

Speaking of new establishments, here in the building where I work, "Licious Dishes (http://pacific.bizjournals.com/pacific/stories/2006/12/18/story8.html)" is in its first month of operation. It's not a restaurant, but one of those places where you pick up a batch of means for the week, then take them home. The twist being, the emphasis on vegan dishes. Raw, organic vegan dishes. Not everyone's taste, I imagine, but for the time-crunched health conscious (or those on newly restricted diets due to health issues), it may be a good choice!

[1stwahine]

Pz, the link goes to Pacific Business News.:confused:

I'll go check the place out.;)

Auntie Lynn

[tutusue]

Here (http://pacific.bizjournals.com/pacific/stories/2006/12/18/story8.html) ya go, Auntie!

[1stwahine]

Here (http://pacific.bizjournals.com/pacific/stories/2006/12/18/story8.html) ya go, Auntie!

Mahalo TutuSue!:D

They have a great idea for the working folks. Hmmm...if I had a place, I probably do something similar but with my kind of Homestyle KauKau. Ready to eat, affordable and onolicious.

Just a thought...foa now.heheheh

Auntie Lynn

[scrivener]

I have photos, but not where I am right now, so later.

Leashlaw's write-up is great, especially the description of the interior, but I disagree with a few things, and here's why.

It looks like the signature draw is going to be what Leashlaw described above but did not order: at least four catches of the day and four options for preparation. You choose your fish, you choose your preparation, and you plunk down your 12 to 16 dollars. For my fish, I ordered the ahi, and for the preparation, I went with the saute, which was in a wine-butter sauce. The portion was reasonable for the price (two medium-sized cuts of ahi). It came with rice (brown rice not an option) and cole slaw. I found the cole slaw to be positively yummy. The cabbage was shredded roughly (not pulverized like at KFC), but the carrots were grated finely. I can't explain why, but this is exactly the way I always wished cole slaw was made. I want big, crunchy strips of cabbage and tiny flecks of carrot, and that's what I got. For the first time in my life!

The fish was delicious; about what you can usually expect of the catch-of-the-day at Nico's. I do not like fish very much, but I love Nico's because of how fresh everything is. So for quality of fish, I'll call it a draw. You pay a little more for what you get at Uncle's, but you also get more fish. My total, with a soft drink from the soda fountain, was $16.02.

I do think Nico's will suffer a slight loss in business. If I were a tourist looking for a memorable dining experience, I'd have looked at both places and chosen Uncle's. This is assuming I didn't read any of the reviews, and I seldom do. $15 for lunch is about what I expect to pay anyway, and I want to sit down with friends somewhere cool and nice, and the interior of Uncle's is very, very inviting. As a devoted (two or three times per week) fan of Nico's, this is totally fine with me!

I flirted (I mean, I spoke) with the cutie who rung my bell (I mean, rung up my order) and she said they were still playing around with business hours. If Uncle's stays open past 6 (currently, I think they're open until 8), it will occasionally get my business where Nico's wouldn't, just because I often eat late.

The food was good. I liked the atmosphere. The service was decent. I'll definitely go there again when Nico's is closed.

[shaveice]

Speaking of new establishments, here in the building where I work, "Licious Dishes (http://pacific.bizjournals.com/pacific/stories/2006/12/18/story8.html)" is in its first month of operation. It's not a restaurant, but one of those places where you pick up a batch of means for the week, then take them home. The twist being, the emphasis on vegan dishes. Raw, organic vegan dishes. Not everyone's taste, I imagine, but for the time-crunched health conscious (or those on newly restricted diets due to health issues), it may be a good choice!

remember the waffle place in manoa (where boston's pizza is now located)? they had a similar thing but sadly are no longer there. maybe that part of the business (prepared meals) is still going on somewhere...

[Pomai]

New health center opening at old KC Drive Inn site (http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2007/Jul/13/br/br9136248507.html)

Thank goodness it's THAT, and not one more of those darned storage facilities, which is what it looked like it was going to be while under construction. Dayton Asato told me a doctor purchased the land from them, which makes sense for him to turn into a medical center.

Just a few blocks makai on Kapahulu, the new Safeway Center (http://starbulletin.com/2006/07/28/business/story01.html) is making progress. The main structures are completed. It's gonna' be HUGE. I can't wait for it to open. Of all the supermarkets, Safeway is my favorite for fresh deli and bakery items.

[1stwahine]

New health center opening at old KC Drive Inn site (http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2007/Jul/13/br/br9136248507.html)

Also, across Aala Park. Another Medical Building will be built!:D That huge area fronting Beretania, College Walk and Aala Street.

Auntie Lynn

[ploal5333]

This website,Urban Planet, shows the sketches of some of the aforementioned construction: http://www.urbanplanet.org/forums/lofiversion/index.php/t27055.html

[scrivener]

Have any of you tried the new sit-down restaurant in Aiea Bowl? I think it's called The Alley, and my friends have been hearing some good buzz about it for a couple of months or so.

We checked it out last night. The "tasty chicken" keeps coming up in conversation, so my friends and I all ordered that. The dinner plates offer a two-selection mixed plate (prices vary depending on the selections). One friend ordered just the tasty chicken; another ordered the tasty chicken with garlic shrimp; I had the tasty chicken with furikake ahi.

All our plates came with a choice or rice (white or brown) or mac salad, plus tossed salad. The tossed greens were quite good; I was really impressed with the tangy-spicy dressing.

The tasty chicken is very similar to Mitsuken's garlic chicken, deep-fried with a sweet garlic sauce. It was good, but I'm glad I didn't order a whole plate of it. The furikake ahi was similar to the dish with the same name at Nico's. I paid nine bucks for this plate, which I consider a very good deal. I didn't try my friend's shrimp, but they looked really, really good.

The desserts are supposed to be very good, too, but my friend's first choice was not still available (something very chocolatey), so she had the lemon crunch something something cake. It was okay.

The friend who ordered the shrimp and dessert also ordered a side of fries, and they were quite good. Better than your standard dish of fries.

Looks like there's a walk-up take-out, but I didn't take the time to compare offerings or prices.

The new restaurant at Aiea Bowl is definitely worth a try.

[Lei Liko]

So we checked out the Varsity (old Magoo's) last Friday and I managed to take a shot or two, and they were of the two most important parts of the bar -- the beer and the bathroom:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/0903/sandygurl/Sept07008.jpg

Such an improvement. Yes, that's paper towels and vanity mirrors you see. Nick, an employee that looks like he could be Elvis' Costello's son, checked the bathroom every hour to make sure everything was stocked up and the sink counters wiped down.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/0903/sandygurl/Sept07007.jpg

I paid $7 for my pitcher of Killian's Irish Red, but I'm not sure if the price is the same across the boards. I want to say that it's not $5 anymore, but that's quite alright with me. You can't tell from this photo, but the bar countertops are real countertops and not a piece of wood with multiple coats of paint. The hundreds of tables and chairs in the place are all brand new and not second-hand.

We didn't order anything to eat, but there was an Indian Curry counter on the premises. There are other things to eat, but I'm not sure what else is there. I'll keep an eye out next time. The wall that separated the kitchen from the rest of the bar at the old Magoo's has been knocked down, making more room for more tables and chairs and people.

All in all, the place looks more inviting and not so intimidating. I can't wait to go back next weekend.

[Pomai]

So we checked out the Varsity (old Magoo's) last Friday

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/0903/sandygurl/Sept07007.jpg

All in all, the place looks more inviting and not so intimidating. I can't wait to go back next weekend.That's alot of draft taps. Brings to mind the Yard House on Waikiki's Beach Walk. How many do they have there? Yard House has over 100. It's a "beer-meets-science" art. :cool:

[Lei Liko]

That's alot of draft taps. Brings to mind the Yard House on Waikiki's Beach Walk. How many do they have there? Yard House has over 100. It's a "beer-meets-science" art. :cool:

I tried counting the beer on the beer menu, but I never got to finish counting. :( I doubt they have as many as the Yard House, but that's okay because I hate that place with a passion. :)

I don't know if certain beers were added/taken out in the changeover, but according to one of the bartenders, they'll be doing a better job of replenishing the beer after it runs out. Credit the new management I don't know...but one thing I hated about Magoo's was seeing that list of 86'ed beers for that night.

[cynsaligia]

That's alot of draft taps. Brings to mind the Yard House on Waikiki's Beach Walk. How many do they have there? Yard House has over 100. It's a "beer-meets-science" art. :cool:

magoo's had 120 taps (http://starbulletin.com/2003/02/14/features/barfly.html), according to my much younger high school-mate, the barfly.

lei liko, a thousand thanks for going to varsity and reporting back! like the ocean club, magoo's is somewhere you and i went (not together, tho we might have been there at the same time, unwittingly) with HUGE sentimental value. while i'm glad for the gorgeous bathrooms at varsity, i have to admit i have this irrational fondness for the grunginess of the ladies' restroom at magoo's. maybe that's bcs everytime i went in there, i was pleasantly full of great pizza and tipsy with beer. anyway, based on your comments, eric and i will be asking some friends to join us there this coming friday. :D

[Pomai]

From the Disappearing Establishments thread...

To replace the TGI Friday's location in Waikiki: some kind of Hawaiian steakhouse (formerly Buzz's Steakhouse)

So the other day I snapped a photo of the place...

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1173/1485921264_65fd46816e_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photo_zoom.gne?id=1485921264&size=o)
Vit's Hawaiian Steak House - Formerly Buzz's Steak & Lobster

It looks like that might say "Wit's", but it's "Vit's", under the owner's name, Vit Udom.

Upon further research (http://starbulletin.com/2005/03/27/news/story3.html), come to find out this was the former Buzz's Steak & Lobster on Saratoga Rd. where the new Trump Tower is under construction. These folks aren't affiliated with the Buzz's Steakhouse (http://www.buzzssteakhouse.com) near Lanikai in Kailua and in Pearl City.

This is located on the ground floor of the Maile Sky Court Hotel on Kuhio Ave. in Waikiki (Ewa end).

If you look inside, it appears they retained the Stained Glass Chandeliers from TGI Friday's. On the outside, they replaced TGI's red and white striped awning with a thatched bamboo material for a more tropical look.

Anyone know what's happening with the TGI Friday's vacancy near the Blaisdell Center on King and Ward? Anything happening there yet? (that's off my beaten path)

[Pomai]

Sighted today, another "new" place coming soon...

PANDA EXPRESS (http://www.pandaexpress.com) will replace the former Wolfgang Puck Express at the front of Ward Entertainment Center, next door to Big City Diner.

To note, Wolfgang Puck Express (under same ownership) still operates the location in the Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel (near the wall).

[cynsaligia]

went to varsity tonight with eric and some friends. beer is the saving grace of that establishment, as is its atmosphere. the food, however? pizza hut by delivery, india cafe food that is a fraction as good as what you can have at india cafe itself, and bleh sushi. all the food was overpriced. we got four pieces of spicy tuna roll for almost four bucks. i said four pieces, not four rolls, mind you. that means four slices of sushi. almost four bucks. pizza was $20 + a pie and it seemed like if they didn't already have what you ordered in a warmer, they called pizza hut delivery and brought it to your table, still in the box. we ordered a pupu platter from the diner's side (as in diner's kalihi) which included an okay bit of steak, mostly soggy steak fries, meat jun that tasted more like bleh teri beef bathed in egg that didn't much cling to the meat like it should in a satisfactory meat jun. the worst part was the rock hard chicken katsu. rock hard, i kid you not. it made our homemade cursed chicken (http://www.hawaiithreads.com/showpost.php?p=164589&postcount=242) seem wonderfully edible. did i mention it was rock hard? i could have thrown it across the room and it would have acted exactly as you'd expect a hockey puck would. truly, i say this to you: rock hard. and not in any good way.

but the beer? heavenly in taste and price. pitchers could be had for as cheap as $6 to $14 i think. we had franceskanner, guiness (both alone and in black & tans), stella artois, and newcastle. we could have had black butte porter, dead man's ale, and any other of the 100 plus taps.

additionally, varsity has a lot of the same character ambiance-wise that made it as appealing to college students and older folk alike. great place to people watch, talk story, get blasted, then get sober and go home, with a belly and heart full of cameraderie that beer seems to inspire.

[Pomai]

SAFEWAY (KAPAHULU): SOFT OPENING DRAWS THE CROWDS (http://starbulletin.com/2007/11/09/news/story02.html)

I'm so jazzed about this new Kapahulu Safeway, which the article states is now the LARGEST IN THE NATION. Just from the looks of the front from the outside it looks awesome. I can't wait to check it out! Yipee!

[Honoruru]

SAFEWAY (KAPAHULU): SOFT OPENING DRAWS THE CROWDS (http://starbulletin.com/2007/11/09/news/story02.html)

I'm so jazzed about this new Kapahulu Safeway, which the article states is now the LARGEST IN THE NATION.

I'm tempted to check it out, too. But that's not my neighborhood, and the thought of traffic and parking is daunting. If I do go, will I be stuck in Kapahulu forever?

[AbsolutChaos]

The wedding cafe is opening a new location in Ward Warehouse.

[glossyp]

If I do go, will I be stuck in Kapahulu forever?
Possibly. I made the mistake of driving up Kapahulu yesterday morning (did not realize the grand opening was happening) and had the opportunity to view the store at leisure from my vehicle.

[cynsaligia]

we had drinks and pupu dinner with our friend "sam" at uncle bo's (http://starbulletin.com/2006/11/12/features/eater.html). on kapahulu we shared the thai-style wings, the new york steak, the manila clams--my absolute favorite treatment of clams on the island, which, according to our server, has 20-odd ingredients in it. besides chili and butter, there MUST be either fish sauce or a fish paste in there, and i promise that's the umph in the recipe. we also shared the spicy shrimp pasta dish which had enough shrimp for the three of us to have two or three.

a great meal shared with wonderful friends is always a lovely way to end a hard-worked week, but the noteworthy thing about last night was that after dinner, we visited the new monster safeway (http://starbulletin.com/2007/11/10/business/story01.html). and i kid you not when i say it's a monster. we live in kaimuki, so we passed the site often as it was being constructed, but viewing from off property somehow doesn't prepare you for the largeness of it.

when we made our left turn into the parking lot, it was already near 11 p.m. the street level lot was packed, and there were a number of white-shirted security officer and police helping guide traffic/ensure safety/peace (no protesters in sight tho when we went). we moved on to the second level parking, which looks rather like townhouse parking you'd see in makakilo (you'll understand when you go up there), and was about 3/4 full of cars. to get down, you can either take the stairs or ride the diamond head-side glass elevator down, which is a bit of a treat bcs as you go down, you get a view of the sushi bar and deli area. i'm not sure if there's another elevator at the other end of the building.

the elevator opens to the outside of the store, so you can get a cart. it was late, so there were only three people at the sushi bar and they were settling their bill. there's also a starbucks inside, but that wasn't open. the deli section is HUGE. the sheer variety of prepared foods shocked and awed. the usual safeway favorites were there, like watercress tofu salad, but there were some things i don't remember seeing at the makiki safeway i used to frequent, like the orzo salad or the berry salad. they had mortadella, capicolla as well as ham and turkey. cheese--ohmigawd. what cheese didn't they have? to put it in perspective, i think the size of their cheese section is as big as the wine section at costco iwilei. i don't think i've seen that same volume and number of variety of cheeses all in one place. the meat and seafood section is an expanse as well. what got us was the partially prepared meat section, which was covered since it was closed. but i lifted the sign they had covering the glass and gasped when i saw cornish game hens stuffed full with something that looked yummy. the bacon too...we need to go back just to get a closer look at all of that.

on to the fruit and veggies, and it becomes clear claims that the organic section is sizeable are true. the layout is inviting, partially because of islands of veggies/and fruit made to look more like a farmers' market versus a sterile grocery. there is also a nut bar where nuts are kept warm so that they maintain freshness better, and where people can grind their own peanut, almond, or cashew butter. it was clear that many had never fresh-ground their own nut butters because there was a bit of a crowd there. many were timid to try the machine out but curious enough to hang around in case someone else would do it first.

we didn't spend all that much time perusing the inner aisles, bcs we were more interested in the fresh stuff. i will say that it seemed this safeway had the biggest selection of ben & jerry's ice creams i've seen.

eric and i would keep the following in mind when grocery shopping:
star: best fruit/veggies, small & more relatively expensive meat selection, good place to get organic/homeopathic products if don't wanna go huckleberry or down to earth or kokua
times: good fruit/veggies, small & more relatively expensive meat selection
safeway: good for canned stuff, bread, eggs, milk
foodland: best meat, good fruit/veggies
daiei, now DQ: most convenient stop for asian products, not so great meat and veggies.

i'm not sure the new safeway has changed our mindset, described above, very much. but we will add cheese (if we want something more exotic) and the prepared/deli stuff to our safeway list. foodland still has better quality of fruits and veggies as long as you compare apples to apples and not apples to organic apples or something like that. the quantity of meats at this safeway are much bigger--some trays costco-sized, but the quality still the same. i know safeway improved its meat in more recent years but not enough to make us completely switch over.

oh! almost forgot to mention that there are deals in the deli/seafood/meats area. we saw crab legs for $9.99 a pound--on special. they're normally twice that price. these prices might be for the opening, and i remember that there were similar low prices on certain items through the store. i forget how much one of the frozen pizzas were but it was a very low price and it had almost run out.

the other thing i noticed about this safeway--the people working were all smiley and joyful, like they were proud of their store and wanted to share it with you. if anything, that's the biggest selling point the kapahulu branch has. well, that and the soon-to-open seattle's best, i suppose.

getting out wasn't all that difficult, what with the newly installed light to help control flow. we'll keep you posted if we notice any more-than-usual backups on kapahulu.

i'll be curious to see if safeway will be willing to share its parking with its business neighbors of if in time, they'll go compusa on people who park but don't patronize it or its lot-mates.

[Pomai]

Wow Cyn, that was a FANTASTIC review. Diggin' how you referenced DQ as Daiei. :D

The Hawaii Kai Safeway was the first location in Hawaii to get their "new look" renovation treatment, and based on ambiance alone, it's a wonderful shopping experience. But I hear you on the comparison of quality and prices in produce and meats (and everything else) vs. other local supermarkets.

Still, you made it sound very exciting, and I WILL get there either today or tomorrow.

I gotta' check out Uncle Bo's too (formerly Auntie Pastos second location). My girlfriend went and raved about it.

Mahalo once again for that awesome Safeway Kapahulu review!

[cynsaligia]

you're welcome. :)

i should note that going to the kapahulu safeway seemed the thing to do for a lot of people, so if you want to shop for more than groceries *ahem*, going there while it's still novel might be a better option than, let's say, the W or rumors or pipeline or lotus bar on a weekend night.

just steer clear of the kraken releasors. *wrinkles nose*

[Honoruru]

If I do go, will I be stuck in Kapahulu forever?

This is the first time I’ve ever quoted myself.

But after reading all the articles about Safeway Kapahulu, and especially after reading ericncyn’s excellent review, I decided, even though I had deep (very deep) reservations about traffic and parking, to go there. I had plans this afternoon to go to a park, and just relax and get in some serious reading, and since this Safeway was in the vicinity, I decided to try it and get something for lunch. Surprise! Traffic and parking was not a problem. I had not been aware there would be rooftop parking, which alleviated much of the parking problem. There was also an army of police and security personnel directing traffic. No problems.

And the Safeway ... impressive! The best feature of this Safeway is the deli. The “ready-to-go” foods, the cheese section (as ericncyn mentioned), the wine section (though I think it is still too expensive compared to other places), and bakery were impressive. This place seems a nice place to hang out ... have some lunch or snack or coffee or internet connection (there was a sign that said Wi-Fi was coming soon [don’t know if it’s free or not]). There are enough tables and chairs to define an area (or areas) as a food court (within a grocery store?).

There was also a giveaway ... IPods! While exploring the store, there was an announcement over the store-wide intercom that there was a winner of an IPod at register XXX. When I was leaving about half an hour later, there was an announcement that there was another IPod winner at register XXX. This happened when I was at a register to pay for my sandwich and loaf of French bread. The winner was behind me, at the next register. If I had chosen that register to stand in, I might have won an IPod!

I don’t know how may IPods they were planning to give away.

[Pomai]

My girlfriend tried going to the Kapahulu Safeway about an hour ago. The parking lot was gridlocked and zero parking stalls available; even parallel stalls along Kapahulu Avenue were all taken. :(

Will have to try again at a non-peak time.

[cynsaligia]

:eek: i'm surprised at that, pomai. yesterday, eric and i passed by at about noon and there was no more traffic on kapahulu than usual. this morning, i shopped there at between 10:00 - 10:30 am and there was parking galore on the roof level. ipicked up some salad from the salad bar as well as two bottles of safeway brand fruit-flavored diet sparkling water and also a venti non-fat latte w/sugar free cinnamon dolce syrup (a little caffeine treat). i wonder what the dealio was when you went.

[scrivener]

we had drinks and pupu dinner with our friend "sam" at uncle bo's (http://starbulletin.com/2006/11/12/features/eater.html). on kapahulu we shared the thai-style wings, the new york steak,
My friends and I had the same two things when we went...I really dug the steak, prepared pupu-style.

the manila clams--my absolute favorite treatment of clams on the island, which, according to our server, has 20-odd ingredients in it.
It's Manila style. Every one of the ingredients in it was probably "odd," not just twenty of them.

Uncle Bo's was fun, but I doubt I'll make it a regular Kapahulu stop. I can't imagine ever cruising Kapahulu and choosing it over Irifune or Mr. Ojisan.

[cynsaligia]

It's Manila style. Every one of the ingredients in it was probably "odd," not just twenty of them.


*kicks scriv's shin* what a grand illustration of why they say puns are the lowest form of humor! *sticks tongue at scriv*



Uncle Bo's was fun, but I doubt I'll make it a regular Kapahulu stop. I can't imagine ever cruising Kapahulu and choosing it over Irifune or Mr. Ojisan.

ever try sunrise restaurant around the way from waiola? waioli? shave ice (sorry--i always get the shave ice place's name mixed up w/the tea house)? or are you too yellow-bellied to try nakami champuru?

[scrivener]

or are you too yellow-bellied to try nakami champuru?
I haven't, but it's on the list. My friend and I are trying to hit every dining establishment on Kapahulu. I...don't like the idea of most champurus, to be honest. And although I make it a point to try things I don't like, exempt from that policy are things I'm morally opposed to, such as eating the guts and stomachs of other animals.

[cynsaligia]

ever try sunrise restaurant around the way from waiola? waioli? shave ice (sorry--i always get the shave ice place's name mixed up w/the tea house)? or are you too yellow-bellied to try nakami champuru?

I haven't, but it's on the list. My friend and I are trying to hit every dining establishment on Kapahulu. I...don't like the idea of most champurus, to be honest. And although I make it a point to try things I don't like, exempt from that policy are things I'm morally opposed to, such as eating the guts and stomachs of other animals.


:cool: i think the nakami champuru is the best of all of em.

[cynsaligia]

additional notes on the kapahulu safeway, which we visited about 9 pm thursday night:

nut bar was closed, and the fresh nut butter machines were covered. they did, however, have a good selection of packaged fresh nut butter available.

salad bar & deli were still open. i had thought about making a salad to bring home but the greens looked a little sad, so i decided against it.

fresh seafood looked like they were starting to break down & close up. we got some more kim chee shrimp poke, which i ate with my lunch the next day. still yummy for the price (about $10 a pound).

the front parking lot looked packed but the upper lot, which i prefer to park at anyway, was about 75% empty. no cops and maybe 1/3 the security of our first visit. congestion (or lack thereof) in the store was rather mellow--no more than you'd expect at 9pm on a thursday night.

[Pomai]

I FINALLY made it into the new Kapahulu Safeway. Absolutely beautiful and BIG. I'll go as far as calling it "SAFEWAY CITY", as that's the impression you have upon entering the lot.

Various deli stations and a coffee house immediately hit you upon entry on the left side. Everything at the delis are sold at various per-pound prices, and it was quite busy at the main counter.

I got to sample some Cashew Butter (quite tasty, but expensive) from the nut station, which is located in the center, away from the deli area. That was the only thing I found that didn't make sense, layout-wise.

They also sported one of the prettiest produce departments I've ever seen, as if they use a level and tape measure to stack fruits and veggies. lol But way overpriced compared to the competition, IMO.

Their meats were gorgeous though, and very competitively priced. Thick cuts of steaks. Love that. The fresh seafood selection was decent as well, but not as big as I expected. Actually, the entire meat department looked relatively small compared to produce.

Still, under that gorgeous skin, it's still just another Safeway Supermarket (you kinda' forget that with the immensity of the place), where as a shopper, the bottom line is the bottom line, and all you're really doing there, like every place else is comparing prices to other markets on this and that item.

One thing that did stand out was the friendliness and helpfulness of the entire staff. They seem to really emphasize this there. At least this was my impression. Unless maybe they thought I was one of the big bosses. lol

Most of the business spaces surrounding the parking lot were still vacant, with only a Cold Stone Creamery on the right open for business. When that all fills up it should be even more exciting.

Overall though, very impressive and, IMO, indeed a welcome addition to Kapahulu avenue. Much more useful to the community than a blockaded empty lot waiting for a buyer, as it has been for years (just like Walmart's Koreamoku "Superblock").

Bought about $25 worth of groceries, including 2 quarts (b1g1f) of Safeway Select's "Mother Load" ice cream. Late night snacks. Yum.

[AbsolutChaos]

Does anybody know anything about the restaurant (?) that appears to be opening soon in Waikiki at what I think is the Hawaiian Monarch Hotel? You can see it if you are on Ala Wai. It looks interesting. I think it's called the Cream Pot.

Just curious...

[tutusue]

I finally took the time to pack a suitcase and take a trip thru the Kapahulu Safeway! My brain was in circuit overload before I left the produce dept., which is where I entered. I've always liked the Hawaii Kai and Kapolei stores but Kapahulu puts 'em both to shame.

Kapahulu Safeway is a bit like Disneyland. You really can't see the entire "park" in one day. :D

[scrivener]

I got to sample some Cashew Butter (quite tasty, but expensive) from the nut station, which is located in the center, away from the deli area. That was the only thing I found that didn't make sense, layout-wise.
Shot in the dark, but I wonder if it's a way to keep nuts from contaminating non-nutty foods, so that allergic people won't have to worry.

Still, under that gorgeous skin, it's still just another Safeway Supermarket (you kinda' forget that with the immensity of the place), where as a shopper, the bottom line is the bottom line, and all you're really doing there, like every place else is comparing prices to other markets on this and that item.
That actually makes me more likely to stop there. There are Safeways nearby, but I'm one of those stick-close-to-home guys, and while the familiarity and convenience of my local Star Market are nice, I really wish there were a Safeway in that space. I much prefer it to any of the other markets, including a sentimental favorite, KTA.

Much more useful to the community than a blockaded empty lot waiting for a buyer, as it has been for years (just like Walmart's Koreamoku "Superblock").
I don't think I know what you mean. I used to go to the Subway, JJ's Diner, and Diamond Head Video at least once a week right up until they were all booted out, just months before construction began. In fact, I haven't been back to Diamond Head Video (easily the best video rental store on the island) since, because the new location is just too inconvenient. And that's really a shame.

I even went to the Dunkin' Donuts regularly, while it was still a Dunkin' Donuts. So attractive a draw was that little complex that even when I was a bus rider, I'd be there twice a week. I work in the airport area and live in Kalihi, by the way. And bus riders will tell you there's no easy way to get to Kapahulu from under the Airport Viaduct. I basically got off on Kapiolani and walked past Kaimuki High on my way there.

So yes, I'm looking forward to frequenting the new Safeway City (good name, by the way), but is it THAT much better than a video rental store with a foreign section six shelves high and an entire aisle in length, sorted by country, or a plate lunch place where you could get a shoyu chicken plate for under four bucks? Unless the Swedish Bikini Team is bagging the groceries, I don't see how it could be.

[i-hungry]

I went to the Kapahulu Safeway last week. Its not bad. I have seen better supermarkets in Seattle but its nice to have some of those features in Hawaii.

The nut bar grinding machines are the same ones they have at Down To Earth. More nut choices but I think they are more expensive at Safeway.

I'll probably go back there only if they have good shops opening in that strip mall. Otherwise its not much of a draw for me.

[glossyp]

Does anybody know anything about the restaurant (?) that appears to be opening soon in Waikiki at what I think is the Hawaiian Monarch Hotel? You can see it if you are on Ala Wai. It looks interesting. I think it's called the Cream Pot.

Just curious...
According to a very brief PBN blurb, it will serve "...rich European breakfast fare through late afternoon." The owner's name is Nathan Tran and it is supposed to open sometime in January.

Speaking of breakfast restaurants, the IHOP in Pearl City is open and the place is packed. I stuck my head in yesterday around 2pm to ask the phone number (486-IHOP) and if they were busy. An impossibly perky young lady gushed about how they had already filled the front and back of six pages of waiting list and waved them at me! As I walked out, I reflected on the virtues of cheerfulness in such a setting. She made a great impression and I left with a smile.

[tutusue]

[...]Otherwise its not much of a draw for me.
It's not really much of a draw for me, either, so if I'll be in the immediate area anyway and have some shopping to do then I'll pop in. It's just too big! I prefer a smaller grocery shopping experience! Safeway Beretania is much closer for me and while a bit long in the tooth it works for my needs. Ditto for Kokua. Some habits are just hard to break, I guess! ;)

[Serenity]

If you like GREEK FOOD...

Here s a place that opened up recently...


The Fat Greek.

3040 Waialae Ave.

Phone # 734-0404

Not sure how long they have been there, but their food is really good!!.

For the price, it's ok.

You can have unlimited drinks with your food.

Their website is not up & running yet, although it will be in a month or two (hopefully).


If you like Mexican food....

Los Chaparros Mexican Restaurant
2140 S. Beretaia Str.
Phone # 951-6399
http://www.loschaparros.com/

They are really good too!!.

The prices are ok.

If you don't mind too much on the cost, & care more on the food/taste etc. those two are the best place to go for food & something different to go to, next time. :)

I think those two are good for dinners as well as for lunch.

Happy eating!!, :)

That's my two cents for restaurants to go to.

enjoy. :)

[Serenity]

Here is one of which I had forgotten to mention, which is also one of my favorites as well.

They serve really delious food with great entertainmanet.

It's: UNCLE'S fish market & grill
pier 38

1135 N. Nimitz Hway.
275-0063

http://www.unclesfishmarket.com/

Happy Eating. :)

[AbsolutChaos]

Does anybody know anything about the restaurant (?) that appears to be opening soon in Waikiki at what I think is the Hawaiian Monarch Hotel? You can see it if you are on Ala Wai. It looks interesting. I think it's called the Cream Pot.
Just curious...

According to a very brief PBN blurb, it will serve "...rich European breakfast fare through late afternoon." The owner's name is Nathan Tran and it is supposed to open sometime in January.


The Cream Pot had their grand opening on Friday. My boyfriend and I checked it out. If you go, it's CASH ONLY. They are serving smoothies, both sweet and savory crepes, salads, and omelets/baked egg dishes. They are open everyday from 6am to 2:30pm.

As with a new place, there were a few snafus...they forgot the dressing for our salad and they forgot the blue cheese on my vegetarian crepe.

My vegetarian crepe turned out to be simply a salad piled on top of a crepe (greens, grapes, blue cheese, tomatoes). It was difficult to eat and not something I'd order again. My boyfriend's crepe was very tasty; I think it had chicken, bacon, and some kind of sauce. The crepe itself I enjoyed; it wasn't overly sweet like some crepes I've encountered in the past.

Crepes come with a side of the soup of the day, which that day happened to be cold potato soup. It was on the bland side but had a pleasing smooth texture.

We shared the salad, which turned out to be your basic greens with blue cheese and walnuts. The mustard dressing was very sharp (tasted like Chinese hot mustard, or more likely dijon mustard), and my boyfriend didn't think it went well with the blue cheese.

I saw others who had ordered the omelets, which looked to be a nice size. The smoothies also looked appetizing.

The place is tiny, and they were going for a country French theme in decor. Some walls were more successful at achieving French, and some looked more American country in style, which was a bit discordant.

It's worth checking out, especially once they settle into more of a routine.

I am sorry that I didn't think to take any pictures!

[AbsolutChaos]

I noticed a few weeks ago in the Honolulu Weekly that there's something called "The Atacolypse" coming to Varsity.

I'm assuming it will be a casual taco joint that might go better with beer and student budgets than perhaps India Cafe's fare did.

I have no idea if it's open yet or not. Anybody tried it or know if it's even at Varsity yet?

[Pomai]

Brendan, owner of The Shack Hawaii Kai (http://www.shackhawaiikai.com/), is opening up a new The Shack location in Waikiki!...

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2401/2407907863_44b791019a_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/34273299@N00/2407907863/sizes/o/)

As you can see, it will be located on the ground floor of the Waikiki Trade Center on Kuhio Avenue, and will be next door neighbors with Zanzibar Nightclub (and Fashion 45 nightclub upstairs).

I'm still working on the shackwaikiki.com (http://www.shackwaikiki.com/) site, gathering content. For now I just put a splash page up, but that's pretty much the template for the site. Looks "Shack'ish".

More details about the The Shack Waikiki will be up on the website as it becomes available. Any suggestions for the site would be appreciated. Thanks!

[cynsaligia]

I work in the airport area and live in Kalihi, by the way. And bus riders will tell you there's no easy way to get to Kapahulu from under the Airport Viaduct. I basically got off on Kapiolani and walked past Kaimuki High on my way there.

funny how i never noticed this statement in your post before, scriv.

back in 80s & 90s, when the #3 bus didn't go to salt lake, you could catch the #3 from under the the viaduct, through dillingham, down king street, then kapiolani, up date where it becomes maunaloa on the other side of kapahulu. that would have been an option to get to kapahulu ave. the other way would be to take the #3 and get off the laau street side of kaimuki high (the field) and walk through the campus alongside the canal. that would bring you to the market city side (kaimuki ave).

alternatively, you could have also switched to the #9 bus at (i think) the stop before kamoku street. the 9 continued down kapiolani instead of going up date.

guess that tells you how i'd get to and from school every day, eh? ;)

[sansei]

:( hi this is sansei and sorry if i posted here only i wish to share that i just heard on Tv that Gyotaku and it's located in niu valley and if anyone wishes to visit,i hope everyone enjoy's it there.

well thank's for your time:(

[AbsolutChaos]

New Indian restaurant!

Cafe Taj Mahal Indian Restaurant
3036 Waialae Ave
(808) 732-6496

I'm hoping to check it out next week.

[Fritz]

[QUOTE=AbsolutChaos;186434]The Cream Pot had their grand opening on Friday. My boyfriend and I checked it out. If you go, it's CASH ONLY. They are serving smoothies, both sweet and savory crepes, salads, and omelets/baked egg dishes. They are open everyday from 6am to 2:30pm.

Any follow-up on this place? Is it still there? Little on the web about it.

[AbsolutChaos]

[QUOTE=AbsolutChaos;186434]The Cream Pot had their grand opening on Friday. My boyfriend and I checked it out. If you go, it's CASH ONLY. They are serving smoothies, both sweet and savory crepes, salads, and omelets/baked egg dishes. They are open everyday from 6am to 2:30pm.

Any follow-up on this place? Is it still there? Little on the web about it.

I went back a second time. Some friends of mine joined us...apparently they had been chatting with the owner on their last visit. The owner recognizes that the place is still getting on its feet as far as organization and efficient operation, and so he deliberately has not been advertising because he doesn't feel they are ready to handle large crowds yet. The kitchen isn't located in the seating area, and the food has to be brought over (heard it's a small kitchen too). The service is definitely uneven still, it's still cash only, but the crepes are very delish!

[dyasu]

There is a new "okonomiyaki" place in Puck's Alley (only been around 3-4 months) called Shochan. We went there tonight and thought it wasn't bad.

Here's the link to my review for those who are interested:

http://www.locokinegrindz.com/wordpress/review-shochan/

[cyleet99]

Just ate at Pho Five-O, new this week in the stripmall straight across from Best Buy on Kamehameha Hwy. (I think it is Aiea area, but I am still learning the road....) Pretty restaurant, still has opening day flowers looking fresh. Until the end of April, 20% off your bill. (Yay!!)

DH loves Vietnamese, and he said it was "very good" and promptly headed to the kitchen to tell the cook.

We enjoyed the following: DH ordered a large pho beef, I ordered medium pho chicken and DS ordered combo meal #5 (was a medium pho w/ wonton, noodle & beef, came with egg roll and soft drink.) We also shared a beef salad.

Fast, hot, tasty soups; beef salad was Very Good; egg roll was presented with small amt of noodle, fish/carrot sauce, mint, and small amt salad. Our fresh veggie plate had plenty of basil, lemon, bean sprouts, another unidentified green that was very good and fresh jalapeno slices.

The menu was 5 pages long, lots of variety and we definitely will be going back. :D:D:D

Se y'all tomorrow at Magic Island!

[Lei Liko]

Looks like Keeaumoku's getting a new sports bar.

Champions Sports Bar and Grill (http://www.bizjournals.com/pacific/stories/2008/05/05/daily49.html?ana=from_rss) will open Saturday at the old Easy Music Center building between Beretania and Young.

[matapule]

There is a new "okonomiyaki" place in Puck's Alley (only been around 3-4 months) called Shochan.

Thank you, thank you, thank you! I love okonumi....okunimi.....oko ono.....that stuff! Will try the restaurant asap!

Ofa 'atu
Mui Houma

[AbsolutChaos]

New Thai place in Waikiki:

Siam Square
--on Kuhio and Lewer's, second floor (Where Quizno's used to be)
--It's not open yet, but the sign's out front; looks like they are still fixing up the inside

Now open in the Wyland Waikiki on Kuhio:

Spada
-- http://www.outrigger.com/hotels-resorts/hawaiian-islands/oahu-waikiki/the-wyland-waikiki/restaurants
-- not sure if it's affiliated with the one on Bishop; assuming it is?

[Lei Liko]

Now open in the Wyland Waikiki on Kuhio:

Spada
-- http://www.outrigger.com/hotels-resorts/hawaiian-islands/oahu-waikiki/the-wyland-waikiki/restaurants
-- not sure if it's affiliated with the one on Bishop; assuming it is?

I did a Google on both sites and I'm sure they're related.

The site of the old Palomino's/Cassis will have a new tenant this fall: http://www.bizjournals.com/pacific/stories/2008/05/26/daily9.html?ana=from_rss

Liz Hata Watanabe (The O Lounge) will be opening her first (still unnamed) restaurant and will cater to the downtown business crowd.

Didn't she also pick up the old Oceans at Restaurant Row? What's going on with that?

[Pomai]

Panda Express in Ward Entertainment Center - formerly Wolfgang Puck Express - is now open. It was very busy when I passed there yesterday afternoon.

According to this article (http://www.bizjournals.com/pacific/stories/2007/10/08/daily35.html), they were supposed to open in January 2008, but for some reason there was a delay.

[Blubearypye]

Nijiya Market (http://www.nijiya.com/) is open. They specialize in organic and Japanese foods. It is located where Cheapo Music by Puck's Alley used to be. The store is filled with lots of goodies but and their freezer/refrigerator section is not complete yet. The organic produce is displayed very nicely and everything looks so fresh. They currently have a small bento area that sells packed bento lunches. Their spam musubi is not bad for 1.49 and they add green onions to the rice. There were some bargains throughout the store, but some things seemed a bit pricy.

*The website sale ads are not the same though as in the store here.

[AbsolutChaos]

Not sure when it's supposed to open, but I'm assuming it's later this year:

Wolfgang's Steakhouse (Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center)
But I, like a lot of other peope, probably thought it was from THE Wolfgang, Wolfgang Puck. But it's not.

An article on the naming controversy: http://www.businessweek.com/smallbiz/content/may2008/sb20080530_724937.htm?chan=search

An article mentioning the steakhouse coming to Royal Hawaiian (and the other renovation-related changes):
http://www.shoppingcenterbusiness.com/articles/MAY08/story3.shtml

[Ron Whitfield]

Recently replacing the sports/booze dive that was there for a few years, and located on Coyne St. just off University Ave. between Bubbies Ice Cream/Burger Thing and across from the Uni. Theater vacant lot. It looks to be Mexican themed, from the new wall paint, and still quasi divey.

[Pomai]

Has anyone checked out the new Nijiya Market (http://www.starrydream.com/blog/archives/00000113.html#comments#cutid3) yet?

Nijiya Market (http://www.nijiya.com/), based in Torrance California, specializes in organic and Japanese import products, with the new Puck's Alley location being their largest yet at 11,000 square feet of retail space.

I bet Marukai, and nearby Down To Earth, are just thrilled about that. :rolleyes: