Best Hawaii Regional Cuisine Restaurants in Kalihi-Palama

Reservation requesting bar seating was ready upon arrival, with menus, silverware & napkins awaiting our arrival. Staff was young, friendly and attentive, providing recommendations for libations and food favorites. We decided upon several appetizers, and found the crispy duck tacos a favorite! Also enjoyed the shrimp gyoza, with a puree of edamame and avocado. Many diners recommended their ramen bowl entries. They stock a well-rounded number of drinks, from beer and sake, to beautifully crafted non-alcoholic and alcoholic "Lucky" libations. All and all, a very pleasant evening. We will be back for more!

We had a wonderful experience dining here this evening. A big mahalo to all the staff for accommodating my extended family of 7, including a toddler. Our server was on-point, great selection of drinks, the view excellent, the ambiance and noise levels just right. Everyone enjoyed their meals, but especially the mini poke tacos, the mahi tacos and the kids pizza was a huge success for a picky eater.

We sat in the large patio area outside. It was very pleasant, with balmy weather and light trade winds, and we liked the live music (a solo guitarist/singer). We ordered from the Happy Hour menu and the food and drinks were inexpensive. Even though the restaurant was busy we were served quickly. My friend ordered the local shrimp and chips and I had the tempura fish and chips. Our waitress brought us a small glass of Prosecco (no charge) before our meal arrived. The food was delicious and well prepared. The coating on the seafood was light and crispy (not greasy). The service was excellent. Shout outs to our pleasant and friendly waitress Mahina and to the host Kody. We liked the restaurant so much we came back for dessert the same evening after we attended a music event!

This restaurant is on every best restaurants in Honolulu list, so I felt compelled to try it. Dinner on a Wednesday night and they were fully booked. We had appetizers, cocktails, entrees and desserts. Everything was great or excellent. My only quibble is that the rice noodles in the Pho 75 were too soft. We enjoyed the food and experience so much we are returning to try the lunch menu. Restaurant is vibrant and energetic. Great for socializing and conversation. I can confidently recommend this restaurant.

We knew very little about Pai but for one friend who raved about it… SO GLAD we took a chance on a new destination! We loved every moment, the total experience, guided by the charming owners & staff. We highly recommend!