A Taste of Singapore in Honolulu's Ward Area I recently had the pleasure of experiencing the vibrant flavors of Singapore at Straits in Honolulu's Ward Area, and it was a delightful journey. My evening at Straits warrants a solid four stars for various reasons that made it a memorable dining escapade. The standout dish for me was the Lemongrass Beef - an absolute gem that justified every cent of its $48 price tag. The intricate blend of flavors, the tenderness of the beef, and the aromatic lemongrass infusion made it an unforgettable culinary delight. Placing it on top of the bok Choy was brilliant. It also comes with garlic fries that are perfect. Equally impressive were their spicy street noodles ($24). An explosions of flavors and that will have you dreaming about it. The shrimps were huge. You must also order the Roti Prata. I was very impressed with the quality of their old fashions. At $12, they were a steal, perfectly mixed and complemented the meal splendidly. I will drink two of these old fashions over the 1 old fashion I had at the Blind Ox ($25). The ambiance at Straits transported me to the heart of Singapore, boasting an aura that exuded class and sophistication. From the decor to the overall atmosphere, every detail seemed meticulously crafted, contributing to a truly immersive experience. I recommend sitting in the lounge area for your first experience and dress out. However, my visit experienced a slight hiccup when the delivery of my second old fashioned took an unexpected 20 minutes, which I noticed sitting on the bar. While such instances are understandable, I believe that a gesture like waiving the drink or offering an additional round on the house could have demonstrated a high level of customer care and elevated the experience, potentially earning Straits a five-star rating. Despite this slight delay, my time at Straits was undoubtedly enjoyable, and I would gladly return to savor more of their Singaporean delights. Straits undoubtedly encapsulates the essence of Singapore in Honolulu, providing a culinary journey that's both palatable and captivating. For those seeking a taste of Singaporean finesse in the heart of Honolulu, Straits is an excellent choice with friends or a romantic date with the Queen. read more

Straits has become my go-to spot for any occasion, whether it's brunch with family, happy hour with friends, or late-night revelry. This place truly offers something for everyone. The atmosphere at Straits is always lively and fun. During brunch or dinner, it's a perfect spot to catch up with friends or celebrate special moments. The transition to a dim yet vibrant club/bar atmosphere after 9 PM adds an exciting twist, complete with pumping music that really gets the energy going. It's definitely a unique vibe that may not suit everyone, but for those who enjoy it, like myself, it's fantastic. The service here has consistently impressed me. The staff are super attentive whether you're there for a quick drink or a leisurely meal. They really make you feel welcome and ensure everything runs smoothly. Speaking of the food, I've never had a bad meal at Straits. The menu offers a delightful variety, and everything I've tried has been delicious. My personal favorite is the kaya toast; the flavors transport me back to Singapore with every bite. I also loved the roti prata and truffle kampachi nyumen, which was a special they had for Mothers Day. Even my parents, who are not accustomed to dining out much, were thoroughly impressed with the unique dishes offered here during our brunch visit. The only dish I didn't love was their Laksa - the noodles blew up quickly and per personal preference I prefer thinner noodles but the broth was good! As for drinks, the milk and honey drink is a standout for me. It's refreshing and beautifully presented with rose ice that adds a touch of elegance, a feast for the eyes as well. Straits also holds a special place in my heart as it is where we had my friend's bachelorette party. DJ Compose was phenomenal, keeping the party going all night long. It was an unforgettable experience and a testament to how versatile this place can be for different events and gatherings. Overall, Straits is more than just a restaurant; it's an experience. Whether you're craving delicious food, innovative drinks, or a vibrant nightlife scene, this place delivers. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to have a great time in a lively and welcoming atmosphere. read more

If you're craving a tantalizing fusion of Singaporean and Malaysian flavors with a modern twist, look no further than this new hotspot in Honolulu. This trendy gem not only delivers on its promise of innovative Southeast Asian cuisine but also sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience, especially for those who enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with a side of alcohol. From the moment you step in, the vibe screams party, making it the perfect spot for any occasion. I recently had the pleasure of dining here and was blown away by the culinary delights on offer. The Crispy Chicken Lollipop was a standout dish, featuring frenched chicken drumsticks coated in a tantalizing honey chili-sambal glaze and sesame seeds, fried to perfection. Each bite was a harmony of flavors and textures that left me craving more. The Hamachi Curry Crudo was another revelation, marrying the freshness of hamachi sashimi with the aromatic flavors of yellow curry, shaved onions, micro cilantro, and fried shallots. It was a symphony of Southeast Asian flavors that danced on my palate. Their menu boasts a range of other must-try dishes, including the Roti Prata, Straits Fries, Hainan Chicken, and Chow Kway Teow, each offering a unique take on classic favorites. Overall, this Singaporean-Malaysian fusion spot has raised the bar for culinary excellence in Honolulu. With its innovative dishes, lively atmosphere, and impeccable service, it's a dining destination that promises to leave a lasting impression on anyone who walks through its doors. read more

I really wanted to like Straits Restaurant, but unfortunately, it fell far short of expectations. The service was mediocre, and the food was downright disappointing. The ambiance is more "club-like" than anything reflective of Singaporean culture. Servers are dressed in black dresses, the room is dark with neon lights, and the furniture is chic, but none of this ties back to showcasing the vibrant essence of Singaporean food or culture. The food was a major letdown. We tried the braised beef with pandan underneath, and it just didn't make sense. The sweet pandan didn't complement the dish and felt completely out of place. The dish desperately needed more sauce and some actual vegetables instead of the pandan. The curry roti was probably the best thing we tried, but even that was bland and lacked the rich, bold spices you'd expect in a curry. To make matters worse, all the dishes came out warm--not hot--and were overly salty. The flavor combinations didn't work; they were an odd mix of sweet, salty, and savory that just didn't harmonize. Overall, Straits Restaurant was a disappointment. I don't recommend it and won't be coming back. read more

Dive into a culinary journey at this remarkable Asian fusion gem where Singaporean flavors take center stage. Their spicy crab is a revelation, a perfect balance of heat and sweetness that dances on your taste buds. The garlic noodles are an irresistible delight, and the scallop crudo showcases freshness with every bite. Crafting inventive drinks that complement the bold flavors on the menu. Beyond the delectable dishes, the service is a shining star, with staff embodying warmth and attentiveness. I would like to especially send my big thanks to Kim Vo for her friendly and attentive demeanor, which made my dining experience here extra special and filled with satisfaction. Last but not least, the ambience here is a masterpiece, seamlessly marrying contemporary elegance with hints of Singaporean charm. The overall dining experience that we had here was absolutely amazing. From the first sip to the last bite, this establishment seamlessly blends Singaporean authenticity with culinary innovation, creating an unforgettable dining experience. read more

Having seen Straits all over social media with rave reviews, I finally decided to see what the fuss was about. Let me tell you, the hype is real. The moment I stepped in, the laid-back coolness hit me. The decor gives off that tropical meets modern nightlife type of vibe, setting the stage for a unique dining experience. Our party of four went all out with Roti Prata, Ahi Tartare, Crab Garlic Noodles, Roasted Bone Marrow, and Hainan Chicken. We were basically stuffed for the entire night. The food? Amazing. And the cocktails? Pure magic. I got the Sunday Afternoon which was a sip of pure joy. It's like they bottled happiness and threw in a splash of tropical vibes. Massive shoutout to Kim for giving us the best recommendations. They were were spot-on, and her energy kept the good vibes flowing all night. In a nutshell, Straits is definitely going to be my go-to for good times and great eats. If you're on the lookout for a place that turns dining into an adventure, this is your spot. I'm already planning my next visit. read more

I recently dined at Straits Honolulu, and the experience was nothing short of extraordinary. The restaurant seamlessly blends Singaporean, Malaysian, and Indonesian flavors, creating a culinary journey that's both adventurous and satisfying. The atmosphere is vibrant, providing a perfect backdrop for the diverse and creatively crafted dishes. The hostess Kim, added to the overall positive experience, making us feel welcomed and ensuring our dining needs were met. We started with the satay skewers, a flavorful introduction to the fusion of spices. The rendang curry was a highlight--rich, aromatic, and perfectly spiced. The menu's diversity caters to various preferences, including excellent vegetarian options. Straits Honolulu is not just a meal; it's a culinary exploration that leaves a lasting impression. If you're seeking a dining adventure that transcends the ordinary, this restaurant is a must-visit. A gem in Honolulu's culinary scene. read more

Friendly service, upbeat music, and great variety of menu offerings is what I have noticed in the last two times that I have been to this restaurant at Ward village . Free parking in the garage and convenient location also helps! I noticed that some people complain about utensils not being brought up in the other reviews but in both of my experiences I had no problem whatsoever with utensils or water or beverages or service everything was great and Met my expectations. Singaporean food appears to have a little bit of a sweet flavor so on a sidenote I recommend asking a server which dishes don't have any sugar added or maybe asking to not add any of the sweet sauce on the fish or chicken if this is not your thing. Communication is everything in any experience :-) I definitely recommend Straits for food, drinks and any social occasion and I love both indoor and outdoor sitting that they do offer. read more

First off, the vibe is top-notch - it's like fancy meets cozy, making it a perfect spot for a chill night out or a special occasion. From the moment we walked in, Kim greeted us with a smile that set the tone for the entire night. Kim's menu knowledge is also on another level. She dropped some wisdom about the dishes, helping us make choices that turned out to be unforgettable. It's clear she knows her stuff and genuinely cares about making sure every guest has a killer dining experience. Now let's get to the good stuff - the food & drinks. The dishes made me question every meal I've had before. The bone marrow was definitely the star of the night. The cocktails are a game-changer. I went for the "The Jillian", and it was a perfect sidekick to the food. Definitely recommend this place to anyone who's looking for good food, good drinks and a great time. read more

Our third time visiting here. Theres a new owner for this location apparently and there are some changes to the recipes we noticed. The Roti prata curry dip is definitely different, has a sour flavor. Not as good as the original recipe. Roti bread still delicious. We also had the chicken curry, this was a bit spicy but flavorful. The lemongrass steak was tender but again had a little sour flavor. Garlic Fries were ok, standard. Coconut Shrimp was good and saucy. Ambiance was nice, quieter than the last time were there where it was basically a night club. There was only one waiter serving about 7 tables at the same time and he did great considering. Another waiter came in about an hour later. Service was friendly. Not sure if we will return but it wasn't a terrible experience. Just ok. read more

We had high hopes walking into the restaurant, especially with the warm service and inviting ambience setting a promising tone. The evening started off well with the roti appetizer -- fresh, flavorful, and a great introduction to the menu. Unfortunately, the entrees fell dramatically short. The cold chicken dish was disappointing; it had the unmistakable taste and texture of something that had been previously frozen, lacking freshness and flavor. The Singaporean crab, while visually appealing, was equally underwhelming. Rather than the bold, complex flavors typical of the dish, it was overwhelmed by a cloying sweet and sour glaze that felt completely off the mark. While the experience began on a high note, the quality of the main dishes left much to be desired. read more

5 Stars - Outstanding Service & Delicious Food! I had an amazing experience thanks to Jason and the incredible food! From the moment we walked in, Jason provided top-notch service--attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable. He made sure everything was perfect, offering great recommendations and checking in without being intrusive. The food was absolutely delicious--full of flavor and clearly made with quality ingredients. Every bite was a delight, and you can tell the kitchen puts real care into their dishes. Whether you're looking for a great meal or exceptional service, this place delivers on both. Highly recommend and will definitely be back! By the way, also found out the place is under new management. read more

Worst lunch ever! Came in Saturday at 12 noon. Only 1 other table sat. The server was pleasant, that was not the issue. We ordered appetizers and entrees. Appetizers came out hot and tasty. Our 2 Cobb salads came out very sparse , and the missing the advertised chicken . 20 or so minutes later I had to ask where the rest of the order was, 2 plates of some gross chicken and a loco move. The chef looked like he did not belong in the kitchen. The 2 gross chicken plates came out and then finally later the loco moco. Food was sub par. The waitress was nice, but nice doesn't keep a restaurant open. Do better! You are charging a lot of money for garbage. read more

I recently celebrated my friend's birthday at Straits Honolulu, and we had an amazing experience! We made a reservation for 7:30 on a Thursday, which worked out perfectly because they had an event right after. The food was delicious, with a great variety of dishes, and everything came out promptly. The bartenders and staff were fantastic--super attentive and friendly, and the drinks were outstanding. While we enjoyed almost everything, I wouldn't recommend the dessert. Overall, it was a wonderful evening, and I'd definitely recommend Straits Honolulu for a special occasion. read more

Came here on a Thursday night. Since I've been to Singapore before, I was very excited to hear that there was a new Singaporean restaurant opening up on Oahu! Jordan was an awesome server - he suggested the Lemongrass Beef for us and it turned out to be super tender and perfectly cooked. He also suggested the milk and honey cocktail that was surprisingly very tasty as well. I personally can't handle spicy but my boyfriend can so he had ordered the laksa, which he really enjoyed as well. I definitely want to come back and try more items here! read more

Straits Restaurant is my next go-to spot for Southeast Asian cuisine and a refreshingly new ambiance located at Ward. The "You So Corny" and "Jillian" drinks were uniquely crafted and bursting with flavor. The food menu includes a diverse selection of dishes, hitting that sweet spot of spice without overwhelming the tastebuds. The attentive staff contributes to the overall enjoyment, providing impeccable service without being intrusive. A dining experience at Straits Honolulu is an absolute treat for the senses. You will not be disappointed! read more

Embarked on a truly unforgettable culinary adventure at the hot new Singaporean gem in Honolulu. The vibrant atmosphere and stunning design set the perfect stage for the wow-factor cuisine. Our feast featured a delightful spread including lollipop chicken, bone marrow, and scallop crudo. The mains--Singaporean crab, mee goreng, hamachi Kama, and steak--were nothing short of mouthwatering. Transitioning to the lounge, our night concluded with sensational cocktails. Easily a top 5 dining experience in Hawaii; we're already planning our return! read more

We heard good things about this place and I'm happy we finally made it. We were party of six and didn't make the reservation. The restaurant was full around 6 pm so we sat at outside patio. The ambience was great , fun and upbeat. Drinks and food were unique and yummy. Food was a bit salty for me but overall flavour is delicious! Inside was nicely decorated with high end seatings. Staffs are friendly and service is quick. We learned they are open for breakfast now and we will be back for breakfast! Overall great night. read more

I've only been to Straits for brunch, but it left a great impression! The food was absolutely delicious--everything we ordered was fresh, flavorful, and had a nice mix of traditional and unique options. I especially loved the Hainan chicken, which was a standout. The service was top-notch. The staff was attentive and friendly, making sure we had everything we needed without being intrusive. It really added to the overall experience. That said, it's definitely worth it! I'm looking forward to trying their dinner menu next time. read more