Hawaii's newest restaurant will feature a familiar menu and a familiar face.
Chef Colin Nishida's Side Street Inn on Da Strip is set to open Sunday afternoon in Kapahulu.
Last April, Side Street Inn on Da Strip was just a dream but as they say, dreams do come true.
"When you come inside here it's a totally different feel but the love is still there," said Nishida.
Fifteen months ago, restaurant owner Colin Nishida gave us a tour of the 7,000 square foot office space on the ground floor of the Prudential building.
He saw potential; his vision was obviously clear.
"From here it's up to us to carry the ball."
The new restaurant features a brand new kitchen and can seat 200 guests comfortably.
"It's a little bit more upscale than Side Street. We have taken some of our dishes tweaked it a little bit here and there -- added some of our specials from Side Street on to this regular menu," said Nishida. But he says not to worry. "We'll still have the favorites of course. Pork chops, fried rice, yep, chicken wings."
Nishida closed the doors on his downtown eatery, although all employees have been transferred to Kapahulu along with 60 more new hires.
His popular restaurant off Piikoi Street will remain open.
"Tough time, It's a tough time but if we want to keep people employed we have to take offense and be on the offense and go after the business and not try to cut back on the business," said Nishida.
And he believes business will come, especially on this popular strip.
"We got Tokkuri-tei across the street, Burgers on the Edge up the street Ono Hawaiian Food this is the strip, this is the upcoming strip."
As for his investment.
"It's quite a bit, we're still getting the bills for it," said Nishida. His message is support local businesses. "From farm to table that's what it's all about," said Nishida. "Sunday is our first day of operation -- we're open at 3 -- be there."
