I've been wanting to visit Et Al. for quite some time after hearing great things, and Honolulu Restaurant Week was the perfect opportunity! Located in the Kuono Marketplace across from Kahala Mall, this upscale yet cozy restaurant delivered on all fronts.
We easily made brunch reservations online via OpenTable (highly recommend, as the space is on the smaller side). When we arrived, the restaurant was bustling, and we waited about 10 minutes for our table--not an issue at all since we browsed Kahala MKT. next door.
The special prix fixe menu for Honolulu Restaurant Week included an appetizer (Hawaiian Clam Chowder or Little Gem Salad), an entrée (Braised Short Rib Loco Moco, Breakfast Bowl, or Garlic Chicken and Mochi Waffle), and a Berry Mascarpone Bar for dessert.
We both started with the Hawaiian Clam Chowder, a rich and creamy dish featuring 'ulu (breadfruit), smoked meat, tender clams, and perfectly grilled sourdough. It was a delightful island-inspired twist on a classic chowder.
For entrées, we chose the Braised Short Rib Loco Moco and the Breakfast Bowl. The loco moco was everything I wanted for brunch: tender braised short rib smothered in a flavorful gravy, served with garlic rice, a sunny-side-up egg, and crispy onions. The Breakfast Bowl was equally delicious, combining crispy pork belly, a fried egg, creamy avocado, fresh tomatoes, charred kale, miso mushrooms, and chili oil over garlic rice, with a crunchy quinoa topping.
Another member of our party ordered the Hamakua Mushroom Risotto from the regular brunch menu. It was comfort in a bowl--earthy shimeji mushrooms, aromatic truffle, and nori came together in a dish that was rich and satisfying without being heavy.
For dessert, we were treated to the Berry Mascarpone Bar, which was the perfect finale to an amazing meal. The creamy mascarpone base was topped with a vibrant strawberry glaze, crisp meringue, and a unique basil crumble. We also ordered a scoop of Chocolate Hazelnut Gelato. The gelato was rich, silky, and indulgent, with the perfect balance of deep cocoa flavor and nutty sweetness.
To round things off, I sipped on the Melon Fresca from the cocktail menu. This refreshing drink balanced honeydew, aloe liqueur, citron vodka, and Aperol with a hint of mint and coconut water.
The service was warm and efficient, and despite the restaurant being busy, everything came out perfectly timed. The ambiance was modern and stylish but still welcoming, making it a great spot for a leisurely brunch.
For the quality of food and the overall experience, the prix fixe price was more than reasonable. I can't wait to return and explore more of their menu! read more