From Hook to Plate: The Journey of Your Fresh Catch at PESCA Waikiki

Welcome to PESCA Waikiki, where the journey of your fresh catch is a testament to our commitment to quality, sustainability, and the art of seafood cuisine. From the moment our suppliers’ expert fishermen cast their lines to the exquisite presentation on your plate, every step is carefully crafted to ensure that you experience the true essence of ocean-to-table dining. 

Join us as we delve into the seven key stages of this remarkable journey, highlighting the passion and precision that define PESCA Waikiki.

Sustainable Sourcing: Ensuring the Future of Our Oceans

At PESCA Waikiki, we believe in the importance of sustainable sourcing. Our seafood is carefully selected from sustainable and responsible fisheries, ensuring that we contribute to the conservation of marine ecosystems.

We work closely with suppliers who have local fishermen who practice catch methods that minimize environmental impact, such as using selective fishing gear and avoiding overfishing. Our commitment to sustainability also extends to supporting initiatives that protect endangered species and promote the well-being of seafood populations.

By choosing PESCA Waikiki, you are not only enjoying the finest seafood but also contributing to the health of our oceans for future generations.

Expert Fishing and Transportation: The Art of Catching and Preserving Freshness from Sea to Shore

Our suppliers’ expert fishermen are dedicated to catching the freshest and highest quality seafood. They understand the importance of timing, location, and technique to ensure that each catch is of the utmost excellence. Utilizing traditional and modern fishing methods, they navigate the waters of Waikiki with precision, respecting the natural rhythms of the sea to bring in the day's catch.

Once caught, the seafood is rapidly transported to PESCA Waikiki to ensure maximum freshness. They use specialized cooling techniques and transportation methods to preserve the quality of our catch. This rapid transportation process is crucial in maintaining the integrity and flavor of the seafood, allowing us to serve dishes that truly showcase the essence of ocean-to-table dining.





Ensuring Quality and Freshness

Upon arrival at PESCA Waikiki, each piece of seafood undergoes a meticulous inspection process. Our team of culinary experts examines every catch to ensure it meets our high standards of quality and freshness.

This inspection includes checking for signs of freshness, such as the appearance, smell, and texture of the seafood, to ensure that only the best ingredients are used in our dishes. Any seafood that does not meet our stringent criteria is promptly discarded, ensuring that every plate served at PESCA Waikiki is a reflection of our commitment to excellence.

Here are ways how PESCA Waikiki identify the quality and freshness of seafood:

  1. Appearance: Fresh seafood should have a vibrant and shiny appearance. Fish should have bright, clear eyes that are full and slightly bulging. The skin should be moist and scales should be intact. Avoid fish with dull, sunken eyes or slimy skin. For shellfish, the shells should be closed tightly, indicating they are alive and fresh.

  2. Smell: Fresh seafood should have a mild, oceanic smell. Avoid seafood with a strong, fishy, or ammonia-like odor, as this indicates spoilage. Trust your nose; if the smell is off-putting, the seafood is likely not fresh.

  3. Texture: Fresh fish should have firm flesh that springs back when gently pressed. The flesh should not be mushy or easily flake apart. Shellfish, like shrimp and lobster, should have a firm and slightly translucent flesh. Avoid seafood with a soft or slimy texture.

  4. Gills: For whole fish, check the gills. They should be bright red or pink, indicating freshness. Avoid fish with gills that are pale, brownish, or have a slimy texture.

  5. Movement: Live shellfish, like clams, oysters, and mussels, should close their shells when tapped or disturbed. This indicates that they are alive and fresh. Avoid shellfish with open shells that do not respond to touch.

This meticulous inspection process is a key component of our quality assurance, guaranteeing that our guests enjoy the finest seafood with every visit.


Transforming Fresh Catch into Culinary Masterpieces

Our team of skilled chefs transforms the fresh catch into culinary masterpieces, applying their expertise in seafood preparation to create dishes that are both delicious and visually stunning. Utilizing a variety of cooking techniques, from grilling and broiling to poaching and sautéing, our chefs bring out the natural flavors of the seafood, enhancing them with carefully selected herbs and spices.

Freshly caught whole fish is flown in daily from Hawaii, Europe, Mainland, Japan and New Zealand. Our fish is sold by the pound at market price and prepared simply grilled or as fish in sea salt w/ extra virgin olive oil and lemon. All fish is served deboned. We recommend approximately one (1) pound per person.


  • Indulge in the exquisite Ahi Tuna Sashimi, where fresh, succulent tuna is marinated in a unique blend of soy-infused extra virgin olive oil, imparting a rich, savory flavor. Each slice is perfectly complemented by a dollop of wasabi, adding a zesty kick that enhances the natural taste of the tuna. This dish is a true celebration of the ocean's bounty, offering a delicate balance of flavors that will delight your palate.






  • Savor the delicate flavors of Fresh Madai Sashimi, featuring pristine slices of madai (Japanese sea bream) known for its sweet, subtle taste and firm texture. Each piece is carefully prepared to highlight the natural essence of the fish, making it a true gem of Japanese cuisine. Experience the purity and quality of this sashimi, a testament to the ocean's finest offerings.





  • Experience the exquisite Live Dungeness Crab Steamed, where the crab's natural sweetness and tender meat are preserved through a gentle steaming process. Each bite offers a delightful combination of succulent flesh and the crab's inherent briny flavor, making it a seafood lover's dream. This dish is a celebration of simplicity and freshness, showcasing the crab's quality and the art of steaming to perfection.



  • Indulge in the luxurious Live Lobster By The Pound, offering you the choice of having it grilled or steamed to perfection. The lobster's sweet, succulent meat is complemented by the charred flavors of the grill or the delicate tenderness achieved through steaming, ensuring a memorable dining experience. Each pound of lobster is a testament to the ocean's finest, promising a feast that will delight your senses and satisfy your cravings for the ultimate seafood indulgence.




  • Savor the briny delight of Fresh Oysters On The Half Shell, served with a trio of accompaniments to enhance their natural flavors. A squeeze of fresh lemon adds a zesty brightness, while the mignonette offers a tangy, vinegar-based contrast. For those who prefer a richer taste, the cocktail sauce provides a creamy, spicy complement. Each oyster is a treasure, inviting you to explore the diverse palette of flavors that accompany these ocean gems.




Each dish is prepared with precision and care, ensuring that the texture and flavor of the seafood are preserved, resulting in an unforgettable dining experience. From the delicate flavors of sashimi to the robust tastes of seafood stews, our skilled preparation ensures that every dish at PESCA Waikiki is a celebration of the ocean's treasures.


Sustainable Dining: Enjoying Seafood Responsibly

At PESCA Waikiki, we believe that enjoying seafood responsibly is key to sustaining the oceans for future generations. Our menu features a variety of sustainable seafood options, allowing guests to make informed choices about the seafood they consume.

To make sure that the seafood served at a restaurant is sustainably harvested, you can ask the following questions:

Do you have any seafood sustainability certifications?

Certifications like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) or Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) indicate that the seafood has been sourced sustainably.

Where do you source your seafood from?

This will help you understand if the seafood is coming from a fishery or farm that uses sustainable practices.

What fishing or farming methods do your suppliers use?

Inquire about the specific methods used to catch or farm the seafood to ensure they are environmentally friendly.

Can you provide information about the traceability of your seafood?

Traceability allows you to know where your seafood comes from and the practices used to catch or farm it.

By choosing PESCA Waikiki, guests can enjoy the finest seafood with the peace of mind that comes from knowing their dining experience is contributing to the health of our oceans.


PESCA Waikiki: Where Freshness is the Main Ingredient

PESCA Waikiki lives up to its reputation as a seafood haven where freshness reigns supreme. Diners consistently rave about the exceptional quality and taste of the seafood, describing it as "just-caught," "melt-in-your-mouth," and "the freshest I've ever had."  The restaurant's commitment to sourcing and preparing seafood with utmost care shines through in every bite, leaving customers delighted and eager to return.

“Incredible. WOW! Loved every minute here. Food was delish and so fresh, the staff were wonderful, attentive and very informative from the moment we walked in to the venue to the moment we left.” - Sam Hawkins, Google Review


“I recently had the pleasure of dining at Pesca, and I can't recommend it enough! The beautiful views alone make it a must-visit, but the experience goes far beyond that. Our waitress, Hap, was simply amazing. She took the time to show us the frozen fish on display and shared her knowledge about each variety, explaining how they are prepared. It was such a unique and informative experience!

The seafood is incredibly fresh, and the happy hour is unbeatable—classic cocktails for only $10! Daniel, the bartender, was attentive and friendly, making sure our drinks were always topped off. I highly recommend the seafood salad; the shrimp are huge and of outstanding quality!

For the main course, I indulged in the Opakapaka fish with clams and garlic juice, which was nothing short of incredible. The staff made me feel like a princess, with their exceptional attention to detail and care. Yusuke, the manager, even came over to check in on us and ensure we were enjoying our meal.

Overall, I love, love, love this restaurant! If you’re looking for a fantastic dining experience with great food, beautiful views, and an attentive staff, Pesca is the place to be!” - My Sugar Free Life, Google Review

Nice choice of fresh fish...some that is even flown in daily.  Beautiful views - especially if you book at sunset.  Great service!” - Tim M., OpenTable

“The view is amazing. The food was amazing, fresh Oyster, grilled octopus, linguine vongol, and Acqua pizza fish. Wasn't disappointed by anything. Our waiter was very helpful in suggesting our food item. Definitely have to go back again.” - Renee K., OpenTable

DeeeeLish, this place is awesome and the food is a amazing. Realize you will be dropping some Benjamin's at this place. The fresh fish that is finished table side is phenomenal and so are the pasta dishes. Mixed drinks are unique and top shelf also. I will eat there again. We actually ate there twice this trip. The views are stunning. Ask for the tables in I think they said the 60s. They face the ocean side when the sun is setting. The other side looking out over Honolulu is still beautiful. Service is also top notch. They seemed to really enjoy working there.” - William S., Yelp Review

“I was impressed with service. Alfred and Devon went above and beyond . Not to mention we got to choose your own fresh fish flown in from Japan! Can't wait to tell my friends about this place” - Jennifer I., Yelp Review


READ MORE:

Sustainable Seafood 101: Making Informed Choices at PESCA Waikiki

Fresh Seafood Delights at PESCA Waikiki Beach

Is PESCA Waikiki Beach the Best Seafood Restaurant in Honolulu?


Don't Miss Out on Waikiki's Freshest, Most Sustainable Seafood: Reserve Your Table at PESCA Today

From the moment our expert fishermen cast their lines to the exquisite presentation on your plate, the journey of your fresh catch at PESCA Waikiki is a testament to our dedication to quality, sustainability, and the art of seafood cuisine. 

Join us, book your reservations today, and celebrate the ocean's bounty and experience the true essence of ocean-to-table dining.

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Classic with a Twist: PESCA Waikiki's Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail

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Caviar 101: A Beginner's Guide to Enjoying this Delicacy at PESCA Waikiki