Kohnotorhi Restaurant - Honolulu, Hawaii

Kohnotori, a Japanese yakitori restaurant, is located at Puck's Alley near the University of Hawaii at Manoa Campus.  It is usually open late in the evening from 5 p.m. to midnight, except for on Friday and Saturday when it is open until 2 a.m.

Although I thought Kohnotori was excellent a few years ago, my most recent visit was less satisfying.  It didn't seem too busy, yet service was extremely slow.  Also, it seems quite expensive for the amount of food you receive.  I spent nearly $30.00 and felt like I had a snack.

Kohnotori might be a good place for you if you want to enjoy some great alcohol and a snack, while chatting all night with a friend or two.  But if you are in a rush, I wouldn't recommend you eat there unless you have the time to sit down.

I do believe in trying a place a second or third time to get a fair assessment.  However, at the moment, it isn't a place that I want to return to anytime soon. 

Gomatei Restaurant at Ward Center - Honolulu, Hawaii

During the week, I went to study with several of my classmates.  After studying intensely, some of us were starving and ready to eat an early lunch.  I know I was hungry!  I was also jittery from drinking coffee, so I knew I needed to eat soon.

We walked through Ward Center and found Gomatei.  I remember eating there years ago, but I wasn't sure what the food would be like since it had been so long. 

I liked the atmosphere in Gomatei.  It is a simple, clean and comfortable place to eat ramen noodles.  The wait staff is also incredibly friendly and attentive to customer needs.  In fact, the cashier didn't mind splitting our check, which is rare for many restaurants that find it quite bothersome. 

I ordered a gomatei vegetable ramen.  It has some interesting mushrooms inside and chopped vegetables, which I love.  But I don't think I'm a big fan of goma (sesame seeds) because I did not enjoy the roasted flavor in my ramen bowl.  My friend seemed to enjoy it, but I will have to try another dish there before making a final judgement about Gomatei.