Those in need of a break from holiday shopping at Ala Moana Center will find Shabuya open in the mall’s Ewa end, in the spot that formerly housed Magnolia Bakery and Cafe.
The California-based chain is known for its all-you-can-eat experience, but with meat selections limited to four trays at a time. This prevents you from getting hit with a $5 fee for food you don’t eat, and there’s no doggie-bagging, either.
Place a broth order, then take your pick of vegetables and seafood at the cold bar. Each person gets an individual pot of flavorful broth, with their choice of one of five flavors, ranging from original clear broth of dashi, konbu and vegetables, to a very spicy miso, and creamy tonkotsu.
The eight meat selections include pork belly, chicken thighs and lamb legs. The rest is all beef, the best being the U.S. wagyu toro — if you like marbling. Some people don’t care for that much fat.
Cost at lunchtime is $17.99 ($10.99 for keiki 4 to 10). Dinner is $27.99 ($14.99 keiki).
There’s usually about a 20-minute wait for tables.
MEANWHILE, Umamiya Shabu Shabu has added three specials to help you keep track of the days.
On Shabu Shabu Tuesday, take your pick of USDA choice rib-eye, Kurobuta pork belly, boneless short ribs or chicken breast for $19.95. On Chanko Nabe Thursdays, pick from the same selections, and you’ll also get a tsukune stick, arabiki sausages, shrimp, chicken and gyoza, for $19.95. Both days’ specials include veggies and udon.
On Yakiniku Wednesday, a grill is subbed for the hot pot, and you can fire up duos of rib-eye and chicken, skirt steak and chicken, rib-eye and shrimp, or barbecue pork and chicken, for $19.95.
Umamiya is at 580 N. Nimitz Highway. Call 367-1388.
