The Cream Pot Awards

The Cream Pot Restaurant Review:

The Cream Pot marries the charm of a large country kitchen somewhere in France with colors of white, soft French blue and buttery yellow to a Japanese culinary aesthetic --- think warmth from fresh flowers and dried floral arrangements combined with refined preparation and plating. Expansive windows offer a serene view of the Ala Wai canal. Start with a delicate iced coffee drink or a cappuccino while enjoying the scenery, as service can be a bit slow at times. We recommend the far-from-traditional maguro Benedict featuring fresh maguro tuna carpaccio rather than ham on a "muffin" of griddled white rice (crispy on the edges) topped with an orange-sesame glaze. Portions are reasonable, not hearty, reflecting yet again the Japanese sensibility. Consider splitting an order of the popular soufflé pancakes for "dessert." Served with a compote of warm berries or seasonal specials like salted caramel or s’mores and never cloyingly sweet, they are the perfect ending to an indulgent morning meal. Reservations are essential on weekends.