Rediscovering Manoa Marketplace

Growing up in Manoa, I have fond memories of walking to Manoa Marketplace and getting a mixed Icee at Kay’s Crackseed. My love for sushi began at Kamigata Japanese Restaurant (I’m dating myself 😊). If you haven’t been to Manoa Marketplace recently, you’re in for a nice surprise! The shopping hub has been renewed, featuring a new children’s playground and a cool mix of shops and restaurants.

I recently visited Little Plum, the newest dining spot in the former Bank of Hawaii space. It’s the creation of Dusty Grable’s group (Chinatown’s Lucky Belly and Livestock Tavern). The place was buzzing with conversation and excitement over the local, Asian-inspired cuisine. The menu isn’t extensive—about six teishoku offerings and a similar selection of creative small plates and appetizers. I tried the beef cheek stew. It was my first time trying beef cheek, and I found it a bit tough, but I loved the roasted vegetables that came with it.

If you love cocktails, there’s plenty to choose from: creative craft cocktails, sake, wine, and beer. The ambiance and service were friendly, local, and chill. The service staff wore colorful, kimono-inspired prints, which added to the overall enjoyable experience.

While waiting for your table, hop over next door to its sister retail space, Uncle Paul’s Corner Store. It features an eclectic assortment of items, from kitchen and dining ware to food and seasonings. I bought freeze-dried natto and yuzu mayo for a friend. An interesting feature of the store is the vault from the previous Bank of Hawaii, which will be used as a private wine-tasting room.

It’s worth a visit to check out the new Manoa Marketplace!