Kyoto Ohsho is one of the newest additions to Ala Moana Shopping Center’s Ho’okipa Terrace. The restaurant offers a new twist on an old idea: all-you-can eat buffet with selections served on single-portion dishes. The benefit is two-fold: 1) the food is always fresh because it hasn’t been sitting under a warmer for hours, 2) everything is separate and isn’t prone to getting piled all over each other on your plate. (Okay, so #2 is mostly a personal preference since I am highly opposed to allowing my food to co-mingle.) But I digress. Since dishes are presented separately and are made as needed, I believe it enhances the experience and makes the food appear less like a sloppy all-you-can-eat buffet and more like a sit-down restaurant. An immediate difference is noted: fried items such as the tempura and gyoza are fresh, warm and crispy — not cold, oily and soggy.

The ambience in the dining area is nice with a very open feeling. We noticed that there was a glass DJ box in the middle of the restaurant and large speakers perched above our heads, which appeared as though the restaurant must turn into a club after hours. I didn’t see any signage to indicate whether this was already the case or if it is something planned for the future.

Tempura

Nishime

Tonkatsu

Assorted Sushi
Sushi is not presented on single-serving plates, so you can take as many or as few pieces as you wish.

Saba

Gyoza
I heard that the gyoza is one of Kyoto Ohsho’s specialities —
and with good reason! It’s good stuff, but too many pieces
for one person. It’s a good idea to share with a friend so
you can partake in the other delicious offerings available.

Poke

Egg

Chocolate Dipped Goodies
What could be more fun than a chocolate fountain?
They offered fresh strawberries, bananas and marshmallows
for your dipping pleasure

Haupia Cake
One of the sweet temptations offered at the dessert bar

Kyoto Ohsho
Ho’okipa Terrace, Ala Moana Shopping Center
1450 Ala Moana Blvd.
Honolulu, HI 96814
Phone: (808) 955-9517

Hours:
Lunch: 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Dinner: 5:30 – 10:00 p.m.
Be aware of the 60 minute time limit for lunch and 90 minute limit for dinner.

Prices:
Lunch, $19.80 adults, $16.50 senior citizens (60+), $14.50 children
Dinner, $39.80 adults, $32 senior citizens (60+), $20 children