Seafood Showdown: Our Top 5 Dishes, Ranked!

Welcome to our culinary journey through the tantalizing world of seafood at PESCA Waikiki Restaurant, where the Mediterranean meets the Pacific in a symphony of flavors. Nestled in the heart of Oahu, Hawaii, our establishment prides itself on serving the freshest catch with a Mediterranean twist, creating dishes that are both innovative and authentic. 

Today, we're excited to unveil our top 5 seafood dishes, each a testament to our commitment to quality and culinary excellence. In no particular order, prepare to dive into a gastronomic adventure that will leave you craving for more, as we reveal the secrets behind our most beloved creations.



1. Spaghetti Pescatore

What is a pescatore?

Pescatore is an Italian term that translates to "fisherman" in English. In culinary terms, it refers to a style of dish that typically includes a variety of seafood, such as fish, shrimp, clams, and mussels, often served in a sauce over pasta.

How many calories are in spaghetti pescatore?

The calorie content of spaghetti pescatore can vary significantly depending on the recipe and ingredients used. For instance, a serving of Spaghetti Del Pescatore contains approximately 50 calories, while a serving of Linguine Pescatore from Carrabba's Italian Grill can have up to 1000 calories.

PESCA Wakiki’s Spaghetti Pescatore

PESCA’s Spaghetti Pescatore is a seafood lover’s dream, featuring a medley of fresh clams, shrimp, scallops, squid, and crabmeat. Tossed in a vibrant fresh tomato sauce, each bite offers the perfect balance of ocean-fresh flavors with the tang of ripe tomatoes. This dish celebrates the bounty of the sea, making it a standout option for anyone craving an authentic, seafood-rich pasta experience.


“We had lunch here and were definitely impressed!..The main courses were fantastic! My husband had the linguini Vongole(clams) and I had the Pasta Pescatore with jumbo shrimp, giant and tender scallops, crab and calamari. The pasta on both dishes were perfectly done, al dente with just the right touch of peppery flakes. I'm having the leftovers for breakfast. The food was great!..” - Sandy L., Yelp Review


2. Eggs Benedict

What are the three types of Eggs Benedict?

The three types of Eggs Benedict variations mentioned are:

1. Eggs Florentine - This version includes spinach added to the traditional components of an English muffin, Canadian bacon, a poached egg, and Hollandaise sauce.

2. Eggs Royale - This variation features smoked salmon instead of Canadian bacon, along with the usual English muffin, poached egg, and Hollandaise sauce.

3. Eggs Norwegian - This version combines both smoked salmon and Canadian bacon, topped with a poached egg and Hollandaise sauce.

What is hollandaise sauce made of?

Hollandaise sauce is made from a combination of egg yolks, lemon juice or vinegar, and melted butter, whisked together to create a rich, emulsified sauce. It often includes seasonings such as salt and cayenne pepper to enhance its flavor.

Is Eggs Benedict a good breakfast?

Yes, Eggs Benedict is considered a delicious and indulgent breakfast option, featuring poached eggs, Canadian bacon, and a rich Hollandaise sauce on a toasted English muffin. It is a beloved and traditional American brunch dish that offers a satisfying and flavorful start to the day.

PESCA’s Smoked Salmon Benedict

Smoked Salmon Benedict is a luxurious twist on the classic Eggs Benedict, featuring delicate slices of smoked salmon atop a toasted English muffin, perfectly poached eggs, and a rich, creamy Hollandaise sauce. This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a symphony of flavors that tantalize the taste buds. Served alongside roasted potatoes or a fresh salad, it offers a balanced and satisfying meal that is ideal for a special breakfast or brunch.


“Love this space at the top of the Ilikai. The views are absolutely stunning! Came here for breakfast and was not disappointed. Service was friendly and attentive…Smoked Salmon Benedict Delicate and flavorful Norwegian salmon topped with a flawless poached egg. The smokiness is deep enough to come through the magical hollandaise sauce. Winner!” - Peter N., Yelp Review


“Brunch, drinks very good, food was delicious and perfectly cooked. Portions were generous.  The salmon eggs Benedict was the best I’ve had on the island (10 yrs) my favorite brunch dish! The view is spectacular from every table, the four of us agree this is our new “go to spot” to enjoy and impress…. Service was great and not rushed, we just had a wonderful time!” - Annette S., OpenTable Review


Please try to Egg Benedict with salmon, this is very good!!” - Marie S., OpenTable Review


3. Seafood Platter

How would you describe a seafood platter?

A seafood platter is a generous assortment of various seafood items, typically including fish, shrimp, calamari, and mussels, often accompanied by sides such as fries or salad. It is a popular choice for seafood lovers looking to sample a variety of ocean delights in one meal.

What do you serve with a seafood platter?

With a seafood platter, it's common to serve a variety of sides to complement the flavors and textures of the seafood. Popular choices include roasted or grilled vegetables, fries, and salads. Additionally, sauces like sweet and sour, garlic, and hot sauce are often provided to enhance the dining experience.

PESCA Waikiki's Seafood Platter

A luxurious showcase of the ocean's finest, featuring today's sashimi, fresh oyster, lobster, jumbo shrimp, and crabmeat. This exquisite platter is designed for seafood aficionados, offering a symphony of flavors and textures that delight the palate. For those seeking an even more indulgent experience, add-ons such as abalone, langoustine, sea urchin (uni), and scallops are available, transforming the platter into a truly memorable culinary journey.


Seafood platter was amazing! We had a great night there.” - Megumi, OpenTable Review

“We are here for our anniversary and our last night in Hawaii We had the seafood platter and added scallops and we loved everything ! Great service and cocktails / special Mention for the cocktail del mar!” - lkamphuis, Trip Advisor


“We found this gem purely by chance. While taking in the skyline we noticed a restaurant perched on top of a hotel and boy are we glad we did. First off the service was top notch! Marten was our server and he was very pleasant, very knowledgeable of the menu and quite helpful. 10/10. That leads us to the menu/food....SO GOOD! We had to indulge with the seafood platter and that did not disappoint. Next we got the fish by the pound cooked aqua pazza style, out of this world. Then to top it all off the views were out of this world. If only we could bring this place back with us to Ohio. Don't let any of the bad reviews deter you, this is a must try!” - Michaela Haughey, Google Review


4. Grilled Octopus

Is grilled octopus good?

Grilled octopus can be a delicious and tender dish when prepared correctly. The key to its success lies in the cooking technique, ensuring the octopus is tenderized properly before grilling to achieve a flavorful and enjoyable texture.

Is grilled octopus the same as calamari?

Grilled octopus and calamari are not the same; they come from different species of cephalopods and have distinct textures and flavors. Octopus has a denser, meatier texture and is often grilled after being tenderized, while calamari is typically served as a crispy, fried appetizer with a firmer, chewy texture.

What to eat with grilled octopus?

Grilled octopus is a flavorful and tender dish that pairs well with a variety of sides to enhance its taste and texture. Whether you prefer something simple and classic or bold and adventurous, there are numerous options to complement this unique seafood delicacy.

1. Lemon Herb Potatoes - These potatoes are roasted with a blend of fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon, providing a tangy and aromatic side that complements the smoky flavor of grilled octopus.

2. Arugula and Parmesan Salad - A fresh arugula salad tossed with shaved Parmesan cheese and a light vinaigrette offers a crisp, peppery contrast to the tender octopus, enhancing the overall dining experience.

3. Greek Salad - This classic salad, featuring tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, feta cheese, and a zesty olive oil and lemon dressing, provides a refreshing and flavorful accompaniment to grilled octopus.

PESCA’s Grilled Octopus

Grilled Octopus is a delightful dish featuring tender octopus grilled to perfection and served atop a housemade vinaigrette-tossed salad, adding a refreshing and tangy element to the meal. Accompanied by roasted potatoes, which provide a hearty and comforting side, and red onions, which offer a sharp and aromatic contrast, this combination creates a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience. The interplay of flavors and textures makes grilled octopus a standout choice for seafood enthusiasts looking for a unique and flavorful meal.


“If you're looking for a place with the freshest seafood, high-end service, and a place to make memories, this is it…With seafood on the mind, we ordered a grilled octopus and it did not disappoint. Cooked to perfect tenderness, along with accompanying salad. Definitely worth the visit.” - Derek W., Yelp Review

“...We began our evening by sharing a few appetizers, which were all presented beautifully. We ordered the Fresh Oysters on the Half Shell, Ahi Tuna Sashimi, and the Grilled Octopus…The Grilled Octopus was my favorite which they kindly cut into pieces for us to share. The octopus was perfectly tender, soft, and chewy. The vinaigrette with capers was salty which balanced out the smokiness…” - Kyra K., Yelp Review

“Devine Date with an incredible view! Thank you for the impeccable service, delectable food and delicious cocktails 🍹 The grilled octopus was exceptional, so much so that my date ordered a second for his entree. My pasta was cooked perfectly and the red velvet was the perfect way to finish off while watching the sun set!” - Cindy V., OpenTable Review


5. Uni Pasta

What is uni pasta made of?

Uni pasta is a luxurious dish made with sea urchin (uni), typically combined with pasta, butter, and sometimes cream, creating a rich and decadent sauce that coats the pasta. The dish highlights the briny, buttery flavor of the uni, often garnished with additional uni and parsley for a visually appealing presentation.

Is uni healthy to eat?

Sea urchin, or uni, is generally considered safe to eat and can be a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. However, it is important to consume it in moderation due to its high cholesterol content and potential for bacterial contamination if not handled properly.

PESCA Waikiki’s Uni Pasta

PESCA Waikiki's Uni Pasta is a decadent dish that showcases the rich, briny flavor of sea urchin (uni), expertly blended with garlic, shallot, and a hint of chili flakes to create a sauce that is both aromatic and slightly spicy. This unique pasta is a celebration of the ocean's delicacies, offering a creamy, yet light, dining experience that is sure to delight seafood enthusiasts. The dish is finished with a garnish of additional uni and fresh parsley, providing a visually appealing presentation that complements its exquisite taste.


“Amazing concept.  Fresh fish to table.  Deboned at table side.  Simple fresh healthy and tasty.  Best Uni pasta I have ever had, tasty not fishy. Yummy light pistachio ricotta cheesecake. I will be back for sure.” - Lynner, OpenTable Review

“...The Uni Pasta is my ultimate favorite here. I get it. It's a fish restaurant. I should enjoy more than uni. But impressive uni is not came across often. Savory... buttery... I'd absolutely order it again if I had a chance. Other than the Uni pasta, we orders a fish (totally forgot the type) "acqua pazza" style. We are fans of a fish that's mixed in with a broth and this style was a poached white fish with wine, tomato, herbs, and clams. I enjoyed the experience of picking and customizing our fish!..” - Ashley F., Yelp Review


“One of the best fine dining experience. Nice ambience. Food is exceptional and delicious. The uni pasta was one of the best we have ever tasted. The grilled octopus was perfectly cooked...tender and tasty. Our server was attentive. Overall we had a memorable experience and will definitely return.” - Tristan V., Yelp Review


Dine Above the Waves: PESCA’s Unmatched Panoramic View from the 30th Floor

Dining at PESCA Waikiki offers not just a meal, but an unforgettable experience with a breathtaking panoramic view of Waikiki Beach from the 30th floor of the Ilikai Hotel and Luxury Suites. 

As you indulge in the best of Mediterranean cuisine, the sweeping ocean views set the perfect backdrop for a memorable evening. Whether you choose a fresh seafood platter or savor the restaurant’s signature dishes, the combination of flavors and scenery is unparalleled. 

The attentive and incomparable service from PESCA's staff ensures that every visit feels special. For those seeking both culinary excellence and stunning surroundings, PESCA Waikiki is truly a must-visit destination.


READ MORE:

Travel Blogger's Paradise: PESCA Waikiki's Must-Visit Status

Greek Salad Reimagined: A Taste of the Mediterranean at PESCA Waikiki

Sunset Magic at PESCA Waikiki: The Best Time to Dine

Ready to Taste the Best? Secure Your Spot and Try Our Top 5 Seafood Creations!

Dive into PESCA Waikiki's ultimate Seafood Showdown and taste our Top 5 Dishes, Ranked! Whether you crave the freshest oysters, succulent lobster, or perfectly grilled fish, our menu showcases the very best of seafood delights. 

Enjoy these top dishes with a panoramic view of Waikiki Beach from the 30th floor of the Ilikai Hotel. With limited seating and rave reviews, tables fill up fast. Don’t wait—reserve your spot today and indulge in the ultimate seafood experience!

Previous
Previous

Seafood for a Healthy Heart: Delicious Dishes at PESCA Waikiki

Next
Next

The PESCA Waikiki Challenge: Can You Conquer Our Seafood Tower?