From the moment you step into Pacific Rim & Bento you are immersed in Island culture – from the décor to the food to the huge smiles and hugs, the Aloha Spirit abounds. Chef Blaise Aki grew up on the island of Kauai, where he was introduced to the flavors of the Pacific Rim. He learned at a young age the meaning of family (ohana) and how amazing food can bring people together.
“Food is love and I love sharing my culture with our community one delicious dish at a time,” said Blaise Aki, owner, Pacific Rim & Bento.
“One thing I am proud to offer is our award-winning poke, we’re sourcing the freshest high-quality fish possible and have weekly poke specials.”
After high school, Chef Blaise joined the Marines, where he served for six years. Then, he attended culinary school at the Western Culinary Institute in Portland, OR. After working in the industry for 10 years, he became the executive chef at an exclusive resort in Wailua, HI. Finally, Chef Blaise and his wife, Kanani, headed to the mainland and planted their roots in Arizona. Here, Chef Blaise has made it his mission to bring Hawaiian flavor and culture to the desert. Chef Blaise has been in Arizona for about 22 years – his food truck and catering company, Pacific Rim & Sushi has had much success, but it was always his dream to open a restaurant where he could connect with the community, share his culture, and serve exceptional quality food.
Pacific Rim & Bento is Chef Blaise’s brick-and-mortar concept, where guests can grab a fresh poke bowl, an island burger, a bento box, and a traditional Hawaiian plate lunch. Menu highlights include fresh Poke, Teriyaki Burger, Coconut Garlic Shrimp, Char Siu Chicken Salad, Chicken Curry Katsu, Musubi, Kalua Pork, and Kal-Bi Ribs.
Pacific Rim and Bento is located at 1720 W Southern Ave, Suite C3, Mesa, AZ 85202. Operation hours are Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.