You can always expect to be wowed when Chef Chris Kajioka is involved in a restaurant so I was very excited to see what he had in store for Agaru - his take on the classic Japanese izakaya. On top of that, he brought in Hilo Sushi Chef Daysen Masuda; also known as @foodxjitsu on Instagram for his gorgeous nigiri and sushi.
Agaru is located at 355 Royal Hawaiian Ave in Waikiki up a set a of stairs on the second floor. The restaurant has both table seating and sushi counter seating. We sat at the sushi bar so we could get a front row view of the action.
It was recommended to us (party of 2) to share the Izakaya menu consisting of 8 dishes served family-style and then add on a mix of sushi and signature dishes. We decided to start with 6 pieces of nigiri sushi each and order more if needed. It wasn't needed. Between the sushi and the Izakaya menu dishes, it was a filling meal and we had just enough room left for dessert! I look forward to returning because I really want to try the Bara Chirashi and the Ahi Toast.
Dishes off the Izakaya menu included: Sunomono (crushed cucumber, sesame, rayu), Seasonal Vegetable (cabbage, shio kombu salsa verde), Potato Salad (serrano ham, fudgy yolk)
A close up of the Potato salad. Mix it all up before enjoying.
Remaining dishes off Izakaya menu: Kakuni (kabocha, black garlic tare), Beef Tongue (lemon, rayu, tare), Sake - in background (king salmon, maui onion, smoked shoyu), Karaage (smoked oyster, lemon), and Nairagi (ginger scallion),
Six-piece melt-in-your-mouth Nigiri Sushi Omakase
Bruleed Tamago - a must try! Thank you Chef Kajioka for the treat!
Sushi Chef Masuda preparing the Bruleed Tamago
Shio Koji Sundae (fior de latte, kinako peanuts, puffed wild rice, caramel). Big enough to share and then some. Absolutely delicious!
Kulolo Katsu (haupia cream).
So happy Chef had us sample these heavenly bites! Will definitely satisfy your sweet tooth.
Service was top-notch and friendly. Free 3-hour validated parking is available at the Waikiki Galleria Tower. Reservations for parties 1-7 is available on Tock with a $35 per person deposit. We loved our experience at Agaru and would highly recommend!
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