Alan Wong's

"Da Bag" appetizer: I was taken aback when it arrived.

I was the only one in our party of four that had never been to Alan Wong's, one of Honolulu's best restaurants. (President Obama, known for his impeccable taste, dined at Alan Wong's every time he returned to the Islands for his vacation.)

The prime dinner slots on Saturday night were taken, so the only times available were 5:30 and 8:30. We chose 5:30 and were seated promptly.

In "Da Bag": Steamed clams, kalua pig, shiitake mushrooms

Service throughout the meal was excellent. The waiters explained each item on the menu and gave us plenty of time to make our selections. Each of us ordered an appetizer and entrée and split a dessert. The four fish entrées all were fresh, moist, delicately seasoned, and neither under- nor over-cooked. Portions were ample.

Though the restaurant fell behind schedule, and arrivals soon filled the small waiting area, they never rushed us though we had three years of catching-up to do with our friends.

The final bill, including drinks and tip, was roughly $100 per person. It may seem pricey, but Alan Wong's, IMHO, was a better value than restaurants costing a fraction as much. Yes, I'd happily go back, but there are so many new Oahu restaurants to try...