53 By The Sea is a new Italian restaurant that took over the site of the former John Dominis restaurant in Kakaako. The restaurant has been transformed into a gorgeous space offering ocean front dining. The water is literally steps away from the restaurant and diners are able to walk outside to take photos of the ocean with Diamond Head in the background. The main dining room is on the ground level, however there is an impressive staircase that leads up to a second level with private function space.
Ocean views with Diamond Head in the background.
The restaurant has a beautiful and lavishly stocked bar. Live piano music is featured during dinner.
Executive Chef Hiroshi Hayakawa trained in southern Italy and his menu offers a number of fresh pastas, seafoods, meats and a chicken cutlet that’s pounded as thin as paper, a beautiful presentation. It was a pleasant surprise that they offer a nice selection of antipasti with your lunch entrée. It is served table side by your waiter from an elegant cart.
Fresh pasta with house-made Italian sausage and tomato sauce, perfectly cooked.
My sister ordered the chicken cutlet with parmesan. Quite delicious and what a beautiful presentation!
My husband ordered the veal Marsala. It was just as beautiful and tasty as the chicken cutlet.
Another surprise was the complimentary dessert, chocolate cake or fruit with sorbet.
53 By The Sea was a real treat and a welcome addition to the island dining scene. We’re looking forward to having dinner here on our next visit.
I’ve heard great things about it and I’m glad it proved to be so. Thanks for the comprehensive review.
Hi Kelvin,
Thanks for your comment. Next time you’re on Oahu try 53 By The Sea for lunch (make a reservation). The Chef and kitchen staff are super accommodating if you let them know of any food allergies or other dietary preferences you have. Everything we ordered was excellent.