Hata Restaurant

Local Japanese food at its best, Hata is a small, feel-at-home restaurant. Walk through the doors (be careful to watch your step), and be transported to a decades-past atmosphere. Seating is limited; this time, we were lucky. There were two tables available. Towards the end of our meal, a party of six came in, and the room was full. Located on King Street and a little ways down from Punahou Street (just across the street from Zippy's), Hata's is hard to find, but a gem once found.

Ambiance:
For those who are used to lush carpeting, track lighting, and fine cutlery, this restaurant is a few notches down from that. Maybe more than a few. Reminiscent of a family-owned crack-seed shop, though the ambiance is homely, the food is heavenly.

Service:
Because of a small area, the waitresses were very attentive to the patrons. Our waters were constantly refilled (and so was the rice).

Food:
We ordered Yosenabe and the seasonal fish chiri (Opakapaka). It came with okara and tsukemono.

• Yosenabe: This was our second time we ordered it, and compared to the first time, it had considerably less seafood. While the first time had salmon, butterfish, shrimp, crab, and other fish parts, this time around was more land-based: a lot of chicken pieces were added tot he mix, and there wasn't any butterfish. Though changed, the Yosenabe was still a winner.
• Opakapaka Chiri: The description on the menu said the soup base was light. Though it was light, it did not compromise on the taste. A simple dish--Opakapaka, won bok, bamboo shoots, and konbu--soothing, and deliciously healthy.

Value:
Our bill, with the tip, was around thirty dollars. For good Japanese food, this was a great value. It filled us up just right, though some may find the portions small. If it be any added value, there's free refills on the rice.

Overall:
This place, recommended by coach Murakami, is a winner.