Have you heard of those celebrity chefs, the creator‰'s of that uniquely popular style that blends Euro skills with Asian flavors with island ingredients? Well they are the same people who have given rise to the lowly ahi poke to tuna tartare status across the world all the while sending the prices of sashimi grade tuna through the roof. Chefs with names like Sam Choy, Roy Yamaguchi, Peter Merriman and George Mavrothalassitis have all been influential in sending the Hawaii dining experience into the stratosphere and sparked the inception of what is now formally referred to as Hawaii Regional Cuisine.
Nowhere other than in the islands can one experience the latest and greatest of Hawaii‰'s culinary world and at the center of that world is the University of Hawaii‰'s Community College culinary arts program. Out of the several campuses that offer degree programs, Kapiolani Community College is by far the best and largest program in the islands.
Many already know the Kapiolani Community College campus for their popular Saturday morning farmer‰'s market, but those who truly in the know will keep their calendars marked for the next semester of classes because along with lots of learning and larding, it is the time of year when culinary arts students put on a show for the public.
Those who frequent the Ka 'Ikena Restaurant at Kapiolani Community College will agree that the dining room is especially spacious and comfortable. Perched on the slopes of Diamond Head with panoramic views that include the island of Molokai on a clear day. But, the attraction here at the birthplace of Hawaii Regional Cuisine is not the view but the menu of student creations that are innovative and sharper than many a household kitchen knife. Tables are filled with casual diners who love the exclusive and private setting while foodies arrive with taste buds I tow and filled expectations of culinary bliss. Restaurateurs arrive nonchalantly with recon and research in mind. All will leave with a sense of what to expect from the up and coming, the future trends and a belly filled with fine dishes prepared with skill, pride and determination and served in a relaxed and unhurried atmosphere.
Tips for the culinary arts diner? Be sure to have a reservation, bring along your favorite bottle of wine and sit back and allow enough time and the right company for enjoyable extended lunch filled with wine, food and views.
Contact Information:
Ka'ikena Restaurant at Kapiolani Community College
4303 Diamond Head Road
Honolulu HI 96816
808 734 9499
Lat: 21.270955
Lon: -157.799419
Hours: Tuesday 11:00 am‰-1:30 pm, 5:30 pm‰-6:00 pm (seasonal)
