Our Culinary Journey at Restaurant Suntory in Waikiki

Ever had one of those places you’re dying to try but just can’t seem to get into? For us, that was Restaurant Suntory in the heart of Waikiki’s Royal Hawaiian Center. It took us three tries—the first time it was closed, the second time under renovation. But as they say, the third time’s the charm, and it finally worked out. Walking in, we felt the buzz of excitement; this was going to be a meal to remember.

The place itself is a blend of modern chic and traditional Japanese touches, right down in the bustling center of Honolulu. It’s been a staple since 1980, standing as the last original tenant of the center, which pretty much makes it a landmark. Stepping inside, the vibe is warm and welcoming, lit up by soft lighting that highlighted the natural wood finishes—a perfect setup for a night of indulgence.

We kicked things off with a round of drinks—I went for a gin and tonic, and my friend chose a highball. Both were on point, but what really caught our eye were the Suntory whisky decorations adorning the walls, giving us a little hint of Japan right here in Hawaii. Chatting with the bartender, we learned about their exclusive omakase sushi counter, which we immediately added to our “must-try next” list.

The menu at Restaurant Suntory is a deep dive into the art of Japanese cuisine. We were tempted by everything from the get-go. They’ve got an impressive lineup of sushi and sashimi, and every bite felt like a fresh taste of the ocean. But it’s not just raw fish here; they’ve got the whole spectrum covered. We watched a teppanyaki chef in action, flipping and frying right before our eyes, and the aroma was irresistible.

Deciding on food was a challenge because everything sounded so good. We finally settled on a bit of everything—some sushi, a teppanyaki platter, and, for a true taste of Japan, some shabu-shabu. With each dish, it was clear how much care and precision the chefs put into their work, using the freshest local ingredients they could get their hands on.

And the drinks menu? Just as carefully curated. We sipped on sake and wine, each selection recommended to complement our dishes. The staff knew their stuff, helping us pair each sip perfectly with the flavors of our meal.

But Restaurant Suntory isn’t just about food and drinks. It’s about the experience. The place buzzes with cultural exchanges and community ties. We learned about their involvement in local charities and how they source their ingredients from local farmers. It’s this commitment to community and culture that really makes dining here feel like you’re part of something bigger.

Throughout the evening, the staff were impeccable—attentive without being intrusive, they made sure we felt welcomed and cherished. It’s this level of hospitality that sets Restaurant Suntory apart, making it not just a meal but an event.

Besides the stellar dining, the restaurant hosts a range of cultural events. From sake tasting to tea ceremonies and even origami sessions, it’s a gateway to Japanese culture. We left not only full but enriched, having dipped our toes into a sea of cultural traditions.

Wrapping up the night, we walked out with more than just satisfied stomachs—we carried with us the heart and soul of Japan, as shared through the passion and artistry of Restaurant Suntory. For anyone visiting Waikiki, make sure to put this place on your list. It’s not just dining; it’s a journey through the flavors and traditions of Japan, served up right in the heart of paradise. And trust me, you’ll want to come back—next time, we’re hitting that omakase sushi counter!