Royal Hawaiian Center announced the reopening of Restaurant Suntory on March 27 following an extensive renovation that began in the Fall of 2021. The enhanced restaurant presents a captivating new design, inspired by the Japanese art of minimalism as well as Honolulu’s magnificent scenery, complemented by a refreshed menu to elevate the authentic Japanese dining experience guests have enjoyed for 42 years. Most notable of the transformation is the Sushi Tokiwa, the new sushi counter that provides a luxury omakase-style indulgence.
The transformation is aimed at creating a space in Honolulu where diners can capture a sensory experience while enjoying Japanese food. The restaurant interior is awash with rich, earth tones and soft, natural lighting that bring out a sense of modern elegance to the space. Lining the room and tying it all together is the artfully aged wood, which pays tribute to the Japanese whiskey barrels that helped the acclaimed Suntory brand earn its reputation as a leading maker of fine spirits. Concealed and located in its own exclusive section is the new Tokiwa sushi counter which offers an immersive dining experience using the finest seafood and ingredients. Named Tokiwa, it translates to ‘eternal’ as it allows guests to step into a new realm, savoring a world-class omakase meal in an intimate atmosphere.
“We celebrate the return of world-class Japanese cuisine with the re-opening of Restaurant Suntory, which is the only original tenant who has operated continuously since the Center’s opening in 1980,” says Marleen Akau, Royal Hawaiian Center Vice President, General Manager. “This significant refurbishment displays their ongoing dedication to provide a high level guest experience that has made them a longtime favorite in Waikiki. We are honored to house a distinguished brand and the only remaining Restaurant Suntory in the United States.”
Under the guidance and expertise of Japanese Chef Go Kamikubo, Restaurant Suntory will continue to offer guests multiple Japanese-style dining experiences including teppanyaki (cooking in front of diners on a flat iron grill), kaiseki (traditional multi-course meals emphasizing seasonal ingredients), nabe (shabu shabu or suki-yaki style hot pot) and washoku (Japanese cuisine such as tempura, grilled fish, soba/udon noodles and more). In addition, the signature Suntory-brand beverages will be available including award-winning whiskey, top-selling pilsner, and craft spirits.
“Our team looks forward to honoring the Japanese legacy by continuing to evolve while serving our guests with omotenashi hospitality,” says Nobuyuki Aoyama, Restaurant Suntory General Manager. “We are proud to be a cherished mainstay at the Royal Hawaiian Center over the past 42 years and look forward to many more.”
