Sarah S.
Yelp
I've been wanting to try this place for over a long time now and FINALLY got a chance a chance to go!! Luckily it was early on a Wednesday night and we were able to walk in without reservations. But with only two guys working they limited the seating. Located in the a tiny intimate space with a bar and some tables I heard that the best seats are at the bar with front row seats so you can see the bartenders do their thing. We were seated on a table where we couldn't see but it's ok because we were engaged in conversation all night.
Love that we all got different things and got to try each other's drinks. Everything was crafted with excellent care and beautifully and articulately presented with a short narrative about each drink. The starred ones were my faves.
Round 1:
***E ho'o pau mai tai-12 year rum, spices: orgeat, fig lime, absinthe, keawe wood smoke. My friend said this was the world's best mai tai. I always wonder how anyone can make that claim unless they have literally travelled the world and tasted every maitai. They might not be wrong though, because this award winning drink was one of the best maitais I've ever had!!! Not too sweet, much more complex than your typical beach drink, and full of wonderful flavors! Masterfully made!
**Kisetsu Sour/ lilikoi - changes seasonally - Nikka Coffey gin, mason pepper, yuzu, bergamot, lilikoi, lemon, tonic . This drink changes with the "seasons". Beautiful, refreshing and too easy to drink!
Espresso martini- haku vodka, pandan, cynar, sesame, cold brew, whole egg. They smoke the espresso beans in front of you. My friend liked his drink more than I did.
Round 2:
Red Shiso smash- (not on the menu)-Toki, red shiso, lemon, yuzu, wasabon sugar, soda. Good but not my favorite.
***El Umami- tequila, mezcal, bergamot, strawberry, tomato, bergamot- lovely in looks and taste! A little sweet, a little smoky.
Roma Norte- mezcal, chile verde, grapefruit, honey, black pepper, frozen apple. Super cool presentation. Good if you like smoky.
***Smoked salmon- bourbon smoked salmon, wasabi, dill oil, smoked trout roe. Soooo good! Great for sharing. Excellent servers knew we'd need more bread.
Complimentary:
Rice ball snacks
Dessert: Ganache with yuzu- a perfect ending!
Service by the guy in the leather apron and hat (sorry didn't catch his name ) was top notch. We were very well attended to. Love that they fill chilled water without having to be asked through the evening.
I can see why people love this place and why it's James Beard worthy! Drinks nowadays are pricey everywhere. Theirs come with creativity, care, craftsmanship and class which give them more value than those at most other bars.