– New Restaurant ‘IZAKAYA 855 ALOHA’ in Waikiki –
Izakaya 855 Aloha
In 2024, as new restaurants continue to open throughout Waikiki and its surrounding areas, one spot that stands out is Izakaya 855 Aloha. Located on the ground floor of Romer House Waikiki, a luxury adults-only hotel with 179 rooms, this modern Japanese izakaya is the brainchild of renowned restaurateur Patric Yumul. Operated by TableOne Hospitality, the restaurant seamlessly combines contemporary design with the essence of traditional Japanese dining, providing guests with an exceptional culinary experience in a stylish and exclusive atmosphere.
Since opening in June, this restaurant’s allure goes well beyond its exquisite cuisine; it’s the ambiance that truly sets it apart. The space captures an analog charm while incorporating a modern aesthetic. Inspired by Waikiki’s vintage sky-blue payphones and the iconic “1-855-ALOHA-00” ad copy, the restaurant is designed with soft lighting and sleek interiors. Vintage elements add a nostalgic yet contemporary feel. Designed by IndiDesign, the space is adorned with works from local illustrator Solario and photographer Joe Rovegno, infusing the intimate setting with rich artistic flair.
Local artist Solario’s artwork, inspired by the iconic pages of old phone books,
Izakaya 855 Aloha stands out for its efficient table layout and homage to Waikiki’s iconic payphones, creating an artistic atmosphere that reinterprets the nostalgia of that era in a modern way. The menu is equally innovative, celebrating Hawaii’s cultural diversity through creative dishes. Traditional izakaya fare, such as Japanese grilled skewers (yakitori), fresh sashimi, and various tempura dishes, are reimagined with a contemporary twist, offering a unique and flavorful dining experience throughout the restaurant.
Menu Images
photo credit: TableOne Hospitality & Craig Bixel
A Taste of the Menu!
Aloha Spoon -Ikura, quail egg, uni, ponzu, shiso $8.55 / Eye-Catching Appetizer! This delicate appetizer features a trio of luxurious ingredients: salmon roe, quail egg, and sea urchin.
Build Your Own Hand Roll – Tuna, yellowtail, scallop, salmon, tobiko, cucumber, kaiware, pickled daikon, tamago, inari, shiso, sushi rice, nori* $38.50 / The ingredients are brought to the table individually, allowing diners to create their custom hand rolls. it’s about the fun of crafting your own perfect bite, making the meal both engaging and delicious.
Chirashi Don – Chef’s Selection of Sashimi, Tamago, Sushi Rice, Ginger $38 / A delightful dish features a bed of rice topped with a variety of fresh sashimi, including different types of fish, egg, and a touch of ginger. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of the finest ingredients, making it a must-try for sashimi lovers.
855 Karaage-Japanese Fried Chicken, Karashi Mustard, House-Made Teriyaki $10.50 / The Chicken Karaage (Japanese Fried Chicken) is a crispy, golden delight. Each piece of chicken is perfectly seasoned and makes a good dish for beer or cocktails.
Poke Sampler – Ahi Tuna, Kampachi Ceviche, Spicy Octopus $13.75 / The Poke Sampler is a feast for the senses and also a visual delight. With an assortment of fresh, vibrant ingredients, the dish boasts a stunning presentation that instantly whets the appetite.
The cocktails at Izakaya 855 Aloha are just as eye-catching as the food. One standout is the cocktail served in a coffee cup—a brilliantly unique idea that mimics the appearance of a dessert coffee. While the presentation makes you feel like you’re sipping a sweet after-dinner treat, the rich whiskey notes pack a punch. It’s a delightful experience for the senses, but with the strong whiskey aroma, it’s best to enjoy this one with caution!
Izakaya 855 Aloha also offers a selection of original cocktails that are as inventive as they are delicious:
- KISS ME THROUGH THE PHONE: A refreshing mix of Awauki Yuki Strawberry Gin, mint, matcha, lemon, and egg white, delivering a balance of sweet and herbal notes.
- HOTLINE BLING: A tropical fusion of Lalo Tequila Blanco, lychee, Midori, green tea, cucumber, and lime, perfect for those who enjoy light, fruity cocktails with a refreshing twist.
- RING RING RING: A bold combination of Kikori Japanese Whiskey, Mr. Black coffee liqueur, ginger, sweet soy sauce, espresso, and black sesame. This cocktail offers an intriguing blend of rich, savory, and sweet flavors, making it a unique and unforgettable drink.
These cocktails not only feature creative flavor pairings but also showcase the bar’s commitment to elevating the drinking experience with innovative ingredients and presentations.
The spacious bar area serves as a lively social hub, especially late into the night, seamlessly doubling as the hotel’s lobby bar. Its open, inviting layout makes it the perfect spot for guests to gather, unwind, and enjoy a drink, creating a warm and sociable atmosphere.
Izakaya 855 Aloha offers a creative menu, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a drink and good conversation. Conveniently located in Waikiki, it’s a must-visit for those seeking a unique dining experience, especially Japanese cuisine. With its chic atmosphere, exceptional Japanese dishes, and inventive cocktails, it promises an unforgettable culinary experience in the heart of Waikiki.
ROMER HOUSE WAIKIKI HOTEL
