Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman on Maui continues to win awards and with this new opening in Waikiki, we couldn’t be happier. I haven’t visited this location yet, soon!, so not sure if it will make my best places to eat on Oahu until I do so. Until then I will rely on you to give it a try and let me know what you think.
Waikiki, Honolulu, HI – A new culinary gem has arrived in Waikiki, offering a feast for the senses and a true taste of island paradise. Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman opened its doors on July 14, 2023, at the prestigious Outrigger Reef Hotel. This vibrant restaurant and bar is quickly becoming a hotspot for locals and tourists alike, attracting guests with its unique offerings of craft brews, hand-tossed pizzas, fresh island fish, and live music.
Craft Beer Paradise
If you’re a craft beer enthusiast, Monkeypod Kitchen will undoubtedly be your go-to spot in Waikiki. The restaurant boasts an impressive selection of 36 craft brews on tap, all served at a refreshing 29 degrees. Whether you prefer lagers, wheat ales, pale ales, IPAs, porters, stouts, or sours, there’s something to please every beer connoisseur.
Highlights from the Breakfast Menu:
Start your day with a selection of mouthwatering breakfast options. The breakfast menu offers delightful choices like:
Taro Hash
Immerse yourself in the unique flavors of the islands with the Taro Hash. Savor the contrast of crisp fried egg and the hearty, earthy taste of big island taro. Hamakua mushrooms, onion, red pepper, green onion, and a touch of jalapeño join this medley, creating a satisfying harmony of flavors.
The Cure
For a breakfast that soothes and satisfies, look no further than The Cure. Sun noodles provide a comforting base, accompanied by tender kalua pork and a perfectly poached egg. The red chili chicken broth warms your soul, while the addition of ginger, bok choy, mushrooms, red onion, carrots, and bean sprouts creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you feeling restored and ready to take on the day.
Happy Hour Delights
Monkeypod Kitchen offers a daily happy hour from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM, where you can indulge in drink and food specials. Sip on discounted draft beers, wines by the glass, and handcrafted culinary cocktails, all while enjoying the island’s laid-back atmosphere.
Food specials during happy hour include half-off appetizers (excluding poke tacos, lobster deviled eggs, potstickers, & lomilomi) and discounted pizzas (excluding the bourgeois pizza).
Highlights from the Dinner Menu:
Organic Macadamia Nut Crusted Fresh Fish
Savor the taste of the islands with our exquisite Organic Macadamia Nut Crusted Fresh Fish.
Delicate and flaky fish is coated with a delightful blend of macadamia nuts and panko, creating a crunchy and flavorful crust that pays homage to Hawaii’s rich nut heritage. Tantalizing your palate further is the zesty Maui pineapple relish, adding a burst of tropical sweetness to each bite.
Accompanied by a bed of aromatic organic scallion-garlic rice, this dish is a symphony of textures and flavors. To elevate the experience, a luscious lemon beurre blanc drizzle adds a velvety finish, ensuring a truly memorable dining experience that captures the essence of Hawaii’s culinary delights.
Bulgogi Pork Tacos
Embark on a tantalizing journey to the flavors of Korea with our Bulgogi Pork Tacos.
Tender and succulent bulgogi pork takes center stage, marinated to perfection in a blend of traditional spices that awaken your taste buds. Embracing a harmonious fusion, handcrafted kimchee adds a burst of tangy and spicy goodness, while jalapeños lend a delightful kick. The addition of Asian pear imparts a subtle sweetness, creating a well-balanced medley of tastes.
All these delectable ingredients are lovingly enveloped in locally made corn tortillas, providing the perfect vessel to carry the extraordinary flavors to your palate. The finishing touch is a drizzle of sriracha aioli, offering a creamy and spicy note that ties this culinary adventure together.
Saimin
Delight in a taste of Hawaii’s cherished comfort food with our heartwarming Saimin. Locally made sun noodles luxuriate in a rich and soul-soothing roasted chicken broth, creating a nourishing base for this iconic dish.
All-natural pork joins the ensemble, providing a depth of savory goodness that will leave you feeling thoroughly satisfied. The medley of fresh ingredients includes broccoli, bean sprouts, and red onion, contributing a refreshing and wholesome touch. For added complexity, the delightful crunch of peanuts mingles with the invigorating aroma of cilantro and mint, elevating the flavors to new heights. The resulting harmony of tastes and textures ensures that each spoonful of Saimin takes you on a comforting journey to the heart of Hawaii’s culinary heritage.
Families with children are warmly welcomed at Monkeypod Kitchen. The keiki (children’s) menu offers a variety of kid-friendly options like Keiki Pancake, Keiki Classic (scrambled egg, bacon, smashed potatoes), and Noodles & Cheese.
A Tropical Oasis with Live Music
As you relish the delicious food and craft brews, Monkeypod Kitchen also treats you to the sounds of the islands. Enjoy daily live music performances, adding to the restaurant’s vibrant and inviting ambiance.
Location and Hours of Operation
Monkeypod Kitchen is conveniently located at 2169 Kalia Road, Unit #111, Honolulu, HI 96815, inside the Outrigger Reef Hotel. The restaurant is open daily, except on select holidays, from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Don’t miss out on the daily happy hour from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM.
For more information, reservations, and to explore the menus, visit www.monkeypodkitchen.com or call (808) 900-4226.
