Sansei Restaurant is the Big Islands hottest new restaurant. Though the restaurant only debuted in February, it already draws in crowds of both locals and visitors.

In addition to traditional grilled and sauteed entrees, Sansei also serves a wide variety fresh sushi. During our recent two week stay on the Big Island, we dined at Sansei twice and we thought both experiences were tremendous. The first time we chose the tasting menu for two which was a selection of signature appetizers and sushi to share. There were nine different delicious plates for us to try. This was a great introduction to Sansei and a good value at $80 for two.

During our next experience at Sansei, we shared our favorite appetizer, that we had sampled previously, the Japanese Calamari Salad, My husband had the Nissei sushi combination and I had the grilled Ahi with Sansei’s Asian shrimp cake, a signature dish. Once again, Sansei didn’t disappoint.

On the Big Island, Sansei is located in the Queens Marketplace at Waikoloa Beach Resort. The restaurant doesn’t really have a view, so to speak, but who cares, because the lively atmosphere and great food more than please. The restaurant opens at 5:30pm and sometimes offers attractive early bird specials between 5:30pm and 6:00pm. If you want to go, I recommend you make a reservation. If you are looking for a bit of nightlife in the quite and relaxed Kohala Coast resort area, then check out their late night dining and karaoke on Fridays and Saturdays from 10pm to 1am.

Though this is the first Big Island edition of Sansei Restaurant, there are other popular locations on Oahu and Maui. You can learn more about their menus and locations at their website.