Now, plop this backroad restaurant on University Way in the U District and it comes off as a bit shabby, but give it a try, their heart is still in the islands and so is the food. Hawaii BBQ occupies the storefront of the old Continental Restaurant, a favorite Mediterranean restaurant and coffee house that finally closed due to retirement of the owners; so they have big shoes to fill. But you really need to leave that on the sidewalk when entering this place. This is a no-frills establishment serving monster portions of authentic Hawaiian grub at low prices. More students and others whose appetites outstrip their wallets (and the frugal) need to find this place.
A group from work came here to celebrate a birthday. I could tell that some of them were ready to run, but each selected a dish from the menu posted on the wall, and one by one went to the cash register to order, pay (cash only), and receive a little ticket with their order number. Prices were very reasonable with most not exceeding $6.50 for a full meal.
We selected a couple tables pushed together in the back, collected various napkins, silverware, hot sauce and water, and sat down to wait. But it wasn't long. Each of our ticket numbers was called out by the man at the cash register separately and each of our platters contained hot, steamy, massive portions.
The food was good, the prices low, the seasoning authentic. And, yes, they had a few vegetarian dishes although I doubt that they keep things completely pure and separate in the kitchen.
To keep prices low, the service is minimal. Customers are expected to find their own silverware, water, and condiments, then bus their own tables. But takeout boxes were provided at no additional cost (Yes, this is getting more and more common in the U District.) and everyone left satisfied.
They do serve shave ice, but at $5.00 a serving, it would have almost doubled the bill. Maybe next time.
No comments:
Post a Comment