photography and article by David C Lee

In the world of gourmet cooking, Wong is well known for his unique creative flair. A renowned master of Hawaii Regional Cuisine, Chef Wong has made a highly successful career out of marrying elements of different ethnic cooking styles, along with the finest Island-grown ingredients. Fusing French techniques with local and Asian ideas naturally makes for an East West menu.

He got his start in the industry as a dishwasher and eventually sumbled upon cooking.  Wong was fascinated by the vast combinations of tastes and textures and eventually decided to become a chef.  He finds inspiration from his mom, friends, fellow chefs and his travels, particularly to Japan and Singapore.

Wong also has a restaurant in Japan which is similar but the taste is modified for the Japanese Pallete.  Japanese ingredients are a little different from Hawaiian products because they don’t like seasoning as much. Let’s see what he had to say:

What are your plans for the future?

One of our goals is to give our guests an opportunity to taste Hawaii.  I want to serve as much local fish, beef, lamb, things that are produced here.  That’s what makes us unique, besides the people.  I would like to take something old and make it new.  We keep the flavors but its a different presentation.

Have you ever thought about opening a restaurant in Las Vegas?

Its a tough economy now but given the right opportunity, we’d love to open something there.  Vegas has become the food mecca.  Everyone is there now. I’m not sure if its the right time yet.

Can you explain the farm to table concept?

It is important to be a locavore–to  utilize whatever is being grown around you.  That’s what we strive for,  to support case in Hawaii. A lot of people are concerned with food safety, who grows it, how its raised.  People are most sensitive to this today.

photography by David C Lee

Chai’s cuisine carries as much mystery as the land where it was born. The imaginative blending of spices, herbs, roots and leaves, balanced to enhance the natural flavors and textures of the main ingredients, lend itself to the mystery.

Recognized as one of the best chefs on the island, Chai also is one of the founders of Hawaii’s Island Chefs.  Along with other top island chefs, their mission is to promote agriculture and aquaculture of Hawaii.  Hawaii regional cuisine has become very popular over the past few years.  The uniqueness of this cuisine is that it is prepared with fresh local ingredients.  Each chef uses his own specialties and techniques in combining these ingredients and creating their own recipes.

The ambiance of Chai’s is relaxed and beautiful.  During the night, the dimly lit christmas lights bring a charming mood to the island scene.  The presentation of the food is spectacular and such a sight for the eyes.  When you taste his food, you will be surprised at the variety of flavors and textures that can be combined.  Chai’s is a local favorite that has the hearts (and stomachs) of many.

Chai’s Island Bistro
Aloha Tower Marketplace
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813

chaisislandbistro.com

Located in the heart of the Ala Moana Center, Pearl Ultralounge is Hawaii’s premiere luxury lounge experience. Pearl Ultralounge offers fresh signature cocktails, delectable cuisine, live music, dancing & happy hour daily.  Pearl Ultralounge is a classy restaurant by night and a hip nightclub at night.

The interior is modern, chic and sophisticated.  A large chandelier hangs from the tented ceiling on one of the bars while red lights brighten up the space.  The main dance floor has the best view of the main stage which is used for fashion shows and live performances.  Plasma screens and dimly backlit walls turn Pearl into one of the most happening places by nightfall.

Sip on fashionable cocktails to delight your tastebuds and get your drink on.  Pearl is known for its outrageous parties, fashion shows and exclusive gatherings.

Carpaccio

Filet Mignon

Spicy Tuna

Pearl Ultralounge
1450 Ala Moana Blvd
Honolulu, HI

1450 Ala Moana Blvd

A wall of beaded curtains hang from the ceiling while a pinkly-lit bar serves as the main focal point of the restaurant.  An assortment of fine wines, beers and city slicker cocktails are available to delight patrons.  Uncle Bo’s is always packed and for good reason.

The portions are large and reasonably price.  The flavors are spectacular, succulent and fresh.

Uncle Bo’s Dynamite Shrimp

Thai style steamer clams

Baked Opah Mauna Kea

Garlic Rib eye Steak

Uncle Bo’s
559 Kapahulu Ave
Honolulu, HI 96816

unclebosrestaurant.com

photography and article by David C Lee

Plunge into one of the most comfortable sofas, sip an ice-cold mai tai and relax with the sounds of island rhythms. The Mai Tai Bar serves a delightful array of martinis, island cocktails and mai tais, a sophisticated and carefully crafted wine list and the finest quality tap beers. Island Style appetizers include Ahi Ruby Rare, Chicken Chinois, Coconut Shrimp and other delicious pupus.

photography by David C Lee

As the sun sets, the mood rises. The Mai Tai Bar pulsates with the most popular bands, the best local happy hour and the most exciting promotions in town.

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The Mai Tai Bar is a trendsetting, tastefully chic yet fun spot showcasing the most exciting nightly live music in town, the most popular happy hour and the best possible crowd. 

Mai Tai Bar
1450 Ala Moana Blvd. 
#3247

Honolulu, HI 96814

photography by David C Lee