If you’ve driven down Keʻeaumoku Street, chances are, you’ve passed by this cozy shop that has flavorful, generously sized kimbap.
The business used to be a different kimbap place, according to current owner Sunny Chang, who says the previous owner retired. Chang says Kimbap Plus opened on Jan. 16.
“I had an office job, but I liked making food and sharing with my neighbors and friends at church,” she says.
Kimpbap Plus is designed for grab and go, as the interior is cozy. When the selection is fully stocked, you’ll be able to see the different kimbap packs on the counter. We’re there on a Saturday post-lunch rush; Chang says customers have been waiting since 9 a.m. that day for kimbap … thus, the selection of to-go kimbap packs usually on the counter have been wiped out.
We order in person and watch as Chang makes the kimbap. Rest assured, it was worth the wait.
All kimbap cost $7.99 and come with fillings like gobo, fishcake, tuna mayo, shrimp, fire tuna, fire fishcake and smoky ham. Chang says shrimp and smoky ham have been especially popular with customers.
Each roll includes yellow daikon, carrots, choy sum and gobo. All packs come with 10, generously stuffed pieces of kimbap. We chose shrimp and fishcake; both were flavorful. We especially enjoyed the shrimp kimbap, as the shrimp tempura boasted a delicate crunch, which complemented the bright veggies well.
If you’re craving something refreshing, the eatery’s acai bowls ($11.99) are worth trying. These feature acai sorbet topped with blueberries, strawberries, bananas, granola and honey.
There are so many fruits on top of the bowl that it takes some effort to get to the acai. It’s not a bad thing; they don’t skimp on the toppings. The acai sorbet itself is refreshing and on the sweeter side, as I prefer. It’s a little icy, but nothing the strong afternoon sun won’t fix in a few minutes.
Pro tip: If you know what you want, call ahead to avoid a potential wait — which can easily happen during the lunch rush, since this is a one-woman operation.
CONTACT
Kimbap Plus
1020 Keʻeaumoku St. Ste. 100, Honolulu
808-392-2363
Open 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Mondays-Fridays, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays, closed Sundays
Kelli Shiroma Braiotta can be reached at kelli@alohastatedaily.com.
