Robata JINYA - Honolulu

Robata JINYA - Honolulu reviews from people who’ve dined at this restaurant. Based on recent rating.

Review summary

1. K

   Kalana

   Hawaii4 reviews

   3.0

   Dined 6 days ago

   1. Overall 3
   2. Food 3
   3. Service 4
   4. Ambience 4

   Drink selections is decent . I had the Japanese old fashioned and my date had the lychee tini. Presentations on drinks and dessert is over the top lol California dynamite was ono . Would recommend this for more of an happy hour spot instead of a date night
   

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2. B

   Bobinsf

   Hawaii17 reviews

   5.0

   Dined on March 3, 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   Good food and drink bargains for happy hour before 6 pm
   

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3. G

   Gerard VIP

   Hawaii215 reviews

   4.0

   Dined on February 27, 2025

   1. Overall 4
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 4

   I enjoyed an early dinner at Robata JINYA as I was headed to the Ward Theaters to attend a viewing of the IVE: 1st World Tour concert video. I got there a little early and found myself to be the sole diner at this large venue. I started with a Hendricks gin & tonic … My first surprise, I received a Sipsmith London Dry gin & tonic. It was fine; I’ve had Sipsmith previously. The manager (I think) said it was Happy Hour, so I ordered off that menu. I started by ordering six of the seven Robata-Yaki items (Miyazaki Wagyu Tsukune, Tender Beef Tongue, JIDORI Chicken Thigh, Pork Belly Chashu, Saba, and Oyster Mushroom), The Nigiri (Seared Salmon, Kona Kampachi, and Tai), and JINYA Ceviche. The dishes came in no particular order, the ceviche arrived first, followed by the sushi, then the tongue, pork belly, and mushroom. The saba arrived next, then the Wagyu Tsukune, with the Chicken arriving last. I asked for another gin & tonic and ate everything. I would have preferred that the dishes arrived more slowly … This is an issue I’ve encountered at this restaurant in the past. Yaki should be consumed as soon as possible to maximize the flavors. Luckily, I eat very quickly so none of the dishes sat untouched for very long. I ended my meal with a cup of tea. I ordered it just to delay my departure … It hadn’t been 30 minutes since I sat down. All in all, I really enjoyed my meal … Victoria, my server was personable and the other two (manager and server) were friendly too. The food has always been great, just a more relaxed delivery of the dishes would make it even better. My bill came to $94.25 before tip. This was a much better experience than at two other nearby restaurants. If I'm going to Ward Theaters, I'm dining here. Recommended!
   

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4. M

   Melissa

   Hawaii26 reviews

   3.0

   Dined on February 16, 2025

   1. Overall 3
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 3
   4. Ambience 5

   Service wasn't what I expected. I was told they were short staffed. Perhaps I will try again in the future. Hope the staffing issue gets resolved. The gentleman that waited on us did come to check on us one final time but his replacement wasn't nearly as attentive as I believe he should have been.
   

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5. R

   Ruben VIP

   Los Angeles2 reviews

   5.0

   Dined on February 15, 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   Jason and his staff is amazing loved the service and the great attitude!
   

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6. c

   chuck

   Toronto36 reviews

   3.0

   Dined on February 13, 2025

   1. Overall 3
   2. Food 4
   3. Service 1
   4. Ambience 3

   I dined here recently around New Year time. Restaurant seems to have issues retaining staff. The server tried to do his best but simply not good enough (perhaps under staffed)? Orders were delayed with NO follow up. Disappointed. One dish was not presented properly and he came by commenting "they did not?" Dessert requisition was never asked as that takes 25 mins preparation time. Food and drinks are high end but just seems to falling off.
   

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7. A

   Axl Rose

   Hawaii1 review

   5.0

   Dined on February 13, 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   From the service to foods. All worth it. We’ll definitely come back again.
   

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8. J

   John VIP

   Hawaii27 reviews

   4.0

   Dined on February 13, 2025

   1. Overall 4
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 4

   Robata Jinya is a gem for anyone who appreciates great service and an exceptional Japanese whisky selection. The all-day happy hour on Wednesdays offers decent value, making it an ideal spot for both casual outings and special occasions. The star of the show was undoubtedly Jay, the bartender. His extensive knowledge of Japanese whisky was impressive, and he made several killer recommendations on peated Japanese whiskies that were simply divine. Jay's passion and expertise truly elevated the experience. If you're looking for a place with a welcoming atmosphere, fantastic drinks, and outstanding service, look no further than Robata Jinya!
   

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9. M

   Maria

   Hawaii6 reviews

   5.0

   Dined on February 10, 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   Oh we had such an amazing experience last night! Our server, Joseph, made all the difference in dining out! My guest was a bit under the weather! He brought out Hojita to start and gave her another tea pot of rosemary and mint with honey that made her so much better! His recommendation on dishes were incredible! We were so happy with delicious high quality food that was beyond fresh ingredients and excellent taste! While many other place raised price twice and qualities went down so much, this place kept old price still and made it so much affordable than many other disappointing place in the area! Ward village and Ala Moana dining scenes! Too bad that their appearance is not flashy enough for new people to try! It’s old Nobu restaurant site in Waiea condo first floor across from theater! I love it! I live good, ambiance and service! Ask for Joseph for your server! You won’t be disappointed! He set the bar high! Mahalo!
   

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10. T

    Tim VIP

    Phoenix5 reviews

    5.0

    Dined on February 5, 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 4

    Vivian is spectacular!!!!! We will be back again!!
    

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