The 4 Hottest Eateries on the Islands Serve Up Fruit Pavlova and Uni Carbonara

A tropical fruit pavlova, $12, at MW Restaurant

1. Mw
Enjoy fine dining at the uberpopular MW, where Pacific Rim cuisine takes on a refined twist at the hands of locally adored husband-and-wife duo chefs Michelle Karr-Ueoka and Wade Ueoka. Of course, the entrees are always exceptional (try the succulent beef & foie gras), but do leave room for dessert, as James Beard pastry chef semifinalist Michelle Karr-Ueoka creates scrumptious sweets (check out the revamped dessert menu) like the exotic sakura macarons! 1538 Kapiolani Blvd., Ste. 107, Kaka‘ako, 955.6505

Breezy exteriors at Goen

2. Vein
Modern Mediterranean-Asian fusion defines the cuisine at Vein, Honolulu's concept resto du jour helmed by executive chef Dell Valdez. A minimalist decor complements the menu, which rotates seasonally and is replete with farm-fresh offerings. Find traditional Mediterranean fare with an Asian and Hawaiian twist, like the popular uni carbonara topped with an egg yolk “confit,” or the "vein" osso bucco with Okinawan spinach. SALT at Our Kaka‘ako, Building 2, Ste. 121, 376.4800

Pan seared ahi salad, $15, at Vein at Kaka‘ako

3. Goen
This ultrachic new eatery in the increasingly urbane and chic Kailua town offers Pan-Asian comfort food with none other than Roy Yamaguchi's special culinary touch. Small plates like the Winter Gnocchi with kabocha and kale complement hearty entrees like the divine house pho or soba noodles with flank steak. The open design creates a chill vibe, so relax with a Ko‘olau Sour and prepare for some serious eats. 573 Kailua Road, 263.4636

Keahole lobster potpie, $46, at Merriman's Honolulu Ward Village

4. Merriman's Honolulu, Ward village
Find upscale simplicity at legendary chef and Hawai‘i's original farm-to-fork pioneer Peter Merriman's newest O‘ahu eatery. Those in Honolulu can now come for the toque's signature fresh fish, or indulge in the dazzling New York strip steak. The menu, per Merriman's philosophy, boasts organic local ingredients and is dedicated to Hawai‘i's sustainability. 1108 Auahi St., 215.0022