2004 'ILIMA AWARD WINNER - CASUAL DINING
	As we define it for this guide, casual dining is a state of mind. It doesn't necessarily mean inexpensive, though it usually implies good value — getting as much or more than you paid for. It doesn't necessarily mean shorts and slippers, though it suggests a relaxed dress code.

Best Family Restaurant
BIG CITY DINER

It's hard to believe Big City Diner is just five years old, this growing family of restaurants (three locations now) caught on fast because the "American and local Asian comfort food" is a bit more sophisticated and high quality than at the average plate-lunch place, but you can still wear slippers and relax. Four chefs supervise the three kitchens, turning out such dishes as Hawaiian rock salt soybeans, kim chee fried rice and paniolo chicken salad.

Three locations: 3569 Wai'alae Ave., Kaimuki, 738-8855; 108 Hekuli St., Kailua, 263-8880; Ward Entertainment Center, 1060 Auahi St. Hours: Kaimuki: 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday, 7 a.m.-midnight Tuesday-Thursday, 7 a.m.-1 a.m. Friday-Saturday, 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday. Kailua: 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, 7 a.m.-midnight Friday-Saturday. Ward: 7 a.m.-11 p.m. Sunday-Monday, 7 a.m.-midnight Tuesday-Thursday, 7 a.m.-1 a.m. Friday-Saturday. No reservations. VS, MC, AX, DS. No checks. Breakfast and lunch: $. Dinner: $$.