Restaurant Guide

Gaku’s bustling sushi bar is one of Honolulu’s most popular, but those who overlook the izakaya offerings are sorely remiss. Owner and sushi chef Manabu Kikuchi has been a part of the city’s sushi scene for twenty years, giving him keen insight into tastes both local and Japanese, modern and traditional. Favorites include negihama tartare—combining tobiko roe, green onion and a raw quail egg with buttery hamachi scraped off the bones with spoons—and housemade tofu topped with a smoky dashi gelee. The bilingual staff is adept at recommending dishes to suit your tastes and appetite. Seating options in this cozy space include tables, counter seats and a small private room with traditional-style tatami seating. Reserve before 7 or be prepared to wait a bit—as we said, Gaku is one of Honolulu’s most popular hotspots.

Metromix Honolulu: “Foodies flock to Gaku for tastes of heaven. The place is revered for its fresh fish, prepared by master sushi chefs. But it's the page of daily changing specials that thrills.“