




Mr Ojisan Restaurant
About
A Taste of Tokyo in Kaimuki
Finding an authentic spot that balances traditional Japanese technique with modern comfort is rare, but Mr. Ojisan delivers exactly that. Tucked away in the Kaimuki area of Honolulu, this restaurant feels less like a commercial eatery and more like a well-kept secret among locals. The scent of savory dashi and searing meat hits you the moment you step through the door, signaling a meal made with genuine care.
Signature Flavors and Culinary Craft
Chef Shigehiko Kono has built a reputation here for his attention to detail, most notably with the signature Beef Stew. It is a slow-cooked masterpiece that breaks apart with the gentlest touch of a fork, served in a rich, velvety demi-glace that feels like a warm embrace. Regulars often pair this with their house-made sashimi, which highlights the freshness of the Pacific catch available across the island. The menu leans into Yoshoku-style cuisine, blending Western influences with Japanese precision.
Atmosphere and Local Nuance
The space is unpretentious and cozy. You might find the seating a bit snug during the dinner rush, as the small floor plan fills up quickly with neighbors catching up over cold beer and steaming bowls of udon. It is a lively, communal environment where the clinking of glasses and the rhythm of the open kitchen create a constant hum of activity. Parking can be a bit of a dance on the nearby side streets, so arriving a few minutes early is a smart play. If you are looking for an honest, unvarnished meal in Honolulu, this is where you go when you want food that tastes like home.
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Amenities & Features
Location
1018 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, Hawaii, 96816-1309
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Reviews
Showing 10 of 31 community reviewsShelby CalvertGoogle Maps
Recently
The Mr. Ojisan Omakasi Sushi was the best that we've had in a long time. We also had tonkatsu, fried oysters, misoyaki butterfish, and tempura and everything was excellent. The restaurant becomes a bar with karaoke later at night, so go early for dinner.
Nina VGoogle Maps
Recently
It feels like a bar with lots of floor space. I had the impression that they were missing a billiard table or 2 in the middle of the restaurant, or perhaps a low height stage for karaoke. We went for lunch and sat at a table near the bar counter where 2 other patrons popped up onto stools and ordered wine with their sushi lunches. We chose the chirashi sushi. The quantity of food is unbelievable. I can see why local people love this place. The reason why I give this a 4 vs. a 5 is that the sashimi was of variable quality.
FLYAPPLE TOURGoogle Maps
Recently
This place brings the good Japanese flavors to the table. Whether you're a sushi aficionado, rolls,or steak this restaurant delivers a good dining experience.
RobertGoogle Maps
Recently
A nice little establishment that serves Japanese cuisine. Limited items on the menu but what they offer is done very well. A good selection of alcoholic beverages and sake to try also. Unlike the previous venue in Kapahulu, it now has a more bar like feel. Still a place to enjoy tasty Japanese food.
mlGoogle Maps
Recently
Modest Japanese spot that doles out some solid Japanese staples. Enjoyed ahi belly, tempura, and the sake. The waitress recommended the sake and it was very smooth. The steak was also good according to my partner. However, we both agreed that the food we ordered tasted underseasoned to us. Maybe that’s how traditional Japanese food is. Service wise, room for improvement, as they didn’t bring us spoons for soup and it took us some time to finally grab ahold of someone to request. All in all, solid spot.
Michael CrabtreeGoogle Maps
Recently
Had a good time at mr ojisans neo bar and sushi. Ordered the tempura udon.....it was very delicious. I would recommend this place again. Just a side note last seating at 130 pm for lunch. They open at 5 for dinner. Great tasting food and nice portions.
Tink LoveGoogle Maps
Recently
This is off the beaten path if you are in Honolulu but worth the trip as the sushi and food here is excellent with reasonable prices. Top favorites firecracker roll if you like crunch and spicy, wafu steak comes sizzling to your table. Casual, popular with locals, family fun atmosphere, great for large groups. They have everything here, sushi bar, regular bar, indoor dining Japanese food menu with noodles, udon, etc and karaoke room. Even a great place for selfie photos!
Curtis LeeGoogle Maps
Recently
Fresh sushi and quick attentive service. Assortment of sashimi was a good value if you like raw fish. Squid, ahi, salmon, and Hamachi. Beautiful presentation. Tempura platter had 3 pieces of shrimp and some vegetables. First time ever having strawberry on a sushi roll. Something different but not sure if I'd order that again. Wr order a pizza dish too. I really liked it. Spider roll with thin wrapper was a nice take on a roll also. Coffee jello with bailey's to finish a nice meal.
lambert leongGoogle Maps
Recently
The best thing there is the chirashi. It has a great assortment of sashimi/raw fish, and it's only $27... for now. The draft beer selection is weak, and the glasses are small. The best deal is getting a pitcher, but again, you have to like what they have on draft. The servers were nice and pleasant but the service was sub par. They bus the tables real quick but no one filled our water once or allowed us to order another round of drinks. Sit at the bar or sushi bar for better service. The atmosphere is loud and not intimate. It is difficult to sustain meaningful conversations here.
Jason CasaminaGoogle Maps
Recently
Monday, dinner, 4 people, restaurant was nearly full but no wait for a table. Service was so nice and so fast I couldn't believe it. All the food was presented well and delicious. The fish and shrimp tasted fresh and clean. The oysters were creamy. Anything fried was perfectly crispy. Best miso soup of my life here and I make my own so this is very humbling! So many wonderful flavors in one sitting. Look how cute they made everything! Don't miss it.
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