Nestled in the heart of Honolulu, Chef Chai is a celebrated fine dining restaurant that artfully blends Asian fusion cuisine with Hawaiian flair. Located on Kapiolani Boulevard near the Neal S. Blaisdell Center, Chef Chai is the namesake of renowned Chef Chai Chaowasaree, one of Hawaii’s most acclaimed culinary figures. His restaurant has earned a devoted following for its innovative approach to local ingredients, elegant presentations, and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re a visitor exploring Oahu or a local celebrating a special occasion, Chef Chai offers an elevated dining experience that captures the essence of the islands.
A Vision of Modern Hawaiian-Asian Fusion
Chef Chai’s culinary philosophy is rooted in balancing bold Asian flavors with Hawaii’s fresh, local produce and seafood. Each dish is a carefully curated composition that reflects the chef’s international experience while honoring the bounty of the islands. The menu is an exquisite mix of East meets West, where Thai, Japanese, and Chinese influences converge with island-grown vegetables, Pacific seafood, and tropical fruits.
As a pioneer in Pacific Rim cuisine, Chef Chai’s menu caters to sophisticated palates with options that are flavorful yet health-conscious. Many dishes are gluten-free, and there are ample vegetarian selections. The restaurant also stands out for its lighter approach to cooking—using minimal oil and butter while maximizing natural ingredients, broths, herbs, and spices.
Standout Starters: Sophistication from the First Bite
The experience begins with starters that are as visually impressive as they are delicious. Diners are treated to dishes such as the Hamakua Mushroom and Black Truffle Risotto Cakes ($19), served with a fresh tomato basil sauce that brings earthiness and brightness together in perfect harmony.
Other options like the Fresh Ahi Tartar with Avocado Mousse in Mini Waffle Cones ($22) offer a playful and elegant presentation. The contrast between creamy avocado, tender ahi, and crisp waffle cones is a prime example of Chef Chai’s skill in texture and balance.
Seafood lovers will appreciate the Seafood Tortellini with Lobster Sauce, Sautéed Corn and Edamame ($21), or the Sautéed Escargot & Prawns with Chili Garlic Cream and Fresh Shiitake Mushrooms ($25), which is served with crostinis—fusing French culinary influences with Asian flavors.
Vegetarians aren’t left out, with the Japanese Eggplant and Zucchini Soufflé with Fresh Tomato Sauce ($21) providing a rich and satisfying option that’s both hearty and light.
Entrées That Impress
Chef Chai’s entrées showcase his signature style—deftly prepared proteins, flavorful sauces, and artfully arranged accompaniments. The Grilled Fresh Kabayaki King Salmon with Pineapple Relish ($39) exemplifies this, combining smoky sweet soy-glazed salmon with tangy tropical fruit, served with your choice of steamed white rice or coconut milk ginger brown rice.
For those craving richness, the Pan-Seared Fresh Jumbo Hokkaido Scallop with Lobster Reduction ($56) is a must-try. Served with creamy truffle risotto, it’s a dish that celebrates luxury and depth of flavor.
Another standout is the Miso Chilean Sea Bass with Pickled Vegetables ($50), a gluten-free favorite and one of Chef Chai’s most recommended dishes. The buttery sea bass is paired with crisp, tart pickled vegetables and served alongside either steamed rice or the fragrant coconut milk ginger brown rice.
Meat dishes are equally compelling. The Grilled Filet Mignon with Mashed Potato, Mushroom Puff, and Merlot Demi ($65) is a decadent offering for red meat lovers. For a bold and unique option, the Thai Style Oxtail with Spicy Lemongrass Broth and Chinese Celery ($44) brings warmth and depth to the table, reminiscent of a slow-simmered family-style soup but elevated to fine dining standards.
Chef’s Recommendations: Unique Creations
If you’re unsure where to start, consider Chef Chai’s Recommended dishes. The Smoked Duck Breast Taco ($20) with avocado mousse and fresh mango salsa delivers a flavor explosion in every bite. The Fresh Kumamoto Oysters on Ice (6 pieces for $20) offer delicate brininess with the refreshing zing of lemongrass garlic mignonette.
One of the most indulgent items is the Chef Chai’s Signature Combination Appetizer Platter ($58 for two), which includes Fresh Ahi Tartar, Gravlax Salmon Roulade, Foie Gras Mousse on Toasted Brioche, Mini Duck Tacos, and Kataifi Macadamia Nut Crusted Jumbo Black Tiger Prawns—an impressive array of house favorites.
Soups and Salads with a Local Twist
For a lighter start or as an accompaniment, Chef Chai offers several vibrant salads and soups. The Roasted Butternut Squash and Lobster Bisque ($17) is a rich and velvety option that’s made without butter or flour, thickened instead with squash purée.
Salads like the Organically Grown Rainbow Salad with Tangerine Vinaigrette ($14) and the Ho Farms Heirloom Cherry Tomato Burrata Caprese Salad ($17) incorporate fresh, locally sourced ingredients such as mesclun greens, teardrop tomatoes, and roasted beets.
Aesthetic, Atmosphere, and Service
The ambiance at Chef Chai is sleek, modern, and upscale without feeling pretentious. High ceilings, clean lines, and tasteful lighting create an elegant yet inviting atmosphere. Large windows allow natural light to flood the dining area during the day, while at night the soft glow creates a romantic setting perfect for dates, anniversaries, or special celebrations.
Service is consistently praised for being friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. Whether you’re a regular guest or visiting for the first time, the staff ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience from start to finish.
Final Thoughts
Chef Chai is more than just a restaurant—it’s a celebration of culinary artistry rooted in Hawaiian ingredients and Asian finesse. With an extensive menu that caters to a wide range of tastes and dietary needs, this Oahu gem offers a dining experience that’s both memorable and meaningful.
Perfect for date nights, elegant dinners, or simply treating yourself to an extraordinary meal, Chef Chai continues to set the standard for innovative Pacific Rim cuisine in Hawaii. From artfully plated dishes to top-tier service and a tranquil setting, it’s a place where every detail is thoughtfully crafted to create a truly unforgettable meal.
Website: https://chefchai.com
Location: 1009 Kapiolani Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96814
Reservations Recommended: Especially for weekends and holidays.
Note: Prices and items are based on the current menu as of 2025 and may be subject to change.
