After our 2016 trip to Japan, we’ve had the misfortune of missing an authentic Japanese-cuisine palate. It’s difficult to find a restaurant that compares to the ones in Japan, until now. Luckily, there’s a restaurant in Waikiki that exceeded our Japan-cravings expectations. Previously located at the Royal Hawaiin Center,  Okonomiyaki Chibo moved to its new home on Beach Walk Avenue where it is easily accessible.

World War II was unfortunate for humanity, but like all bad things, there is always something good in disguise. One good to come out of the chaos was the signature dish, Okonomiyaki, which exploded in popularity after the war. With over 60 restaurants in Japan alone, Okonomiyaki Chibo is now recognized worldwide as one of the best places to experience authentic Japanese cuisine outside of Japan. Other locations include Conrad-Manila in the Phillippines, Ha Noi in Vietnam and Bangkok, Thailand and Waikiki, Hawaii.

Restaurant Hours in Waikiki:
Lunch: 11:30am – 2:30pm  | Dinner: 4:30pm – 10:00pm | Happy Hour: 4:30pm – 6:00pm

Parking:
Bank of Hawaii Building which is located right across the restaurant. With validation, it’s $2 per hour.

DINING AT CHIBO HAWAII

At Chibo Hawaii, there are outdoor and indoor table seating, two teppanyaki tables that can seat eight people, and a bar seating area. I can’t express enough to make an early reservation at one of the teppanyaki tables, where expert chefs prepare the food right before your eyes. After all, it’s always an unforgettable experience when you’re able to see how creative the chef can be when he whips up your meal!

YAKISOBA FAIR – SEPTEMBER SPECIAL!

For the entire month of September, Chibo restaurant is presenting a Yakisoba Fair. Choose from four different styles such as Chibo’s original sauce Yakisoba with pork, Shio-Yakisoba with pork and chives, Spicy sauce Yakisoba with pork, and Volcano extra hot Yakisoba with pork. Each plate for only $10! 

If you’re up for the challenge – try their *Volcano* extra HOT Yakisoba. Emphasis on the HOT, it’s extremely spicy!

LET THE FOOD TASTING COMMENCE

Aside from Okonomiyaki and the different styles of Yakisoba, they also serve several dishes such as assorted Teppanyaki (grilled steaks, seafood or chicken and vegetables), salads, appetizers, side dishes, and desserts. I had a taste of every single dish during our tasting and it was delectable!

Okonomiyaki is a special dish offered at Chibo. It is a classic savory Japanese pancake loaded with vegetables with a variety of fillings such as meat and seafood. It all depends on what fillings you want inside your Okonomiyaki, after all, it means “How you want it grilled”. Very customizable dish. The presentation is completed with its special sauce beautifully drizzled on top with dancing fish flakes.

You can’t be a five-star restaurant without offering yummy desserts! Chibo restaurant offers ice cream and a few other special desserts. Recently included on the menus is Shave Ice with original flavored syrups! Although it’s not pictured, we tasted the pineapple, strawberry, and white peach flavors. It was so refreshing!

HAPPY HOUR AT THE BAR

Chibo Hawaii offers Happy Hour daily from 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm – Their bar provides a variety of drinks from Beer, Sake, Shochu, Liquor, White and Red Wines, Exotic Drinks, Virgin Drinks, Teas, and Juices! There are many liquids and spirits to keep a lively night exciting!

After an afternoon sampling Okonomiyaki Chibo delicacies, it has earned a place in the Wanerlustyle family as one of the best places to eat veritable Japanese meals. The ambiance was refreshing and the overall atmosphere was lively and energetic, just like Japan and the way we like our eateries. If you’re looking for some authentic Japanese food, head over to Chibo restaurant in Waikiki! If you’ve tried a dish, leave a comment with your favorite dish! Thanks for reading!