X

Welcome aboard ‘Uncle’s’ boat

A La Carte

April 28, 2019

Story By: Kyle Galdeira | Photos by: ANTHONY CONSILLIO

Uncle’s Original Poke Tower ($19.50)

With restaurateur Bruce Johnson at the helm of a new vessel, so to say, Uncle’s Fish Market & Grill welcomes guests to its new Pearlridge location, which opened in December.

The spacious eatery offers the same homestyle vibe as its sister location at Pier 38, and features ample dining space and a full bar. The restaurant resembles a fisherman’s house, as Johnson was an aku boat captain — guests catch on after admiring the paintings, family photos and vintage videos that adorn the walls.

“Uncles are kinda underrated, we don’t get enough credit! Who are you going to call when you need something or have troubles? Your uncle!” says Johnson, who goes by “Uncle Bruce” with family, friends and customers.

Clams Linguini with Onaga ($32) Mother’s Day Weekend Special

The labor of love pays homage to the “uncles” in the fishing industry, many of whom have passed on, so the restaurant vibe is purposefully “not pretentious or overpriced” and full of memorabilia that recognizes the rich past.

Uncle’s Fish Market & Grill incorporates island-made products and local produce throughout the diverse menu. Uncle’s Original Poke Tower ($19.50) is the most popular appetizer on the menu as sushi rice is layered with fresh ahi poke, guacamole and ahi tartar all topped with masago and sliced nori served with a hearty portion of white corn chips.

Seafood Pasta with lobster ($35) Mother’s Day Weekend Special

For pasta fans, Uncle’s Seafood Pasta ($25) features sauteed fresh fish, shrimp, scallops, calamari and clams over linguine pasta with mushrooms along with garlic bread and a choice of marinara or alfredo sauce — or a delicious combination of both. During Mother’s Day weekend (May 11 and 12), ask for the Seafood Pasta with lobster and sauteed fennel ($35) “with extra finesse.”

Fresh Clam Linguine ($23) with New Zealand clams, arugula and cherry tomatoes is prepared in a butter garlic sauce served with garlic bread. As another must-try Mother’s Day weekend special, add a succulent Onaga (red snapper) fillet to the dish ($32).

Aiea, HI 96701

Ilima Awards
Hawaii's Best