There's lots of buzz about a new izakaya from a former chef and manager of Sushi Izakaya Gaku. Izakaya Uosan (it means "three fishes") has opened in Kapiolani Boulevard’s Blackfield Building with a simple, rustic menu and an emphasis on nuanced flavors. Standouts include the rich and creamy gohan omelet with ankake sauce, and a succulently grilled whole moi, done in the style of sweet ayu river fish with a simple salt treatment and spritz of calamansi lime.

During their soft opening they are mildly busy, especially in the later hours, and are accommodating with ice and glasses if you BYOB. Heads up, though: They're expecting their liquor license as early as this week.

Izakaya Uosan

1221 Kapiolani Blvd #108

808-200-5077

Tuesday - Sunday 5 - 11 p.m.