Honolulu’s most thrilling restaurant debuts of the year include a next-gen izakaya in Kalihi-Palama and a truffle lover’s paradise in Ala Moana.
Arden’s postcard-perfect location—in a sanctuary at the foot of Diamond Head—is reason enough to check it out. But so are its contemporary Hawaiʻian dishes by chefs Makoto Ono and Amanda Cheng. The pretty Waikīkī restaurant opened in October and is set against a very sought-after, sunset-facing stretch of sand. Despite its swanky backdrop, Arden’s menu doesn’t hold back on the fun. Cases in point: lamb lollipops with cilantro pistou and shiso and a local take on baked Alaska, aka black sesame cake encased in toasted meringue.
OpenTable.com
View the article: “Honolulu’s 7 most exciting restaurant debuts of 2023“