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CASUAL DINING
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| When we don't want to dress up, when the budget is a bit busted, when we're hanging out with the gang, these are the restaurants we choose. There's considerable variation among them in price, food style and atmosphere, but all cultivate a relaxed feeling and, in most cases, there's no need for reservations or anything fancier than T-shirt and slippers. |
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If you had the impression, as we did, that Panya Bistro at Ala Moana was just a Japanese bakery, get over it. Bistro, with its implications of relaxed atmosphere and brightly flavored food, is really the word. The range here is daunting, from swoon-worthy smoothies to rice and noodle dishes, from Japanese pub food (fried chicken, gyoza, steamed clams, salt-and-pepper shrimp) to sandwiches and salads. And, of course, cocktails (try the green apple martini). This small but sophisticated spot is equally suitable for a gossipy ladies' lunch or a first-date drink. (Its sister Panya Bakery Express is more what you would expect — breakfast and lunch takeout.)
Ala Moana Center, 1450 Ala Moana. 946-6388. 7:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Sunday. Also, Panya Bakery Express, 711 Queen St. 597-8880. 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Friday. No reservations. VS, MC, AX, DC, DS, JCB. No checks. $.
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VS: Visa
MC: Mastercard
AX: American Express
DC: Diners Club
DS: Discover Card
JCB: JCB Card
Olioli: Olioli Card |
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$$$: Pricey; entrées mostly more than $17
$$: Moderate; entrées $10-$16
$: Budget-friendly; entrées mostly less than $10
Checks: Local checks and travelers’ checks only |
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 Past 'Ilima Award winner
 "Cheap eats" restaurant
 "Local classic" eatery
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