– New Korean Restaurant Onkee opened in August 2024 in Honolulu –
Onkee Korean Grill House
The newly opened Korean restaurant Onki, located in the Kakaako district of Honolulu, has quickly garnered attention among both locals and tourists, thanks to the growing popularity of K-Food. Onki combines traditional Korean cuisine with modern flair, creating a fresh and inviting atmosphere that has set high expectations for visitors.
Operated by the family behind the renowned Samwon Garden in Korea, Onki brings the warmth of traditional Korean BBQ with a touch of motherly love to Hawaii. This upscale Korean dining establishment reinterprets the family’s dedication and Korea’s authentic flavors in a contemporary way, offering customers a unique and memorable dining experience.
Named ONKEE
The name Onkee carries the familiar meaning of “warmth” in Korean. Specifically, it refers to the warmth of food cooked by the fire from a hearth, a comforting and homey concept deeply rooted in Korean culture. More than just a brand name, Onkee serves as a cultural bridge, introducing visitors to the beauty of the Korean language. Guests may become curious about the meaning behind the name, and in doing so, they’ll naturally discover the charm and depth of Hangul, enriching their dining experience beyond the food.
MENU
Onkee offers a refined take on traditional Korean cuisine, staying true to the fundamentals of authentic Korean cooking while incorporating a touch of specialty flair. The menu, while concise, is carefully curated, offering a selection of appetizers, main dishes, BBQ, soups, and noodle dishes. Rather than overwhelming diners with variety, Onkee focuses on a few select dishes, ensuring quality and depth in every bite.
Main courses include braised short ribs, stir-fried squid, seafood pancakes, and a variety of BBQ options like grilled short ribs (galbi), allowing guests to experience a range of flavors. For couples or small groups, Onkee offers set menus that simplify the decision-making process. The restaurant’s specialties include traditional yukhoe (Korean beef tartare), beef salad, and japchae, elevated with luxurious touches like uni or caviar, and a seafood platter. These specialties provide a sophisticated glimpse into the elegance of Korean cuisine, making Onki a standout dining destination.
INTERIOR
The interior design of Onkee blends Korean minimalism with a modern, sophisticated touch, creating a unique and stylish atmosphere. The space features natural materials such as clay, red terracotta, textured tiles, and dark wood, which stand out and enhance the restaurant’s warm, earthy ambiance. Traditional Korean pottery and crafts further add to the authentic cultural experience, evoking a true sense of Korean heritage. Sleek elements like grill tables, art pieces, and white lanterns complement the décor, reflecting the brand’s philosophy of natural simplicity. The result is a luxurious yet inviting atmosphere that makes guests feel relaxed and special, offering a perfect balance of elegance and warmth.
LOCATION
Onkee restaurant is located in Ward Village, within the emerging upscale residential area of Kakaako, just a 10-minute drive from Waikiki. This neighborhood is filled with newly built luxury condos and is considered one of Honolulu’s most vibrant and trendy communities, known for offering a high-end lifestyle. Kakaako is also recognized for its cultural significance and is frequently highlighted on TV, as many well-known Korean celebrities are either residents or frequent visitors, adding to its growing fame in Korea.
The lower floors of many residential condos in this area are home to luxury restaurants and trendy shops, and Onkee finds its place on the second floor of Koula, one of these prestigious condos. This location further cements Onkee as part of the upscale and lively atmosphere that defines Kakaako
Menu Tasting at Onkee
As you take the elevator up to the second floor of the Koula condo in Kakaako, it is directly connected to Onkee restaurant. Upon checking in at the entrance, the first thing that catches your eye is the sophisticated bar to the right. While not a massive venue, the restaurant is spacious enough for a Korean dining establishment. The entrance and bar area immediately present a modern and stylish atmosphere, setting the tone for the rest of the dining experience.
The restaurant spans approximately 7,000 square feet and offers a total of 90 seats, including a small private room for more intimate dining experiences.
Today’s menu. Beef Frank Salad, BBQ, Japchae, Cold Noodles, Pancakes (Jeon), and a Seafood Plate. The dishes are presented beautifully, with a noticeable emphasis on freshness and quality ingredients. Each dish is cleanly prepared, refined, and delicious, offering a truly satisfying dining experience.
Onkee Korean Grill House: 1000 Auahi Street, Unit #220, Honolulu, Hawaii 96814