We headed off property to Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman for better food. We liked Ko Olina Beach Club, but not their food offerings. When I lived in Waikiki in the 60s, this area didn’t exist. The current area includes The Four Seasons, Aulani-A Disney Resort & Spa and more!  It’s lush, with lots of swimming/snorkeling options and the beaches are not crowded as they are in Waikiki. I recommend.

As for Monkeypod, the staff knew us after our first visit with the bartender, recalling the virgin cocktail he had made for my 10-year-old grandson; he made it again.

The food here is fresh and recommendable; the staff is friendly. We liked most all of what we ate, including the Poke Tacos (2 for $24), filled with raw ahi, cabbage and an avocado cream sauce in crisp wonton shells; the shrimp & mushrooms potstickers ($22) filled with wild-caught shrimp, oyster mushrooms, ginger, garlic, green onions and a citrus shoyu; the vegan tortilla soup ($14)  black beans, corn, cilantro, avocado and roasted ancho chili and tender shrimp ($23) wild-caught shrimp ($23) served in a cast-iron pan in a white wine sauce with tomatoes and a chunk of cornbread for dipping!

Also good are their pizzas; they’re hearty enough to make a meal. My favorite is the Moroccan spiced lamb sausage ($ 23) with goat cheese, tomatoes and a white sauce, garnished with fresh mint! 

We ended with their delicious banana cream pie that we devoured.

I recommend a visit to one of their locations.

Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman
Ko Olina Center
92-1048 Olani St
Kapolei, HI 96707
(808) 380-4086
monkeypodkitchen.com/