Jon C.
Yelp
I've been to Nobu in Waikiki, Kakaako, and California and I can say that Sensei by Nobu is a very different (and surprising) restaurant. There are a couple of Nobu staples such as the Miso-Marinated Black Cod and Yellowtail (hamachi) sashimi with jalapeno but there isn't a full sushi menu. What is different is Sensei by Nobu is collaboration between world-renowned Japanese chef Nobu Matsuhisa and Sensei co-founder Dr. David Agus (along with hotel and landowner Larry Ellison).
As mentioned in a previous review, this is the only restaurant located on property and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. If you order room service, it seems like 90% of the menu can be delivered to your room thus I assume its coming from the same kitchen.
I've been to the Lodge before and this is a new addition to the existing building. It is a glass pavilion, which also includes a glass atrium and sits upon a reflecting pond, offering indoor and outdoor tables. For breakfast, it seems the choice to eat is outside; however, given that it was quite sunny, we chose to do breakfast inside. With the glass atrium, it is still very bright and has airy feeling. Every morning I had the Japanese breakfast, which was quite delicious and filling. My wife had the Lanai breakfast both days. Everyone was quite good; however, the highlight was the bread with jam and local white honey and the sensei salad greens with a delicious yuzu vinaigrette (wish they sold this on Oahu).
For dinner, the mood is entirely different. Very nice dim lights and the oak paneling really is accentuated. The dishes are pretty price, $15-25 salads, $35-50+ entrees, and $16 desserts so with drinks, expect to pay $250+ for dinner. I would say it's a bit overpriced but it is a Nobu and at a Four Seasons so not completely surprised.
One of the highlights was all the staff, many of whom have been with the property for years (before the renovation). Everyone greets you by name and they are very gracious.
I can't wait to return to Sensei!