Places to Eat in Oahu: Doraku Sushi, Japanese

My husband and I recently had a date night to Doraku Sushi in Waikiki.  I didn’t have my professional camera with me but was able to capture all these images on this post with my iPhone. Our date night was a much needed break for us to have, but to also try out some new places and new dishes.  We’ve been to Doraku before and loved it.  This was our second time and we tried some new dishes.  When you are visiting on Oahu and are hungering for some great Japanese food, hit up Doraku.  It’s located on the 2nd floor of the Royal Hawaiian Center in Waikiki and parking is validated if you park in the center, so relax! Or walk there from your hotel!   Doraku is a very modern and hip atmosphere with small booths tucked away around the perimeter and table seating in the middle, perfect for larger groups/families very suitable for kids.  They also have deck/lanai seating that overlooks the main drag of Kalakaua Avenue, perfect to enjoy your meal outside with the tropical breeze flowing through.

On this particular night, we didn’t have reservations, but waited less than 5 minutes to be seated. We were seated in the back in an intimate corner booth with this view. It was perfect.  We started off with some hot sake and miso soup.

I wanted something light, so went for this tasty salad. The Doraku Seafood Salad filled with diced tuna, salmon, yellowtail, accompanied with mango, tomato and spring mix greens tossed with Doraku’s House dressing.

While I was having my salad, they brought out the Kona Kampachi. Thinly sliced Amberjack served on Shiso Leaf and topped with marinated cucumber, sweet onion, tomato, local sprouts and drizzled with some tasty sauce and carrots.  I love shiso leaf, it adds a little bit of spicy bite with the fish.  The fish was buttery and the marinated cucumbers reminded me of pickles… but it was a great starter, it was gone in about 5 minutes.

I also opted for the spicy ahi roll. Nothing fancy, but it hit the spot for me as I also had my salad, some Kampachi and some miso soup to fill me up.

David had this tasty morsel. Misoyaki Butterfish, black cod butterfish glazed and baked with Yuzu Saikyo Miso and served with Shishito Pepper. I really don’t know what all this fancy miso and pepper is, but I had a couple bites and it was delicious. The butterfish melted in your mouth and it was very flavorful, the miso gave the dish some real depth to your palette.

Last but not least, we had tempura’d brownies and vanilla ice cream. Wow, was this yummy!! Highly recommend, so save some room!

All in all Doraku Sushi in Waikiki is a great place for delicious Japanese food. Perfect for the young crowd and groups with children. It is moderately priced which makes it a great deal for Waikiki. The wait staff were attentive and courteous and the ambiance is very relaxed and modern.

Honolulu, Hawaii-based professional photographer, Jennifer Brotchie, specializes in stunning family photography on Oahu for locals and vacationing families and couples. Contact jenniferbrotchie@gmail.com to inquire about your professional photography session on the beach during your next vacation.