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Vein At Kaka'ako

4.1 (550 reviews)
Closed • 5:00 pm - 9:00 PM

Vein At Kaka'ako Photos

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VEIN AT KAKA'AKO ATMOSPHERE

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Moderate noise
Hipster
Casual
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Recommended Reviews - Vein At Kaka'ako

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Mai Tai
Wakaba S.

This place had been on my list for over a year, and I finally made it in. It's right in the middle of Salt Kaka'ako with open space and partially outdoor seating, though we sat inside. The atmosphere was casual and laid‑back, and the staff was attentive and friendly. We started with the Mai Tai and Yuzu Margarita. The Mai Tai wasn't very strong and the pour felt small, but the Margarita was nice and strong. For food, we had the Wagyu Hamburg Steak and the Shoyu Butter Pasta with cremini and porcini mushrooms. Both were delicious, but the pasta especially stood out -- I haven't had pasta like this, the kind that reminds me of Japan, in decades. The pasta also came with a focaccia, and that was very good as well. I recommend this spot if you're looking for the Japanese version of Italian dishes and other Yoshoku‑style comfort food.

Victoria B.

The food here is really good. I've been twice, and both times I got the bolognese, which I really enjoyed. I also tried the TKG risotto, which was so yummy, and the bascaiola was delicious as well. There are both indoor and outdoor seating options, and while the restaurant is on the smaller side, it has a cozy atmosphere. Unfortunately, the service was not great either time I visited. The staff didn't come across as very friendly or welcoming, and they were often on their phones or talking amongst themselves rather than paying attention to customers. We asked a couple of questions about the menu, and the server seemed like they didn't really want to answer or be there. It made the experience feel a little uncomfortable. Overall, I really like the food and would come back for it, but I hope the service improves because it would make the experience much better.

Julie C.

A great casual restaurant located in SALT Kaka'ako. This is my first time trying Vein. They have a parking garage next-door, which is paid parking. The restaurant does validate. We came early to try some of the happy hour specials. Happy hour is 4:30 PM to 6 PM and includes pasta and appetizers which are 18% off. We tried several of the pastas, including the Uni carbonara, and the mushroom pasta. Appetizers included artichoke karrage and the Spanish grilled tako and entree steak and Frites. Food was good. I especially enjoyed the appetizers. Pasta is tasty, but not too exciting. The steak and fries were also good. Food came out pretty quickly and service was prompt and friendly. We did not stay for dessert, but had gelato next-door. Great place for dinner. Would definitely like to come back and try some of the other options.

Wagyu Beef Keema Curry
Austin D.

Came back here again. There's 20 ft of bar seating, a two top open, and plenty of seating. Was told reservation only. Really? So went to Mana+Pua instead. I expected to pay between $30-60 for a dinner here for 1... quick, in and out. Instead I was abruptly told there was no opportunity to eat there. Seemed pretty petty to me being that there is like no one there.

Cocktails
Tasha K.

Vein is the perfect restaurant to have a nice meal with your family or friends with great deals and delicious cocktails. We just so happened to have dinner on Tuesday, which had half-off cocktails for ladies. They also have a happy hour deal on their pastas, so I'll definitely have to come back for that. The Bolognese was delicious -- not too rich, but very flavorful. The TKG risotto was SO yummy and I would highly recommend that dish to anyone. Their cocktails were also really good (and tasted even better half-off!). It was also my birthday and they gave me a delicious birthday dessert! Vibe: They have warm, cozy indoor seating and outdoor seating with a nice breeze for those who want to bring their pets. The servers were attentive, funny, and friendly. Parking: Salt Kaka'ako offers validated parking, just be sure to scan the QR code at Vein before you leave to get the validation.

Uni w/ Scallion Aglio Y Olio
Josh O.

Parking: Located at SALT with complimentary one hour parking and discounted rates with restaurant validation Service: table service Ambiance: cozy and intimate Food: went for their lunch offering an entree with house salad and foccacia or koshihikari rice. If you're an uni lover, would recommend the Uni pasta that comes with an ume stock, yuzu, and chili. Pastas only come with spaghetti noodle choice (its not my favorite noodle), but the toppings are delish

Artichoke Karaage
Reid H.

VEIN at Kaka'ako is a great place for a nice dinner. Tried the Artichoke Karaage, Uni Carbonara, Miso Salmon with Risotto. Artichoke Karaage: the hearts were meaty yet not too chewy, and the leaves were light and crispy. The mayo was goooooood. Gave me fried calamari vibes. 8.5/10 Miso Salmon and Risotto: you think it's just miso-flavored salmon, but there's a something else there (and not just the risotto). This was the fresh catch option so not sure how often it's on the menu but recommend. 8.5/10. Uni Carbonara: normally skeptical of uni dishes, but this dish was tight. There were some magnificent bites. If you like the taste of uni and carbonara, or think you might, I think it's worth it to try, 9/10

Kitchen Appreciation Fee? WTH? Reminds me of Vegas resort fees. I hate those as well. Tipping culture is broken. Tipping is for service above and beyond, not to supplement poor labor practices, to attract new talent, or to provide educational opportunities to the staff. Pay your kitchen staff a decent living wage and roll your costs into the menu prices. Stop misleading your customers with "lower" menu prices. Will not be back. Policy is deceptive and tacky. Food was decent but not "appreciation" worthy. Service was good (that was worth a tip).

Food, ambiance, and service were great. Our wait help took time to explain the menu and had the Aloha spirit. Our food was so good. Maybe a come tight in sign might help new patrons at the entrance.

Uni pasta (bottom), shoyu pasta (top), Italian sausage (right)
Alisa B.

Came here around late lunchtime and absolutely loved it. Not sure what took me so long to try this local neighborhood gem but better late than never! Service was great, our server was very attentive. Compliments to the chef as all the lunch pasta dishes were light and didn't feel heavy but yet so rich in flavor. Each pasta dish had its own unique taste. It's hard to choose which I loved most because I loved them all. I tried the Uni pasta, Shoyu butter pasta, and Italian sausage Neapolitan. Safe to say I'll be back for Pau Hana next time to see what dishes they have in store for dinner!

Vein Aperol spritz
Jess K.

I've never been disappointed with this place. The menu since the first time I visited to my most recent visit has changed quite a bit but it still leaves a lasting impression every time. I recommend making a reservation as I saw people turned away as the night went on. Service was incredibly friendly and welcoming! I even got to chat with the bartender about his drink creative creations and it was so fun to hear the passion in his descriptions. These people really seem to like what they do and I love that. Between my date and I, we ordered two types of pasta (because if you can't decide, order both, right?!) and two sides as well as a fish dish. That lemon pasta haunts me to this day. I need to go back for more. Thursday was ladies night and all the drinks were massively discounted! I may have taken advantage of the discount and tried quite a few more cocktails than I typically would. We sat near the outside where we could people watch shoppers throughout Salt. Ambience was low light chill and elegant. If you're debating if this is a good place to take a date, do it. FYI If you have amex plat, you can use your $100 quarterly resy credit here as they are in the Resy system. Cheers

Uni Carbonara
Taylor E.

The uni carbonara was very decadent and rich with a generous portion. The uni complimented the sauce of the dish. Service was extremely friendly providing recommendations and consistently checking on our table. The restaurant itself has a unique garage style entrance but creates a high end feel inside to match their menu items and typical prices. Definitely more of an upscale fancy restaurant over your everyday takeout location. But the pasta happy hour is definitely a plus and will definitely have me returning to try the other pasta dishes.

Outside
Nadine C.

Dinner in Kaka'ako, Honolulu, Hawaii... My calabash nephew wanted to take me to dinner and asked where I wanted to go. I told him that I hadn't been to Vein at SALT yet, so I made a reservation. Parking was free for an hour and a half in the structure - enter from Keawe Street. It's a paperless system. Scan the QR code, enter your license plate number, and pay online. Located on the ground level, Vein had an open-air, dimly lit, quiet atmosphere. Our server, Andrew, was so efficient that we made it back to the parking structure in time! Our water glasses were refilled promptly and we didn't have to ask for the bill. He made great suggestions and explained menu items competently! We ordered the Pre-Fix menu which included a green salad starter, pasta, entrée, and dessert of Bread Pudding! Both types of pasta were delicious because of the wagyu and sausage sauces. Both entrées (tender lamb and catch of the day) were tasty and had beautiful presentation! I wouldn't mind returning! Thank you, nephew Benny and server Andrew!

Bread Pudding

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Reviews are largely positive. Many highlight the flavorful pasta dishes, attentive and friendly service, a cozy and modern ambiance, and creative cocktails.

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Vein At Kaka'ako Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - Vein At Kaka'ako

Do they have takeout?

Yes they let you takeout

Are the prefix menus only for big groups or can a party of 2 enjoy it as well?

Small parties can order as well

Do they sell gift cards/certificates?

Aloha, your profile here has masks are still required, is that true? Please let us know, mahalo.

No, they're not. We had dinner there last week without masks. Get the scallops! Enjoy!

Hello. I am trying to find a restaurant to host my partners surprise 40th birthday dinner. We are visiting from California. The party would be a total of 19 people. Would you be able to accommodate us? I'd like to make a reservation for 5/24.

Check out the Barefoot experience at The Beach Tree Restaurant at the Four Seasons. It's a private table right at the ocean and you have your own chef. Its a beautiful setting right at the ocean.… 

Are they open for dine in lunch again?

We asked. Our server said yes.

How much is corkage?

Expensive! $25 per bottle.

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3.9(305 reviews)
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We got the recommendation to come here through IG! For starters, we ordered the Bocconcino Whipped…read moreBurrata. My husband ordered the Grilled Day Boat Scallops and I ordered the Greek Salad with a side of Brussels Sprouts for our entrees. The Bocconcino Whipped Burrata was a recommendation from our waitress and this was my favorite dish! So thankful she recommended it. I have never had anything like it before. The dip is made from roasted beets, walnuts, and pomegranate molasses. Because it was whipped, the texture was so light. It was perfect. The Greek Salad and Brussels Sprouts were only ok. I did not expect there to be as many tomatoes as there were and I wasn't really a fan of it for the price. My husband enjoyed the scallops and he recommends giving it a try. TLDR: definitely get the Bocconcino Whipped Burrata!

Amazing food for Hawaii but just a tad pricey. We had 6 people and ordered the spread you see…read moreaanddd they took of the cost of the octopus and pasta but the total bill came close to $700 with 2 drinks. Parking is free w validation for 3 hours on the second floor of the building. Servers were helpful except a bit forgetful since they forgot both our Octopus and pasta until we asked. And also forgot that we came for our bday celebration even though we said it on our online reservations and also when we came in to be seated. The spread of humus tasted amazing especially the beets and barrata one. Portions were on the smaller side but we were all pretty stuffed with all that we ordered for 6 adults. Ambiance was nice as well and we sat fairly comfortably.

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Yamas Mediterranean Cuisine - Super gyro with lamb

Yamas Mediterranean Cuisine

4.3(660 reviews)
10.1 mi
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I am so glad that we finally visited Yamas; it is located in the Enchanted Lake Shopping Center in…read moreKailua with lots of free parking. The restaurant is super clean and spacious, and they play some awesome classic rock music. You order and pay at the counter and they will bring you the food; the lady at the counter was extremely friendly and very efficient. You need to bus your own table when you're done, just place the used dishes, glasses and utensils in the labeled plastic tubs, not a big deal at all. Now, the food is the star. We order baba ganoush with pita, super gyro with zucchini fries, and a soup and salad combo. The baba ganoush was so delicious, and the pita was warm and soft. The super gyro has so much yummy meat in it that the pita can hardly hold them, and the zucchini fries were crispy and not oily. It also comes with a couple really good tzatziki sauces. My wife really enjoyed the avgolemono (lemon and chicken) soup and greek salad. She was so pleased with the combo that she had to order an extra takeout combo for her friend to try. On top of all that, we finished our great meal with a baklava sundae; two fresh crispy baklava pastries with a scoop of vanilla ice cream drizzled with cinnamon and honey. This desert is a must order. The restaurant is mixed in with a lot of other restaurants and shops in a large strip mall, so it maybe easy to miss. The prices are really reasonable and the portions are good. If you like Mediterranean food; this is the place. You will love it.

My wife enjoyed our meal at Yama's a couple of days ago and really enjoyed the food. We started…read morewith the dalmas (stuffed grape leaves), which had good flavor while a bit too mushy for our taste. We each ordered gyros. My wife also had garlic fries and I had the baba ganoush. We also both added on the spanakopitas, which are huge, and the flaky pastry was amazing. The fries we cooked well with a crisp outside and a soft, fluffy inside. The only suggestion might be to sauté the garlic as it was a bit strong. The gyros had soft pita bread and meat very flavorful with perfect tsatziki sauce. I do want to add as a person close to many blind individuals, I know businesses are allowed to ask two questions about SERVICE animals: (1) is the dog a service animal required because of a disability, and (2) what work or task has the dog been trained to perform (copied directly from the the ada.gov website). Based on another reviewer (who gave 1 star), the restaurant asked the correct (legal) question. They should be complimented for following the law.

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Yamas Mediterranean Cuisine - Order at the counter

Order at the counter

Yamas Mediterranean Cuisine - Super gyro

Super gyro

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Ruscello at Nordstrom

Ruscello at Nordstrom

4.1(1.2k reviews)
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The calamari was so crispy and the tomato bisque was delicious. Indoor and some outdoor seating…read moreafter a big shopping day at Nordstrom! Located on the 3rd floor. Met here with some friends while at Ala Moana and this is a great spot for a quick bite or a full meal! They've got burgers, sandwiches, salads, and pasta entrees as well. We ended it with the brownie sundae and it was delicious. The chocolate syrup came separate and you can drizzle it over yourself! So fun. Service was great and they were attentive with a great ambiance around to make you feel comfortable. Will be back when I'm shopping at Ala Moana next time!

Boss took the staff out for lunch and this was such a treat! I've never been here before and boy I…read moreloved it so much, I returned the next day with mister. Anyway, my return the next day... reservations highly recommended. We arrived half hour early and requested to be seated. It would have been a pleasant experience if Kailey told us in a friendlier way that she cannot guarantee us a seat prior to, she seemed bothered that we asked. And so we had to wait until our reservation time up to the very minute. Noted, never arrive before and I deeply apologize for bothering Kailey with our request. As for the food, fantastic!! The Brussel sprouts will get you for sure. The spinach dip so good!! Great sit down and eat food while you rest between shopping. Overall, the wait service is great. Definitely will return not a minute earlier than my reservation time.

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Ruscello at Nordstrom
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Bar Koko & Persian Restaurant - Ghormeh Sabzi, beef & lamb kabob

Bar Koko & Persian Restaurant

4.0(360 reviews)
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What a hidden gem! How did I not know about this place sooner?! Vibe was chill and casual…read more Being on vacation, it was so nice to find amazing Persian food right here in Honolulu. Everything was fresh, delicious, and full of flavor. The service was great, and the staff was super sweet and welcoming. We ordered the Gheymeh, Ghormeh Sabzi, beef & lamb kabob, and chicken jujeh kabob--and all I can say is... the plates were CLEAN! Every single thing was delicious. And I can't forget the salad and that dressing! So good! I will definitely be back whenever I'm in Honolulu. If you're looking for really good Persian/Middle Eastern food, Bar Koko is a MUST! Highly recommend.

Okay, I'll be honest and say I've never had Persian food before, so I don't really have anything to…read morecompare it to But overall, this place was pretty good and I'm glad I got to try something different! We ordered quite a bit: Hummus Garden: Hummus topped with olives. I'm not a huge olive person, so I do wonder if I would've liked one of the other hummus options better. I've had mezze platters at places like Istanbul, and I think I prefer that style of hummus. Kashk-e Bademjan: This was the eggplant dip and surprisingly, I liked it! I'm definitely not an eggplant girlie, but it was warm, comforting, and had a really homey feel to it. Royal Koobideh Kabob: The beef and lamb were tasty, but a little too salty for me. I definitely needed the rice with it. The meat was thicker and really soft. I think I might prefer gyro meat, but that could also just be because it's what I'm more used to. Vaziry Duo Kabob: Since we already got the Royal Koobideh, we kind of wished this came with two chicken kabobs instead The chicken was good, but nothing particularly stood out to me about this dish. Braised Lamb Shank: This was nice to try, but honestly I almost forgot to include it in this review, which probably says something I was hoping it would stand out a little more, but it just wasn't as memorable as I expected. It wasn't bad by any means, and I'd order it again, but it's not something I left craving. Eggplant Stew: Once again, I'm not an eggplant person, but this was unique! It was warm with little pieces of beef, and I actually kind of liked it. For drinks, we tried three: The Golden Hour: Easily my favorite of the three. It had a honey-like flavor that I enjoyed. Sekanjabin Twist: This had cucumber and was a little sweeter and refreshing. It was good, but I still preferred the Golden Hour. Doogh: Okay, this was an experience It reminded us of tzatziki sauce in drink form. Very salty and definitely not something we were used to. We couldn't finish it. Overall, I wasn't completely sold on the drinks and probably wouldn't order them again, but if I did, I'd get the Golden Hour. Atmosphere and service: It's a cute, smaller restaurant and it was pretty busy when we went. It seemed like they might have been short staffed that day, but our waitress was really sweet and did her best, so no complaints there. Overall, I'm really glad I tried Persian food! There wasn't necessarily anything I left craving afterward, so I'm not sure this will become part of my regular restaurant rotation, but it was a fun experience and I'm happy I went.

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4.2(1.2k reviews)
2.3 mi•Waikiki
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Went to Orchids Sunday Buffet for a special birthday celebration. Planned for several months ahead…read moreand made the reservations. Since it was a larger party, they add on 20% tip. Throughout the planning process as I had to readjust the headcount, they were very efficient and polite and I always got emails on the reservation. The food was outstanding and everyone enjoyed themselves. The prime rib was so tender you could cut it with a fork and it was moist and tasty. The crab legs were so delicious, some of the best I have tasted. There are sushi stations, an ice cream make your own sundae table, and of course, a table of desserts. The Halekulani coconut cake is not to be missed. Now I can't wait to go back and know where I will head first to fill up my plate!

Maybe I messed up by coming here for dinner instead of their Sunday brunch because those pictures…read moreand reviews look stellar. Got here 10 mins before our reservation but was sat 5 mins after the res time. It's a beautiful place inside and out, but what is up with the lack of ramps? I had to lift my toddler's stroller through like 6 different sets of stairs, but I guess I could use the workout. Waited 10 mins after sitting down to get menus, then felt a bit rushed to put in our order. The waiters all spoke like the staff in Get Out; no warmth, authenticity, or presence. You can be professional and still be personable. Alright let's get to the food. Portions are comical. It's what you imagine in caricatures of fine dining. A dish's price should match its visual 'wow' factor, yet despite their stunning appearance, ours lacked true flavor and offered nothing astounding. And what was even weirder was the waiter coming back around 2-3 times to tell us the bread was on the way, only for it to arrive cold after our entrees came out. That gap between the amuse-bouche and our entrees could've been better sequenced had the bread come out before our meals. Maybe this place is more traditional fine dining and caters to the older crowd. Maybe they lean more on service and ambiance over punchy, creative dishes. Either way, we felt it was all pageantry and zero substance. In fact, the grilled cheese and Betty's Burger we got on the way back to the hotel was a better memory for us three.

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Orchids - Carving station

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Vein At Kaka'ako - mediterranean - Updated October 2026

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