Hawai'i's Best Restaurants

	2006 'ILIMA AWARD WINNER - BEST FOR WINE: PEOPLE'S CHOICE
	Every year, Advertiser readers are asked to vote for their favorite restaurants in the 'Ilima Awards poll. Meanwhile, our in-house food experts debate to select the critics' choice 'Ilimas, primarily focused on restaurants recently reviewed or revisited. With a few exceptions, categories change each year to keep readers interested and keep the winner list fresh.

BEST FOR WINE: PEOPLE'S CHOICE
Formaggio, a Wine and Cheese Bar

From left, Kristie Yuh of Kaimuki, Sherrie Niizuma of Kailua and Cheryl Casida of Nu'uanu eat, drink and chat at Formaggio at 2919 Kapi'olani Blvd. The Best for Wine pick also offers live music nightly — so expect lively hubbub, and possibly a wait.

ADVERTISER LIBRARY PHOTO | May 29, 2005

Though tucked into a daylight basement storefront, Formaggio somehow manages to capture the atmosphere of an Italian catacomb. They offer 50 wines by the glass, live music nightly and simple but inviting antipasti, panini sandwiches, salads and hot dishes. The braised short ribs are a hit (not surprisingly, since former Hy's Steakhouse executive chef Almar Arcano is a partner). Expect some noise and possibly a wait.

Market City Shopping Center, 2919 Kapi'olani Blvd. 739-7719. 5 p.m.-midnight Monday-Thursday, 5 p.m.-2 a.m. Friday and Saturday. Closed Sunday. No reservations. VS, MC, AX. No checks. $$$.

Legend:

VS: Visa
MC: Mastercard
AX: American Express
DC: Diners Club
DS: Discover Card
JCB: JCB Card
Olioli: Olioli Card

$$$: Pricey; entrées mostly more than $17
$$: Moderate; entrées $10-$16
$: Budget-friendly; entrées mostly less than $10

Checks: Local checks and travelers’ checks only

Past 'Ilima Award winner

"Cheap eats" restaurant

"Local classic" eatery