On my latest venture to explore new cuisines, I found myself at Ono Hawaiian BBQ. An inviting, fast-casual restaurant, Ono Hawaiian BBQ was founded in 2022 by a family as invested in their dishes as they are in their guests. They operate various locations in California and Arizona, the most recent one having opened just this year. One distinct feature of Ono Hawaiian BBQ is that each delicacy is cooked fresh to order, ensuring the same superior taste as my very first bite.
The Amazing Variety of Food
I was thrilled to discover that Ono Hawaiian BBQ's menu boasts of traditional Hawaiian dishes like Kalua Pork, Spam Musubi, Lau Lau, Poke Bowls, and more. They also serve their famous Beef Short Ribs, and Chicken Katsu. Being a slight egg fanatic, I went for their Loco Moco--a dish made with two eggs, brown gravy, rice, and Portuguese sausage! Plus, you can also choose from a range of appetizers.
The Source of their Fish Dishes
Ono Hawaiian BBQ focuses mainly on Mahi Mahi, a fresh fish sourced sustainably. Even more appealing, the restaurant is certified by the Hawaii Seafood Council for responsible fishing practices. Not only is Mahi Mahi rich in protein, but it also has 25% less fat than most fish types, making it a healthier option than many other seafood dishes.
My Experience with the Island White Fish Plate
Next, I tried the Island White Fish plate. This dish is a budget-friendly package of three pieces of fried Mahi Mahi, white rice, macaroni salad, and an assorted pack of vegetables. The fish, fried to perfection, was packed with flavor, balanced perfectly by the macaroni salad. This meal is ideal for anyone in search of a hearty lunch or dinner.
My Taste Test with Loco Moco at Ono Hawaiian BBQ
Loco Moco, a stunning depiction of Hawaiian cuisine, was my next stop. Loco Moco at Ono Hawaiian BBQ is a mouth-watering delight with a hamburger patty topping a bed of rice, doused with brown gravy, and an egg cooked sunny-side up. Its comforting nature and delectable taste left an indelible memory.
The Variety of Tasty Sauces
One of the highlights of my meal was discovering Ono Hawaiian BBQ's nine different sauce options. The Katsu Sauce is tangy with just the right amount of sweetness, which I added to my beef katsu. On the other hand, the Teriyaki Sauce was a delightful blend of sweet and savory made from soy sauce, sugar, sake, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. I quickly realised that it goes very well with grilled meats!
What is "Ono" in Hawaiian?
For anyone wondering, 'ono' in Hawaiian directly translates to 'delicious.' And Ono Hawaiian BBQ certainly lived up to its name by providing a truly 'ono' dining experience.
A Little About Chicken Katsu
Next up was Chicken Katsu. This dish, originally from Japan in the 1800s and later adapted and popularized here by Ono Hawaiian BBQ, is made with panko-coated deep-fried boneless chicken. I found Ono Hawaiian BBQ's rendition truly mouthwatering!
Oh and the Spam Musubi!
One Hawaiian staple I was excited to try was the Spam Musubi - a delightful combination of rice, grilled Spam, and soy sauce wrapped in seaweed. Good for any time of the day, this inexpensive and filling dish did not disappoint.
And Don't Forget the Seafood!
Fans of seafood will be pleased to find Ono Hawaiian BBQ's fried shrimp, with the piquant crunch of the deep fried shell contrasting beautifully against the flavor-packed shrimp within. It was served with a side of rice and a dollop of their delicious macaroni salad.
The Refreshing Drinks
To wash it all down, I enjoyed a Hawaiian Sun fruit juice. Available in a range of flavors from classic tastes like strawberry guava or orange to the more exotic mango and passion fruit, this drink left me feeling refreshed and satisfied.
Pros
- Authentic Hawaiian cuisine
- Fresh, high-quality ingredients
- Plenty of options for different dietary preferences, including vegetarian choices
- Macaroni salad!
Cons
- Few spicy food choices
- Limited vegan dishes
- No options for customizing dishes
In conclusion, my experience at Ono Hawaiian BBQ was overwhelmingly positive. The restaurant's mission to provide top-quality food with an authentic island experience shines through in each dish. I'm eager to return to sample more of the delicious Hawaiian culinary tradition.