“I ate dinner here two nights is a row, several weeks ago, and everything about both meals was just excellent! The service was great, Paolo, whom I had both nights, recommended a wonderful wine I'd never had before, Amarone della Valpolicella. It was so good, I searched out a bottle when I got back on the mainland! Both dinners were excellent, and I can't recommend the Cacio e Pepe enough, just wonderful!I highly recommend stopping by for dinner, and I am looking forward to eating here again when I return to the resort next year!“
“First time to Repetti’s Italian/pizza joint today, and wow was I impressed. I was immediately happy to see it was casual; they make it easy to order at the counter if you want to take your food to-go, or let you pick a seat if you opt to dine in. The portions were giving, and all the food is reasonably priced. There’s only around 20-25 seats, but there was no wait when we went around 5pm on a Tuesday. They start you out with complimentary garlic bread sticks served with a light marinara sauce. We ordered and the food was ready about 10 minutes after. We had the rigatoni bolognese ($17.95) that came with a side salad, and the garlic shrimp ($11.95). Both were seasoned perfectly and the food was delicious. Will definitely be back to try the pizza and other items. Highly recommend!“
“Had an incredible dinner experience at Arancino di Mare. I didn’t have a reservation on a Sunday night, but I was able to get seated immediately at the bar. I was served by Christin who was so kind and lovely to chat with. I would definitely recommend the calamari fritti as a starter and the spaghetti ai ricci di mare (uni spaghetti) is to die for. The sauce was luxurious - very rich and creamy, and there are even small chunks of uni. If you love uni, you will love this pasta.“
“Went to have lunch with my daughter. It was my first time there, she's been there multiple times so I let her do the ordering. Our server Tammy, was very attentive. Filled out Plantation Iced Tea a lot ?. We had the Tomato Basil soup, Crusted Chicken salad and the Turkey and Avocado sandwich.“
“I believe this is their second location in Diamond Head. Parking available in the lot and some street parking. Medium sized restaurant with seating a bit tight, casual dining. We came here around 5ish and got a table when walked in. Great options on the menu and just got two dishes to share. Portions are a bit small for the price. Ordered: - La Bomba 8" - much smaller than I thought for the price. Thin crust and a bit burnt. I enjoyed the burrata cheese with arugula on the pizza. - Meatball - flavored meatball and toast. Pretty good. This place seems to get pretty busy. We were kind of rushed to leave as it was starting to get busy. Would like to come back for their lunch specials.“
“It was an experience like none other! We enjoyed tremendously the chef's tasting menu and wine pairing! The service was excellent and the truffles were outstanding! We are so glad we did this. It was pricey but again we were glad we did it!“
“Pretty decent food the evening we went! Great friendly service with live music. The restaurant had no windows so it could be a little dim. I feel like it could use a bit more decor to make add more warmth to it. My favorite items there were the mud pie and surf and turf. The filet mignon was very tender and juicy and the lobster was delectable. We also tried their escargot, foie gras, duck breast. The escargot could use a bit more herbs, the foie gras was mostly fat and not much liver, not very good quality, and the duck breast was cooked almost like in Cantonese style? Too much hoisin sauce for me. Overall nice evening to celebrate my birthday in a small, local restaurant.“
“Typical local bar serving local style Japanese food. Great happy hour specials. The place does get really loud so if you want to come for an intimate conversation not the police I would go. Great to bring groups of friends over. Best hidden gem on the menu is the garlic bread and garlic cream sauce.“
“The Pizza was absolutely amazing but what really blew my mind was the Pistachio Cannoli. I've been there last year and I still think of the Cannoli on regular basis and am completely devistated that I have to live with out them (I'm from Germany). So I highly recommend eating there, but only if you can live without it afterwards, in case you are only visiting like I did.“
“Made reservations here for Valentine's Day, about a month ago, and so glad we did. First off, there's $5 valet parking, or free street metered parking after 5pm. Valet guy was sooo nice btw.As soon as we entered, the restaurant had really cool vibes and decor. We ordered these:Crostini - this was a perfect 4 piece appetizer for the 2 of us, a bit small but the flavors in this work so well together, from the sweetness of papaya and honey, with the salty and savory prosciutto on a piece of bread.Funghi Pizza - basically like an upscale mushroom pizza - very good, and the bready part was amazingly good.Arrabbiata with Smoked Mozzarella Pasta - this was so simple and delicious. The texture of the pasta was perfectly al dente.Basque Cheesecake - we weren't going to do dessert, but we were convinced by our lovely server, and glad we did. It's a perfect cheesecake, not too sweet, and satisfying.In general the portions are on the smaller side, but it was perfect for the two of us and glad we got to try 4 of their items. But note that the pizza was a good size - 8 slices! I am definitely coming back to try everything else. Lastly, the service was top knotch!“
“Chic and cool vibe in a beautifully designed restaurant. The food is excellent! We had the Hamachi carpaccio and calamari fritto - both get 5 stars. The crab/uni pasta and the black squid ink both get 5 STARTS+++++. Incredible!! Wait staff is friendly and professional. GREAT restaurant but it is pricey. :)“
“This is one of our favorites. Charming vibe. Generous portions. It's popular with couples, friends, and solo diners. Love the seafood linguine. There must be an Italian Nonna back there making warm bread and fresh butter. I like to park at the shady end of the free parking lot.Wheelchair accessibility: Nearby ramp alongside regular spaces. Handicap spaces across from Someone inside will see you and open“
“bruh broke da Mouf!! Gotta get early. They're open 8-12 at Kaka'ako market every Saturday. We were lucky to be the last customers as they ran out!!! Delicious caramelized onions on a perfectly grilled smash burger. Truffle sauce was on point. Fries were crisp and delicious. Put this at the top of your list of "must try"“
“Another amazing Bernini dining experience sitting at the bar with David. The French onion soup and Tomato Caprese with burrata were great starters. David is very hospitable and attentive to his customers every need. The restaurant owner, Nat Is very engaging with her guests and staff ensuring that the service, food and the guests dining experience is perfect in every way. Kitchen is open to modifications. The pasta tagliatelle carbonara and Margherita pizza were flavorful and cooked to perfection. We were celebrating my husbands birthday and they served him a dessert with chocolate written happy birthday. Very nice touch. Our dining experience once again was outstanding service and food. Speaking to the hostess, Nat and David contributed to our great dining experience. One minor comment We brought our own Chardonnay to pair with our food since the wine list selection is quite limited for Chardonnay. We are very willing to pay a Corkage fee but found $35 charge to be high compared to other restaurants with a similar dining experience. This will not stop us from coming back- something to consider for other guests. Shelley and Kevin“
“Food was good (when in Oahu, it’s hard to find as good quality we’ve found so we’re comparing this place to other Oahu places- not mainland).They use San Marzano tomatoes so the sauces are that good true Italian flavor.Portions are okay, and cost is high, but so is the island in general.It was SO LOUD and kind of crammed inside so don’t expect to be able to have a quiet table conversation. It’s as loud as a cafeteria.Our waiter was such an amazing person and was very helpful.We would eat here again for sure!“
“Woooow amazing restaurant!!! Really fast and kind servers! Their food was exquisite. My friend brought me here for a late Birthday dinner and I am hooked I love this place. They have 18% off pastas during their happy hour. We were looking at the menu and were debating what to get so we ended up getting 3 different pasta dishes to share. The mushroom risotto, bolognese, and the uni pasta. My favorite dish is the bolognese I love that the pasta was not over cooked or mushy. It was a perfect texture Al dente and the meat sauce was not over powering. I'm not a huge fan of uni but my friend was and that was her favorite dish.“
“Love this place! Newly discovered, passed by so many times and never noticed, it is hiding between two buildings. Food is amazing, just perfect amount of salt and spices to hit your taste buds. Desserts are great too, sampler plate was a winner.Nice place overall, great service, presentation, ambience.One note! Please fix the bread, it is too light and soft.“
“This is strictly take-out, but boy, they do it well. Talk about yummy! Any one of the lasagna options are my favorite. We order from here regularly, and I have to say I have never (knock on wood) had a sub-par meal. I daydream about this food I love it so much. Service is on point, place is clean, food is great and prices won't give you sticker shock. Try it out. I dare you.“
“This little 5star business is the real deal. Come eat very clean, farm to table, taste your food, Italian. Eat dish is made to order so plan accordingly. Some dishes you can order in advance, so try the ox tail…!!!Spaghetti con Pomodorini - subtle clean 4.5 starsPappardelle Norcina - 4.5 starsHouse Salad - 4 starsBread - amazingService - 5 starsBring the family, make a reservation, 6 people max, I’m coming back!“
“We had a very good experience. Didn’t realize it was only pick up when we ordered. When I called no one answered right away but just popped out the door to hand us food. The food was fantastic and something different for the island. Very authentic Italian. We had the white, vodka, and red sauce. All were fantastic. Would order again!“
“My favorite meal we had on the island, and at 1/2 the price of other restaurants. Highly recommend. We had three different pastas and the Caesar salad. Everything was phenomenal. Only recommendation is that they advertise the location better because we had a hard time finding it via the directions on google and Apple Maps - it was on the other side of the hotel from what maps said.“
Mediterranean • $$$
“My wife and I booked a reservation at Vein after viewing the photos and reading several reviews on Yelp. So, on Thursday, 4 April 2024, there we were. First, we want to salute the entire staff. We have never seen such a hard-working group. Our meal started with an Aperol Spritz and a Negroni 13, accompanied by Karaage artichoke hearts and grilled Tako. Both of these starters and the drinks were superb. Next, we ordered lamb and Pistachio pasta. The grilled lamb was the best we've ever had, anywhere on the planet. The bucatini pasta was perfectly al-dente, covered in a house sauce of puree and pistou pistachio nuts, Parmigiano Reggiano, and Prosciutto di Parma. This unusual creation was a first for us, and it was exceptional. Finally, we shared Creme Brulee and their fabulous Bread Pudding with a scoop of vanilla ice cream! Whew! This place is welcoming and comfortable. We never felt rushed. The Head Chef, Mr. Jordan Harris, was most gracious, taking the time to chat with us. He even added a special gift to our go bag! We will most definitely return! Five stars!“
“Eggplant Parm, meatball Parm (!! with bucatini !! ) and pizza margarita made us so very happy last night.After driving by Frank's truck several times, we finally decided to give it a try last night.We have hearty appetites, but we'd been munching on appetizers all evening already, so the 4 of us decided to order 3 items and share them family style.My husband called the number that's posted on Yelp and it was answered by Kelly ... so very sweet and welcoming.She told us that we could text her our order and just come to pick it up when it was ready.This is just fantastic b/c they make your order fresh when you order, but there really isn't anywhere comfortable to wait while your order is being made. There aren't any outdoor tables or benches there, so your only options are to sit on the curb, wait in your car, or go into Creekside Bar for a drink.Being able to text in your order is such a help.We texted in our order, Kelly texted right back to confirm, gave us the total, and said it'll be ready in 20 minutes.Sure enough, when my husband went to pick it up, they were just packing it up and he was back home in a matter of minutes.Everything was piping hot and very neatly packed. The pizza margherita was super good. The crust was nice and thin and the outer edge was perfectly puffy and chewy.The eggplant and the meatball parmesan were delicious - - - my absolute favorite surprise of the night was that they used (my favorite pasta) bucatini as their pasta. A lot of full scale Italian restaurants don't even have bucatini . . . but Frank does ! ! He gets 10 stars alone just for that * * * * * * * * * *The servings were very generous and my husband is having leftovers for breakfast now as we speak.Try it - - - you won't be disappointed.“
“The aesthetics of the restaurant is nice. The pasta was just is ok, typical chain restaurant kind of food.There could be a wait if you don’t have a reservation.On Mondays they do have a special that you can get soup or salad, pasta of choice, and a scoop of ice cream for $25.“
“Firstly, it's been awhile since I've been to La Pizza Rina. Secondly, i vaguely recall their pizza, which I had once. Lastly, they provide vegetarian options ( only a few ) other than a cheese pizza. I dined in once several years ago - small dining area with around 10 tables - but have had takeout the last 3-4 times I have patronized this local small business. There is parking behind, I believe, but I have only utilized the metered street stalls. Ordered takeaway pizza on this last occasion. Got it within the wait time quoted. Small cheese pizza. Not exactly a classic NY pie but it was alright. I have had a couple of pasta dishes and antipasto and if I recall correctly, I did enjoy all of the aforementioned.“
“We had a great meal here. We were in a hurry because we had a sunset cruise to catch, and they prioritized us. The food was great. Started with some delicious focaccia, had an amazing, crisp and fresh Caesar salad, then we shared the bolognese. It was great. The service was amazing. Cute, small place close to all the Waikiki hotels. People complaining here about the prices clearly haven't been to Waikiki. I felt it was reasonably priced for the area.“
“The food is great and the owners are even better. They have a lemon cream pasta that tastes like it should be served in a swanky fine dining rstaurant. The Kalbee is also really great. Never had a bad lunch from there. Highly recommend. Support Local!!!!“
“TL;DR Very good (but not quite amazing) pizza. La Bomba pizza = ONO Funghi pizza = ONO Cannibale pizza = ONO ----- My family lives right across the street from Manoa Marketplace, so we were very excited to here that Aroma Italia (AI) was coming to town. We had enjoyed the catering of the Monsarrat location a couple times and were looking forward to having a pizza joint nearby. I believe that last time Manoa had dedicated pizza restaurant was when Boston's Pizza was located at the now Serg's. Enough chit chat. Let's get to the review. We've ordered from AI three times now and have enjoyed every meal. Is this the best pizza in the world? Of course not. But it's solid. Our favorite pizzas are the La Bomba, the Funghi , and the Cannibale. We've also had the Pollo Pesto Caprese (decent - I'm just not a huge fan of pesto sauce on my pizza) and the Garlic Pink Scampi (very good flavor, but very little shrimp). We ordered the Caesar Salad, which was alright, but they provided the tiniest portion of dressing; it was not nearly enough to dress all the lettuce provided. Apparently they typically provide two dressing containers, so perhaps they just forgot one of ours. We probably won't order another salad. Hopefully in the future they expand their menu to include pastas.“
“Our first time in Hawaii, wife found online as we were leaving the airport in need of a good cup of coffee. Brewed a fresh pot just for us ?, for was freshly prepared. Love their ministry and work to help those in need. Mahola for all you do!“
“I am so addicted to the Mentaiko Spaghetti! This little eatery is a great combo of sweet and savory with the bakery right next door. The place is clean, there is a good variety to choose from and I am definitely going to go back. Parking is right out front and every time I have gone, I never had difficulty finding a spot. Staff are also friendly.“
“I go to this place a lot. Good size portions. Prices are reasonable and the owner is very friendly. I have never had a dish that I did not like. I've never tried them, but I've heard the cheesecake is very good.Parking: Find parking in the Market City shopping center“
“$10 Charcuterie!? I'm in!I saw this place on Instagram, offering $10 Charcuterie Days on random Fridays, so as soon as I saw the post announcing the date, i gathered my food-loving friends and we made our way downtown (walking fast, faces pass). We got there 20 minutes early and were the fourth people on line. By opening time, the line was out the door and stayed that way for last least an hour.They have a variety of items to choose from like cheeses, meats, pastas, salads, etc. and they'll keep refilling it as needed for the duration of the buffet, and you can go back as many times as you want. Everything we tried was delicious, and it's a great way to sample different things. They also sell groceries (cheeses, snacks, olives, truffle oil, etc.) straight from Italy.“
“Although we really, REALLY miss Hukilau, the work gang was game to try Onokai. There are mixed reviews on Yelp so we wanted to judge for ourselves. Walked in at 11:30 a.m. and we were the only ones there. That worried me a bit. But it was great that our group of 7 didn't have to wait to be seated! The layout and most of the furnishings don't seem to have changed much since Hukilau. The plastic-covered plumeria tablecloth was a little... kitchy? But it was clean and not sticky. The menus were like bound sheet-protectors but I guess if you're planning to change up menu items often, that makes sense. We weren't there to judge the menu, anyhow. The food more than made up for the decor. I ordered the rice cake ramen just because it was something I'd never heard of anywhere I'd been before. It was deliciously spicy and flavorful, and I loved the chewy texture of the rice cake slices. It reminded me of ozoni, that Japanese mochi soup. I worried that the rice cakes would get mushy in the hot broth but it didn't. Even when I took my leftovers to go and ate it an hour or so later. Friends ordered the Army ramen, kimchi soup, regular ramen (which earned my friend an odd look from our server), ramen kimbap, bulgogi tteokbokki, and the vongole pasta. (I only got pics of a couple dishes since we were hungry!) Everyone enjoyed their meal and said the spice level was spot on. Prices were pretty much on par with other sit-down places downtown - under$10 for ramen except the Army $14.99. The bulgogi tteokbokki was $18.99 and vongole was $15.99. Now that the weather is getting cooler, I'm looking forward to going back to get some more belly-warming ramen.“
“Good homestyle restaurant with friendly attentive staff. They treat you like family here and really appreciate and value their guests. Super convenient for folks who don't want to drive over the hill to dine. My mom and dad come here for lunches occasionally and we've had a couple of birthday parties here. Picked up to go for mom and dad during Covid and service was outstanding then. Good vibes from all of the staff including the managers (previous and current) who are hands-on and check in to make sure guests are happy. They're good with large parties. The servers know the menu well and they're attentive while allowing guests to socialize. EZ parking too!! Mahalo!“