Prima Kailua

Sister restaurant to The Whole Ox Deli, Prima opened up in September of last year, but has quickly become a popular restaurant with the young, old and trendy. Located in a Kailua Strip Mall that once housed Blazin' Steaks, it is fairly easy to find on Hekili.

Once you walk in, the vibe is surprisingly casual- there were families dining on pizza, couples at the bar sipping on wine, and some other tables of old friends catching up over dessert. I was shocked at how laid-back this place was! It could be described as a trendier and more modern pizza joint that serves alcohol.

It is on the smaller side. We sat a table away from the corner, and the waiters kept bumping my friend's seat trying to get in there. A bit awkward and uncomfortable. I think that was a negative here.

Other than that, I really enjoyed the pizzas! I definitely recommend the Prosciutto Rucola (Prosciutto and Arugula) pizza.....but ask for a soft poached egg on it too! You won't regret it. My friend, Brian, ordered the Eggplant Pizza which was on Special that night. I don't like eggplant, but it was full of flavor. Another good pizza to try.

We also had their Panang Curry Clams to start. The broth was absolutely delectable. It had a tinge of lemongrass in every bite, which I LOVED. Only thing? $19 for clams? Really?! I admit they were great, but nothing "out of this world great." Even Nico's doesn't have clams for 19 bucks!!!

I have to say that I liked Prima, but it was really on the expensive side for modern Italian cuisine. 80 bucks for the two of us. Whoa.

Small menu

Panang Curry Clams

Loved the citrusy and lemongrass flavor to the curry, plus the crispy anchovies (ikan bilis) added a unique flavor and texture.

Prosciutto Rucola with egg

Eggplant and Goat Cheese Pizza

Ricotta Fritters for dessert to go (and to eat in the IMAX Dark Knight Rises line)!

A small space for the waiters.