Umami on the Prowl: Downtown @ the HiSAM

Umami had an unusual lunch at Downtown @ the HiSAM the other day.  Downtown is the cafe in the Hawaii State Art Museum (HiSAM) and is owned by Ed Kenney, who also owns Town in Kaimuki.   Both restaurants emphasize local, organic food and are normally very reliable for good food and service.  On this particular occasion, Umami made reservations for lunch at 12, which is admittedly a busy hour.  We were on a tight schedule (only an hour) and mentioned this to the server, who assured us we had plenty of time.

However, half an hour later and still no food and, when we commented about it when it did arrive our server could only say that, well, if we were in a hurry we should have come at 11 or 1.  Which, I suppose, is true, but why say it that way?

Compounding this, the food was oddly colorless and unappetizing in appearance.  This basically pork, with cabbage and smashed potatoes.  Now, it was perfectly prepared and flavorful.  But, honestly, look at this plate . . . doesn't seem completely washed out?  Almost feel as though an element is missing from the plate.

Umami's just puzzled.  He likes Downtown, but can't account for the rather lackluster service and food on this day.  It may be that the restaurant is simply so understaffed that attention to detail is slipping.   Will have to keep tabs on the situation.

Downtown at HiSAM 
250 S Hotel St (in the Hawaii State Art Museum Building)
Honolulu, HI 96813

(808) 536-5900