2004 'ILIMA AWARD WINNER - ITALIAN (AND PIZZA)
	All the major cuisines are represented in Hawai'i, though, of course, Asian and Southeast Asian restaurants are the most common. Here, we've selected a representative sample. (More Asian and Southeast Asian restaurants can be found in the chapters on dim sum, noodles, sushi bars, izakaya, takeout and yakiniku.)

Best Italian Restaurant
ASSAGGIO

The Ky family and friends learned Italian food from longtime O'ahu restaurateur "Cass" Castagnola and have created a small empire around the concept of simple Sicilian-style food, reasonably priced, in convenient locations. The family of restaurants includes four Assaggios and Paesano in Manoa as well. We go back for the Sicilian chicken and the linguine chicken anchovy olio — both in garlicky wine sauces.

Four locations: 1450 Ala Moana, #1259, 942-3446; 7192 Kalaniana'ole Highway, Hawai'i Kai, 396-0756; 95-1249 Meheula Parkway, Mililani, 623-5115; and 354 Uluniu St., Kailua, 261-2772. www.assaggiohawaii.com. Hours of operation vary. Closed major holidays. Reservations recommended. VS, MC, AX, DS. No checks. Lunch: $$. Dinner: $$$.