4. Restaurants

Kan Zaman

1028 Nuuanu Ave, Honolulu, HI, 96813
  • (808) 554-3847
  • Store is closed

Kan Zaman Menu

Sorry, We are updating this restaurant menu details.

Sorry, We are updating this restaurant cholesterol menu details.

  • Joanne V.

    It was 7pm & I was starving! Some friends & I decided to try Kan Zaman after hearing & reading such great reviews... And seeing lots of appetizing photos as well. This fine establishment is located in downtown so parking might be an issue if you decide to go on a night like St. Patrick's Day, Mardi Gras, Chinese New Year, etc. Other than that, street, lot, and/or garage parking shouldn't be a problem. We were seated right away & this is what we ordered: 1) Chicken Tajine (braised chicken paired with French fries) - chicken was moist and sauce was tasty and the FRIES! The fries were these thick cuts of potato fried to perfection (made even yummier when covered in the sauce.. Mmmm) 2) Beef Kabab - tender, flavorful, thick cubes of beef 3) Chicken Taouk - Absolutely DELISH! My favorite of the three dishes. The chicken was flavorful beyond description. Wasn't sure if I was supposed to eat the chicken with the tahini sauce, but I did (Kinda just eventually had a little bit of everything on my fork & ate it like a beast!) & had no complaints whatsoever. I definitely want to come back for this dish! Just FYI: The beef kabab & chicken taouk come with rice, tabouleh, hummus, & pita... All of which were delectable. We cleaned our plates! Would have licked it clean, but we wanted to be ladies :P 4) Mint tea with orange blossom - Very aromatic & a pleasant treat. Sorta like a cherry on top of a sundae. Would have ordered dessert if we weren't absolutely stuffed by dinner. Overall, we were happy with our whole experience: the service, food, and outdoor seating area put us in a really good mood. We arrived hungry & left with our bellies poppin', but definitely satisfied!

    (5)

  • Cheryl D.

    Definitely a hidden gem and by far the best Mediterranean cuisine on the island. Highly recommend, not only is the food great but the ambience and atmosphere is very quaint, romantic, electric and relaxing all at the same time. The food and vibe exudes itself, it's anything you want it to be...an adventure of the palette awaits

    (5)

  • Ruth S.

    I had a great dinner here a couple months ago. The staff was very friendly and the outdoor seating is lovely. My date and I got the appetizer sampler with falafel, hummus, baba ganouhs. I had a mussel soup for my entre. It was all delishous!

    (4)

  • Sheryl G.

    what: authentic moroccan and lebanese cuisine! something good: restaurant week brought me here for the first time! and i feel fortunate to have found this little gem of a restaurant! first, the decor is super cute! it doesn't even feel like a restaurant in downtown, honolulu! second, the food is excellent! and i'm kind of glad my first time coming here was for restaurant week because i don't think i would have known what to order! everything on the menu was so good! the appetizer was the mezza sampler, the main course was the vegetarian couscous and dessert was baklava! everything i really, really enjoyed and would order again! something not so good: parking is a bit of a pain~ but the restaurant is so worth the hassle : ) something to try: mezza sampler (17) & vegetarian couscous (17)

    (5)

  • Roxy W.

    Location/Parking: They are located in Downtown Honolulu. The best place to park is the street parking right in front of the restaurant. There are parking garages around the area as well. I paid $2.25 for a little over an hour at a parking garage nearby during the weekday for lunch. Food: The food was delicious! We ordered the babaganoush with pita for an appetizer and a lamb kebab sandwich lunch special and chicken taouk for my husband and I's main entrees. The lamb kebab and the chicken was very flavorful. Half of the lunch plate was a salad with a great tasting dressing. I didn't like the rice by itself. The combination of the rice, tabouleh and chicken was amazing. I felt like the tabouleh brought all the flavors together. You MUST get the iced Moroccan mint tea! It is a refreshing tasting mint tea. You get one free refill for the tea. Price: The lunch special is very reasonable! You get a sandwich and salad for $10 and the serving size was huge. The lunch special is only available for 11am-5pm only. The chicken taouk was $15.95 and well worth the price for the amount of food. The mint tea was $4. Ambiance: The walls are painted nicely and the artwork on the walls matched with the restaurant. The tea pots are displayed on a shelf. There is outdoor seating in their courtyard. Service: The service was great! We had two individuals helping our table. Our drinks were refilled on a timely matter and we didn't wait long for our meal. Overall, I highly recommend this place for Moroccan and Lebanese Cuisine.

    (4)

  • Jessica A.

    5star plus !!!! Amazing food !!! Great Service!!! Must try lamp kebab plate it's the best lamp I have ever tried , tender and spiced to delicious perfection !!!! Chicken kebab is great as well , but Lamp is to die for !!!! I will be back :)

    (5)

  • Warren N.

    I'm a fan, I gave only 4 stars because I want to come back and taste even more! If the rest of the menu is as good as what we had tonight I'm sure I'll raise it to 5 stars. We went light tonight with falafel, baba ganoush, Moroccan salad and tabouleh. Our server Suzanne was ultra polite and helpful. The decor is done in red, orange and green, but muted enough so that they weren't clashing. The falafel was crisp and hot with a mild dipping sauce and pita. Oh how I miss Da Falafel King on King Street! I may have found my new falafel place. The ganoush was served with a large basket of pita and had a very strong char-grilled taste. Although it went well with the pita, the strong grilled smoky taste can be overpowering after a while. Moroccan salad was refreshing, with a hint of orange blossom water maybe? The tabouleh was different: this time the cracked wheat was not the star, the rough chopped parsley and mint was. It worked! Very zesty lemon dressing complemented the creamy ganoush and pita. We hoped to end out meal with Katayef, the banana pancake, but alas, our served sadly informed us that the special cream accompanying it did not turn out s the chef had wanted so he was not serving it. Kudos to them for telling us about the problem. We'll be back to try it another day. The orange blossom water to refresh our hands is a nice touch. Our Moroccan iced mint tea was very refreshing and light. Try them! Downtown needs more gems like this!

    (4)

  • Al D.

    Cute place with reasonable dinner prices. Byob is a big draw. Service is friendly. The Moroccan salad and the fries are good starters. I'm not a fan of the falafel or hummus here. I do like the vegetarian couscous and my friends really enjoyed the chicken taouk. The cheesecake is also tasty. It can get very loud indoors. I bad trouble hearing my friend who was sitting across from me. I haven't eaten outside but it looks very nice.

    (4)

  • Stephanie D.

    Food was amazing. Atmosphere is relaxing. And staff were phenomenal. Try the mint tea both cold and hot!

    (5)

  • Sam G.

    Enjoyable ambiance and a food niche not to be easily found in Downtown Honolulu. Enjoyable fare including lamb kebab, babaganoush, and other Moroccan and Lebanese offerings. Large portions, I often save some for later!

    (4)

  • Omar M.

    just went here the other day. pros: -amazing chicken kebabs, cooked with amazing quality spices -intimate patio location, great for a date cons: -rice felt undercooked but still ok, wasnt as moist as what im used to

    (4)

  • Valerie R.

    This is a quaint lovely restaurant. My daughter and I actually had dinner at Kan Zaman and lunch on a another day. The food is very well prepared and fresh. I had the lamb shank (can't recall the name) simmered in a sauce with beans it was so so good and tender. My daughter had the lamb (in a sandwich and salad). We had the mint moroccan tea which was good and for dessert a very good pastry Katayef. The service was great and there are belly dancers on Wednesday's. There is indoor and outdoor seating. I would definitely return to Kan Zaman and definitely recommend it to others.

    (5)

  • Elizabeth K.

    Vegetarian couscous was extremely salty though the chicken taouk was great. Came back and tried the lamb kebab and chicken tajine, the lamb and chicken were tasty. They have a cute outdoor space and it's BYOB so it's great for a big group!

    (3)

  • Tellia W.

    I've been here twice and love this place. The food is semi exotic the atmosphere is great for a date or small group and the service is excellent.

    (5)

  • Ricky B.

    Terrible...Worst food on the island, not recommended. Food is just bleh and I almost threw up.

    (1)

  • Keesha G.

    This place was exceptional. I went buck hungry and luckily my friends ( shout out! ) were already into some eggplant dip and grape leaves so I popped some wine and dove right in and ordered falafles the first chance I got. All were good. I ordered the lamb couscous. Oh damn! It was good! The freshness of the root veggies with the tender lamb and perfectly cooked cous cous that had soaked up the lamb juices, deserves a savoring of every bite. We also had three desserts all great and unique and the best mint tea ive ever had. The katayef made me wanna dance and the cheescake with the roasted dates with orange blossom essence, made me sing opera and raise the roof. Youseff and Kamal, ( shout out) we had so much fun enjoying your amazing food. Raise the roof. People if you havent gotten there yet, get there soon.

    (5)

  • Stacy D.

    Was a great place to check out and we will return. Pretty crowded for a Wednesday and were glad we made reservations. Service and food were both great and had belly dancers! Good to know there is also an outdoor patio.

    (4)

  • Mike T.

    My wife and I first time here last week. The Service and food was great.

    (4)

  • Uli K.

    Friendly, kind of nice industrial ambiente in the back yard, and good food, but not outstanding and limited choice. What I really found disturbing is that they used the cheapest chairs available. You can't actually see them because they're all wrapped in cloth - for a good reason as I could judge from my extremely worn out seat. Apart from that we enjoyed the evening.

    (4)

  • Rita C.

    My mother is an amazing Lebanese cook so I was spoiled with the best and usually very disappointed with Lebanese food out here but this place is pretty damn good! The kafta is yummy and the service is amazing!

    (5)

  • David T.

    I came here for the second time this past Friday, it was the only place downtown that could seat us without a wait. We had a concert to go to and needed to be in and out in 45 mintues. Even though they were totally packed, they managed to fit us in, on the outside dining area behind the restaurant. I let them know we were sort of in a rush and they were very accommodating, and the service was fantastic. Now, I'm no foodie, and I don't know squat about Moroccan and/or Lebanese cuisine and cannot attest to Kan Zaman's authenticity. I can say that I thoroughly enjoyed my meal and experience here, both times. For appetizer, I ordered french fries (yes, fries). They were AMAZING! I know it's crazy but these were probably one of the best fries I've had at a restaurant, they were perfectly seasoned and cooked, nice and crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They came with an amazing dipping sauce. I can't stress enough how awesome these fries were! For entree, I had the lamb kebab, and it was very good. I really like the hummus, pita, and green salad thing (no idea what it's called) that comes with the plate. The lamb was a little overcooked this time, but on my first visit here, it was perfect. I would definitely recommend this place again. It isn't too pricey, you can expect to pay $15-20 for an entree, and the portions are HUGE. The fries are big enough for a party of 4 and the entree is good for 2 servings (though I finished mine). Definitely coming back!

    (4)

  • Brooke M.

    Love it! Food, service, decor- all stellar! Can't wait to go back for more baba and to try the lentil soup.

    (5)

  • Megan M.

    Kan Zaman is a welcome addition to the island's dining options, which are severely limited in the Middle Eastern category. The baba ghanoush, followed by the lamb couscous were both memorable. Portions here are generous so splitting an entrée turned out to be a good idea. Service was attentive and having lunch in the courtyard in back was delightful. We parked in a municipal lot as we had shopping to do in Chinatown afterwards but it might be a challenge otherwise. The only thing that worries me though is the restaurant's name... It's not immediately obvious what cuisine it serves, at least to the uninitiated. Hope that doesn't keep people from trying this downtown oasis.

    (5)

  • Kearn O.

    Wow! This is Truly a Hidden Treasure in Honolulu! Looking in from the outside, seemed like a quaint little eatery. Upon entering, our waitress took us past the kitchen into the back area where we were seated in a covered porch area overlooking a hidden garden area. What real estate find in the middle of Downtown Honolulu! We started off with the Babaganoush and Mint Tea, then ordered the Chicken Tijane and Lamb Kabob. To finish it off with the Baklava and Cheesecake topped with an amazing date topping. Although I am not the greatest of writers, this place is worth the stop. Amazing customer Service! Attentive, but not bothersome. Being the IG/Twitter person that I am, I wish I knew they had accounts to check out some of the dishes ahead of time. Didn't really matter on the end. Every dish was to die for!

    (5)

  • Akiko K.

    I was happy to know that the small hidden counter/rest. shogunai tajine had transcended to this great downtown spot. Generous portions. The lamb dish was excellent. BYOB.

    (5)

  • Paul M.

    Awesome place! Great food. Do take advantage of the BYOB! The chicken taouk was delicious. Walk away from this place stuffed like a king. I would advise eating outside where they have a nice little environment set up in the back. Can't wait to go back.

    (5)

  • Helen Y.

    A charming neighborhood spot with really good food! My friend had the chicken tajine and I had the lamb kebab - both were so yummy! I would've like it even better if the pita had been grilled/hot. The service was good but could've been a bit better (didn't get water refilled and took a while to get our check). I would recommend it and go back :)

    (4)

  • Ben C.

    Really good food with great service. Enjoyed our visit and will be back. The baklava is awesome.

    (5)

  • Ryan V.

    My wife and I really enjoyed eating here. The mint tea was excellent. We had the baba ganoush for an appetizer. The pita bread was fresh in the dish was very tasty. My wife had chicken tajine and I had the lamb tajine. Both were served very timely, well prepared, and they were delicious. Service was excellent. The price was a little high but was normal for downtown. We also appreciated the decor.

    (5)

  • Sean O.

    My wife is Moroccan...legit...and her family came to town from Rabat. The food was weak compared to their cooking. Babaganoush was store bought overcooked and gross, Harira soup was not good or authentic, grape leaves had too much vinegar, sample mezze is WAY overpriced for what you get. If your on oahu and have a craving for Moroccan I highly recommend Casablanca in Kailua.

    (2)

  • Jillian P.

    My new favorite restaurant! ATMOSPHERE: Ughhhhhhh. This place is TOO cute for words! As soon as I walked in to this place, I was immediately impressed. The decor looks gorgeous! The setup makes for a nice, intimate feeling! The lights are a little dim, but not TOO bright, which I think adds/creates the PERFECT ambiance for dinner. :) I chose to sit our party outside and I'm glad we did! I THINK, if it weren't "fall" in Hawaii and we were still summer, outside would have been a BAD idea. But there was a nice breeze rolling through which made it just the perfect temperature. The outside patio area is adorable and makes me feel as if I'm sitting somewhere that's not in Hawaii. LOL. Loved every part of it. PS: A PERFECT place to bring a date. ;) SERVICE: Spot. On! We were immediately greeted by the entire working staff as we walked in. They were very friendly and seated us immediately. I was quite impressed. :) Our server was very fun and nice. He was helpful in helping us order our dishes and was constantly by to check up on us. It wasn't TOO much to the point we weren't able to enjoy our meal, but it was just enough for us to feel like we were being taken care of. Our waters were refilled as soon as they were getting low (we never had empty cups) and I definitely liked that! FOOD: AHHHHHH-MAZING! Instead of ordering our own, individual plates, we decided to go pupu style! So we ordered Hummus, Chicken Tajine, Lamb Tajine and the Shish Kebab! FRICKIN' PRIME! The hummus = best I've ever had. Their pita bread was also very soft and yummy :) So delicious! The chicken tajine came with fries that were already good on their own. :) The chicken was also very tender and juicy, yet super flavorful. The shish kebab came on a bed of rice with hummus and pita as well and GOOD GOD, it was so good. LOL. And then, I had to save the best for last.... LAMB TAJINE = officially my FAVORITE dish of all time. The lamb was sooo tender, it just melted in your mouth. It is served in this soupy bean thing (LOL, fail for not knowing what it was), but it was DELICIOUS. The beans reminded me of american baked beans. Mmmmm goodness. TO DIE FOR. My friend and I wanted to devour the lamb, but we couldn't really, since we were doing pupu style. LOL. Alls I know is, next time I go to Kan Zaman,lam is DEFINITELY on my plate. OVERALL: After the five star rating and all the rave in every other category, you know I'm most DEFINITELY going to be recommending this place. But, I have a GOOD, GOOD FEELING that I'm gonna be bringing people here VERSUS just recommending it! LOL :) LOVE KAN ZAMAN! Kudos to the person who created this lovely place!

    (5)

  • Dio P.

    I've come here 3 times already and have had a great experience every single time. If you're there for a meeting you should ask for the garden table since the inside is quite loud because all the surfaces are hard and no carpet or sound absorbing material to lower the volume. If I'm eating inside, I just pretend that that's the way it is in Morocco and just go with the flow. For appetizers we usually go with the sampler so we can taste all of the wonderful flavors. The dishes are really meant to shared family style, so I usually don't come alone. My favorite dish is the Chicken Taouk that's roasted on the skewers. I usually skip the dessert because when you've had baklava, you've pretty much tasted them all. Just my opinion, it seems it's all nuts, honey and filo dough. Oh well until I'm proven wrong... Actually after eating all the great food in this place, I usually don't have enough room for dessert. The meal usually end with the waiter giving us a rose scented oil to take all that food smell on our hands, a nice touch!

    (4)

  • Sarah P.

    A Feast for the Senses! I had a solo dinner at Kan Zaman on their opening night. What struck me first was the genuine friendliness of the staff. I was offered to sit in the outdoor patio, a cosy area decorated with simplicity and good taste, Moroccan style with great music playing. You suddenly feel like you have landed in an exotic place, without the 24 hour flight.. :-) I had the lentil soup (pureed) with fresh herbs and spices, tasty and healthy. Next, I tried babaganoush (eggplant puree) served with pita. Unlike lentil soup that I could eat every day, charcoal grilled eggplant is not my favorite thing so I was curious to taste it. I really liked it ; the olive oil, lemon juice and tahini were perfectly blended. I then ate a Taktouka (cooked salad made of tomatoes, bell peppers, olive oil, spices and herbs). It was recommended by one of the server for its freshness, he was right. The food is made to order, so everything is fresh. As for drinks, I had the iced Moroccan mint tea (I love mint), slightly sweeten (my server offered to remake it to my liking if needed). I also had a (directly shipped from Morocco by Chef Kamal's mother and beautifully carved) pot of hot mint tea ... heavenly. At this point I was really full so I decided to have baklavas to go. I am usually hesitant because they are always too sweet. However, since everything so far had been perfect I gave it a try. They were simply exquisite. Almost too good actually, I ended up craving for more. Both Chef Youssef and Chef Kamal made their customers feel valued by acknowledging them as soon as possible. They also came back and check on every dish making sure everybody was happy. The servers were amazing too, not only attending to their assigned tables but to every guest. They were eager to help, cheerful and courteous. I had a wonderful experience at Kan Zaman (which by the way means "Once upon a time"). Located on Nu'uanu street next to HPU where I work, I'll be able to go there on my lunch break and unwind in their mini oasis backyard. One more thing that was such a sweet touch, Chef Kamal bid his customers farewell by sprinkling orange blossom water into their hands. Amazing fragrance and perfect hand freshener. I will definitely come back soon with friends to try the couscous and tajines.

    (5)

  • Shelby B.

    Four stars because I have only been there once. I had the Chicken Taouk (grilled chicken brochette, w/ rice, tabouleh, hummus, & pita) with the mint tea. That was delicious. I've never had this kind of food before but I've had greek food and the concept of screwed meat and humus with pita bread. We sat outside and we got there around 12:30, 1pm and it was empty. I enjoyed it. But the space is pretty small if it gets crowded. Overall will go again.

    (4)

  • Frank H.

    Kan Zaman has just opened in Honolulu with an inventive Lebanese/Moroccan menu that brings Middle Eastern specialties to the islands. I had the Moroccan lamb shank Tajine ... very subtly spiced with the meat from the lamb shank falling off the bone. Others with me had the shish kebab and another lamb dish (I forget the name) all of which were thoroughly enjoyed. I had no room for dessert, but one of the guests had a flaky baklava - thankfully just sweet enough and not dripping with honey. The restaurant is small/intimate and very nicely decorated. The service staff was prompt and friendly (despite the challenge of a newly opened restaurant). There's beautiful outdoor seating in the back of the restaurant.

    (5)

  • Chuck M.

    Delicious falafel! Great salad that came with it and the service was served with a perfect smile! :))

    (5)

  • Gary G.

    What a wonderful experience! The food was delicious and the owner and staff were so warm and hospitable. A fantastic addition to the Chinatown restaurant scene! I tried almost everything on the menu because we had a large group. The Moroccan Tea was a beautiful touch at the end of the meal, as was the sprinkling of orange blossom water to refresh our hands after dinner. It wasn't just a meal, it was an experience!

    (5)

  • Wendy A.

    An experience you won't get anywhere else in Hawaii...

    (5)

  • Janet M.

    Amazing fresh food! Went there a few weeks ago and ordered six different dishes. They were all very good but the favorite was the chicken tagine. We are going back tomorrow. Kan Zaman is a must try. Don't forget to bring your own wine. It is BYOB!

    (5)

  • Pamela S.

    I came here for lunch and was very impressed. The food was awesome. Everyone's meat at the table was tender and yummy and I will be sure to come back again! We also liked the ambiance with the orange blossom water at the end of the meal and the Moroccan music playing over the speakers.

    (5)

  • Justin W.

    Despite being only 10 days old, Kan Zaman feels like an old friend. Servers were extremely attentive. Hard to choose between dining indoors or on the patio because ambiance of both are exceptional. Byob from store around corner (15% off if you mention the restaurants name). Good for a date night or dinner with friends & family!

    (5)

  • Suzanne A.

    With the lack of Moroccan & Lebanese cuisine in Hawaii, Kan Zaman was a must try! We first ordered the iced mint tea and hot mint tea to start off our dinner. Our server was friendly and very attentive, as she was constantly refilling the iced mint teas (free refills!). The tea had a good level of sweetness and was refreshing. Between my boyfriend and two friends, we shared family style and ordered the lamb couscous, chicken tajine, and the chicken taouk. The chicken tajine comes with two chicken thighs that are braised in a yummy saffron and spice concoction, and topped of with fries. I'm not a big fan of lamb so I can't tell you how the lamb tajine was, but my friends seemed to enjoy it. My boyfriend said it was a bit gamey, so I probably wouldn't like it. I went ahead and tried the couscous, though. It was delicious, seasoned well, and had a hint of lamb which I didn't mind. The chicken taouk came with two skewers of grilled chicken, over a rice pilaf, salad, and baba ganoush. The chicken was not dry, as I usually fear grilled meats turn out to be, and the rice pilaf was flavorful. Our meal also came with a basket of pita that we could dip in the baba ganoush. Having a big sweet tooth, my favorite part of the meal was the katayef, an arabic pancake topped with bananas, honey, puddling, and chopped almonds. You can also taste strong hints of orange blossom. Light and sweet! Only downside is that portion was small so this couldn't really be shared evenly. Our dinner came out to a total of $75 for four. At the end of the meal, our sever gave us a few drops of orange blossom water to pat onto our hands and feel all clean. Smelled refreshing! I'd like to come back for lunch~

    (4)

  • Sherry K.

    We saw this new restaurant on a walk through Chinatown and decided to stop back for dinner. The atmosphere is great. The outside patio has a nice feel with authentic music to set the mood. We started with babaganoush which was awesome. Lots of pita for dipping. A perfect balance of flavors. Loved it. We had a chicken and a lamb tajine. I usually don't eat lamb because of that gamey taste but this was amazing. I ordered the chicken and found myself picking off my hubby's plate. I will order the lamb next time for sure. The chicken came with a saffron sauce and fries which went well with the sauce. The lamb had a tomato white bean sauce which was killer. The owner came to our table to check on us and introduce himself. He explained the marinating process on the lamb that made it taste so great. This is a man who really cares about food and culture. The restaurant is BYOB and will provide glasses and an opener, but try the mint tea. We had it hot and it was beautiful in flavor and aroma. We finished with the baklava and the pancake. Yummm. When our check arrived, the waiter offered us a splash of warm orange scented water to freshen our hands. It was a nice touch. The menu is short and sweet. I hope to see some seafood choices in the near future. We will definitely be back.

    (5)

  • Kimberly D.

    I wanted to love this place. We walked by at Christmas and were unable to get in, but later got reservations without a problem. The veggies are delicious and fresh. The wait staff is excellent. If there food have more flavor, all would be good. The vegetarian couscous was without flavor. My husband had a dish with beans that were undercooked and poorly seasoned. Mezza platter was just okay, though I did like the smokey babaganoush. Would have a hard time going back with so many better places to eat in Honolulu.

    (3)

  • Paula G.

    This was the most incredible food I've ever tasted . . and as one person describes it as a party in your mouth. Everything is absolutely fantastic and seasoned to perfection. I can't wait to go back and take all of my friends with me. The Lamb Couscous is out of this world. Please when in China Town give this a shot. You will be delighted with the food and great service. P Gail

    (5)

  • Gluten L.

    The first time we tried it, neither of us liked it very much. It was mediocre and not very flavorful. We were disappointed that they did not serve any alcohol (it was BYOB). If it were $10-$20 cheaper, maybe we would try it again, but eating out is too expensive here to bother, especially when there are so many great restaurants in Honolulu. The service was great, and they were very nice. I have to eat gluten free and they were quite accommodating in that regard. The second time, I had the Merguez sandwich and it was DELICIOUS! I've had it again many times.

    (3)

  • Esther S.

    I love Morrocan food and was looking forward to eating here but was disappointed. The best part about Morrocan is the great bread that comes with all the delicious appetizers but at this restaurant, you get the same pita bread that you would find at Safeway. The Babaganoush was good and also the mint tea. I had better lamb kebabs at a Gyro take out place and the baklava wasn't home made.

    (1)

  • Crystal J.

    I had my birthday dinner at Kan Zaman last weekend. It was my first time there and I was so thoroughly impressed!! They accommodated myself and 20 of my friends. Then when some extras showed up, they accommodated them as well. The staff was incredibly helpful, personable, and friendly The chefs even came out and talked to us for a bit. Then on top of all that, the food was innnnncredible! Next day leftovers were pretty great too. Just make sure you call ahead on a weekend night to make sure you have a table The only reason I didn't give them a 5 was 1 or 2 appetizers didn't come out but when you have such a huge party, things like that can happen. I will certainly be including this restaurant in my dining rotation!

    (4)

  • Clover Dan ..

    cute patio seating, enjoyable vegetarian menu, solid service. no complaints, going back again!

    (4)

  • beth m.

    Have to agree with the Star Advertiser's recent review. We had the tabouleh, grape leaves, lamb couscous and chicken tajine, with mint tea. The tea had real vibrancy, and the tabouleh was zesty with plenty of lemon and not too much bulgur, but everything else was rather bland. I adore middle eastern food for the rich flavors, luscious spices, fruits, etc but found that each of the dishes we ordered lacked any real oomph. Are the chefs here afraid to give islanders the real thing? Where was the cinnamon, saffron, cumin, dates, etc. I will come back and try a few other dishes to see if there was something I missed. But on first pass, was not impressed. And I so wanted this place to be a winner.

    (2)

  • Melissa H.

    I love this place! It is a very relaxed atmosphere in the middle of China town. You must sit out on the outdoor patio area. The food is excellent, best lentil soup I've had and the lamb sausage sandwich is so unique and flavorful. The orange blossom cheesecake is so light and delicate and melts in your mouth. Of course at the end of your meal your hands are doused lightly in orange blossom water... Could it get any better?? Service is good however, the servers should check up on your iced tea refills a little more often ;)

    (4)

  • Jadot S.

    The first time I considered dining here with a friend, I peered into the window and saw every seat in the tiny establishment was full. It took looking the place up on Yelp to realize that they have more seating in an outdoor area in the back. Maybe they could find a way to make this more apparent? When I finally did try this place, it was great! The waitstaff were pleasant, attentive, and patient. The food was exactly what I had hoped: a nice escape from generic island fare. As someone who is "Hawaii born and raised," yet ever repulsed by the ubiquitous and unhealthy plate lunch, it has always been difficult to find food that is actually engaging without going to a high end gourmet restaurant and paying top dollar. Add that to a recent foray into vegetarian life and the options become even more limited. I'd call Kan Zaman a hidden gem, not only because of the rarity of Moroccan food on the island, but also because they had vegetarian options that were flavorful and filling. Usually, unless the restaurant is advertised as a "farmer's market" or "organic health food" type joint, I am likely to be relegated to a sad and boring Caesar salad or cheese flatbread. While Kan Zaman had a variety of dishes featuring meat, more than half the appetizers were vegetarian friendly and every other section of the menu had at least one option I could try. And by option I mean a large plate of fluffy, perfectly seasoned couscous topped with a variety of perfectly cooked vegetables. If you're a vegetarian foodie and want to dine out with non-vegetarians at a restaurant with worthwhile options, try Kan Zaman. Because it's tasty and easier than trying to get your friends interested in dining someplace where half the menu is different combinations of quinoa, kale, and portobello.

    (4)

  • M H.

    Love the outside garden area. The lamb dishes are very yummy. We have been for lunch and dinner - both were great - though I might prefer lunch because it is such a nice break from the office. Mint tea was very good.

    (5)

  • Melinda D.

    I would like to preface that I am by no means an expert on Moroccan food, and I do not eat it very often. A friend and I came to Kan Zaman and ordered the Moroccan salad and the Vegetarian couscous. I didn't feel that the salad was as flavorful as I would have liked it to have been. Without the oranges, I think it would have just tasted like wet leaves... The couscous was much more flavorful, but a little salty for me (I don't really eat salty foods, though). Still, I enjoyed the different vegetables atop the couscous itself (tomatoes, pumpkin, zucchini...). We ordered the baklava for dessert, and it was yummy! We both would have liked it a little flakier, but it was soaked in honey and there were tons of almonds and pistachios. Besides the food, the service was great, granted there was only one other table in the indoor dining area (apparently, there's an outside patio in the back!). The bathrooms are clean, and the place is well-decorated overall. I would like to go back and try the other dishes and perhaps eat in the outdoor seating area. I recommend this place to others, and it's a great find in Chinatown!

    (3)

  • Teresa C.

    Fabulous food, friendly service, lovely atmosphere. Chicken taouk was delicious-would be perfect with rice vs fries. Delicious Moroccan salad-love the dressing. Orange blossom for your hands post-meal smells wonderful. Oh- and really great mint orange blossom tea! Definitely returning!

    (5)

  • Lillian A.

    First time lunch today. First impression was ambience nice; good job cleaning up this space and making it look "Moroccan." Didn't look at the outdoor space since time ran out, but heard its great. Lots of people kept coming through the restaurant, so I know its probably same size as inside. At 12:30, the restaurant was full with folks waiting outside. Enjoyed iced Moroccan mint tea - wonderful, refreshing, best; hummus and pita bread - the best; we had Merguez sandwich (panini-style) that comes with fries and this ono sauce looks like mayo and something; lamb kebab with green salad - fantastic. I like my servers a little more talkative, but they had a full house to worry about. Will definitely recommend this place and go there often. Wanna try more of their menu.

    (4)

  • Rachel O.

    Ate here for the first time this past weekend, staff is friendly. Busy restaurant decent priced food and interesting music! I had the French bread dish (name I can't recall) and enjoyed it, what was leftover still tasted great the next day.

    (4)

  • S Q.

    Amazing!!! I have been waiting along time for this type of restaurant to open!!! So delicious...A must!!!

    (5)

  • Ariana M.

    This was the first time I ever got to check this place out and I am so happy I did. The service and food was great! The dining area in the front was a bit small but they do have beautiful outside seating. Another thing that makes this place so great is on Wednesdays they have a belly dancer that performs at 7:30pm. It was a happy little surprise for us ;D Belly Dancer: yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… I also learned that this place is BYOB (wish I knew that before I got there!) However they do have red and white wine for sale, bottle only for $20. Pretty good deal to me! The Grub. [[ FALAFEL $6.50 ]] yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… These falafels are in a small patty shape. The ones I have tried in the past were always more rounder. They were a little more dry too, but they come with yummy tahini dipping sauce. [[ LAMB TAJINE $18.95 ]] yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… This dish comes with a HUGE piece of tanjia style braised lamb shank. Super delish and also served with beans! [[ CHICKEN TAOUK $16.95 ]] yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… The grilled chicken was served kebab style with rice, tabouleh, hummus and pita. Nom Nom Nom. [[ LAMB COUSCOUS $22.95 ]] yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… This dish was my favorite! Wish I was the one who actually ordered it! This is served with steamed couscous with carrots, pumpkin, potatoes, zucchini, tomatoes and chickpeas topped with a HUGE braised lamb shank [[ ORANGE BLOSSOM CHEESECAKE $8.00 ]] yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… This cheesecake was amazing and a great way to end out meal. Not super heavy and very flavorful. I highly recommend saving room for this after dinner! Overall: The food and service was great. I definitely would love to come back and try the outdoor seating!

    (5)

  • Abby F.

    First time trying Moroccan food and it was so delicious. I went here for my friends birthday. This place is a hole in the wall. You'll have to find street parking and walk your way there. But anyways lets get to it. The server was so nice, helpful and always checked in on us. They brought our food out pretty quick and it was so delicious. I got the chicken tajine it's basically two pieces of chicken in this type of curry sauce ( I think it was curry it tasted like it lol) then fries on top. Let me say it was so delicious, the fries were crispy, the chicken was soft. But let me say it comes in a very big portion so I would advise you to save your appetite if you plan on coming here. But overall it was a good experience, great service and very delicious food! Highly highly recommend coming here if you haven't yet :)

    (5)

  • Jamila J.

    I've got a few times under my belt. I have yet to be disappointed with the food. It's got much more seating than it looks like from the outside, a nice great courtyard in the back. I haven't been for dinner, but lunch is priced right, quick service, and great servers. If you haven't had Moroccan, its full of flavor, but not overpowering. The lamb kebab is amazing. I really love the tea and orange slices dessert. This place is completely worth it and you will not be disappointed. You even get to end with a nice orange bloosom hand wash that makes you alert and avoid the inevitable kanack attack.

    (4)

  • Dee S.

    We ordered khus khus with roasted vegetables and falafel sandwich. Taste - khus khus dish was terrible, it just had khus khus with huge amount of grape seed oil and some raw veggis and not roasted as described. Nothing great about falafel sandwich, it tasted just like heated frozen food. Cost- Super high. We paid ~$40. Service - was decent.

    (1)

  • Michael W.

    Great food with much flavor and taste... it was awesome... The different sauces make the Pita breads flavor come out greatly. Beef was seasoned well and rice was cooked perfectly with butter I assume.

    (4)

  • Tze M.

    A cute little place tucked away on the outside of Chinatown. I would have never discovered this place if I didn't walk past it admiring their decor. Their walls are painted with a Moroccan pattern and the walls are accented with antique Moroccan wooden windows. The tables were adorned with Moroccan lanterns. Dimmed for a more intimate ambiance. I asked my friend, Laurie P. to come with me to check it out. Little did I know, this Yelp Elite has been here before. She already knew what she wanted. This is why I shouldn't have waited so long to write reviews, because I honestly don't remember details of what we had. What I really walked away with is how I enjoyed the ambiance. Indoor and outdoor seating is available. We went for lunch and got to sit outside in the garden. It's a cute covered area, simple. We started with the fries with garlic & sumac aioli $6.50, and the babaganoush $7.95. For my meal, I ordered the lamb kebab $9.95. I really enjoyed the iced mint tea, it was really refreshing. I recall the food was good, but I wasn't wow'd by it. The prices are reasonable, something along an average of $20 per person. The staff was friendly, and service was good. I don't see why not to try this place out.

    (4)

  • David D.

    Never had moroccan food before. Went with family to celebrate a birthday. Lamb couscous was awesome. Lamb was moist and tasty. I thought the chicken taouk was a little dry. Portions were good-sized. The desserts sounded good, but we were too full.

    (4)

  • Chris V.

    Overall good Lebanese food for Oahu. Had chicken tajik, beef swarma and mint tea. The flavor was pretty good, but honestly I've had much better at a street side stand at 2AM in many a city. Hard to reconcile the $50 tab for what should be cheap street food. The place is cozy though, nice back patriot, but plan on making a reservation cause it seems to fill up quick. Be sure to save room for the Turkish Coffee chocolate cheese cake, that was the possibly the best cheesecake I've ever had.

    (3)

  • Jerrene T.

    My husband was planning to surprise me with an awesome lunch on Valentine's Day because who honestly wants to fight crowds, take three hours to eat dinner, and most of all hang out with people that just make out the whole time. Not me. He was planning on taking me to MW but since we didn't know how long that would take, we played the safer option and I told him no surprise, let's just try out Kan Zaman. I made the reservation this morning on Open Table but turns out, it wasn't necessary. We got here around 11:30 and we were one of the few couples that were there. I heard about their open area seating on the back but it was taken and also a bit drizzly. I was more than happy to sit at a table inside in the cool AC. Once we were seated, the waitress asked us if we wanted to try the Moroccan iced tea. In fact she asked EVERY SINGLE TABLE if they wanted to try it. I'm not sure if she makes $2 of the $4 (cost of the iced tea) every time she sells, but she is definitely all about it. Since I'm curious, I tried it. It's okay... mildly sweet with a minty after taste. Not something I would get again but it was definitely worth trying once. However, it does taste like tea so my husband did not enjoy it. We ended up ordering the chicken tarjine (husband), falafel appetizer, and the lamb kabab sandwich (lunch only 11am-5pm). I have tried a few falafels in my life and the best ones have been in Europe although one in California was pretty delicious. My husband liked their fried falafel but I found it to be too hard and not too much taste. I did however enjoy my HUGE lamb kabab sandwich. It was very delicious and the side salad was also HUGE. The bread was so soft and delicious. You can ask to substitute the salad for fries but the waitress said she wouldn't recommend it because salads are healthy for you! She cares about your health! My husand did enjoy his chicken tarjine and he loved the sauce that accompanied it. I liked it okay but I was thinking like it was going to be like the chicken tarna from the formerly awesome Good and Healthy but alas, it wasn't. It definitely was a good experience and the food came out quickly. It was nice because sometimes I don't have a whole lot of time on my hands for lunch so we were able to get done eating and out the door in less than an hour. For you less than savvy downtown people (this is me even though I work downtown), this place is right by Hanks and they seem to share a restroom with Tea at 1024. I would come back when I'm working since parking seems to be an issue. The service is prompt and friendly so I'll definitely come back :).

    (4)

  • Z Z.

    On my second visit here, I decided to lower my review rating. I tried the beef shwarma and shish kebab. Both dishes were disappointing. The main problem was the beef. The kebab consisted of fatty cheap cuts of meat (probably chuck steak) and the shwarma tasted like dry slivers of overly spiced beef jerky. I was so disappointed that I don't think I will be returning, especially for the price we paid for each dish,

    (2)

  • Crystal B.

    Kan Zaman offers really delicious food that is a feast for the senses as well as the taste buds. We went on a Wednesday around 7pm to enjoy the Wednesday night Bellydance performance by the fabulous Malia Delapenia (her performance starts at 730pm). Make sure to make reservations because it was packed and the restaurant is pretty small so they had to turn a few people away. We started with the Mezza Sampler & a small pot of hot mint tea. I had the vegetable couscous and my sister had the beef kabob with tabbouleh salad. We finished with the orange blossom cheesecake & orange slices. All the dishes were well prepared, flavorful and filling. The food came out fast but this is a meal you will want to savor...enjoy good conversation and enjoy interacting with Malia as she dances around the room. Make sure to bring cash and tip this lovely local artist. She is happy to take photos or give a mini shimmy lesson and let you dance with her. So fun! She & the restaurant also do private events like birthdays & anniversaries. The staff was also delightful. We got hugs when we left. Such a warm atmosphere. Highly recommend!!

    (5)

  • Christa B.

    I had a very lovely dinner here celebrating my young daughters birthday. The atmosphere is intimate yet casual and the outside dining is quiet and quaint. It was an early evening dinner so it was not hot at all sitting outside. The outdoor tables are a bit close to each other so it might be a little cumbersome maneuvering through the tables if you have to get up to excuse yourself. The decor on the inside is simple yet elegant. As you walk through the door, you immediately encounter fragrant aromas coming from the kitchen. My daughter is somewhat of a picky eater when it comes to flavors from ethnicities she's not used to, but she loved the food so that says a lot about the taste of a meal when an eight year old raves about the meal! We started with the fresh home made (did I say homemade? Yes!) mozzarella and the babaganoush. It's so nice to have fresh mozzarella that's not stringy and chewy. You can't find that in too many places. The babaganoush was creamy and smooth. For our main entree we had the lamb kebabs that were full of flavor and so tender. The yogurt dipping sauce had a small hint of peanut which heightened the flavor of the succulent lamb. I would have eaten it all, but I wanted to bring some home for my husband to sample so he would have to come back with me on a date night! The employees are wonderful and were very good about explaining the various flavors and ingredients. They periodically checked on me and my girls. The server came out after we finished and poured some "orange blossom" water to clean our hands with. The owner was also very hospitable and truly concerned with how our dining experience was. They apparently have a belly dancer there on Wednesday nights. This is now on my top five restaurants on Oahu. As far as parking goes, if you go early enough, you might just snag a spot on the street and if you go after 3pm on the weekdays, it's metered. On weekends, it's metered until 6pm.

    (5)

  • Trish N.

    So far, I've been here twice for lunch and once for dinner; all were excellent. For dinner, the lamb kebab & vegetable couscous were delicious, totally reminded me of the dishes we'd had on our trip to Morocco, just a few weeks prior! The only question-mark for me was the lamb tagine, which--though tasty--was more like regular leg of lamb over beans, & not reminiscent of any of the lamb tagines we'd enjoyed abroad. Perhaps this dish was prepared more Lebanese-style than Moroccan? Either way, it would've been much more exciting if it had actually been prepared/served in a real tagine (round clay platter with an upside-down cone-shaped cover) ... I totally believe that that adds something to the quality of the dish! It also would've been nice if they offered bread rounds, like the kind served with all meals in Morocco...but again, maybe the pita (which is served here) is more of a Lebanese influence. Overall, the staff here was very nice, service was prompt & professional, and no doubt I'll be back again in the future! NOTE: if you make a reservation for the outdoor patio, be sure they get your reservation right, because they mistakenly put my reservation down for 2 people instead of 3...so when 3 of us showed up, they weren't able to seat us back there (because everything else was booked). During our dinner visit, my friends & I had a chance to meet one of the owners, who was so sweet & welcoming, checking on each of his guests, and this definitely added to the cozy atmosphere in the restaurant. Another NOTE: if you want an "authentic" Moroccan mint tea experience, be sure to ask for double the sugar, because the tea was not nearly as sweet as we'd expected ... & the owner even explained that their mint tea now has only half the sugar of their original recipe ... because customers early-on had complained! 0=) Hehe, yes it does take some getting used to--kinda like sweet tea from the South--but if you're gonna try it, you might as well try the real thing! And I totally loved that our waitress served the tea from way up high, Moroccan-style!!

    (4)

  • Bella S.

    Delicious! Totally worth a trip to downtown. We came here for lunch and Everything on their lunch menu was A+++. I understand about Mediterranean food and this is really really good. Highly recommend.

    (5)

  • Stephanie T.

    The atmosphere here is so homey and cute. It's a great place to come for a tasty bite to eat. When it's busy, you may have trouble finding a seat, but there is also a patio out back that has some seating as well. The Tabouleh and Hummus is soooooooo good, you will want to eat both of them up by the spoonful. I suggest ordering extra pita, because theres never enough for the amount of humus that you get. This trip I had the Kofta and it was pretty good, but I wish the beef was cooked just a tad bit more, it was a little to squishy for me. I tried falafel as well which was superb. If I wasnt coming here during work hours I would have brought my own beverage.

    (4)

  • Lynvi S.

    So I'm told that Kan Zaman is a place for Moroccan and Lebanese cuisine. I'm not familiar with both cuisines and I'm not sure how they work together because these countries are on opposite sides of the Mediterranean from one another, but I guess it all works out because the food is decently tasty. Iced Mint Tea - Yum! It's just at the cusp of my sweetness tolerance, but it's delightfully refreshing and comes with free refills. Kofta - This lunch sandwich is the best thing I've had at Kan Zaman so far. It's juicy, well-seasoned, and exploding with bold flavors, and I love that it is served with salad. Falafel (Lunch) - It's okay...the falafel is on the soft side, so I wouldn't recommend this if you prefer crispy falafel. Lentil Soup - Straightforward yet nice. It's smooth, creamy, and enjoyable overall, yet it's not something I would order on a regular basis. Lamb Tajine - I wouldn't say the flavors are subtle, but everything tastes homey and seasoned in a way where I can appreciate the lamb without excessive spices. The meat is tender and scrapes off the bone easily, and it goes well with the white bean gravy, but it's not something that I would order again. Chicken Taouk - Not as juicy as I would have hoped, but it's not bad with all of the other components in the dish. Pass. Service is excellent. The servers are friendly and during lunch the food arrives quickly. During one visit I mentioned that we would be sharing the soup so we just needed an extra spoon, but they were cool enough to split the portion into two separate bowls. Sweet. I'd suggest sticking with the reasonably priced lunch menu, since the regular entrees are a little spendy.

    (4)

  • Doris D.

    Very good place for Moroccan fare. The atmosphere is lovely - we sat in the garden area which was very nice. We had the Babaganoush ($8, good), Tatouka ($7, good), lamb tajine ($19, excellent! - meat was super moist, tender, flavorful, loved the sauce), chicken taouk ($16, rice was terrific, chicken kebob had great flavor but a little on the dry side for me), and baklava ($3.50, very good). I'd come back to try the other dishes, for the atmosphere, and lamb tajine.

    (4)

  • Ellen K.

    The outdoor area in the back, byob, great service most of the time, and superb food all makes for a great dining experience.

    (4)

  • Janet K.

    Chicken Taouk FTW. Everything on the plate was so perfectly seasoned and mind blowing that had I not been dining with my colleagues, I would have licked my plate... Twice. Just in case I missed a spot because it was that good! I'll have no problems visiting this place again and eating the same dish again over and over. In fact, I wanted to eat there the very next day but I wasn't in Downtown so I didn't. Yes, that good!

    (5)

  • Jordana F.

    ORDER THE KOFTA SANDWICH!!! Oh my goodness that was hands down the best sandwich I've ever had in my entire life! And the salad it came with--the dressing!!! I asked the waiter if he could ask the chef how they make their dressing because it was pure heaven in my mouth. Mint tea is still as good as ever but if you've never had the kofta sandwich, you haven't lived yet. It's seriously THAT good!

    (5)

  • Jurija M.

    Yet another location in downtown with a beautiful outdoor setting. Kan Zaman was referred to me by a new friend. He raved about the location and how he eats at Kan Zaman at least once a week. I decided to try it out the day after he recommended it for my lunch break. The interior decor upon walking in is eye-catching. I didn't realize there was an outdoor area until the waitress told me to continue walking. I figured there would be more indoor seating but to my pleasant surprise it was outdoor seating with beautiful background music playing and a light "winter" Hawaiian breeze. Kan Zaman offered up great lunch specials and pricing. They also offer the most refreshing mint iced tea I've ever tasted. The food isn't perfect nor is it the best I have had in my life so far. However, it is satisfying and very filling. The service was also great.

    (4)

  • Stephanie C.

    Absolutely great service, and you really must get the babaganoush and the Moroccan mint tea :) I came here with a friend I hadn't seen in a while over the holidays (yes, this is a bit overdue), and she hadn't had Moroccan food before. I like Moroccan food, and now she does, too :D I'd made a reservation, and they seated us in one of the little window corners at the front of the restaurant, which was absolutely perfect and cozy--best spot in my opinion! We got the Mezza Sampler, and everything was good, but the babaganoush was just stellar. I will probably come back again next time I'm in the islands, and I will be getting the straight up babaganoush appetizer, it's fantastic! I got the vegetarian couscous with a glass of the iced Moroccan mint tea and my friend got the lamb tagine (I suggested she get a tagine, because they're always amazing when I can find vegetarian ones that I can eat), and I really liked my dish as well :) We also later split a baklava, which was tasty. As the two of us yammered on into the night, catching up and reminiscing, I was worried that the waitstaff would get annoyed with us for taking up such a great spot for so long. On the contrary, they brought us a complimentary pot of the Moroccan mint tea, and let me tell you, that is a fabulous drink, hot or cold :D They also graciously told us we could stay as long as we liked and were really great about not pestering us much at all, except to top off our water etc. I don't know if they realized we would totally take them up on that, as we were there until closing (and even then they were very gracious about not making us feel rushed at all). I was really impressed by how great the whole staff here was, and combined with the delicious food, I have to say, this place is a real gem :) I will definitely come again sometime! :D

    (5)

  • Jo Z.

    Got to check this place out during lunch...enjoyed the chicken kebab sandwich, the hummus spread had a nice garlicky kick to it. It came with a mixed green salad topped with orange blossom vinaigrette which made it seem like I was eating healthy...Washed it all down with the refreshing mint tea...overall the food was tasty and if sit al fresco in the back, it doesn't even seem you're in town...

    (4)

  • Bethani E.

    Had a Groupon deal a few months ago to try Kan Zaman, and was glad it was for takeout since my office building is downtown. After perusing through pictures and Yelp reviews, I decided to try the Merguez sandwich with fries. Restaurant was easy to find, food was ready upon arrival and staff was friendly. First initial bite was a bit spicier than I was expecting. Once I started dipping the sandwich into the sauce and got a cold beverage, I was able to enjoy the flavors exploding in my mouth. This lunch was definitely a treat, and I can't wait to try the other dishes.

    (4)

  • Kyle H.

    I couldn't wait to try this place out. I absolutely love Middle Eastern cuisine and was happy to walk by on our way for a drink and spot the location. We had a few drinks and made our way back for a late dinner. I was pleasantly surprised when seated on the back patio - it was a little surreal, I didn't expect such a nice al fresco dining area from the look of the front entrance. Unfortunately we didn't realize it was BYOB until we had already made our way to downtown but this is definitely a big plus. The service was swift and so was the food. Unfortunately the food was extremely underwhelming. At upwards of $15-$20+ a plate for dinner, I'd expect more flavor and a wow factor... otherwise I'd eat casual-style at Shaloha for an extremely better price. Perhaps it was our choices: We shared the falafel for our appetizer - this was decent, I don't know what to make of the thin, tangy sauce that came with them. It didn't do much to add flavor, rather, I used it to add some moisture. The pita bread served with the dish was thin and kind of rubbery. We also shared the chicken tajine and vegetable cous cous. Don't get me wrong, the food wasn't bad per se, it just wasn't that great. There weren't any pronounced flavors or strong spices, which made me think I could create the same meal at home (I'm no betty crocker if you haven't guessed). I would be willing to come back and try other dishes - perhaps at lunch, as I'm not willing to waste such a nice chunk of change (or the bf's wallet rather) again on disappointing food.

    (2)

  • Sean C.

    Parking: street parking or garage parking The cost: $25/person The food: chicken tauok, lamb tajine, orange blossom cheesecake, lentil soup, lamb kebob, mezze sampler Restrooms: yes in the back Reservations: yes on the weekend Located in downtown this place serves up authentic Lebanese and Moroccan cuisine in a place with the ambiance to match. The entrance is pretty unassuming and the owners of the joint are usually standing outside the door. You enter to a dimly lit place and feel instantly transported to some place that reminds you of the middle east. There's a couple of tables in the front of the restaurant in front of the bar but much more seating in the back in the garden. I definitely did not know that there was a garden in the middle of downtown! But the outside area is quite nice with a patio area and plants and vines on trellises. The mezze sampler is a nice thing to share although I thought that most of the stuff on it tasted the same. The chicken tauok was quite dry. The lentil soup is a winner. The lamb kebob tasted great and well seasoned. The lamb tajine is essentially a lamb shank served up straight, and I thought the meat was tender and moist. The orange cheesecake was an interesting dessert and a nice way to end the meal. Overall, a nice place with good food and nice ambiance. Good for groups and serving up authentic lebanese and moroccan food.

    (4)

  • Tongu K.

    Amazing mediteranian food in a nice atmosphere and wonderful friendly staff. I had the special of the day ox tail and it was delightful, im told filled with some 29 spices. Also had a mix of chicken and beef shawarma with some super garlicky tziziki. The babaganoush was a bit too smokey for me, but i wont dock them for being authentic!

    (5)

  • Tatiana W.

    I've been here 3 times now and LOVE IT! I always opt for the outdoor seating, even when it's hot out. The fans they have hanging from the ceiling really maintain the temperature, and I've never been bothered; however, it's nice to know they have an air conditioned option as well. I've now tried their Mezza Sampler, which includes their hummus, babaganoush, taktouka, warak inab, and pita. If you don't know what half of those are, their menu includes some good descriptions, and the servers are always extremely kind and ready to answer questions. I loved the taktouka and warak inab! I've also tried the Kofta Sandwich served with sald, and the Lamb Kebab Sandwich, also with salad. The salad is as big as your face with plenty of delicious dressing and fresh ingredients. The Kofta Sandwich is hearty, thick, and juicy, and the Lamb Kebab is just a little lighter, but with more flavor I think. Both are absolutely delicious, filling, and plated well. The decor of this place is always a plus. It can be very romantic, or a nice getaway with friends. And the service is amazing, with great lunch prices. Oh, and I DIE for the Iced Moroccan mint tea. I can't go and not have that! Love it!

    (5)

  • Alexandria P.

    This place is my new favorite. I can't even give the food enough credit. I had the beef shawarma sandwich and my husband had a lamb kabob sandwich. We tried each others and srsly they were bombing. We also got the mezza appetizer sampler. I've never had baba ganoush but that was my favorite of the sampler. Really try this place, you won't regret it. Also nice atmosphere, cute decor, delish mint tea. Just go already.

    (5)

  • Jo Y.

    Moroccan & Lebanese cuisine? Yes, yes, yes! I didn't realize how much I liked it until I ate at Kan Zaman! This new restaurant had an interesting start. Its owners are Kamal Jemmari, from Morocco & previous owner of Shogunai Tacos (also helped to open Sould deCuba); &Youssef Daroub, from Lebanon & previous owner of Extreme Tacos. These 2 taco food truck competitors would be at the many food truck gatherings, until one day they philosophically asked themselves why they were cooking tacos instead of the foods that they grew up in Morocco & Lebanon. Despite that Morocco is in Africa & Lebanon in Asia, are on opposite sides of the Mediterranean Sea, & almost 2,500 miles apart in distance, these 2 guys decided to open a restaurant & have come up w/ a winning formula of the cuisine that are familiar w/. As such, the name "Kan Zaman" means "once upon a time" or "like the old days." yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… Moroccan cuisine uses a lot of mint, parsley, & bold spices (cinnamon, cumin, turmeric, ginger, pepper, paprika, anise, sesame seeds, coriander, saffron). In fact, many of the spice blends used by Kan Zaman are made by Kamal's mother in Morocco. Whereas, Lebanese cooking uses a lot of starches, whole grains, fruits, veggies, seafood; animal fats are used sparingly, w/ chicken eaten more than red meat (lamb preferred). Its menu includes soups, salads, appetizers, main entrees, sides, desserts, drinks, & a limited lunch menu. These food items are either Lebanese or Moroccan. Hubby and I recently had dinner there & absolutely loved what we had: - Lentil Soup (Lebanese). Slow cooked pureed lentils w/ fresh herbs/spices & garnished w/ lemon. So tasty and so creamy! yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… - Chicken Tajine (Moroccan). Two braised moist chicken thighs in a broth of flavorful spices (preserved lemon, olives, saffron, coriander, cumin, smoked paprika) & topped w/ fries. Unusual w/ fries, but complements well by dipping them into the broth or eating them crunchy as is. (Kamal noted that he actually ate it like this growing up in Morocco.) yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… - Chicken Taouk (Lebanese). Grilled chicken chunks on 2 metal skewers (brochette) served over rice pilaf; tabouleh (parsley salad w/ tomatoes, onions, olive oil, lemon dressing); hummus; pita; & yogurt-based sauce. A flavorful sampler dish, & everything was so flavorful, w/ the many spices complementing them. I used some of the rice to mix it w/ the broth in the Chicken Tajine. yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… - Katayef. An Arabic dessert of banana pancake w/ pistachio, cream, honey & topped w/ fresh homemade rose jam. Superb combination of ingredients that made this dessert so delicious & yet not too sweet. yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… - Iced Moroccan mint tea. Green tea w/ mint & orange blossom. Heavenly! I could drink pitchers of this! yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… At the end of the meal, the server will sprinkle your hands w/ orange blossom water from a Moroccan-style decanter. Good hand freshener w/ a nice fragrance. yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… We can't wait to return to try the other menu dishes, which looked just as stellar: lamb tajine (lamb shank w/ white beans, herbs); lamb couscous (steamed semolina w/lamb shank in broth of carrots, pumpkin, potatoes, zucchini, tomatoes, chickpeas); falafel (fried chickpea patties); kofta (grilled seasoned ground beef in baguette), merguez (grilled lamb sausage), fattoush (green salad w/ tomatoes, sumac, olive oil, Lebanese croutons), Moroccan salad (veggies w/ oranges, cucumber, radish, orang e blossom, honey vinaigrette), babaganoush (grilled eggplant puree w/ pita); warak inab (rice in grape leaves); briwat (seafood & vermicelli in crispy phylo); & baklava. Service is impeccable, as staff is very attentive/friendly. Staff is dressed in black & are always there to ensure that your needs are accommodated. Interior dining room of 26 seats has an authentic Moorish ambiance, w/ colors of red & teal, stenciled geometric patterns, art pieces on the walls, a high ceiling of elegant round chandeliers, an aroma of exotic spices in the air, & Moroccan music in the background. Charming outside dining on the grassy area has 24 seats. yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… It gets busy, so reservations are a must. Prices are so reasonable. Street parking or nearby municipal lots. We can't wait to go back. Truly authentic Moroccan/Lebanese, & a winner! Thanks, Kamal & Youssef, for taking us back to your heritage!

    (5)

  • Justin U.

    This was me and Meg's first ever Moroccan/Lebanese food experience and boy was it a good one. There's an inside area to sit or you can sit outside in the back patio/garden. The weather was nice so we sat outside in the back. Ambience was relaxing back there with the lights somewhat dimmed and Moroccan music in the background. We had falafel appetizers which were right on point. Definitely try their mint tea, I could not stop drinking it even though I wasn't the one who ordered it. I chose the Chicken Taouk as my main entree and WOW was it good. I'm not a huge chicken fan but this dish was packed with flavor and exceeded my expectations. The chicken came skewered sitting on some seasoned rice (also VERY good) with hummus and naan and a small side of vegetable mix. I highly recommend this for anyone going. The service was great too. Overall, it was a pleasurable dining experience with excellent food and great company. I want to go back ASAP and try more of their dishes. Lastly and most importantly, its BYOB so start poppin dem bottles.

    (5)

  • Laurie M.

    Can't say a bad thing about this restaurant. The service is top notch and the food is wonderful! It is a nice change of pace from the ordinary. I think what makes this restaurant stand out is the customer service. Not only are they super friendly and helpful, they pay attention to detail. We brought out own wine and they immediately brought out a bucket of ice to keep it cool and when we took home some leftovers the server threw in an entire container of pita bread at no charge. It's these small niceties that made this dinner wonderful. We ordered the lamb tagine and chicken skewers as mains with the mixed appetizer plate for a starter. We rounded out the meal with the hot mint tea and Turkish chocolate cheesecake which hit the spot. Will be back again soon and will ask to be seated outside. Very cute outdoor seating in the back.

    (4)

  • Ephraim S.

    Great food, great service...Great times celebrating a buddies birthday. Everything was on point. the outdoor seating is great, and the tea was unbelievable, really the tea! and ask to wash your hands after the meal with their infused water. I'm definitely going back. Thank you.

    (5)

  • Shawn G.

    First time at a Moroccan/Lebanese restaurant. The merguez couscous and the chicken tajine were excellent choices to introduce us to the flavors of the cuisine. We started with the sampler platter. The flavors were great, but the amount of pitas provided was not nearly enough. The service was quick to bring more when asked. I had the merguez couscous. The sausage was the real deal with a touch of heat at the very end of the flavor profile. The couscous itself was extremely moist and almost reminded me of a risotto. The only letdown was some of the veggies were pretty underdone, but this was a small blemish on a great dish. The wife had the chicken tajine. The skin on, bone in chicken may give less adventurous palates a pause, but adds to the great chicken flavor that permeates the entire plate. The fries topping the dish was a great starch choice that helped sop up the plate. We had a pretty large group so we were sent to the back side of the property. The 'backyard' has a decent sized open air shelter that allowed everyone to move around and socialize without disturbing the other guests. A perfect setting for a great meal.

    (4)

  • A T.

    We had a lovely date night at Kan Zaman for my birthday. The food was delicious, the service was wonderful, and the ambience was delightful. We highly recommend it and will definitely be back! We went early in the evening (5:30) so it was not at all crowded but had made reservations ahead of time just to be on the safe side. When you go, ask to sit outside on the back lanai, if it is available. They have created a really nice space out there with good atmosphere. I grew up in the Middle East and this is some of the best food I have eaten since I left there many years ago.

    (5)

  • Chris C.

    The food was good, the service excellent, the delivery fast and the decor trendy and clean. We (party of two) dropped by on Friday night without a reservation, and they were pretty booked up. They graciously agreed to seat us anyway. I ordered the beef kabob with hummus, rice and tabouleh. It had a cinnamon-type rub on the meat. The beef was tender and the portions were generous. There was some sort of noodle mixed in with the rice. The rice had a lot of ghee or butter. My boyfriend ordered the lamb tagine. I am not used to the strong taste of lamb but it was very tender and spiced well. The portion was large. My boyfriend ate my pita bread which was unfortunately not toasted so it was a little soft and mushy. The problem with the lamb dish is that it came with beans but no visible vegetables. My dish didn't have any vegetables either except for the tabouleh which the server jokingly suggested we share. We ordered a $9 salad to split, which was good if a little underdressed for me. We also both had the iced mint tea (one free refill included) which was okay. Our servers were extremely efficient and friendly, and the food came out from the kitchen quickly. They treated us like family although they were already very busy. Overall the meal was extremely tasty - I just feel they could improve the balance of the dishes by serving more vegetables. I had a discount coupon giving us one of the entrees free, and they were extremely gracious about accepting it, no problems. After the coupon and tip (which was of course on the pre-discount amount) the bill was around $46 for two. Full price would have been around $65 which seems like a bit much for everyday dining but I would not mind going back for a special occasion.

    (4)

  • Amber C.

    This place was a pleasant surprise. Went for lunch and we got some hummus and a lamb kebob sandwich (gyro). The hummus was tasty. It came with tomato which was different but good. The gyro was awesome. The black olive and feta cheese are a great touch. It was my favorite gyro I've had on the island though my gf preferred the taziki (sp?) sauce of other places. If you work downtown i suggest checking this place out for lunch sometime. After lunch they come by with some plumeria scented water for your hands.

    (4)

  • Kim M.

    MOROCCAN / LEBANESE CUISINE Kan Zaman offers exciting and exotic Moroccan and Lebanese dishes at affordable prices. If you enjoy Middle Eastern food and exotic spices, this place is def worth a try. The flavors and spices work together harmoniously. It's quite spectacular. Warak Inab ($6.95) yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… Grape leaves stuffed with rice, mint, lemon & garlic vinaigrette. I haven't had anything quite like this before, but I loved it. I wasn't expecting it to be served cold, but it was tasty and refreshing. Baba Ghanoush yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… It looks like hummus, but it is so NOT the same thing. Baba Ghanoush is made with roasted eggplant that is mashed and blended with olive oil, tahini, and other various seasonings and spices. It has a much more distinct and smoky flavor and is served with warm pita. yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… A great starter. Lamb Tajine ($18.95) yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… Braised lamb shank with preserved lemon, saffron, white beans & herbs. If I had to choose a favorite dish from the entire meal, I think it would be the Lamb Tajine. For one, I love lamb. But aside from that, it was juicy, tender, and poppin' with flavor. And the beans were scrumptious. With a bit of the house hot sauce, Harissa, I was in Euphoria. Like, close the eyes and errythang. Chicken Taouk ($15.95) yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… Grilled chicken brochette, served with rice, tabouleh, hummus & pita. I prefer red meats over chicken, but this chicken was stellar. The combination of spices were somewhat magical and made chicken much more appealing to me. The tabouleh (fresh parsley, tomatoes, onions, olive oil, lemon dressing) was refreshing and tasty! Actually, this whole dish was freakin' delish - even down to the rice! Harissa ($0.99) yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… Moroccan cooking incorporates lots of different flavorful spices, but not the kind that provides that extra punch of heat. Harissa, their house-made hot chili sauce, is available for those who need / enjoy / love that tongue-sational fire. It's not incredibly hot or anything, but it does the job. I'd actually purchase bottles of their Harissa if they decided to sell it. It's much better than the usual sriracha / garlic chili sauce I buy from the store. Iced Moroccan Mint Tea ($3) Refreshing! Baklava ($3.50) yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… This baklava was different from other ones I've tried. I liked this one particularly because it wasn't overly sweet and it was light. A little crumbly, but whatevs. It was still a nice way to end a fulfilling meal. AMBIANCE / SEATING I love the Middle Eastern decor. It's somewhat modern, but also has that cute, comfy, old-timey / antique-y feel. Both indoor and outdoor seating are available. We opted for indoor seating, but the outdoor gazebo seating looked really cute. I think I may want to try sitting out there next time. RESTROOMS The restrooms are a little creepy, but whatevs. If you gotta go, you gotta go. The restrooms are located through the hallway and around the corner to the left. It's outside, opposite to the pavilion / gazebo seating area. The sinks are incredibly small and there's no mirrors in the bathroom area. However, there's a little lounge area just outside the bathroom with a couple mirrors and some creepy old-timey decorations. PARKING As far as parking goes, your guess is as good as mine. Street? Expensive municipal pay-lot? If you're lucky enough to find street parking, I'd go with that. The lots in the DT area are ridic. SERVICE Excellent. Susanna was our gracious and knowledgeable server. She was helpful and very friendly, which was super great for us Kan Zaman newbies (me and my SS). Oh, and for the things she didn't know, she found the answers for us. VERDICT If I could give this place more stars, I would. My experience here was nothing short of excellent. I will be back for sure! #likeaboss I could go on and on about this place, but really, my words don't do this place justice. Try it for yourself!

    (5)

  • S B.

    LOVE BYOB!!!! My husband and I went here for the first time he got beef swarma and I got lamb kabob. Didn't come out looking like I expected but lots of flavor. We also got the humus and it was super tasty. They allowed to make reservations even though it was first Friday, which I don't think they usually do. The decor was cute, the place it pretty small but nice.

    (5)

  • Amy B.

    I don't know why I haven't written a review sooner but after last night I couldn't NOT write a review. I have been to KZ many many times. Lunch, dinner, take out. Last I went with a gf who was visiting from Kauai and had never been. We started with the sampler appetizer. Something I get every time because you a little bit everything. It is always on point and deeeelish. For our entree we got the special rack of lamb. This is what caused me to write this review!!! Hands down THE BEST lamb I have ever had in my life!!! There are no words to describe the flavor and the way it literally melted in my mouth!!! I will order this every single time I go if it's on the menu!!!! Service gets an A+ as well!!!! Oh!!! And the cheesecake is also the best ever!!!! ;-)

    (5)

  • Traci H.

    I know it's a bit much for me to give 5 stars when the restaurant has only been open for a week and I have only been there once...but I can predict that I will be back. It's a small restaurant that can fit maybe 30 people max...ocean-side of Hotel and Nuuanu. Went for lunch--didn't need a reservation, but once people figure this place out, I can see it might get crowded. But it was pretty fast. Lunch opens at 11am. Falafel $6.50: appetizer came with 4 small disc shaped falafel things. Small but packed some good flavor + the yogurt sauce. I could have inhaled another plate of rhtese. Chicken Tajine $16.95: it normally comes with fries on top but you need the tasty rice to soak up all that sauce. Mmmmm. So good but so bad. 2 Chicken thighs (bone-in) soaked in a saffron type sauce. Wow. Chicken Kabobs (Shish Taouk) $15.95: hearty portion with 2 kabobs, a mound of rice, tabouleh, hummus (garlic goodness). I couldn't finish it all, but I really wanted to. I think it is chicken breast, cooked on the skewer Vegetarian couscous $15.95: a huge pile of buttery couscous covered in veggies. I could have done without the undercooked hunks of cabbage. I hear there is an outdoor patio seating area but I didn't see it. Next time I want to try more of the appetizer dishes that looked really fresh and tasty. There is a tabouleh like appetizer that comes with hearty tomatoes I think. There's also a mint tea that looked good, but I'm not a mint fan, so not for me. Takes credit cards. Street parking or municipal lots. I'll be back...for lunch, for dinner, for whatever they serve.

    (5)

  • Lika G.

    Worst place ever. The service and atmosphere nice but scary in a bad part of down town and parking horrendous. U have to park in marks garage closest parking lot where it is safe and walk past all the street and homeless people. The food was so bad. The lamb in the spoiled couscous was good but way to salty The hummus okay and mixed veggies okay. The falafel, the pancake,the cheesecake,eggplant and the chicken tangeine awful not edible that's how bad it was. I would not recommend this place to any one. After a $100 spent we ended up at home eating dinner. Worst place ever. Jack in the box serves a better cheese cake. Also the tea was horrible. If u have ever had good morrocan food this comes in at the bottom of the list doesn't even deserve 1 star

    (1)

  • Eddie P.

    Recently went out with a friend and were somewhat undecided on where to go. At the last possible moment we decided on Kan Zaman as we hadn't been there before. I knew this place was there, but simply forgotten about it. Trust me...I won't make the same mistake twice! Once seated we were attended to in a timely manner and the staff were courteous and friendly. We started out with the sampler which was rather tasty and included Babaganoush, Hummus and some other awesome things whose names escape me and would probably butcher anyway. I ordered the Lamb Kabobs and was not disappointed. The serving size was huge and could come nowhere near finishing it all. (I ended up having awesome lunch leftovers the next two days) The lamb was very tender and flavorful. The only thing missing was women doing a Chaabi dance (but this place is too small for that) It would have sealed the deal on a five star rating...whoop whoop! Instead I settled for dessert which was the Cheesecake with dates and rum sauce. The cheesecake was so good I could have pulled a Fred Sanford...had a coronary, died on the spot...and been completely happy. Will definitely visit again.

    (4)

  • Janine M.

    Came across this restaurant on accident walking to the next stop in the Crawl for the Cure. My friends and I were intrigued and added it to our list of "Must Try". After reading the awesome Yelp reviews and learning that there was also a Belly Dancing performance on Wednesday, I immediately booked our reservation through Open Table. Loved that I did not have to stop what I was doing to make a call! 7 of us... 5 extremely loud women with 1 husband and 1 boyfriend in tow made it to our 7:00 p.m. mid week reservation. Lots of street parking or very affordable parking in the Municipal lots all in walking distance. None of us had been here before and were quite excited. The main room of the restaurant was beautifully painted with just about 10 tables. I did not wander out, but my friends complimented the patio seating. After being seated right away, we were given menus and drink order taken. They don't serve alcohol and there isn't a corkage fee. But you HAVE to try the fantastic mint tea! We started with the Mezza Sampler for $14.95 which included Hummus, Babaganouh, Taktouka & Warak inab. All very excellent! We placed our orders just before 7:30 when the Belly Dancing show began. Malia, was PHENOMENAL... I'd go back just to see her again! Our entrees were served within 20 minutes of placing our orders. 4 of us had the Chicken Tajine (Braised chicken with saffron, coriander, lemon, cumin, smoked paprika and olives) topped with fries... DELICIOUS! I found myself craving it a few days later. The BF ordered the Lamb Couscous (Steamed couscous in a flavorful broth with carrots, pumpkin, potatoes, zucchini, tomatoes & chickpeas, topped with lamb shank) and the husband ordered Beef Kabab (Grilled marinated cubes of beef served on rice with tabouleh, hummus, tahini sauce and pita) The presentation of everything was fabulous and it tasted even better! The 5th girlfriend order a large bowl of soup - I don't recall what it was, but it was very tasty. Of course we ordered dessert... 2 Orange Blossom Cheesecake (Creamy cheesecake with warm date rum sauce) and 2 Katayef (Arabic banana pancake with pistachio, cream & honey). Can I use the word DELICIOUS again? DELICIOUS! There is an auto gratuity for parties of 6 or more. The waitress was polite and appropriately attentive. She did hem and haw about splitting our checks three ways, but it was understandable since it seemed she was the only waitress on to service both the main room and the outside patio. We all have a great night... the food and the entertainment won us over. We all vowed to be back!

    (4)

  • Diana W.

    Wonderful! My favorite thing about this place is the lovely ambiance. I never would've guessed that there was a beautiful garden behind the restaurant. .. but there is and it's gorgeous! Sit out there! The food was great but not the best ever (I think the food is better at Casablanca in Kailua ). I totally recommend the baba ganoush and mint tea though. Great place!

    (4)

  • Noni B.

    Loved the atmosphere...loved the lamb with favs beans, & chicken tajine.

    (4)

  • Clarissa M.

    If your willing to try a different cuisine with lots of flavor this is a place to try. Wait staff were friendly and super efficient. We were offered a choice of sitting outside or inside and we opted for outside seating. Super intimate setting with enough lighting. Area was clean and no bugs interfering with our meal. We tried the falafel and Mezza sampler (which is the best way to try a little bit of everything offered on their appetizer menu) which came with pita bread. For our main course we tried the Chicken Thigh with bone that came with Fries and Lamb Kebab (rice, hummus, etc. included). None of the foods we tried were spicy or salty. The foods had so much flavor and the chicken and lamb were so tender! They size portions were more than enough for two people. Throughout our meal the wait staff checked on us and refilled our soft drinks. The evening was filled with a full and satisfied belly and a pleasant new experience. We shall return!

    (5)

  • Crystal A.

    this place is awesome!! everything on the menu is extremely delicious. Tabouleh is really good, moroccan salad is also amazing. I had these both with the Chicken taouk. I usually do not order grilled chicken because I do not want to chance it being dry, but this was amazing. It was very moist and seasoned so well!!! we also ordered the Lamb tajine which was a huge serving. It was a heavier dish so unless you are really hungry or wanting to share with someone else I would think about ordering this dish..... but it was so tender and also very tasty. Lamb kebab was my favorite!!! We all ordered the iced tea and it was slightly sweet and perfect with our meals. I now crave going to this place!!!

    (5)

  • Mark P.

    As a new adventurer in china town food affairs I was in search of an experience that not only offered excellent cuisine but also was able to transport me to a whole new world. Fortunately such a place existed... And that place was Kan Zaman. Kan Zaman is a beautifully decorated restaurant with wall to wall trimmings of Mediterranean culture. As if that wasn't enough of cultural submersion, I was fortunate enough to witness an alluringly choreographed display of belly dancing. It was an amazing experience, but falls short to the amazing food. Everything that I ordered was delicious beyond words. From their flavorful babaghanoush to their hearty Lamb Tajine, there seemed to be no wrong choices when ordering. This won't be the last time that I eat here and I'd definitely suggest everyone to try it at least once.

    (5)

  • Genevieve A.

    Hmm, where do i start off. I would've given them 5 stars, 1 less for service. Although it wasn't too bad of service, they took awhile to take our orders and such. I think there was a party in the back so that could've been the cause. Anywho, on to food! Started off with the sampler for lunch. It came with babaganoush, hummus, pita etc. Pretty good portions. Then the lamb kabob.... and wow.... it was huuuuge. I barely ate half and I was full Overall, great food, great portions, pricing isn't bad at all (for lunch), and the ambiance. Will come again.

    (4)

  • L M.

    Our waitress greeted us promptly and was very courteous. We sat inside and on Sunday for lunch. The decor was really nice and cozy. We both ordered off the lunch menu. I got the lamb kabab which was ok and my husband got the Kofta Sandwich which he really enjoyed. His favorite was the Lentil soup. He said that he had not found anything comparable to the lentil soup he had in Turkey until he came here. I think the next time I come I will have to order off the main menu because I was more in the mood for the full on rice with kabab deal not just the kabab in the pita with a side salad. The mint tea is a definite must try (well if you like tea)!

    (4)

  • Laurie P.

    My first trip to Kan Zaman was for lunch the first or second day they were open, thanks to a post by Grant "Chuggy Bear" S. I've been back with Tze M. and my husband for lunch and recently brought my family there for dinner. First of all, if it isn't raining, try and get seated in the outdoor area. It is just such a lovely green space both during the day and at night and is so unique. The decor of the restaurant is just gorgeous and really has that modern/Moroccan feel. If I was basing this review on lunch alone, I would easily give them 4 or even 5 stars. I think Kan Zaman is one of the best lunch options on island. They are relatively fast, the food is tasty, and it is just a touch over the perfect price for lunch (~$16 per person). I can accept the lunch price as middle eastern ingredients are hard to find and expensive here in Hawaii nei. I've had the kofta (which in Arabic means ground) kebab (which in Arabic means grilled) and the merguez sandwiches. The kofta is perfectly spiced and is aromatic with cumin and other spices and served on a pita. It really is my favorite sandwich. Even my husband, who is Persian, really enjoyed this sandwich and that is hard to say as he is super picky about kofta kebab. The merguez is a lamb sausage served on a baquette, panini style. Merguez is a spicy beef or lamb sausage flavored with harissa. It wasn't nearly as spicy as I would have wanted a ground meat sausage to be, and I ended up dissecting this sandwich to just eat the meat whereas I completely devoured the kofta sandwhich. Still a good choice, but at the end of the day, it is a sausage panini. I can highly recommend a side order of french fries with sumac garlic aoili. Sumac is ground up sumac berry, but don't worry this kind of sumac is edible and not poisonous! It gives the garlic a bit of a lemony kick. Try it! You'll like it. The hummus is also a solid choice. I don't have much to say about it other than it is good. Honestly, this could be sabra hummus out of a container, I really wouldn't know the difference. I had to knock them down to 3 stars based on my dinner experience. While making reservations was easy and they were BYOB, I just wasn't impressed with dinner. We had ordered tabuleh salad and babanganoush for appetizers, only the babaganoush came out. I have to say, it was terribly disappointing. It taste like hummus, not even a hint of roasted eggplant. I almost wonder if they are just throwing a little grilled eggplant into their hummus batches and calling it babaganoush. Babaganoush is supposed to be redolent with garlic and grilled eggplant and just a touch of tahini and olive oili to smooth it all together. Kan Zaman's babaganoush was none of these things and way overpriced at $8 a serving. I ordered the Lamb couscous, my husband ordered the lamb tajine, and my mom ordered the steak kebab. It took an exceptionally long time for them to cook our dinner, like easily an 45minutes. Then I felt that while the lamb was cooked to tender perfection, it completely lacked seasoning. My husband ended up trading me for his tajine. Again the lamb was cooked to tender perfection, but the beans were swimming under a layer of oil. Again, not much in the way of seasoning. I was really disappointed as I found the lunch here exceptional and flavorful, but dinner was only so so. My husband did enjoy the lamb tajine but wasn't overly impressed with the lamb couscous. This is saying quite a bit as my husband will rarely order or praise lamb that his mother or grandmother didn't cook. So he and I had to agree to disagree on the taste factor, I will say we both agreed that while tasty the lamb dishes were not worth their $33 price tag. The steak kebab is a safe bet as it is pieces of well spiced filet mignon that look like they have been pan seared and not grilled over an open fire, I have a semantic argument with anything not cooked over a grill being called kebab. All in all the stand outs for dinner really were the desserts, which can be ordered all day. I recommend the orange blossom cheesecake which is very light and airy and just perfect. It has a rum date sauce on top and while I am no fan of dates, I enjoyed this topping mixed with the cheesecake very much. The baklava was buttery, nutty, sweet perfection. Kan Zaman makes their baklava free daily, which is no small feat as this dessert involves laying pastry dough with a honey-nut mash. Seriously try this. Their portion is huge, with two pieces and drizzled with nuts and honey. I was also disappointed by the service, which seemed slow and spotty at dinner compared to when we came for lunch. There was another large party the same night we were there, and they seemed to know the hostess/owner so maybe they were giving them the star treatment. Who knows. All in all, Kan Zaman is a delicious Moroccan/Lebanese taste experience that I think everyone should try. Maybe just try rocking the Casbah at lunch, because dinner service seemed spot

    (3)

  • Michelle L.

    The Do's and Don't's of Kan Zaman... Don't make your reservations within two hours before closing time because they will passive aggressively try to rush you. (I don't blame them) But Do make reservations especially for a Friday night. Do BYOB! Do get the Moroccan Salad. Ok that's pretty much all I could come up with so onward with the food. For starters my friend and I ordered the Babaganoush and Moroccan Salad. We shared the Chicken Tajine for entree and Baklava for dessert. The Babaganoush ($7.95) is very similar to hummus but it is made of eggplant instead of chickpeas and has a smokier flavor. Honestly, if you told me I was eating hummus, I would believe it because it has the same texture. Served with pita bread. The Moroccan Salad ($7.95) was my favorite of the night. Fresh greens with sliced oranges, cucumbers and radish. The dressing is an orange blossom and honey vinaigrette. I loved the bright flavors and it was very refreshing. Because my friend doesn't eat lamb, we opted for the Chicken Tajine ($16.95). Three chicken thighs cooked in a fragrant broth with fries on top and side of pita bread. I was apathetic towards this dish because it reminded me of the shoyu chicken during school lunches. For what it was, I didn't feel it was worth the price. The Baklava ($3.50) was a nice finish to the meal. Not too sweet but still rich in flavor from all that buttery goodness. Good service and LOVE the BYOB in the patio seating. Other than that, my friend and I felt underwhelmed from the meal as a whole. I'm all about second chances and do want to come back to try their lamb dishes but until then it gets 3 stars from me :) PS: did I mention I liked the salad?

    (3)

  • Seeca K.

    Small but comfortable atmosphere and amazing food! Must stop in for dinner before braving Chinatown for the evening!

    (5)

  • Ilene B.

    Cozy feel to the place. Ordered the sampler. Prices are a bit high and the food was bland. Ordered Perrier and asked for lime... Was told they don't have lime, hmmm a block away are food stands - for four dollars a bottle u would think they would provide lime. Won't be back.

    (2)

  • Lon H.

    You'll be impressed. Start with a pot of hot mint tea. I would also suggest the sampler for starters...baba is excellent. Make reservations and sit on their back porch at night. Staff is friendly and accommodating.

    (5)

  • Malia D.

    Such a fun place for a ladies dinner out! The restaurant features a beautiful belly dancer every Wednesday evening!

    (5)

  • Emi N.

    Love going to Kan Zaman. My favorite restaurant in Honolulu. The lunch deals are great. Loved the merguez dish!!

    (4)

  • Kris B.

    Definite DO'S: Babaganoush, Chicken Taouk, and Iced Mint Tea. Went with some wonderful people, and we ordered three plates: Chicken Tajine, Lamb Couscous, and the Chicken Taouk. The Chicken Tajine is very tasty, but the fries were a little weird for me. Their Lamb Couscous is cooked wonderfully - comes right off the bone. BUT the best all-around plate we had was definitely the Chicken Taouk. Please, for the sake of everything good in life, try this plate. There was also a belly dancer when we went, which was really cool. EXCEPT the music was so loud outside that our waitress had to leave until the dancer's show was done so she could actually hear our order. (Btw, the place looks small from the street but there is nice spacious outside seating in the back.) Municipal parking on Bethel or up on King.

    (4)

  • Jennifer C.

    The food here is pretty freaking good, but what really made me give them 5 stars was the service. I showed up for dinner with the husband during the week of Christmas, with no reservation. Literally every table had a "reserved" sign on it. The hostess let us know that they had a table reserved for later in the night, but if we wanted it, we would have roughly an hour and fifteen minutes to eat. She was very polite about it, and I definitely appreciated the gesture. It worked out because we had plans later in the night and didn't intend on staying long. The waitress we had was very attentive, too. Food wise, everything was pretty darn good. We started with the falafel. The flavors were robust and they may have been on par with some of the falafel I've had back home in NYC. My only complaint is that the falafel order consisted of five very small balls. I was expecting a larger portion. I had the lamb tajine ($19) and the husband had the lamb couscous ($23). The tajine comes on a bed of stewed beans, while the couscous...obviously on a bed of couscous, and mixed vegetables. I had a taste of the couscous, and I preferred my stewed beans more. The lamb was very tender and fall off the bone goodness. It didn't seem like much when the dish arrived, but I wasn't able to finish the plate. I had enough to last me another meal. We also both had an iced mint tea. It wasn't overly sweet, and was super refreshing. Tip 1: Make dinner reservations. Tip 2: This could definitely be a cute date place.

    (5)

  • Shiloh R.

    What a gem! I LOVED my dinner I had here a few months ago. Great date spot! I sat outside--it's a really cute outdoor seating layout. At first I thought it would be strange to sit outside in Chinatown but trust me (and the other reviews!) you won't be disappointed. Yummy food I had....falafel, vegetarian couscous plate, baklava and hot tea. Everything was delicious and brought me back to my comfort food--I love Mediterranean food! The servers were all delightful too!

    (5)

  • Michelle J.

    The staff was awesome and attentive. The food was really good. On Wednesday nights they have belly dancing around 7:30pm. It makes for a really fun night! i I highly recommend it!

    (4)

  • Izack G.

    Awsome spot! Music& food are just making this place a must if you are into exploring great places to eat..

    (5)

  • Iv T.

    Delicious food is delicious. OMG so delish. Kan Zaman has a unique variety of amazing food. Everything tastes super fresh and flavorful. Honestly, I'd recommend all their dishes but my absolute favorites are the lamb tajine which is fall off the bone soft, the baba ghanoush which is tasty and has an enjoyable tang and the lamb kebab...moist and flavorful, what more could you want? I usually order takeout and everything keeps well on the drive home. If you're looking for parking then you'd need to sell a kidney for street parking so just find a pay and don't risk illegally parking (cop on every street.)

    (5)

  • Farrah F.

    OMG! This place is so well decorated. The food and service are remarkable and it's affordable too! Would be a fantastic place to bring a client for lunch!

    (5)

  • Scott K.

    The chicken taouk and mint ice tea is the best. The service is very friendly and fast. The only downfall is parking but that's the way it is in Chinatown.

    (5)

  • Lesley H.

    The food is super yummy and very tasty! And the workers are very friendly and nice. BYOB! Everyone should come and try this place out!

    (5)

  • Kurt W.

    Cool ambiance on back porch. Lebanese tunes. Orange water to rinse after meal. Had lamb sandwich and Moroccan salad. Fun spot. Tasty lamb. Salad was standard fare.

    (4)

  • Laura S.

    Came back, as I said I would, for the live music and sat on the back patio. Still awesome place with a great ambiance and food. I'm always craving the tabouleh! The service was once again excellent and the quality of food for the $$ is great. Will return again!

    (5)

  • Giovanny G.

    We have been wanting to check this place out for a while and I wish we hadn't waited this long. Really nice and cosy place, a bit on the small size but it makes it up with character. The outdoor seating in definitely where you want to sit. I suggest you call up for a table since it is so small. Overall very impressed we were seated quickly and the food came out fast. The Chicken Taouk were exceptional. A bit pricey but not too bad what can you expect from Hawaii. Two drinks, appetizer, two main courses and dessert for $60.

    (4)

  • Lea D.

    Excellent food, good service, and luv luv that it's BYOB!!! We had the lamb (amazing fell right off the bone), falafel ( yum!), and chicken with hummus and pita. It was all very delicious! I recommend sitting outside, it has a more open feel, inside feels a little clastrophobic.

    (5)

  • S. M.

    We had lunch here, the staff and waiter were excellent. The food very good. Nice outdoor seating and wasn't busy when we went on a Monday afternoon :-)

    (4)

  • June O.

    This place is a gem located on the Chinatown/Downtown Business District border. It's located behind the First Hawaiian Bank of Chinatown. I'm not one to walk in to just any Mediteranean Restaurant, especially since I'm not familiar with the cuisine but decided to give this place a try since I was craving something new and different. It was so good I decided to introduce this place to a number of colleagues and ended up eating here twice in one week! Now on to the food... To start with I tried the Mezza Sampler which had the Babaganoush (so fun to say), Hummus (which was delicious), Taktouka and the Warak Inab (which I didn't care too much for). It was a nice and hearty sampler so we didn't finish it. It would probably be good for 3 people. The entrees I've tried are Chicken Taouk and the Chicken Kebab sandwich (on two different occassions of course!). I've got to say, the Taouk was much better. More pricier indeed but the rice and parsley salad that came with it was exquisite and FRESH. The same chicken kebab came on both of the plates. The rice that came with the Taouk tasted like butter rice and flavored wonderfully. I was afraid to ask about calories. =( Since it came with hummus, we really didn't need to order the sampler. I ended up taking left overs home to enjoy for dinner. The Chicken Kebab sandwich came with a generous portion of the Moroccan salad. It was spring mix/field greens with a zesty citrus dressing and diced tomatoes on top. Delicious as well but we had to ask for more dressing for the table. They say they're known for their mint ice teas. One of the owners were pouring the hot mint tea (sweetened) version at the different tables as a sampler which I thought was a nice touch. I've tried the unsweetened cold version but it wasn't as impressive as the hot tea. If you don't mind the sugar in the tea, I would definitely recommend it. If you're one to order tea unsweetened, then I would say try to save yourself a few bucks. The place gets rather busy in the front but I believe there is more space in the back which is linked to a courtyard. They also take reservations so call ahead! My favorite surprise was towards the end when our waitress brought our check. She offered us orange blossom water in a beautoful antique oil pourer. She put a generous amount of drops on my hand and told me to rub my hands together. I left the restaurant with my hands up on my nose probably looking like a weirdo. The entire walk back to work I kept smelling my hands enjoying the sweet, delicate smell of floral goodness. =)

    (5)

  • Bruce T.

    We had an amazing meal! We all tried something different so we could taste the options made here. Everything was spectacular!!! Tasty tea also. The service was extremely good also. Very attentive but not in your face. Everyone was happy to explain the meals. The decor is modest but very nice. We want to try the outside seating on our next visit. The chefs here are doing a great job... We will be back for sure.

    (4)

  • Sherry S.

    OMG! Can I say AWESOME! the food here is AMAZING! I have been here twice and so far the food was great. The mint tea drinks are very refreshing and DELICIOUS! Both times I ordered the lamb kebab sandwich. VERY DELICIOUS! The lamb is succulent and soft. There are two types of cheese in the sandwich that make it salty and sweet. Also the dressing for the salad has a sweet and savory taste that just makes you want to keep eating it. Plus I am not a salad eater, not really big on it. But the moment I tasted the dressing. I was in love with every leaf on my plate :))) lOl will definitely return if Im in the area. Thanks Kan Zaman!

    (5)

  • Dawn H.

    If you like trying new foods and have not been to Kan Zaman do yourself a selfie and try it out. I did just last night and it made me very happy. The staff is very friendly and the decor simple with just enough cultural aspects(patterns on the wall, lamps on the tables etc.) to give the room a middle eastern atmosphere. Situated on Nuuanu Avenue in the heart of downtown it's kind of a hole in the wall in a hole in the wall district It's proximity to some rather sketchy joints and the nearby homeless population could be a deterrent but I'm not judging just saying. Once through the doors of Kan Zaman the world and it's worries dissipate. You can bring your own adult beverage if you choose to indulge. I brought a bottle of pinot grigio that had a twist top so I didn't need an opener but they have them available should you need one as well as wine glasses for your use. My friend drinks red and didn't have time to pick up a bottle so here's a tip. HASR Wine Co.is 2 blocks up from Kan Zaman and they have a wide selection of wines to choose from. So he did a quick dash up the street and secured a nice bottle of red. Let's talk food. We ordered the house made mozzarella with zatar and mezza platter for starters. The mozzarella was so fresh as were the vine ripened tomatoes that it was served on. Drizzled with a luscious olive oil and sprinkled with a very generous amount of black pepper and served with their to die for pita I was in heaven. The mezza platter is a divine array of vegetable based side dishes, hummus, babaganoush, taktouka and warak inab. In this day and age everyone pretty much knows what hummus is. if you don't it's a dip made from chick peas and other delicious things. Then there's babaganoush baby. This stuff is stellar. Roasted eggplant combined with other ingredients its similar to hummus but has a very distinguishable smokiness to it. Nice. The platter also came with stuffed grape leaves which I have had before. These were the best I have had. The mint and lemon accents made the difference. Lastly there was taktouka. Its sort of an salsa like tomato green pepper salad served cold with pita of course. I liked it. By this time I'm wondering how I'm going to eat my dinner. I ordered the chicken taouk for my entrée. It was very spiceful and tasty a little dry. It came with tabouleh more hummus and more pita and rice. I love tabouleh. My friends ordered the lamb tanjine and the catch of the day. Not a lamb eater so can't comment on that but the catch of the day was killer. Fresh monchong on a velvety spread of mashed potatoes topped with prawns(with the heads on..yum oh). That is what I'm going to order the next time I go. Mind blowing. Last thing I'm going to say is that I loved our dining experience and the last last thing I'm going to say is next time I'm going to sit outside on their cute outside seating.

    (5)

  • Marku M.

    I forgot if it was Joe or Joel but he was a very very awesome server. He took the time to educate me and my sister about the dishes they serve in the restaurant also she was very friendly. I had the lamb Taijin my sister had the lamb couscous and it was amaziny delicious meat fell off the bone and very very tasty

    (5)

  • Stephen H.

    Gastronomic Adventure Log date: 1/9/14 entry: Kan Zaman---After a so-so "Vegetable Couscous", my spirit of adventure has been re-energized by "Chicken Taouk"---a port of call to which I will return. Mmmmm. Large cubes of spiced, grilled breast meet sans brochette served on a bed of long grain rice, with pita, hummus, and tabouleh on the side. Chicken surprisingly moist and tasty. Good as is. No need for the weak yogurt (?) dip. Rice mixed with what looked like short segments of a thin noodle. I wonder what that is. I've seen that in another "Mediterranean" rice (see my review of 10/5/12). Rice tasty because of that? Or the goodly amount of oil or butter. But onward! The journey continues.

    (5)

  • Andree F.

    This restaurant is consistently awesome. The flavors of the food are unique and sumptuous! We had the lamb kebab sandwich and the lentil soup...our favorites. Really cute interior and outdoor courtyard.

    (5)

  • Daniel F.

    Food: 8/10 We got the appetizer platter and an order of falafel to start. Everything was excellent - falafel was some of the best I've had (definitely my favorite on the island) texture of it was unique, slightly crunchy and not doughy inside. Platter was light and very good - I wish there was more pita though! Mint Tea was great, sweet and flavorful without over-brewing or too much sugar (not sure if they add any or if its just quality ingredients?) For dinner I had the beef kabob, which was good but I think I ordered wrong - I had my brothers lamb kebob, and it was much more tasty and unique - the beef kabob felt like I could have found it anywhere. Portions are epic like all the (good) Mediterranean places Ive been to. Despite the enormous portions, we decided to be extra fat and get one of each desert~ Orange blossom thing was alright, thin slices of orange with cinnamon and a mint leaf garnish (more of a palette cleanser than a substantial desert I think). The Arabic banana pancake thing had a subtle flavor but very different from anything Ive had - worth a try. Cheesecake was mediocre, nothing too special in my opinion (I eat a lot of cheesecake). Baklava was gooooood. Definitely worth having if you have room. Flaky, sweet but not overpoweringly so, not too chewy, just all around good. Not like the stuff sitting in a display case all day or out on a ledge in front of the cashier. Atmosphere/Service: 9.5/10 servers were attentive and friendly, except we came on a belly dancing night, and when the music came on it was a little bit much. Servers couldnt hear us (had to yell everything) and I'm not a fan of the whole belly dancing thing anyway, especially since we were there for my mom's Mother's Day Dinner - the table next to us seemed to enjoy it though, cultural relativity and all, so I dont mind that much (just turn the music down a little bit !!! Or move the speakers away from the tables a little !) This would be more like a 4.5 star in my book, but I'm real stingy with my 5's, sorry Kan Zaman! Maybe next time~

    (4)

  • Sammy S.

    Food here is absolutely delicious and seems pretty healthy. Nice courtyard out back, and very nice servers. A few dishes are a little pricey, especially if you want to add a starter, but overall moving up on our regular places to go. FYI- it is BYOB.

    (4)

  • Amina M.

    While I love Hawaii, I sometimes get homesick for the diversity of food back in the NYC/Northern NJ area. That's why when I heard this place was open (and had halal lamb), I drove myself downtown and didn't even care that I spent $12 on parking in order to eat here. The first thing I noticed was the friendly waitress who seated us despite not having a reservation, and a friendly waiter who came over right away to take our drink orders. We were seated in a cozy nook next to the entrance, a perfect vantage point from which to take in the interior design. They managed to create a space that looks modern but draws from antique Islamic architectural motifs, as evidenced by recurring patterns on the wall, placemats, and frosted glass. I loved the attention to detail... which also carried over to the FOOD! We were hangry when we left the house, so we decided to not hold back and got an appetizer. I opted for the safe but deilcious homemade baba ganoush, which did not disappoint. It came with warm pita triangles for dipping and was topped with fresh tomato, olive oil and parsley. the best park about it was the smoky flavor of the eggplant and the fresh lemon mixed in. This was the best baba ganoush I have ever had (including my NYC/NJ eateries)! At the start (and end) of our meal, we decided to order a small pot of sweetened mint tea to share. The tea service was beautiful. Our waiter brought it over in a beautiful silver tray with a silver teapot (complete with colored tassle), and even did a dramatic high pour into small glasses for us. It reminded me of the tea service we always got at sandwich shops in Paris owned by Alergian and Moroccan families. For the main course, I ordered the lamb tajine and my husband got the lamb couscous. I fully expected the meal to take a downturn at this point because a tajine and lamb stew over couscous are not easy to get right. What I found when I took my first bite (and second, and third..) was that I was completely and utterly wrong. This was some of the most delicious lamb I have ever tasted. The meat was so incredibly tender that it fell right off the bone, and I couldn't stop myself from soaking up every bit of sauce in the bowl with pita. The portion was more than enough, so I obliged (this time, anyway) when my husband wanted to try bits of my food. I was tempted to be greedy even though I was stuffed. His main course, the lamb & couscous was also very good. I've never been a huge fan of couscous, but this was again one of the better dishes I have tried across many middle eastern restaurants. The flavor was much more subtle than the tajine, but still pleasant. We finished off with another elegant tea service and skipped dessert because we were so full at this point, but we saw a traditional sweet pancake that my husband wants to go back and try. This was singlehandedly the best meal I have ever eaten in Hawaii since moving here 18 months ago. I left with both a happy stomach, and a happy heart as I felt a little closer to home after having this wonderfully delicious meal. They sprinkled frangrant orange blossom water into our hands from a traditional Moroccan decanter as a nice finishing touch, which my husband called the "ultimate test" and informed the water that he "passed" (haha!!). Bottom line is, Chef Kamal has got it going on. I want everyone to go here and experience how good it is, but I also am kind of selfish and don't want to have to fight other diners for a table at this little gem of an establishment. Areas of improvement: Restaurant was quite loud.. Need to do something to filter out the noise.

    (5)

  • Yvonne M.

    EXOTIC, ETHNIC FOOD! Moroccan/Lebanese cuisine! It's always great to try new adventurous foods, especially when it's rare to find in Hawaii! And you never know which Yelper you might bump into when trying new places! Thanks Grant S., Santi, and Malia H. for letting us hang with you and share dishes! The more the merrier! FOOD 1) LAMB TAJINE - best dish! Cooked well. Exciting flavors! You can't go wrong with this! This really embodies the moroccan/lebanese cuisine! 2) CHICKEN TAOUK - This grilled chicken was soo good! Flavors of tumeric and paprika danced in my mouth! 3) BABAGANOUSH-an eggplant puree, that was so fun to try especially with a name like that! 4) CHICKEN TAJINE - the lamb tajine was better. 5) MINT TEA - Hot, but refreshing? Loved the tea pot! Aladdin action,okay! ENVIRONMENT Located in downtown. Indoor and outdoor seating. Warm colors, wooden seating, accents of moroccan culture. Street or Municipal parking (closest is the Chinatown Gateway Plaza, enter on Bethel St.) SERVICE Friendly and quick. TIP BYOB!! CONCLUSION Coming back to try lunch or try the patio seating!

    (4)

  • Holly B.

    Finally tried Kan Zaman! We enjoyed the hummus with pita and the tabouleh for appetizers. The tabouleh was FRESH and flavorful, with great lemon flavor. We tried the chicken taouk, which was tasty and came with hummus and tabouleh as sides. We also tried the lamb couscous. Note that the vegetables are al dente, so a little on the crunchy side, though cooked. There were zucchini, carrots, kabocha pumpkin, potatoes, chickpeas, tomatoes and onions. The lamb shank was tasty and falling off the bone. We also tried the merguez, which was lamb sausage and tasted OK, but the lamb shank was better! Then for dessert we had the katayef, which is a Arabic pancake with fresh bananas, toasted nuts, orange blossom cream and honey. The pancake tasted like buckwheat, a little grainy, but the fresh bananas and honey made the entire dessert very nice. The orange blossom cheesecake was OK; I'm not particularly a fan of cheesecake, but I did like the warm date rum sauce. Need more sauce on the cheesecake! At the conclusion of our meal, I enjoyed the orange blossom water sprinkled on our hands. Nice touch! All in all a very nice experience, good and attentive service and charming atmosphere. Having a reservation definitely helped!

    (4)

  • Kelli B.

    We decided to try this place because the idea of Moroccan and Lebanese sounded intriguing to try, but I ended up having the best meal I have ever eaten in my life. No kidding, she wants to go back tomorrow. I'm not going to be the one who says no. Try the sampler and the mint tea for sure, the staff were extremely helpful and friendly, ask their advice on the food and you will not be disappointed!!!

    (5)

  • g m.

    I really want to like this place, but I can't unless they try harder. The falafel looks and tastes like premade patties from Costco. Same with the pita: store-bought kine, cut into tiny triangles useless for doing anything with other than dipping. The lentil soup is okay, but only okay. Many items are overpriced, even for Honolulu. The service is well-intentioned but amateur. The kitchen turns out food in random order. One person in our table of 6 had nothing served after 30 minutes, while others of us had multiple dishes (again, served at random). I want to like you, Kan Zaman. Please try harder.

    (3)

  • Victorious D.

    Everything is good. Literally. I've eaten probably half the menu and it's amazing. They said they are adding to the menu in 2014. Moroccan Mint tea: hot for taste, iced for quantity (not quite as delicious). Hot it is so great. Sooooo great. Lamb couscous: rare, fatty lamb shank, so tender and fantastic with the mmmmm and the omnomnom yes plz. Chicken tajine: sauce is fantastic, chicken tender over excellent fries Lamb tajine: nothing like the chicken. Tender lamb shank with delicious sauce with beans Lamb sausage sandwich: I forget it's name. But holy cow. It comes with fries and this sauce I'm pretty sure could induce orgasm. Fantastic. Lambs a little spicy. Beef sandwich: also forget the name. Tasty, heavy cumin flavor. Desert: orange blossom cheesecake was light and fluffy, good date sauce. Orange slices: refreshing and yummy Banana pancake: tastey and light. My favorite items are the hot Moroccan mint tea, lamb couscous, and lamb sausage sandwich thing. Service is also excellent.

    (5)

  • Geezer B.

    Place used to be fantastic. Great food atmosphere and service was personable and knowledgable on the menu. Went today and the food was so bland. Waiter got my order wrong and had to send back. The waiter cursed twice very loudly, very unprofessional. Huge shame as this was such a great spot.

    (1)

  • Saltwatersweet T.

    Fantastic experience all around-amazing food, atmosphere and service. Absolutely delicious! I know where our weekly girls night dinner is going to be from now on! :)

    (5)

  • Mei-Lan C.

    really was looking forward to try this place . we came here for lunch and ordered the lamb kebab 9.95 $ and falafel 8.95 $ . the portions were generous and the waiters friendly , but unfortunately it was really dry. both my husband and me had to take a sip of water after every bite we took. don't get me wrong , it didn't taste bad , just dry . maybe it was the combination of pita bread with hummus and tahini but no salad or veggies in the wrap that made it dry . there was salad on the side , but it didn't made a difference when we added it to the wrap.

    (3)

  • Cindy L.

    Moroccan food in Hawaii is rare, so I was excited to try Kan Zaman. I went there for lunch and was surprised to find out that they actually have an outside seating in the back of the restaurant. It's a cute little area that can fit 15 people comfortably. I tried out their lunch menu, price ranges from $9 to $13 for kebabs and sandwiches. They also have entrées that run from $15 to $19. I had the lamb kebab for $10, comes with a side salad. It was very good and the portion was generous. Service was quick and friendly. Great downtown lunch place!

    (3)

  • Chris J.

    This is a great place, even if you don't have much experience with middle-eastern cuisine. I got the beef shwarma - one of the best that I've ever had (I've traveled extensively around the Mediterranean). The baklava isn't made in-house, but was pretty good, nevertheless. Highly recommended.

    (4)

  • Ada R.

    Had a quick dinner there the other night. We ordered the big pot of tea which was delish. Ordered a sampler appetizer but really didn't need it after we recieved our order. There was just so much food given for each dish ordered. The food was awesome! Great place to visit. Will do so again soon.

    (5)

  • Chris C.

    This was my first time here. My daughter had a school assignment to try some new food and write a review. I had asked her to do mine but she rejected that idea and told me to write it myself. Onto the story...nice and small restaurant with outdoor seating. The outdoor seating was like sitting on someone's back porch looking out into the backyard. Comfortable and relaxing. I ordered the braised lamb shank. It tasted good, but I was expecting an explosion of exotic spices in my mouth. I have never been to this type of restaurant or have eaten authentic Moroccan food so I didn't know what it's supposed to taste like. My son really enjoyed his beef shawarma. It had the right kick of flavors that I was looking for. I'll go again, however, I think I'll ask for suggestions from the server before ordering.

    (3)

  • Sheila Marie C.

    Really good food and had a really awesome waitress! I want to go back here again! The lamb kabob was the bomb! The meat just melts in your mouth!

    (5)

  • Mandie C.

    FOOD WAS BLAND! Pretty dissappointed in this place, how do you have bland lebanese food? 3 of us went ordered entrees and appetizers (don't remember which ones cause they were very unremarkable). Good thing about this place it is BYOB. Maybe it should be bring your own spices too. Service was okay, but it took awhile just to get waters and wine glasses. I wouldn't go back, to many good places to eat downtown.

    (3)

  • Daniel C.

    From the first time I've been here and the many times I've been back, the food here is awesome! Susannah greets you with a warm smile and gives you the option to dine inside the restaurant or out back under a very nicely decorated deck area. Both are good, just depends on what you're in the mood for. I haven't had anything bad here yet but I particularly like the lamb dishes and always get the Mezza Sampler here. The food comes out very quickly in large portions. I feel so healthy after having lunch here. Kamal was very kind to ask about our experience and thanked us for dining at Kan Zaman. This place reminds me of the diversity of good food in the bay which I do miss from time to time. Parking is street parking but it's a close walk from most downtown office and residential buildings. The last thing that blew my mind is the fragrent liquid they put on your hands after you eat. It just makes your hands feel so clean and smell quite good. The smell isn't too over powering but just subtle enough to remind you of the great dining experience you just had.

    (5)

  • Little D.

    Kan Zaman is located at where "Café Joy" used to be, mountain side of Tea at 1024, across from Chinatown Gateway Parking. I missed Shogunai Tajine food after they stopped serving. I tried to follow Shogunai Tacos, but that was over as well. I am so glad Chef Kamal's food is back! Just open this restaurant 08/25/13. Lunch time menu is good for one, Main course is good for two. I will be a regular! Service is awesome as well.

    (5)

  • Ian K.

    Have been here multiple times. Great food. Lentil soup is rich and satisfying. Squeeze lemon in to kick it up. Lamb kebab sandwich is amazing. This time I had a lunch date who was running really late and Jared took great care of me. Service is also 5 Stars. Thank you, Jared!

    (5)

  • caroline c.

    One word describes it......WOW!!! Went with some girlfriends for a birthday dinner, we sat outside on lanai and let me say it didn't even seem like we were in Honolulu, the seating was intimate and you felt like you were in the Middle East. It was a wonderful cool night so it was perfect. It was PACKED!! and that was a Monday night! The outdoor area had some large parties, so I must say it was too noisy, but still lovely. I wish I knew the name of our waitress (shame on me), she was running her legs off, way to many people for 2 girls (I think they got got caught off yard since it was a Monday night), regardless, she was so sweet under all that pressure. She was very in tune with the menu and was such a help for us being there for the first time. They do not have a liquor license as of yet, so feel free to bring whatever beverage you like , no corking fee! We ofcourse started with quite of few appetizers, because we couldn't choose! Messi Sampler...EXCELLENT!! Falafel, I was not impressed as I have eating quite a bit of falafel in Israel and this was the ONLY thing not up to par. It tased very dry rather than light and fluffy. The french fries with the aloi dip were so good...yummy!! The Warak Inhab were very tasty and the House pulled Mozzarella with zaatar, was very different , not what I expected but good enough. Entress.....I personall had the Lamb Tajine, because my husband doesn't care for lamb so any chance to have it I jump on. It was delicious !! So much food! The white beans under the shank would have been enough to eat. Other had Chicken Tajine, one gal is not fond of thighs.. but tasting it was yummy! Oe had Vegetarian coucous, she finished it all! Of course far to full we order the Baklava..perfection!!! and The dessert pancake, it was OK, but not really my thing. Will I go back????? Is there a doubt??? Ohhh there is a parking lot about 1/2 block away across from the beach , its an outside parking lot (I'm not too fond of most the the Financial District parking structures. and its $5.00 for the entire time and we were there for 3 hours. MAKE SURE YOU HAVE A RESERVATION!! this place is taking off. Thank you for a wonderful dinner, Zan Zaman!

    (5)

  • Kristian C.

    We rented out the place for a formal dinner, the staff was more than willing to help. Very happy with their services. The food was absolutely amazing the chicken and lamb was amazing. I was skeptical to eat this type of food but I'm glad I did. The environment was great, the out door seating was a nice touch as well. Thanks again Kan Zaman, I would recommend this place to anyone. -Rowdy B

    (5)

  • Bruna I.

    Great Atmosphere and good food..Just a little overpriced.

    (4)

  • John H.

    This place was a unique experience and made for a lovely evening for my wife and I celebrating an anniversary. The service was quite friendly and the food was well prepared and full of flavor!

    (5)

  • Kevin C.

    Had a groupon for $15 and the food was really good. I got the chicken kabob which was really good. The dining area is small but I had take out. I prolly would come back here if I visit Hawaii again.

    (4)

  • Roxanne R.

    This place is pretty great. It's BYOB. I've never had food here I didn't like. Nice how they give you rose water on your hands after.

    (5)

  • D M.

    Chinatown's historic, Nu'uanu Ave, has played home to a great number of businesses in the last century and most recently Kan Zaman. Kan Zaman is a small restaurant serving Moroccan and Lebanese influenced food. The dinning area hosts about twelve tables. When the restaurant is full it gets quite loud and can be hard to hear a conversation. Upon entering I was greeted warmly by the three servers working that day. There is an out door patio which in downtown is a gem. I have returned on a couple other occasions and normally the courtyard is taken by a group so if it is available and the weather is nice I suggest you experience it. The staff has always been very friendly and helpful. The menu has a good selection not too small to limit your choices but not so large as to overwhelm customers and confuse a back of the house staff. If you've never tried lamb before I highly suggest it, Moroccan spices lends itself particularly well with lamb. On my first trip, I was disappointed there was no Mezza sampler. I recently went back to to Kan Zaman and found, to my delight, they had added a sampler. If the sampler is too much I suggest their Hummus or Taktouka. Everything goes best with a refreshing mint tea (served both hot and cold). Whether you are new to Moroccan cuisine or connoisseur Kan Zaman is a must try.

    (4)

  • Seth I.

    Have been here for lunch and dinner and the food and service was outstanding. The lamb sausage is a must, as is the baba ganoush. I loved the lentil soup, though some might find it a bit salty. Make reservations if you're planning on going to dinner as it fills up quickly.

    (5)

  • Charmaine C.

    Wow!!! The food here was phenomenal and service was so wonderful. The hummus was the best ever!! I really enjoyed the Lanai outside. Must go to, I suggest ever. Parking can be a pain but at the very end of the street is parking, pay parking but still parking.

    (5)

  • Tisa T.

    I am totally in love with this place.. This was my first time trying this place out but it totally blew my mind... The food was really tasty and my taste bud thanked me for every bite I took :) the place was very beautiful.. Nice ambience and service. The music made this place more authentic. Their mint ice tea is worth to try for. I ordered chicken tauk and it was the best . will definitely return again. :)

    (5)

  • Debbie R.

    The food here . . .divine. Wonderful kebabs, hummus, falafel and other delightful choices. Lamb sausage-perfect! However, service is a little slow. Be sure you have reservations if you go at lunch, people were waiting out front for seats. I knew this and made a reservation. Got right in, got our seats, but waited 10 minutes before we got menus. I actually had to go ask for them. Then another 10 minutes for our server to finally get to taking our orders. So, my solution? From now on, when I go to Kan Zaman, I will do take out. Food here is simply too good NOT to return. Despite the service, I give this place 4 stars. Would have been 5 if not for the service.

    (4)

  • Grace L.

    As much as I love me some Asian food, it was a nice treat to munch on something a little different! Their location in right in Chinatown, with parking being a bit difficult. We ended up paying $10 for the open parking lot towards Nimitz cuz honestly, we were lazy and are tummies were complaining too loud hehe The waitstaff were all very friendly, although they don't seem to communicate with each other so we were asked to order drinks, order food, and about boxing things up several times each. From a management point of view, I would fix that. It may also be a little less confusing if you had one main waiter/waitress rather than the "everyone for themselves" tactic. But for us, it was no big deal so, whatevs. Okay, now for the good part.. the food was AHHHHH so yummy! The iced mint moroccan tea was DELICIOUS and for the chang part of me, all-you-can-drink!! YAY!!! We ordered some mezza: stuffed grape leaves (yum!), baba ghanoush (excellent!), falafel (delish! but the sauce was way too thick, like creamy peanut butter consistency.. yuck), and the fries (AMAZEBALLS with the tahini sauce!! just don't order this if you are ordering the chicken tajine though cuz it will be fries overkill.. yes there is such a thing i promise) For the main courses, the shish kebob was tender and well flavored but I have to say that the chicken skewers won by a landslide. However they marinated and seasoned it.. bravo!! If you like lamb, the lamb tajine was super tender (gamey for my taste but I don't really like lamb) and really well cooked. It's a huge dish so be hungry. Oh and what REALLY stole the show.... drumroll please... the RICE! That came as a surprise to me cuz I'm a noodle girl, not a rice girl. But their rice was so buttery and flavorful zOMG. actually... i stole my friend's leftovers so i'm gonna go munch on some rice right now muhahahahah

    (4)

  • Fern K.

    Late Post: Last Tuesday, November 18, 2014, my nephew (Kamahana Kealoha) & I once again had lunch at my favorite Arabic/Mediterranean Cuisine Restaurant - Kan Zaman! He had the Beef Kebab (my favorite dish) & I wanted to try something different & tried the Chicken Shawarma & it was absolutely phenomenal! I have yet to be disappointed by the cuisine served here! My old time friend & part-owner, Yousef Dakroub, & other part-owner, Jemmari Kamal, have done an outstanding job on the menu, decor & ambience of this restaurant!

    (5)

  • Terri K.

    This place is simply amazing. My friend and I went on a week night and the seating was limited there but we were determined to go. We started off with their homemade Moraccan Mint Iced Tea....wow. I've tried a bunch of teas before and this is definitely up high on my list. It's a must try. We then got the sampler appetizer which was simply amazing. There were 4 different hummus dips with the bread. Just looking at the presentation of the dosh had my mouth watering. The flavors are so bold yet doesn't over stimulate your palate. Everything is well balanced. Moving onto our entrées..I got a chicken dish and my friend got the lamb. Everything was cooked perfectly and seasoned very well. I'm definitely bringing my husband next. Such a great small restaurant that deserves a lot of recognition. Cheers Kan Zaman! Keep bringing the fantastic food.

    (5)

  • Rozie A.

    The lunchtime rut is nothing new when you work in Downtown Honolulu. My escape is Kan Zaman where I can tuck away on the back courtyard patio and dine al fresco without seeing every co-worker on their lunch break. The sounds of middle eastern music and aroma of exotic spices are also just the right mix for sensory escapism. For lunch, you cannot go wrong with the Chicken Kebab (Chicken Taouk for dinner) which is spiced and grilled to near perfection. The Kofta Sandwich is also tasty and filling. All for the price of a plate lunch. The babaganoush is a smokey swirl of heaven and the tabouleh is fresh and zesty. I love middle eastern food and I'm glad we have Kan Zaman for my mid-day eastern fix.

    (4)

  • Jocelyn Z.

    Where do I even start with Kan Zaman? Absolutely awesome! I had the fish of the idea which was mahi mahi with shrimp and moroccan potatoes and I literally finished the whole thing. It was perfectly flavored and cooked. For an appetizer we had the hummus and pita, but that hummus was absolutely phenomenal. I definitely haven't tried hummus that good anywhere in CT. Besides their great food, their service is awesome!! I never had to ask for anything because the multiple servers pretty much read my mind at all times. I love the environment, service, and food at Kan Zaman... I just hope they could one day relocate to CT! Hahahah, definitely recommend coming here!

    (5)

  • Rissa K.

    Great spot! Very intimate and great service! There's a cute lil outdoor seating area too. This place is also BYOB! I had the Chicken Taouk which was huge portion but I ate almost all of it because it was so yummy! It came with 2 chicken kabobs, pita and hummus, tabouleh and tasty rice! The serving portion is huge! Will def be back to try other things on the menu!

    (4)

  • Michelle F.

    Enjoyed a girls dinner on the outdoor patio. Brought a few bottles and wine and had a fabulous night. I ordered the chicken taouk and loved it. Huge serving, delicious flavors and perfectly cooked. Hummus was amaze. The best part of my entire meal was the refreshing iced mint tea. Absolutely divine. I would go back for that tea alone!

    (5)

  • C H.

    The lamb was perfect. Even the salad that came with my lamb sandwich had good flavor. I'm definitely coming back to try dinner. The baklava was good. I am not sure I would get it again. My friend had the chicken shawarma and loved it.

    (4)

  • Paul K.

    I have come here twice to validate that they are worthy of all five of my stars. They clearly are and not only is the menu very authentic, cuisine delicious, the staff full of Aloha but the location is perfect and there's tons of parking. The dishes I tried and sample platters were all exemplary and very balanced tastes for the local peeps like me have been accommodated perfectly. I overheard the staff coordinating huge parties here as well and I check and they do affordable rates to host parties here in the restaurant and the beautiful space they have outdoors and back café! Even the restroom is emasculate. Coming back again soon! Brenda and Suzanne gave great service too!

    (5)

  • Rob B.

    Chef Kamal and Chef Youssef are serving authentic moroccan and lebanese cuisine in a new downtown location. I was fortunate to already try several dishes on the menu and my mouth is watering to eat more! I started with a simple but delicious chickpea puree with tahini, lemon juice & olive oil served with pita bread. My first main course was a braised Chicken Tajine with saffron, coriander, lemon, cumin, smoked paprika and olives. This also came with fries which I dipped into the broth which was a delicious treat. Next was the steamed Vegetarian Couscous in a flavorful broth with carrots, pumpkin, potatoes, zucchini, tomatoes & chickpeas. This had a delicious buttery taste and went perfectly with the beans that came with the Tanjia style braised lamb shank. This was followed by a light desert of fresh sliced oranges with sugar, cinnamon & orange blossom. After my glass of wine I tried the Moroccan mint tea with orange blossom, perfectly sweet and delicious but my favorite part was the way the tea is poured. Inside the decor was modern but still had a sense of tradition. In addition to the main restaurant area, you can also go to the back where there are several tables under the outdoor gazebo with a nice view of a grassy yard. The prices are very reasonable and the flavor is amazing! I have no doubt that Chef Kamal and Chef Youssef's Kan Zaman will be a huge success!

    (5)

  • Victoria C.

    Absolutely love the food here! Didn't realize Moroccan food could be so good. We got a little sample of babaganoush & pita bread.. I could not stop eating it! I ordered the chicken taouk which came with chicken kabobs, rice, tabouleh, hummus & pita bread.. so much food! Everything was really good and flavorful. I especially loved the rice. Only thing I wished was giving more pita bread cause there was a lot more hummus and not enough pita for it. Oh well, the portions are still very generous and I enjoyed everything there! I also tried the banana pancake type dessert which my friends were not too fond of but I actually really liked it. It has a very jasmine-y taste. Overall I was pleasantly surprised by this restaurant and will definitely be back!

    (4)

  • Stacie O.

    My husband and I had a great dinner at Kan Zaman during restaurant week. We started with the appetizer and enjoyed it tremendously. The hummus and babaganoush were my favorites, but the amount of pita bread they gave wasn't enough. We paid two more dollars for more pita. For entrees, my husband got the chicken schwarma and I got the vegetable couscous. They were both tasty and filling. The baklava dessert had to be doggy bagged because we were stuffed. The only room we had left in our stomachs was for the tea that came with the restaurant week deal. It was refreshing and a nice ending to a delicious and satisfying dinner experience.

    (4)

  • Zeshan C.

    I love Arab food, and this definitely the best I have had on the island! Sat in the outdoor seating in the back, it had a nice and quaint courtyard feel. Went for lunch and had the merguez sandwich. It was super tasty and fresh! Also, had the Moroccan mint tea which was very refreshing! Will be coming back for dinner at some point!

    (5)

  • Kelly G.

    Friday night, I call in to ask for seating for 8 and the lady said no problem! So half of us arrived to get the tables....womp womp, tables aren't ready. When we asked one of the servers his reaction was "Who did you speak to? ... Oh ya, that's why." So they tell us it would be another 30 mins until a table of 8 would be ready. So we head to Murphy's for a drink and the other half decided they didn't want to wait. Back in we go at half hour later and we are seated indoors. Got the chicken and beef kebobs. Both were delicious. I asked for the hummus to be replaced with babaganoush (since we got hummus for an appetizer) - it was smokey and delicious. Servings were generous, mah belleh was content, but the pricing was a touch high for my taste. Each kebob plate as just under $20 a plate. Cute ambiance. Nice outdoor seating in the back. Again, food is delicious, just not sure how I feel about the pricing. BYOB! They can provide glasses AND had our white wine chilled at the beginning when we had our wait.

    (3)

  • Monica B.

    Great restaurant. Delicious food and great service. We came here for a birthday dinner this last April. We had a pretty big party and we reserved rather late - but they were able to accommodate us and were so wonderful. The entire party loved what they ordered. We had a lot of lamb kabob orders and a few appetizers - all delish. We definitely plan to return to try out the rest of the menu. Great ambiance too. I also brought a cake from elsewhere and they were happy to store it in their fridge while we ate and presented it after the meal - exceptional. Worth a trip into town for sure.

    (5)

  • Chet Y.

    Hankering for some good Mediterranean food & heard about this place in Chinatown. We were not disappointed, the food, service & ambiance were great. We had Babaganoush- charcoal grilled eggplant puree & pita bread for pupu which started dinner off right! I had the Lamb Kebab served on a bed of rice & hummus with pita slices. The Lamb was very tender & flavorful. My wife had ChickenTaouk which was a kebab too, which was equally as good as well. They served a lot. We both couldn't finish. The price was reasonable for what we got. Their mint ice tea with dinner was excellent. We'll be back.

    (5)

  • Nadine K.

    The food was full of flavor, service was good, and mint iced tea was refreshing. I will definitely dine here again

    (5)

  • Erik H.

    Delicious. Absolutely delicious. And the staff was genuinely nice and welcoming. The food, the people, the whole experience made me feel good. Even the background music was awesome.

    (5)

  • Rona L.

    The food deserves a 5 but after factoring in the service they get a 4. Yes this place in in Chinatown which is known for lots of homeless & druggies and NO parking. However, the food is good and the decor is very inviting. I really like the outdoor seating...yes its hot out there but really?? We live in Hawaii soooooo....um yeah anyway...Did I say the food is good... The lamb and chicken were prepared perfectly (tender) and the flavor was AMAZING!! I want to go back an try everything on the menu...oops I almost forgot to mention that they have THE BEST mint tea & free refills...I think I had 4 glasses :-)

    (4)

  • Robo-belly A.

    I'm going to write a brief review for now because I really feel like I need to give them another chance. I've eaten here twice, and while I don't share in the glee-ful reviews of my fellow yelpers, I do think the restaurant has potential. In short - the food was good, but not amazing. I think maybe if you've never had authentic Moroccan and/or Lebanese food, you might think it's out of this world, but myself and other friends who've had a taste of the authentic stuff elsewhere feel differently. Like many other restaurants in Hawaii that try to bring some sort of "ethnic" flavor, they fall short of doing just that - bringing flavor. I know they can, just not sure why they've chosen not to. Make it AUTHENTIC with the spices and taste that we've come to expect from these types of restaurants if they were in their own home country, or even on the mainland for that matter. Perhaps they could offer two options for patrons - the "bland" option for people who can't handle it, and the "proper" option for those of us who want to be bathed in spices and flavor. I'm not the only person that feels this way, fyi. Anyway, I really want to like this place, and I kind of do. The fries, for example, are amazing. The hummus lacked some zing (compared to Olive Tree), but isn't bad. The Merguez was pretty tasty actually, and the Lamb Kebab was pretty decent - again, the kebab could have been AMAZING if they didn't hold back on spices and flavor; both of those dishes were pretty good for the $10-$12 range, and quite filling at that. The Lamb tajine, however, was my least favorite dish - while the lamb itself was cooked to perfection, it was extremely bland (for my taste); and for $20, honestly, I expected a lot more - as should anyone. I'm sure the other dishes are much better, and while I'm eager to try them all, the $18-$22 price point makes me hesitant. Service and staff are top notch. I think I may have inadvertently met on of the chefs, too, and he's a really nice guy. A+ hospitality and friendliness. Love the decor of the space, too. It's simple, yet has a lovely character that adds to the overall ambiance and feel of the restaurant. It's really nice to see these types of establishments pop up in downtown, because this community really needs it. I'm in full support of Kan Zaman and I want them to grow, expand their menu and thrive as a business. I hope they can at some point bring the flavor up to the levels that some of us expect from "ethnic" food, and lower the prices just a tad. $10-$12 for their lunch menu items aren't too bad for a downtown restaurant that offers something different. However, I find that their dinner menu items are a little pricey at $18-$22 for just the entrees. Anyway, I think I'm going to wait a month before I go back. I want to try more dishes here, and I really WANT to rave about this spot to all my friends instead of having to pause before I answer the "how was it?" questions. I'm hoping that by then they'll be able to work through the kinks and improve their restaurant on all levels. Please guys, give us some food to drool over!

    (3)

  • Eva F.

    Delicious food! I ordered the lamb kebab, and it comes with hummus, rice, and tabouleh. The meat was tender and flavorful, and a healthy sized portion. Good service and reasonable prices. I would definitely come here to eat again!

    (4)

  • Amy N.

    I've been here a couple times and each time is always great! The food is amazing. Something I always order every time is the fries. The garlic and sumac aioli is just ridiculously good and addicting. It has the perfect balance of saltiness, tanginess, sweetness and creaminess. The portions here are really large, so be prepared to take home leftovers. The first time I came here I had the lamb tajine. Let me just say first that I hate beans. I hate the texture and the grittiness of it. BUT the beans with the lamb tajine was really good especially when you have the lamb and beans in one bite. Perfect combination together. Second time I came here I had the catch of the day, which was mahi mahi cook in butter with rice. This was pretty amazing, too! Although when the plate came out, the bottom was just soaked in butter. I was a little bothered by it but it added more flavor to the rice. I came here a third time for lunch, unfortunately I don't remember what I ordered! I know I definitely ordered the fries and salad.

    (4)

  • Bryon S.

    Every Mediterranean restaurant I've ever been to has had a lot of vegetarian options but not this one. Only one main course was vegetarian and it was horrible. The vegetables were over cooked and mushy and the couscous was bland. I couldn't even eat it. Blah no flavor whatsoever. I gave 2 stars because my friends enjoyed their food but I will never go back.

    (2)

  • LeaDan Y.

    First of all, I HAD to try it because, well, how many Moroccan Lebanese restaurants do you know in Hawaii? ... Exactly! I was also trying to find something healthy to eat and wasnt at all disappointed. My friends started off with the fries as an appetizer. That choice was lame sauce, on my friends part. I couldnt eat it, for my own health reasons, and we could have ordered fries anywhere. For dinner, I ordered the Vegetarian Coucous, my boyfriend ordered the Lamb Couscous, and my friend ordered the Chicken Taouk with yogurt which he described as being akin to dipping lobster in butter. We all enjoyed our meals and would definitely return for more. We werent as impressed with the dessert since the Katayef really just tasted like a banana pancake. Though the Baklava was among the best wed ever tried. My favorite though was the Moroccan Min Tea. Though if you want to drink more of it, then get it iced. If you dont mind paying for additional pots and you want to try a smoother version, then get it hot.

    (4)

  • Connie H.

    Food was good but one thing that bothered me, did their babaganoush taste like hummus to you? I didn't taste as much eggplant as usual....

    (3)

  • Sedat E.

    Good food slow service. Some halal items like lamb tajin beef skewer. Very good ambiance, back yard open air section is great if it's not raining

    (4)

  • Nani P.

    Mingled with other small businesses on Nuuanu Avenue, the setting as you enter makes you wonder why you came here....until you go to the outside dining area! Very romantic/intimate setting. It's very popular with families...good food, great customer service! Love the environment. BYOB.

    (4)

  • John C.

    I knew nothing about Moroccan and Lebanese food before I came here. I just thought about that Ben Stiller in Along Came Polly so I figured it would be super exotic. The setting was quite different but very nice. You have the option of sitting outside. Service was outstanding because we got our food pretty fast and we got checked on a few times. Lentil soup - Nothing exotic about it but I hadn't had it in years so it was a nice change. Falafel - I didn't know what it was but other people here said to get it and it was small patties of what looked like meat that you're supposed to eat with pita bread and a white dipping sauce. Lamb Tajine - Juicy and tender lamb that is served in a bean soup. It comes with a plate of pita bread. Someone here suggested getting rice with it but I think it is unnecessary because you'll get full from the dish. Baklava - This was our dessert. Yelp user Sean M. described it as "chopped almonds and walnuts sweetened and layered between sticky coated sheets of crispy and chewy phyllo pastry, as well as sweet oranges scented with sugar, cinnamon and orange blossom, and a katayef." There was enough to feed two people and we are definitely bringing wine next time because that's what other people were doing.

    (4)

  • Lynn T.

    Great food at reasonable prices with large portions. Attentive, prompt service and a casual atmosphere. We shared two appetizers and one entree and were stuffed! The lamb kebob was delicious! Wish I had known it was BYOB!

    (4)

  • Allen H.

    The hummus is delicious and the owner is a gracious host. We had a wonderful dinner, loved the food, and the price is very reasonable.

    (5)

  • Leslie A.

    It was a hot, humid day. My boyfriend and I sat outside in the back area and ordered the mint tea. It was lightly sweetened, cool, refreshing, and delicious! Perfect for the weather. We split the Lamb Gyro and Kofta Chicken Sandwich for lunch. Each bite was so flavorful! Both came with a large portion of salad. The dressing was sweet and fresh. The pita was soft and more on the doughy side, which I like because other places I have ate at, the pita will become dry and hard if not eaten shortly after it is served. We were stuffed. At the end of the meal, I asked "Which dish did you like the most?" We both couldn't decide because both dishes were so good. Will definitely be back soon!

    (5)

  • Chloe G.

    I have been to this restaurant about 5 times. Each experience was divine and wonderful. The staff were incredibly sweet, kind, respectful and attentive. You can see the passion for their job in their eyes and their smiles are genuine. I see them walking around, helping people to their best abilities and smiling for the smallest things. This makes the atmosphere 10x happier. The food is delicious. What else can I say? Everything on the menu is awesome. The cooks are doing a wonderful job...keep up the good work! I will be coming back here all the time. First restaurant I've been impressed with in a long time (I'm very picky). Blessings!

    (5)

  • Diane O.

    This is one of my favorite restaurants in Honolulu. The food is fresh, delicious and original. Their hummus and babaganoush sp? are to die for. Wait staff is friendly and service is wonderful. It is BYOB.

    (5)

  • Gina S.

    I went to Kan Zaman the first time on a Wednesday night because I heard belly dancers were performing. I didn't give too much thought to the food at the time. Wow! My man, his son, and I were pleasantly surprised how fantastic the food was! I was happy I made reservations in advance to get the outside seating, which was lovely. The boys had meat dishes that looked delicious to my non-meat eating gaze and they left not a bit on the plate. I had the vegetarian appetizer platter (Mezze Sampler with stuffed grape leaves, babaganouh, and hummus) with the lentil soup (all soups are vegetarian!!!)...YUMMY!!! I woke the next day craving their food, a sure sign I will make this my regular spot! Now, lets talk about the entertainment...AH-Ma-Zing!!! Ms Malia Delapenia danced that night and we were treated to a fabulous performance with beautiful costuming, finger cymbals, sword dancing, and FIRE on her head!!! What!? Her professionalism and skill was incredible as she paid individual attention to every single guest. She carried herself with a very respectful yet romantic demeanor that brought the already romantic atmosphere to a higher level. The next time I visited I went, with a girlfriend who also loves the dancing, on another Wednesday night. This time I had the Harira Soup, a tomato based soup that I now crave on a regular basis and the Moroccan Salad that is simply delicious! My friend had the vegetarian couscous that she loved and we both enjoyed the BYOB wine that just highlighted the meal. The dancers were amazing! This time we were inside and I was worried I'd miss the best part of the show. I was mistaken. There were TWO dancers (Malia and Cassie) dancing twice each and they performed both inside and outside equally. I felt spoiled with so much entertainment, the good food and I didn't break my budget! I haven't yet gone for lunch but I do so love my Wednesday night visits where I get my taste buds tantalized and my cultural arts fix at the same time. I am so happy to have a place like Kan Zaman Downtown. Looking forward to trying more YUMMY menu items and seeing more of Malia and her insane skills!!!

    (5)

  • Paul O.

    Harira soup, Katayef, Lamb Tajine, belly dancer for entertainment, set in the old part of town, not too loud, friendly staff. A totally blissful experience. I would recommend a visit.

    (4)

  • Taylor M.

    Made reservations on a Thursday night because after reading the reviews on how crowded this place gets I was a bit worried about getting a table. Upon arriving to our 6:30 reservation, the place was empty so it was perfect! We got to sit outside where it is beautiful! Very nice, peaceful and calming. Our waitress was so sweet and explained some of the menu items we didn't understand. I ordered the lamb kebob and the lamb was delicious but I felt like my plate was missing some flavor. We had other dishes as well like the beef kebob, lamb tajine, & chicken tajine. I tried a bite of everyone's food and it felt like it was missing flavor as well. I'm not a expert when it comes to Moroccan/Lebanese food so my review might not be as helpful. This place was great though! I liked the ambiance and the service.

    (3)

  • Michelle W.

    We really enjoyed the chicken kebab plate. The chicken was plentiful and very moist and juicy. The hummus was not too garlicky and very creamy. My husband loved the rice as well. A must try!

    (4)

  • Liz P.

    Food was fantastic-- large portions and every bite was delicious!

    (5)

  • Lauren M.

    They were PACKED when I went (only once) and we had a reservation. They messed up our reservation but did their best to accommodate us, which was a sincere attempt. They are friendly, and the food is pretty good. Don't order the chicken... The lamb is great! I'd try them again but it wasn't my favorite dining experience for sure!

    (3)

  • Marcia C.

    I happened upon this place the other day as I was taking care of some errands and I decided to give them a try. I love Middle Eastern food and there aren't many places on the island. This restaurant did not disappoint. The food is amazing! I ordered the lamb kebob dinner and it was beyond scrumptious. Came with rice and hummus. Large portions too that lasted me 2 days for a great price. I will definitely be going back first chance I get. The restaurant is lovely and clean. I want to go back at night to take advantage of the courtyard dining area outside and hopefully catch some belly dancing. The host was very friendly as well and I got my food quick.

    (5)

  • BubbaluArare G.

    other than being in downtown (where i hardly tread because i can't be bothered trying to figure out parking) and CRAMPED for our group, i rather enjoyed our meal here! since we came in a larger group of 13, we were prearranged to be seated in the back "garden" area which is really squishy and quite uncomfortable as they managed to pack in two other groups with us in that gazebo-like back patio area. with screaming kids it was also rather noisy but if you BYOB after a while you won't really care. the food was pre-ordered since our group was too big and we were happy to work that menu out with kamal. he was very responsive and managed to get a decent spread worked out within the price range we desired. because one of our peeps flaked at the last minute we had to cover for her so from $30/head we wound up paying an extra $3. which was fine cos i enjoyed dinner. here's what we ordered: - mix green salad with cucumbers, red radishes and orange blossom vinaigrette yummers. fresh and light. i couldn't really taste the orange blossom water but it might have been the beers getting in my way. - homemade hummus standard. tasty but more on the course side. -taktouka: roasted peppers and tomato dip YUMMS! i loved this. savory and great with the accompanying pita - grape leaves with yogurt sauce not one of my favorite things to order but it was fine. the middle part was very firm and i thought i was eating ground chicken actually, lol - lamb kebob WHOLEY SMOKES BATMAN!!! i don't usually even like lamb. this was NOT gamey and it was extremely tender and flavorful, served with some sliced cooked onion and yogurt sauce. sooo sooo good. -chicken kebob ( Lebanese style) boring. at least it was well seasoned and juicy for chunks of seasoned breast meat. - rice pilaf sooo ssoooooo good with the lamb! that's all i needed was that lamb and this rice. i swear it is so good because it is dressed with ghee or gobs of butter anyway (the nose knows)!!! but it's light and fluffy and just plain yummers. - pita for all the apps. - Moroccan iced tea standard. some peeps have complained about poor service but we were well taken care of! even the chef popped out to ask how we liked our dinner! everyone was all smiles and very pleasant and accommodating! i told one of the owners i will surely be back if i ever make it back into downtown, heh. btw, they share restrooms with Tea at 1024 it looks like...

    (4)

  • Susan F.

    The restaurant is small and reservations are recommended but Ashley quickly seated us on a Saturday evening. We ordered the Babaganoush, falafel, lamb kebab and iced Moroccan mint tea. Everything was delicious, service was spot on and enough food for two to bring leftovers home. Next time we'll bring a bottle of wine.

    (4)

  • Melissa S.

    I went there this past Friday with my boyfriend. We made reservations because it was First Friday so figured maybe it would get busy, but when we got there we were the only ones. They did ask if we made reservations so I guess it was a good thing that I did make one. We ate there 2 other times for lunch so I figure going there for dinner would really be a deal breaker for a Yelp Review. Dinner was 10x better than lunch and lunch was pretty dang good. The waiter greeted us and took us to the back of the restaurant which I didn't even know they had. My bf was worried that it would be hot outside, but it was so pleasant. Very nice atmosphere, peaceful and if you are looking for a place to rent and have a party I would suggest this place. The only thing is that there is really no parking around here. Its in Chinatown so you would have to find street parking. The food was so good. I had Lamb Kebobs which were perfectly cooked with a little crunch. I was expecting them to come on a stick, but to my surprise they did not. No complaints though. There was of course Hummus and the salad with greens and tomatoes, pita bread and rice along with my lamb. Also this place is BYOB and there is NO CORK FEE! so bring as much bottles as you would like. The workers are so friendly, sooo if you are in Chinatown and looking for a nice place, you have to try out this place! A+++++ for Kan Zaman

    (5)

  • Rni M.

    Went here for lunch on a Saturday. My husband ordered the Mecca Plate and I ordered the chicken shawarma plate. My chicken was tender, plentiful, and tasty. Husband had a delicious selection of hummus, baba ganoush, grape leaves and touka (sp?). Restaurant was not full which was nice for us. I've frequented with a girlfriend on a Monday, and lunch was busy then. Quality of food is consistent.

    (5)

  • Miguel B.

    Great little gem. Awesome service. The staff was extremely friendly and attentive. The food was very well seasoned and tasted amazing. We went for dinner on a Saturday night without reservations. Seating was quick and the food came out fast as well. Great place for a dinner date.

    (5)

  • Dalani T.

    Really like Kan Zaman, as does my husband who is from Egypt but this is pretty close. The staff is great and friendly, remembered us on our second visit and happy we drove all the way in from Makaha. Food is really nice, loved anything with the lamb. The outside sitting area is a little oasis in the heart of town. Definitely recommend.

    (4)

  • Skydebster S.

    We just had dinner there for the first time and we were pretty impressed. We had Lamb Tajine, Beef Kebab, Moroccan Salad, Moroccan Mint Iced Tea, and Baklava. Lamb was a little tough, but flavor was excellent. Beef Kebab came with hummus, pita bread, couscous mixed salad, bedding of rice. Definitely portion was worth the money. I asked for my beef, medium well, so it was a little tough as well. However, excellent flavor. Moroccan Salad is like MUST TRY!! Dressing was just delicious and exotic. Moroccan Mint Iced Tea is also MUST TRY. Refreshing and very clean light taste to it. Baklava was ok... I would say average, nothing special. At the end, they offer Orange Blossom drops to wash your hands and it definitely was a nice touch. I definitely enjoyed their food and service. Would love to go back. This place is in downtown, parking is a little hard and reservation is recommended. Enjoy~

    (4)

  • Angelica Z.

    Mommy date - we shared the mint tea (delicious!) and a dinner plate of Chicken Taouk. Everything was so flavorful and delicious. The chicken was moist, the rice inventive and buttery, and pita/hummus/tabouleh were spot on. The plate was big enough for two not-extremely hungry people and only $16 at dinner! The ambiance was fantastic. Mom and I sat inside the restaurant, and we nabbed a table by the front door near the window. It was the perfect spot - under a little cove. On the way to the bathroom, I spied the outside patio area which looked so fun and cute. Will have to sit there next time, but I was definitely impressed as I thought the indoor seating space was the only seating capacity of the restaurant. I appreciated the little touches, such as the orange-water given to clean our hands post-dinner. The waitress kindly informed us that the oil in the water is actually from Morocco. Speaking of server, I also give 5 stars for service - we were seated promptly and had such a kind and patient server. I'm glad to finally find a mediterranean-style restaurant in Hawaii that is worth going to over and over again (I was spoiled in the SF/Bay Area!). I will be back!

    (4)

  • Vivian D.

    I have come here at least 5 times in the last two months and am always impressed. The flavors in the food are better than any I have tasted in like middle eastern restaurants that I have been to in Northern California (where there is a large middle eastern population). The chicken shawarma and beef shawarma (mountain of delicious bite sized pieces) haunt my dreams. The lamb is beautifully spiced. The appetizer platter is so delicious (do try all of them on the platter). All the portions are huge, but it is hard to stop eating. The sweet mint tea with orange water is inspirational. The outdoor seating is so romantic. The orange water for your hands at the end of dinner is refreshing (take a deep breath of the scent off your hands). Bring your own bottle of wine. I wish they were open today!

    (5)

  • Jan T.

    This is based on the combination of two visits. The first time was a great experience overall. Food was great. The 2nd visit was today, using a Groupon. Had the Chicken Taouk, the chicken was too dry for me. The rest of the food that came with it, rice, sauces, veggie, hummus, pita were good. Website menu prices needs to be updated.

    (4)

  • Shelley N.

    Worst service ever. 8:30 reservation, seated at 9:15. Had two servers because the first server was too afraid to tell us they are out of all types of tawook, shawarma, and HUMMUS. How a Lebanese restaurant runs out of hummus, not sure? Anyways, I know the food is good here, but may not be worth the terrible service. Pick a different restaurant in downtown people. Seriously.

    (1)

  • Aaron C.

    Excellent food, nice ambiance. We sat inside but there is a great outdoor patio area behind that looks like a great space as well. We shared some hummus and tabouleh to start, both were super fresh and really tasty. For dinner I had the lamb couscous which was great, super tender lamb shank, great flavor and my wife really enjoyed the chicken tajine, also super tender chicken with delicious sauce and fries. We shared the turkish chocolate coffee cheesecake which was awesome as well, rich and creamy, great texture and flavor. The waitstaff were all friendly and responsive. Overall great dinner and we will definitely be back... likely requesting to sit outside next!

    (5)

  • Jen B.

    Hubby and I went here for a lunch date. We ordered the falafel for an appetizer, chicken schwarma and lamb kabob for entrees. The Falafel was very dry and crumbly, I would definitely not order again. Both entrees came with a generous salad with a tasty dressing. My lamb was so tender and delicious! My husbands chicken was also tender and seasoned to perfection. My only disappointment with the entrees was the pitas, they were dry and took away from the high quality of the meats.

    (4)

  • Chris W.

    Tried this spot for lunch finally after noticing it about it month ago. Good prices and portion sizes. The lunches are about 12 bucks and include a tasty salad that was overflowing the bounds of the plate. The beef shwarma on pita and falafel on same were excellent. Started with the hummus plate. What is better than fresh hummus? Fresh pita. I don't know how I can eat the store-brought crap again. We will absolutely be back.

    (5)

  • Marcia L.

    Wow, this place gives a lot of pita bread. We had it as a side with our hummus, the lamb entree, as well as the chicken dish. We ended up taking home most of it since there's no way a human can possibly eat that much pita bread. That was the most memorable memory I have of my dining experience here.

    (3)

  • Dede C.

    New favorite place The outside patio was gorgeous and the food was amazing The chicken is delicious, hummus is prime and same with the vegetarian couscous The pancake dessert was too sweet though ... a little on the $$$ side. but worth it.

    (4)

  • Carla P.

    Amazing lunch specials had the lamb kebab sandwich and it was amazing! The mint tea was also great!

    (5)

  • Emmett J.

    Everything cool with this place. Chicken tajin with fries. Hey it works. Good places for educating people try lamb, as theirs in not gamey. BYOB a plus.

    (5)

  • Rachael O.

    Their Lamb is the best! I've been there several times for both lunch and dinner and each time I have been there, everything has been excellent! Their waitstaff is friendly, the food came out in a timely manner, and the food tasted great! Can't wait to go again soon!

    (5)

  • DJ Nocturna R.

    We were lucky to grab the parking right in front of the door of Kan Zaman, a Moroccan and Lebanese cuisine on Nuuanu Ave. Then we were greeted by the representatives of the two countries, briskly even handed a menu in the car at our request. That's great service to be graciously welcomed by the owner Kamal, a true testament to genuine hospitality of the Moroccan culture. As we entered, a familiar handsome gentleman with a French accent quickly seated us to a nice cozy more private corner. This restaurant has a romantic ambiance with dim lights, red and green walls with beautiful art and high ceiling. Everything you can tell were fastidiously selected from the wooden chairs and tables to the painted details on the windows to make dining in this beautiful restaurant a pleasure. Playing the right music certainly sets the mood. Lana ordered the delicious shisk kabob with Basmati rice, and I order lamb shank tagine prepared in a soupy base with white beans. I have to try the other choices in the menu next time. The price is reasonable for both dinner and lunch. Don't leave without dessert-the tender and moist baklava. Even better- The restaurant is BYOB so before you go there, swing by at the Liquor Collection in Ward to get the best wine reasonably priced to compliment your meal. We will definitely go back since its conveniently located in the heart of downtown Chinatown. Thanks for the great dining experience!

    (4)

  • Howard B.

    I'm not coming back here again. Food and service was very repulsive and inadequate. They used the word "authentic" but there is nothing authentic about this place (except the music). I would write more negative reviews about this place but not worth my time. Cheers! (Will post this on Tripadvisor)

    (1)

  • B. Kamahana K.

    Love this place. Can't get enough of all of the items. No where else in Honolulu do I know of a place with the items they serve here. Delicious. Perfectly cooked and seasoned.

    (5)

  • Krystel P.

    Outside seating is a must! Went on Wednesday and the beautiful belly dancer, amazing service and great food will have me coming back soon! Ordered the lamb and appreciated the flavors and tender meat!!!

    (4)

  • Chuco T.

    Holy Cow! This was some of the best stuff I've had in a long time. Its been a little while since my last review, and this has definitely got my foodie blood boiling. The food was absolutely fantastic. First things first, get the baba ghanuj! While their hummus was also delicious, I'm a sucker for a good baba ganoush, and theirs is by far the best I've had yet. Also highly suggested, the "Merguez". Sort of a Lamb Sausage Panini, if I had to describe it. So full of flavor and deceptively filling. I can not wait to get back there and get another one myself. I mean, I have had Chef Youssef and Chef Kamal's cooking before, but they have really raised the bar for their new Chinatown restaurant. I need more, NOW

    (5)

  • Kalani C.

    4.3 stars. Great little restaurant. Sat outside on their deck patio: Very quaint & secluded spot where buildings meet, creating a courtyard. We were greeted warmly & our server was eager & attentive. Service: 4 stars. We started with the Moroccan salad & refreshing grape leaves. Both were decent, fresh, but just average: 2.5 stars. The Baba ghanoush on the other hand was probably the best I've ever tasted. Creamy is an understatement as usual baba ghanoush's texture always seems a bit lumpy. This was heads above that variety and the roasted smokiness of the eggplant sent this into another dimension. It would be a sin not to order this dish: 5 stars! Corkage is zero and they have applied for a liquor license but in the meantime, feel free to bring your favorite beverage. Bring your own crystal if you're one of those that can't stand drinking wine out of taster glasses. Our entrees were two different tajines: The lamb and the chicken. Both were quite amazing dishes and worlds apart. The lamb from New Zealand was fall of the bone goodness and had a wonderful grass-fed taste that made it oh so much more succulent. The chicken was skin on bone in thighs in a delectably rich broth topped with pommes frites. Not overpowered with seasoning, but humbly prepared dishes I enjoyed down to the bone. Both 5 stars! Dessert was the creamy cheesecake with a date sauce with hints of floral water that made up for my preference for thicker texture cheesecakes. Memorable and something I'm already missing: 5 stars! During the meal, the chef visited our table and chatted about our preferences. Nice old school touch (or is that still new but I haven't been getting?) A great experience altogether. Greatly executed with all the right touches that make me eager to return while in the meantime pine for more in their culinary arsenal. Tally: Service: 4 stars Moroccan Salad & Grape Leaves: 2.5 stars Baba ghanoush: 5 stars! Lamb & Chicken Tajine: 5 stars! Cheesecake w/ date sauce: 5 stars! 4+2.5+5+5+5= 21.5/5= 4.3 stars.

    (4)

  • Kastriot K.

    As a man of Mediterranean descent I can assure you that this place is one of the if not the best Mediterranean restaurant in all of Honolulu. The service is great the food is great and the prices are reasonable. The lamb shank the couscous the shish kabob the hummus and the baba ganoush were absolutely perfect and the dolma (rice in grape leaves) are exactly how my mother makes them. The authenticity of this menu is second to none in all of the Hawaiian archipelago.

    (5)

  • Matt M.

    We went to Kan Zaman because it's near the Kumu Kahua Theatre and had some good Yelp reviews. This is a kind of pan-mid-eastern place (Lebanese & Moroccan). I had the merguez sausage couscous and my friend had lamb kebabs. I am not the biggest fan of chunks of lamb, but this meat was simply delicious: moist, savory, tender. I may actually order it myself next trip. The couscous was astounding. The grain itself was the best I've ever had, steamed in water flavored with stock. The sausages were excellent, and the veggies in the couscous were tasty and tender but not cooked to mush. I come from NYC, and eat Arab and Israeli and Middle Eastern a lot, and the best of this cuisine I've ever had is in Honolulu. Which is simply ridiculous. But true. Check this place out.

    (5)

  • Dawn Y.

    Food is amazing! Babaganoush is fluffy and creamy, the couscous light and savory, all the lamb dishes are tasty and beautifully presented. The mint tea is refreshing and just strong enough. The beef shwarma is tender and all entrée portions are generous. Little skimpy on the pita with the mezze platter, but fresh and warm. 4* not 5* because of the lousy service when we were there last time. Problem with reservation, which was solved quickly [+] ordered appetizer and drinks but only appetizer appeared. When entrée arrived, got tea, but no more water and no soft drinks we ordered. After 30" finally got attention from not even our server to ask about missing drinks and empty water glasses. The soft drinks finally arrived 1 hour after we ordered our food. For some reason our waitress would stop at all the tables around us, but never at our table. The soft drink was delivered by the other waiter, who was very nice. My advice to staff? If you screw up with customers, apologize and ask for a reset and just focus on trying to make it end well, that's what counts, especially since the food is epic! My advice to myself? Don't get seated in a dark corner.

    (4)

  • Kimo S.

    I have been here twice since they opened and it was such an amazing experience that I had to bring a friend to try this place to make sure I wasn't imagining how good the food was. I've had the Lamb Kebob lunch plate which is one of the most well stuffed pita plates I have had in ages. This plate is my favorite and while I admit I need to try something else next time, it really is tough when the lamb is flavored and cooked so perfectly. I have had their hot tea and Baklava each time as well and it can not get any better here from start to finish. The wait staff is attentive, kind and exactly what you would expect to have serving you at a fine dining establishment. This place is going to become difficult to get a table soon enough, mark my words, so try it as soon as you can. This really has set the bar high to me.

    (5)

  • Tim R.

    This little place in china town is a true gem! The service was outstanding and the iced tea was the best I have had In Hawaii! I was in for lunch and ordered the beef shwarma sandwich. I was very pleasantly surprised as it was filled with very flavorful beef and hummus on a beautiful, soft, warm pita. The portions are large and the sandwich was served with mixed green salad. I will recommend this special place to all my friends. For those who don't wish to have meat, there are many vegetarian options. There is no reason not to try this great eatery. It is added to my list of great Chinatown restaurants!

    (4)

  • Miki L.

    I dined here for dinner with a friend who happens to adore Middle Eastern food. We both loved it. The small menu makes it easy to make a choice of several small bites or appetizers to full on meals. I had the lamb, my friend chicken. Both tender, well seasoned. Plus we enjoyed a few dips. All in all, our eyes were bigger than our stomach, but can't wait to tackle the leftovers. Portions are generous and very fairly priced. If you have self control, try to share a few things with friends. Otherwise, you too will be taking leftovers home! Service is friendly and helpful. Save room for the sweet mint tea -- hot or cold. Refreshing. Kan Zaman is an intimate spot, with authentic decor and music, and some tables inside and some outdoors (under a covered porch area). And it's BYOB!! I think the outdoor area would be fabulous for a birthday party among friends. Go before this little gem becomes so popular...you'll end up waiting in line.

    (5)

  • Sean M.

    After months of meticulous planning, Kamal Jemmari of Shogunai Tajine and his business partner Youssef Dakroub--previously owner and chef of the Xtreme Tacos food truck--decided to open up Kan Zaman. Unlike Shogunai Tajine, Kan Zaman represents a venue accessible to all who wish to experience the delightful selection of dishes that incorporate influences from the birthplace of the Marrakesh-born Kamal, synthesized with recipes of his Lebanese colleague. Upon entering Kan Zaman, the breathtaking interior establishes an exotic Moorish feel, with vibrant hues of teal, tangerine and crimson complementing the warm wooden furnishings. A stenciled trellis-patterned wall takes the gaze up to the high vaulted ceiling to where elegant endless circle-latticed chandeliers illuminate the inviting space below. Patrons are embraced by the warm aromas of exotic spices, almost transporting them to a Moroccan bazaar. Just outside is an equally charming courtyard seating area incorporating a pre-existing wooden framework that makes for a perfect lunch or dinner setting on those breezy afternoons and evenings. The food is equally impressive, being authentic and approachable. Using a number of spice blends made by Kamal's mother in Morocco, Kamal and Youssef developed a menu starting with traditional lentil and harira soups, and a modest selection of salads including tabouleh and fattoush. There is also a variety of meze with more common finds as a garlicky and thick hummus, a smoky babaganoush and crispy falafel, but stretching the gamut to accommodate more exotic fare as warak inab (grape leaves stuffed with rice, mint, lemon and garlic vinaigrette), taktouka (cooked salad of tomatoes, bell peppers, olive oil, spices and herbs) and briwat (crispy phyllo pie filled with seafood and vermicelli). For the main courses, a few tagine and couscous options are available, as are a shish kabob of perfectly grilled marinated cubes of beef and a shish taouk, which is a grilled chicken brochette. Rounding out the selection are a few desserts, including the must-have baklava, with chopped almonds and walnuts sweetened and layered between sticky coated sheets of crispy and chewy phyllo pastry, as well as sweet oranges scented with sugar, cinnamon and orange blossom, and a katayef, an Arabic pancake topped with creamy banana sweetened with honey, which go well with a pot of the addictive sweetened Moroccan mint tea. Recommended dishes: 1) Tabouleh ($7.95) - Parsley salad with tomatoes, onions and bulgur wheat dressed simply with olive oil and lemon juice had clean, fresh flavors. 2) Babaganoush ($7.95) - Charcoal grilled eggplant puree, tahini, lemon juice and olive oil made for a silky smooth spread. Roasted sesame notes were perfectly integrated into the beautifully smoky eggplant flavors, finished with a lemony acidity. 3) Hummus ($6.95) - The chickpea and tahini puree was thicker than most I have had in the past, but possessed savory garlic and bright acidity. 4) Briwat ($8.95) - Crisp on the outside, the briwat was stuffed with a warm, moist filling of shrimp, squid and vermicelli. 5) Chicken Tajine ($16.95) - The slow-braised moist chicken with preserved lemon, briny olives and saffron had savory touches of coriander, cumin and smoked paprika. 6) Lamb Couscous ($22.95) - The steamed couscous soaked up the flavorful broth enriched from the moist and fall-off-the-bone tender lamb shank with flavors and juices from the carrots, zucchini, tomatoes, potatoes, carrots and chickpeas. 7) Shish Kabob ($17.95) - Tender marinated cubes of beef were moist and perfectly seasoned and served on a bed of fragrant rice.

    (5)

  • Maria G.

    Great new Moroccan joint in Chinatown. Authentic tasting food and convenient to the downtown lunch goers. Got to try the kofta, lamb kebab and falafel. The kofta was prepared almost like a panini and was very tasty. The lamb was soft and succulent. The greens that accompanied the dishes were fresh and yummy. I can't wait to come back at night to try the larger entrees. The lamb cous cous is next on my list. The outdoor patio seating is a plus and can be a romantic setting for a sweet date! Glad to finally have some great middle eastern food in HI!

    (5)

  • Jane M.

    Tasty food, pleasant atmosphere, great waitstaff. The owner was very interested in our level of enjoyment. No corkage fee! We parked in the lot behind Marks Garage for $6 and walked. The only negative was dodging the homeless druggies en route.

    (5)

  • Ann B.

    Kan Zaman serves Morrocan and Lebanese cuisine which I would summarize as exotic comfort food. I've had three meals at Kan Zaman so far; dinner and two lunches and I haven't had anything I didn't like. My favorite would have to be the vegetarian couscous. Zucchini, carrots, kabocha pumpkin, buttery cabbage and chickpeas served on a bed of buttery couscous. I could eat this every day. You can get this alone or with the lamb shank which is served on a tomato based sauce with beans. The sauce goes really well with the couscous. The Chicken Tajine is also a crowd pleaser. Chicken braised in Moroccan spices, topped with french fries. Chef Kamal instructed us to dip the fries in the sauce. Thank goodness I had the couscous to drench the rest of that sauce. We also had the chicken and lamb shish kabobs which were good, but not as unique as the aforementioned dishes which still haunt me. My lunch time favorite so far is the ground beef sandwich. The beef is infused with savory spices, a sauce that mellows out the spiciness of the beef and served panini style, kind of like a cuban sandwich. I typically don't like to eat anything this heavy at lunch, but the flavors are so addicting I couldn't seem to put it down. The portion sizes of the entrees are large. I recommend ordering family style and sharing, unless you're there for lunch. Appetizer and dessert portions are smaller. Lunch items are around $12-14, dinner entrees about $16-24. The hot Moroccan tea is a nice treat after your meal. It's a sweet tea with orange blossom and a hint of mint, served in a silver tea pot and tray. I forgot I was in downtown Honolulu. The decor and vibe is casual, contemporary, Moroccan inspired. There is also an outdoor lanai space that's hidden. You have to go through the hallway as if you're going into the kitchen, at the back of the restaurant. Kan Zaman is a unique, delicious addition to the downtown food scene.

    (5)

  • Sharon L.

    Just excellent, the food and atmosphere! Love the outdoor courtyard and service was great! I had the Lamb Couscous (very large tender shank with tons of vegetables) and Babaganoush with Pita! They were both awesome and I also tasted the Lamb Tajine which was a great dish as well! Moroccan mint tea, Just tasty!!!! Great place for a date, "girls night out" or small party! Will definitely return! Thanks Kan Zaman for a great evening filled with great food and service! Happy 2 months old!

    (5)

  • Reed B.

    Finally! For years I've been saying Honolulu needs more outdoor seating, as well as more Mediterranean offerings. Delicious Middle Eastern/North African cuisine AND outdoor seating?! Color me impressed. Being from the multicultural megalopolis that is New York City, I like to think I've got high standards for my beloved ethnic foods. Moroccan and Levantine foods being favorites of mine, I feel delighted to say that I have finally found my go-to spot here in Honolulu. Chef Kamal's (Shogunai Tacos, Shogunai Tajine) newest venture is his best yet! So far, I've tried the Chicken Tajine, Lamb Tajine, Veggie Couscous, Shish Kebab, Hummus, and Baklava. The lamb is always cooked just right, falls right off the bone and melts in your mouth. The portions are generous, the dishes have great flavor, and the service is friendly. What more can you ask for? Oh yeah, it's also BYOB! P.S. - Don't forget to order the Moroccan mint tea!

    (5)

  • Ralph R.

    Had high expectations for the food here based on the reviews. Obviously these were written by people who have never had real Moroccan/Lebanese food. The ambiance is good. Service is prompt and courteous. Portions are good. What is severely lacking is flavor. The dishes could have been great as they were well cooked but had zero spices. Had the lentil soup, grape leaves, lamb tagine, and mint tea. All had little to no flavor. Will not return.

    (2)

  • Michael G.

    The food here is so good! Service was great! The environment is perfect. I will tell all of my friends and family about this place. I will be back.

    (5)

  • C.A. Ferreira T.

    Great value and lots of tasty food! Lunched with hubby and ordered Kofta and Lamb Kebab. Plates came with generous mixed green salad with a light honey citrus dressing. Food was well spiced but not overpowering on the garlic or spices. The meats were moist, juicy, and you could tell the difference between the lamb and the beef. The food was served quickly considering the place was full. Wait staff was attentive and explained the dishes served. We'll definitely be back!

    (5)

  • Adly M.

    First time I ate at Kanzaman was two years when they just opened it was'nt a great experience. But I went last night and I was amazed how the quality of the food has improve. The food was delicious, Had Lamb with baba ghanouj and rice and some appetizers and mint tea. Delicious Thank you Kamal !

    (4)

  • Lorilynn L.

    The place is very small, the food was alright and price was fair, but the service was a bit stressed. They were not very accommodating and quite rude at some points. They are not prepared for the larger bunch and thats ok, they did inform us, but they were a bit snippy about it. I have had Lebanese cuisine in California and it was different than what I experienced here. I would recommend that you try it for yourself at least once, I haven't decided if i'd go back yet. If you're going to have a large group, make reservations well in advanced, they apparently get full very quick.

    (3)

  • Peter C.

    I walked in the door and was immediately greeted by dark haired man in black. At first I thought he was the Dread Pirate Roberts, but then realized he was the wait staff. The inside dining room was half full. Dread Pirate Roberts seemed to be handling things just fine in his own. Right off the bat, I ordered the Hummus as an appetizer. To my delight the Dread Pirate Roberts responded with "As you wish." The hummus was delicious, but I think they gave me too much. Normally i would say I ran out of Pita because i still had half of my Hummus left. But it's an appetizer and the amount of pita was perfect for one person. So maybe they served me too much hummus. About 2 minutes after I finished my pita and hummus, my main course was placed in front of me. Kofta, a lunch so epic that's it's quite INCONCEIVABLE! The chef came over and asked how everything was: Me: Your food is wonderful. Man in Black: Thank you; I've worked hard to make it so. Me: I admit it, I wish I could eat your food faster. Man in Black: Then why are you smiling? Me: Because I know something you don't know. Man in Black: And what is that? Me: I... am not left-handed. [Moving my fork to my right hand and began to eat faster] Me: You are amazing! So in conclusion I say to my fellow Yelpers: I swear on the soul of my father, Domingo Montoya, you will have the best lunch you've ever had in your life at Kan Zaman!

    (5)

  • Grant S.

    Downtown and Chinatown are becoming the place to eat in Honolulu. Kan Zaman is the collaboration restaurant of chefs Kamal and Youssef formerly of Shogunai Tagine and Xtreme Tacos. A complementary combo of Lebanese and Moroccan cuisine, the food is bright with spices and flavors foreign to the Hawaii palate. Initially I was drawn in by the dinner menu, the lamb tagine and veggie couscous are excellent choices. The lamb is tender and flavorful and the beans underneath are hearty and delicious. The veggie couscous has a nice combination of vegetables including kabocha pumpkin, carrots and chickpeas. But But But But But The reason I come back to Kan Zaman time and again is the lunch. The only thing you need to know is MERGUEZ SANDWICH. The cheesy, savory, spicy sandwich is pure bliss and the reason for countless kanak attacks. The sandwich comes with fries and a garlic aioli which are also amazing.

    (5)

  • Joe L.

    Great Moroccan joint! If you want good Med food go here. We started with the app sampler. Their hummus and bubaganoosh (sp) is fantastic. The special was rack of lamp that was seasoned and cooked perfectly. Oh and a rack of lamb there cost $25. Say what?! Yes, $25. Something like that in any other high end restaurant would be like $45. The only downside is they do not serve alcohol there. However, you can bring your own. I'll be sure to do that next time. Keep it up Kan Zaman!

    (5)

  • Cassie B.

    I absolutely adore this place. Why? FOOD: Their food is amazing. Great quality and great portion sizes are delivered every time I dine here. The fries and the SAUCE the fries are served with are exceptional. And I absolutely adore the chicken tauok during dinner time. GET IT. It comes with hummus, rice, pita, and MORE. And you also get about 10 big chunks of chicken. Such a deal. AMBIANCE: I love this place at night. I have been seated both in the back and in the front areas. The back area is a lot more romantic and dreamy, especially on a clear, breezy night. The back area is also better for larger groups, so make sure to ask if you can reserve that area if you plan on having a large gathering! However, the front area is also pleasant and is great for smaller groups. The vibrant walls help bring a festive air to your dining experience as well! SERVICE: I love the service here. The waiters and waitresses are always friendly. The food also comes quite quickly. I have nothing to say here. Just keep doing what you're doing Kan Zaman! OVERALL: Just come here. JUST COME.

    (5)

  • Devin A.

    I just love this place. Seasonings are very special. Best hummus I ever ate! Everything was yummy. Nice mint ice tea. Excellent Moroccan food near Chinatown

    (5)

  • Lan J.

    The hubby and I chose this place as a date night. We thought the outdoor setting was absolutely lovely. The waiter was very helpful with our selection of food. We started off with the sampler and that was delicious! I ordered the lamb couscous and it had a lovely range of vegetables in it. I was hoping for more vegetables and less couscous, however it was still really good. My husband had the special that night, the lamb shank. The pieces of lamb just fell off the bone. Overall, best Moroccan/Lebanese place on Oahu!

    (4)

  • Fran C.

    I met up with a few friends after work yesterday for some grindz, & a flick. My Yelp buddy Sharon H. picked out the place, so - Kan Zaman was the grindz location. The first thing on my mind when she picked this place was "GLUP!, then YIKES!" After experiencing a similar type food from a place called Shaloha......I started to have flashbacks of my meal there. Lol! After eating my meal, I was pleasantly surprised with my meal I had picked out. I ended up getting the Chicken Tajine which was a chicken in a curry type sauce, topped with french fries. I loved the taste of the chicken, but I wasn't too big on the fries. If I had to say something negative about this dish, I must say it was rather salty for me. I'm not sure if it was caused due to the fries sitting on top of the chicken, or that I tend to eat a lot of bland food, so I noticed the salt content more. Who knows? I also ordered a Moroccan ice tea.........very unique taste, with the strong mint in the tea. My friends ordered the following items - 1. Babaganoush - Charcoal grilled eggplant puree, tahini, lemon juice, & olive oil, served with pita bread. 2. Warak Inab - Grape leaves stuffed with rice, mint, lemon & served with mint yogurt sauce. 3. Pita Bread And one more dish, which I forgot to take a photo of......but I think it was called Falafel - which is a Fried Chickpea Patties served with Tahini sauce. I think they had this same dish at Shaloha too. But the one dish that scared me the most on the menu was - Hummus! Oooooh, man! I had this dish last month, and tried it at Shaloha, and all I can say to that is - "It's definitely NOT for me!" Overall a great meal! Service was excellent!!! Staff was very friendly too! I also noticed there was a sign in the front advertising "Belly Dancing, so I asked the owner, - "Hey where's the belly dancer?" She tells me - Belly Dancing is only on Wednesday night. I then tell her........"Hey you want me to lift up my shirt & shake my big belly for you?" Unfortunately she did not take me up on my offer. Lol! In fact, I think I might have shocked her too! Lol!!!! Oh well, it was worth a try! Anyways, if you're a foodie adventurer, you may want to give this place a go!

    (4)

  • Crissy K.

    I have never been to Morocco, but if I ever go there, I would like to think that the food will be exactly like what they have at Kan Zaman. Why? Because it's just THAT good! My friends and I admittedly only discovered this treat of a restaurant through Groupon. But now that we've been there, we'll definitely go back! Their entree portions are already huge, but you also have to try the appetizers, so you will always go home with leftovers. We love the fava bean starter and the baba ghannouj, both of which were simply a delight for the senses. For an entree, I had the lamb kebab, which was overflowing with delectable meaty morsels and, of course, more pita bread to balance out the flavors. Everything was delicious, and the mint iced tea was the perfect refreshing drink pairing. Service is really good. The people are nice and will not criticize you for not knowing how to pronounce anything -- so don't be afraid to order things you can't pronounce. Just point, if necessary. It's worth it. Trust me on this one. As others have mentioned, seating here is pretty tight. There are only a few tables inside. They have some seating out back, but I haven't been there. If you're going to go with a group for lunch, it's probably best to try to get there early. But get there!

    (4)

  • Brandon Y.

    This is great place to have a sit down lunch at if you're Downtown. There's not a lot of seating so make sure you go early or make a reservation. I give this place a solid 4 stars. They have good service and every dish I've had here so far has been made well. Kofta Sandwich - This is probably my favorite here and my go to for lunch. It's nice beef sandwich which is sort of like a hamburger and it comes with a salad on the side which makes you feel a little less guilty about having it for lunch. Chicken Taouk - Kabobs that come with a hummus and pita on the side along with rice. Nothing really special about this but the chicken was done well. Falafel - I've tried it and while it's not terrible I wouldn't order it again, I've had better elsewhere. Iced Mint Tea - You'll see everyone drinking this. It's a nice refreshing ice tea that's not overloaded with sugar.

    (4)

  • Ian T.

    Trying new food is always daunting with a mixture of excitement. I have never had Moroccan food before and was curious to try this place out since I've heard nothing but great for things. They were all true. The ambience of the place is warm and inviting and automagically transports you away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Honolulu. The food was simply put amazing. I highly recommend the lamb kebab. The meat was seasoned well but also extremely tender. I'm already looking forward to make next visit.

    (5)

  • Lei P.

    Let's start with the ambience, this place is phenomenal and so cute. The outdoor seating in the back is the perfect venue for a private party, intimate date or just a delightful dinner. On Oahu we have needed a venue with authentic Moroccan and middle eastern cuisine. This place hits the nail directly on the head with it's freshly made sauces, meats, cheeses and more. The lamb, was perfectly cooked, the chicken so moist and tender and everything else we ate was simply perfection. I can't wait to go back. Get a sampling of the hummus, baba ganoush and pita if you are hungry and looking for a hearty appetizer.

    (5)

  • Erica W.

    Located in the heart of Chinatown is a cute little morroacan restaurant. The employees are friendly and the place is clean. My parents and I shared lentil soup, rice wrapped in grape leaves, salad, lamb dish and a chicken dish. The food is really tasty. I don't know if I would order the rice wrapped in grape leaves again but I would definitely go back to try the other dishes on the menu. My only complaint is that it is a shared bathroom down a small alleyway with the Tea at 1024 restaurant.

    (4)

  • N K.

    I went to this restaurant with a friend by chance and may I say what a pleasant find. The restaurant was so warm and friendly. Simple Moroccan decor, courteous staff, and a nice outdoor space for seating as well. The food was amazing and the mint tea was divine. This will definitely be a regular spot for satisfying my craving for mediterranean/ middle eastern food.

    (5)

  • Sue B.

    Great food and service and at a reasonable cost. Portions were great; didn't leave hungry. Will definitely go back again. Also, it is "BYOB" so be sure to do so!!

    (5)

  • Russel M.

    BYOB

    (5)

  • Stefanie D.

    This review is based on my visit on Valentine's Day this year and ordering the Prix-Fixe menu! First off, props to the boyfriend who impressed me by finding out about this place and thinking I would be interested in it. I had totally read up on it on Yelp for months before and was super excited to finally try it! The interior space is very beautiful. It has a giant print on one wall and bright colors splashed on the others and offers ample seating. Outside on the terrace where my boyfriend and I dined was equally beautiful. It has nice warm lighting and it's very inviting and makes it feel more intimate. The server took longer than usual to come to the table with menus, but being Valentine's Day and very busy, it's understandable. We both ordered the Prix Fixe special menu for the occasion. For ordering, the server used an iPad. This seemed like it made the process of ordering a million times harder for her instead of easier. I told her my choices, she repeatedly read them back to me wrong. My boyfriend ordered, the same thing happened. When we both ordered, she read it back and it was still wrong... I don't think I've ever ordered one meal so many times. I honestly just prepared myself for a surprise meal because I was sure she wasn't able to get it down correctly. For the appetizer, he got the Moroccan salad and I got the hummus. The Moroccan salad was delicious and a very generous portion. It had big slices of orange on the bottom and was the perfect start to a meal. Very refreshing and light. The hummus was also delicious and a little on the chunkier side, which I actually prefer over the super creamy types. We took a little longer on our appetizers than usual because they were good sized portions but we didn't expect to wait as long as we did for the entree to come out. We sat there staring at an empty bowl of pita slices and a half-eaten bowl of hummus for a long time before someone came over to offer us more pita bread. She also apologized for the long wait time. I just hoped it would be worth it. So far, we were just happy that we got the right appetizers and they were so good. Luckily the orders continued to be accurate and well worth the wait. I got the catch of the day, which was simple but delicious. Not sure on the kind of fish but it was a white fish. It had a long grain rice in a creamy buttery garlic sauce, the grilled fish and then three large shrimp on the top. The fish could not have been more perfect. Dessert was next and we ordered the baklava of course and also what I think was cheesecake. I just know it was pure heaven. The baklava had honey drizzled on top of it and was also perfection. After dessert we got tea served to us, a nice minty kind that was just the perfect end to a meal. I love tea so much, so this was awesome. The server also came by to pour some orange water on our hands at the end which made them smell nice but I'm not sure the point of it. Honestly my only complaint here is the service. The food is amazing but the servers could use some extra training. It seems like it's a very busy, fast-paced restaurant and it's hard for them to handle the volume of patrons. But maybe the restaurant is doing so great so soon they had no time to adjust and it will come to improve in time. Either way, I know I will be back again because the food is just too good to miss out on!

    (4)

  • Darin O.

    EXOTIC, EUPHORIC, ETHNIC FOODS! Going in a group is a definite must for this place. It is not a big room, seats maybe 30 people in the normal seating area. There is more open air area seating but it is outside. Food. I ordered lamb as my main plate. I can not see ordering chicken if it is going to taste like chicken which btw it does taste like chicken. The lamb (which I know from experience can be hard to cook) was great. It was tasty - not juicy - but cooked well so that each CM has taste on it. It is spiced and salted evenly so that the flavor just pops out onto your tongue. The beef is well done, both cooked well done and has flavor tastes that are well presented. I tasted from another the chickpeas/ falafel (sp?) it was fried and I liked that but the taste was odd and I would not recommend ordering that- I just personally did not like it and if asked I would advise not to order it- only saying IMO the lamb was by far way better for taste and uniqueness. Style French Fries are just basic fries but the cream sauce instead of ketchup are what make the flavor stick. The garlic oil paste sauce goes so well with the fried flavor. The side salad that comes with many meals is basic fresh garden greens with slices of red onion that soak up the fragrances of the red vinaigrette like dressing that is lightly added. The food is filling!!!!!!!!! Don't be fooled with what looks to be a small plate of food- with the pita bread and other fillers - one can get full very quickly and feel full for a long time. Getting splashed with orange water is a different cultural treat. Fragrant and unique that as a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (though in the Pacific -not a Muslim country) I can really appreciate. Price is good. It is in the $10-20 range so a ticket for a couple is not that hard to get to $50 with appetizers. This used to be the Café Joy location which was Thai and before that It was Vietnamese type food and I forget the name of it when it was that but is seems that many different restaurants have come and gone though in and out of this location- Hopefully since the food at Kan Zaman is way better than what was previously here that it will be better and stay longer in the area. I know it is a hard area to make it in since the nightlife is random at best. They do say that they have belly dancing on Wed Nights at 7:30 pm which may draw in some people but by then most of the city worker crowd is already out of downtown. It is located between the King and Hotel bus stops on Bethel. So if you know the area you know that parking is a pain in the butt. Just plan accordingly.

    (5)

  • Merle K.

    Last week Saturday, I had lunch at Kan Zaman. I was pleasantly surprised to see that they added another vegetarian entree to their menu, Badinjan Mahchi (eggplant stuffed with Lebanese rice with zataar sauce.) I was eager to try it and was assured that it's really good. I also ordered the Lentil soup, which was excellent as usual. The eggplant entree arrived. I was a little surprised... for $16.90, I got a plate with lots of sauce and three small pieces of eggplant with rice and a plate of pita. The eggplant pieces were about 2 inch slices (eggplant about an inch in diameter). It was very delicious, don't get me wrong. But, I was still hungry, as you can imagine, so I ordered some hummus. Suggestion: How about lowering the price and putting this delicious eggplant dish on the appetizer menu instead of entree? Is it because of the Zataar that the price is $16.90?

    (4)

  • Ivy Lou H.

    Ok, I'm ready to Yelp our wonderful dinner experience tonight. First, I gotta say don't be deceived by the look of the restaurant outside because it may not look nice but once you get inside you wouldn't think that you're downtown. Service is very good! Staff are friendly and the food gets to your table in 15 minutes (yes, we timed it!). I highly recommend the Shish Kebab (beef, tabouli salad and rice with Moroccan noodle) plus a side of pita bread that's super tasty. The entrees are affordable ranging from $10-$17. A nice touch is that before the server hands you the bill they do a Moroccan ritual---a sprinkle of orange blossom water to wash your hands and make them smell good. If you're planning to come here make a reservation for a table in their outdoor courtyard!

    (4)

  • Robert D.

    Fantastic food! I highly recommend the oxtail with date jam. But be prepared for a loud belly dancing floor show.

    (4)

  • Diana N.

    I had high expectations of this place due to the rave reviews from fellow yelpers. I honestly didn't know what to expect because I've never tasted Moroccan or Lebanese food, but I have an open mind. Our waiter, who btw was suberb, suggested anything lamb. So...we got just about every lamb item that was on the menu. Lamb Tajine: Yelpers fave by far. My friend said the lamb was perfectly cooked and well seasoned. A must try... Lamb kababs: No stick here..just a nice portion of seasoned ground lamb that was DELICIOUS! I stole quite a bit of it from my friend's plate. Lamb Couscous: My lamb was perfectly cooked but lacked flavor, thus I had to take off a star. It fell right off the bone but the flavor desperately desired some of the wonderful flavors that were in the other two lamb dishes. To be fair, the couscous and various veggies in the dish were amazing. Katayef: Better to save your 6$ for something else. It's just a pancake with a pudding and some bananas. My daughter and I usually love dessert but we left this half eaten...and that says a lot. Baklava: VERY VERY nutty...loved the flavor but lacked the flaky crunch I love about Baklava. I highly suggest you eat in the patio, which is located in the back in the restaurant. Its fresh air, and adorable decor make it a refreshing affair. Don't forget your iced mint tea to cleanse your palate. Next time I go..I'd order the lamb kebabs over couscous and assorted veggies. They're very flexible about substitutions. Our server also kept the iced tea coming. He didn't just fill up our glasses but gave us a new one each time. Impressive =)

    (4)

  • Cassie C.

    Cute hidden gem in the middle of Chinatown - love the decor of the indoor seating and the outdoor terraced seating. I'm extremely biased towards any establishment that is BYOB, so this was a win in my book before even trying the food. The food itself was delicious - tasty, portions are good size and fast, friendly service.

    (4)

  • Scott F.

    Food was awesome as well as the service provided by Alakai!! In the back is a beautiful courtyard for outdoor dining and worth the wait if you must. Don't forget to have a piece of orange blossom cheesecake before leaving.

    (5)

  • India R.

    I'd like to being by saying I was a fan of this location when it was previously Cafe Joy (Thai Cuisine). I always enjoy most of the buildings in downtown due to the historic architecture, but that's another review, for another day. I love Moroccan flavors, all those herbs and spices! Yuuumm! This is a great place to grab a bite, centrally lactated in Honolulu, on Nuuanu Ave. Municipal parking is usually $2. and if you're lucky you can grab a street parking... OK, back to Kan Zaman, their menu reads of flavorful dishes such as lam tajine, pulled mozzarella with tomato and pita, and have daily specials such as the catch of the day and soups. The atmosphere is quaint and quiet, there is a bonus with a back seating area, outside of the restaurant. I love outdoor seating on a prefect Hawaii weather night, and ocean side seating, which we don't have enough of here in my opinion. However, the back seating was occupied at the time so we did seat inside, which can be good as well being that you assume you'll receive quicker service. I say assume, because on this day we did not. It took sometime for our food to arrive and water glasses to be full. Let me state that I have been in the service industry for most of my working years, so I know how customers can be. Although I can clearly see when a restaurant isn't busy enough that you should receive more prompt service. Nonetheless I don't let this steer me away from enjoying my flavorful meal! I was with one of my friends and we started of with sharing the pulled mozzarella, tomato and pita appetizer! So simple yet amazing flavors, I could eat and entire 2 dishes alone. A heaping amount of mozzarella freshly pulled like a mound of well, perfect cheese. Warm pita and sliced tomatoes on top. Heavenly! We each got a main dish so we could try different things, of course. We had the chicken tanjine and the merguesz couscous (I will post pics). Both were delicious, the tanjine was 2 slow cooked chicken thighs, in a light citrus herb and green olive sauce, topped with a pile of salted fries-I think I would get this with rice the next time, there was definitely too many fries over powering the rest of the dish. The merguez, was fluffy steamed couscous with a variety of vegetables, pumpkin, carrots, zucchini and chickpeas with a broth for the sauce and 2 lamb sausages cut in half. Both dishes were equally flavorful and colorful. A fest for the eyes an belly! I would go back here for sure and try something new on the menu, the photos that other Yelper's have posted look mouthwatering as well! I would also recommend going with a 4 or more people so you can try new things that your flavor pallet hasn't had! oooh, and the best part this location in BYOB! So be responsible!

    (4)

  • Lei L.

    Food was 4 stars Ambiance was 4 stars Service unfortunately was 0-1 star The girls & I had a night out about a couple months ago when we tried KZ for the first time. The restaurant was jam packed & we had a hard time getting a table (60min wait). Service was not up to par then, but we thought we'd give them another shot. Unfortunately, our server (same guy) was not attentive to our table once again. He wasn't around much and he added the tip on automatically (6pax).

    (2)

  • Angela C.

    We had so much fun tonight at Kan Zaman. We loved the middle eastern decor, the nice atmosphere, the friendly and fast services, the belly dancing, the music, and the Food! Saw on Yelp that Kan Zaman has Belly dancing tonight, we decided to ride bikes out there to have dinner. The restaurant has inside and outside seating. We sat inside because outside is full. Next time we will try to sit outside because it is even nicer in the back Garden. The lamb Tajine was so moist and tasty, with large beans around it. The Maza had two hummus, a roasted tomato and pepper and two piece of grape leaf rolls, it is also very good. The iced Moroccan mint tea was delicious. But don't order the mozzarella appetizer, it is not good, expensive, and not authentic. Hubby lived in Lebanon and traveled to Morocco, he liked all the dishes at Kan Zaman, except the mozzarella appetizer. He said they don't have raw mozzarella dishes over there. Plus, it is really not good. The Belly dancing made up for mozzarella appetizer. She was really a good dancer, and moved her body in unbelievable ways to the fast beat of the music. Her costume was very bright and pretty. Overall, we will enjoyed our night at Kan Zaman!

    (5)

  • Kshira N.

    I'd say this place was decent. The ambiance was pretty good but the music was on the louder side. The chair I sat on was precariously placed towards the edge of the step :/ Food: The soup was pretty good but I really wanted to have the ful but I guess the hunt for good ful continues... The main course was interesting. I had the eggplant dish and it was stuffed with rice and parsely mixture and the plate came with pita bread. The bread didn't feel fresh and warm but the hosts made up through their warmth and friendly touch. My husband ordered the lamb with couscous and he was impressed with the tender meat. We finished our meal with a mint tea. Overall I'd say it was good but not the best I've had.

    (4)

  • Travelmeister T.

    4 stars even though one meal was not great. I had the lamb tajine after asking the waitress for her recommendation between that and chicken shaorma. Shoulda gone with the shaorma. The lamb shank was just okay. No taste really. But the beans it was served atop were fantastic, so the plain lamb mixed with the beans did taste quite good. My wife had the lamb kebab that was outstanding! Huge portion too. Super tasty and cooked really nicely. I'd go with this dish next time (or maybe the shaorma I should have tried). Hot as hell inside the restaurant Friday night (yes, it's been miserably hot here for weeks now). One of the AC units (above us) was turned on but we couldn't feel anything. Outside in back the temp was much nicer but that area was pre-booked. BYOB is a major plus. I'd read here, and when I called to reserve a table was told, it's BYOB. Nice way to throw down and save a lot on alcohol charges. Plus they were nice enough to keep my spare beers in their fridge. And the waitress was Juanita-on-the-spot to bring the next beer for refills so I never ran out! So, meh and great food. Hot inside but BYOB. Lots of great and not so great things. Plus BYOB +1 Lamb kebab+1 Con Hot -1 Very plain lamb tajine -1

    (4)

  • Amy Y.

    I bought a groupon $12 worth of $20 food here. It was definitely worth it. Of course, a good deal has it's rules. We can only use it during weekdays Monday-Thursday between 1:30pm-4:30PM. That did not stop me. I made a reservation (required, and stated on the groupon) 2 weeks beforehand, just in case it got busy. I cannot risk pushing the dining date later because of my busy work schedule, and finding someone to eat with is definitely a struggle. When I made the reservations, the guy didn't sound like it was necessary. But I did, Monday at 1:30PM. On Monday, it was really empty. We went in a little before 1:30PM and got seated right away. The decor was really Moroccan-ish? It was a little dim. We had a choice of sitting inside or outside. I didn't want to be sweaty out in the sun nor get mosquito bites (cuz they love my blood). So we sat inside cuz it was a little bit cooler. Though I wish I had chose outside. On my way to the bathroom I passed by the outside dining and the view and set-up was really beautiful. Darn, wish I said outside. Much regret. *sigh* To the food: I ordered Chicken Kebab sandwich $12~ and my bf ordered the lamb kebab sandwich kebab. Both plates come with salad on the side. The server told us the dishes were the most popular. Wow, what a surprise. The food came out pretty quickly. It was of course hot. It was a lot of filling to wrap and to hold with hands. The chicken was stir fry? The spices mixed with the chicken was ooooo so delicious. It wasn't too salty, but just right. The lamb kebab was sooo yummy with the blue cheese. The meat was tender. The food was amazing and filling. The guy server was really attentive and nice. After our meal he poured us drops of this flower scent aroma. I guess its to cover up the food smell when we were using our hands? I would love to come back for more.

    (5)

  • Luis R.

    So I go back to Kan Zaman after a year hiatus and while the food did not improve in any significant way (see previous review) I had another issue. Unfortunately I paid with my debit card and left a cash tip. For most customers, paying with debit is standard practice but after a couple of days I looked at my online statement and I was overcharged by $6.00. I called my bank to dispute the charge but since it was on debit it makes things a bit more challenging. FYI. Use credit as it makes it easier to dispute charges should issues arise. Well, lucky for me I had my receipt and I called the restaurant. To be honest, they were pretty proactive and refunded me the total charge and then gave me 20 percent off the original bill. This was a nice gesture on their behalf. I just hated the fact that I had to go through this. Maybe I will give them another shot in the future.

    (3)

  • Kaori I.

    Another great dinner at Kan Zaman before 4th of July fireworks. We got there before 5 so it wasn't too crowded yet and be able to get cozy sofa in the lanai to enjoy beers we brought. We started with Lentil soup and today's special Mussel stew. They were both great but we loved especially the mussel stew. Its rich tomato sauce had a great essence of seafood and so delicious! We shared today's special Lamb chop and my favorite there Lamb Kebabs. The lamb chop!!!! It was so tender and nicely seasoned with authentic herbs. It was a good portion and so tasty but priced just 20 something I think. So reasonable!! No need to mention about lamb kebabs. Always GREAT here! Kebabs could be too salty for me but not here so I can eat a lot!! Great food in affordable price and BYOB!! The servers are always nice and friendly and I love the lanai tables there. Nothing fancy decor but really cozy lanai. It's one of my favorite spot.

    (5)

  • Nat N.

    Maybe Moroccan/Lebanese food is not my thing. Never tried it before so I have nothing to compare it to. That being said, my review is really just my gut talking about what it liked/didn't like. The best thing about Kan Zaman is the portion sizes. Wow. It's been a long time since I've walked away from a restaurant uncomfortably full, especially after lunch. While most restaurants scale down their portion sizes for lunch, Kan Zaman does not. The lamb kabob sandwich was pretty good. Bread was nice and soft, and it was topped with a heaping amount of lamb. In fact there was so much on there that I had to eat this sandwich with a fork and knife. My sandwich came with a salad, but I really wanted to try their fries, so I asked the server if I could get fries instead of the salad. "Sure, i can do that for you". What he didn't tell me was that he was going to charge me $2 for this substitution. I hate being blindsided like that. The baklava seems to be loved by many on Yelp, but not by me. It was cold and overpriced at $6 for two small triangles. It's a rare occurrence for me to not finish my dessert, and in this case, I left a few bites on my plate when we left. If you're coming here for lunch, dress casually and comfortably - it's hot in here.

    (3)

  • Alexander G.

    Amazing food, lovely ambiance, and friendly service make this a must-stop restaurant in Honolulu! I have been trying to eat here for months now, but the stars have not aligned until last night. The wait was worth it! Nestled on Nuuanu in an old Chinatown building, Kan Zaman has a cute and tight feel in their small storefront. The big windows and decor are welcoming. Despite this, we opted to sit outside in their peaceful courtyard. Surprisingly green and open for Chinatown, the courtyard offers a serenity and freshness in which to enjoy all their incredible fare. I noticed the soft strings of light, that gradually added to the coziness over the course of dinner. The seating area is a small wood area with nicely spaced tables. I liked the comfortable seat covers and table cloths. The waitstaff was very professional, efficient, and more friendly than I've experienced in a long time. They made my birthday special, thank you JC and Samantha. With the Chinatown location, parking is a bit of a hassle, but there is a municipal parking garage across the street with reasonable charges. It is also just off Hotel Street's multiple bus lines, and easy to walk from A'ala Park, Downtown, or Chinatown areas. The restaurant is traditionally Middle Eastern, so they offer various teas to drink. If you're inclined for alcohol make sure to plan ahead and BYOB! For dinner, my dining companion and I ordered many small dishes and one entree to share and enjoy together. We had the Mezza Sampler including stuffed grape leaves (my favorite), babaganoush, hummus, and peppers. We tried the delectable felafel with tahini. The lentil soup was so flavorful, a true dish to nourish the soul. My favorite salad, tabouleh, was lightly refreshing with a hint of citrus. Our main entree was the lamb couscous; the lamb just fell off the bone and was so tender and lean. Served over a bed of saffron couscous, the various vegetables were just as soft and nutritious. I ate a lot but felt more content and happy than anything. This is definitely one of my favorite restaurants in Honolulu; I'm happy there is an authentic Moroccan/Lebanese/Middle Eastern restaurant so close by. Definitely give this place a try if you're looking to try something distinctively not Hawaiian!

    (5)

  • Alison S.

    Came here around 5 on Saturday for a late late lunch/pre dinner. After seeing the review and looking at all the pics and menu pretty much knew what I wanted us to order! We started out with the sampler for an app and split a dinner special they had....rack of lamb with a sauce and saffron mashed potatoes. We also got their mint iced tea. I don't normally drink sweetened iced tea but it's mint and lightly sweetened and refreshing especially on a humid day. So good!! The sample was ahhmazing!! Hummus, and babaganoush, and grape leaves with rice, and red and green bell peppers with lots of pita! So tasty. The entree which we split was out of this world. The gravy sauce was so good and I can't even tell you what flavored I tasted cause I would prob be wrong. Lol. The mashed taters were yummy! Never would've thought to add saffron to them. We ordered the orange blossom cheesecake to go. Will have to update on that later....it's still in the fridge. Lol. But from the reviews it sounded good which is why we chose it! Will definitely come back to try their other dinner entrees! Oh and Samantha was our waitress and she's awesome! Super sweet and friendly and helpful! We didn't have a reservation which I guess on a Saturday is prob helpful but we beat the dinner rush so we had time before the reservations came. We sat outside and it's a cool little patio area with music and lights and lanterns. Ambiance is 100%

    (5)

  • Krysten I.

    Kan Zanman is a nice little Moroccan/Lebanese place in Chinatown. I'm not really sure how the combination of morocco and Lebanon came about, as morocco and Lebanon are not even really close to each other, but hey, the food is good, so I'm not complaining. I've been here a couple times, both for dinner. Of the menu items I've tried, I particularly like the Orange salad, the Orange blossom cheesecake and the babaganoush. I'd be back to try the lunch specials, as the entrees are a little pricey for dinner. For drinks, Kan Zanman offers a yummy sweet mint tea!! It's so refreshing and perfectly sweet. They offer one free refill too!! If you're not into tea or prefer your favorite wine with your Moroccan/Lebanese dinner, Kan Zanman is BYOB! The service is good, nothing special; the waiters and waitresses are nice, but not particularly attentive, especially when it gets crowded. Apparently there is an outside seating area, but make sure you make a reservation if you don't want to eat in the main restaurant. I also follow Kan Zanman on Instagram and look forward to their specials. However, my one complaint is that the prices for the specials advertised on Instagram do not match what you actually pay. Boo.

    (4)

  • Aim H.

    We came here to try some morrocan food. We tried many dishes such as the mezza sampler that had hummus, grape leaves, and babaganoush ( it was kinda like salsa) with some pita bread. We also ordered lamb kabob, chicken Tajik, beef kabob, chicken tajine, lamb couscous, falafel, baklava, and orange blossom cheesecake. All of the food was good but the best dish out of everything we tried was the lamb kabob. We went on a Wednesday night and they have a belly dancer who performs at 7:30pm. And it's BYOB! Parking sucks though. I found myself going round and round to find some parking because there is only street parking until I finally decided to park in a lot that I found a few blocks away. Great experience, great food, great service. If you are looking to try something different, I would recommend this place and I would suggest the lamb kabobs!

    (4)

  • Michael C.

    A recent conversation between M=Mike, and A=Yelp Friend M: Where are we eating dinner? A: Ala Kazam! M: Huh? Do you mean Kan Zaman? A: Oh......?? Yeah, I meant Kan Zaman. While this particular convo was initially confusing, all of our dinner group (thankfully) ended up at the right place for dinner. No spells needed. Kan Zaman is a restaurant in Downtown Honolulu specializing in Moroccan and Lebanese cuisine. I've had this restaurant bookmarked for centuries it seems, and I'm grateful some fellow Yelpers extended a dinner invitation recently. Truth be hold, I dined at Kan Zaman two weeks in a row for dinner as I enjoyed the food, ambiance, and company (of course!) very much. PARKING: Street or nearby municipal lots. Be sure to check the signs for restrictions if parking on the street. SETTING: Our group sat in the front section of the restaurant on both visits. Additionally, I was told there is also a section in the rear past the kitchen area. The front section is cozy, neat, and simply decorated. There are various color and black and white photos adorning the walls, and I must admit I found one of those to be very captivating. NOTE: BYOB! No corkage fee! I freely admit we took full advantage of this circumstance as each person brought one bottle of wine. Cheers everyone! FOOD: On both visits, we ordered the babaganoush to share. Yes, admittedly this appetizer has a very peculiar name, but this mixture of eggplant puree, lemon juice, and olive oil was a pure delight. I highly recommend it. Make sure to ask for extra pita bread, you'll thank me later. For dinner entrees, I have tried the lamb tajine and lamb kebab. Firstly, I absolutely loved the lamb tajine. The meat was incredibly tender, the sauce flavorful, while the white beans and herbs complemented the dish well. I would order this dish again on a future visit. The lamb kebab was a very generous portion served with rice pilaf, hummus and pita bread. Overall, I liked the dish as the lamb chunks were a decent size, and they were not skimping on the sides. Sadly, the lamb was slightly salty and for that reason I chose not to finish my entree. I am entirely not sure if that is the traditional way this dish is prepared, but I do wish I could have eaten more. SERVICE: Very good. The staff was friendly, polite, and very patient with our boisterous group. As the evening progressed and the restaurant grew crowded, we did have more of a difficult time catching the attention of a server. BOTTOM LINE: Cozy restaurant in downtown. BYOB is a plus for sure. The babaganoush is a true standout on the menu.

    (3)

  • Trisha G.

    My first time having Moroccan/Lebanese food. I know, I know. I'm a local girl that likes what she likes. So when someone suggested this place, I figured I give it a try. And guess what . . . Yum! I am so excited to add this place to my list of go-to restaurants downtown. There were so many choices on the menu and I had no idea how to choose. So, I relied on my fellow Yelpers and went with the Chicken Taouk. For me - rice, in any form, can't be a disappointment. This rice had great spice and was topped with two kabobs of grilled chicken. Yay! Add hummus and tabouleh with pita bread and another creamy dipping sauce. It's like a delicious mediterranean deconstructed burrito. Delicious. We shared a pot of mint tea, which I didn't care for hot, but I later saw that they serve it iced as well. I think that would have been better. We also shared two cheesecakes - chocolate coffee and orange blossom. Both to die for. Apparently, Wednesday nights are belly dancer nights. The performer was really entertaining and it added to the ambiance. It was pretty busy for a week night. I can't wait to take other people here.

    (4)

  • Malia V.

    Awesome! Fun place! Byob! Belly dancing. Loved the hummus & lamb w/ caramelized onions. Definitely will be back!

    (5)

  • Loryn G.

    This is my new favorite lunch spot, I've gone once a week since I found this little gem. I always like to sit in the outdoor seating area in the back, very nice ambiance. I have gotten the lentil soup (large portion, they don't just serve a cup), very tasty. I tend to order the lamb kebab sandwich which is comes in a pita wrap with hummus feta and olives and is served with a hearty side salad. The portions are very generous and the lamb is delicious. If you are extra hungry, get one of the kebab plates for an entree (I like the lamb one), the tabouleh is TO DIE yummy. Also, if you are with a friend or two, get the sampler platter as an appetizer-- the hummus and babaghanoush are all-stars and again, the portion is generous. While a little pricey, their mint tea is super tasty and refreshing- great on a hot day. Maybe the best thing about this spot is the service-- the staff are authentically friendly and accommodating. After a couple times going there, they already remembered me and made a point of saying welcome back. To top off your meal, they come to you with orange blossom water to spritz on your hands. Smells delicious - such a treat. I'll be back next week!

    (5)

  • Mike M.

    Who would've thought of all places, you could find great Moroccan and Lebanese dining in Hawaii and in our Chinatown district for that matter? Me and my wife came for dinner about 45 mins before closing yet that did not matter as their customer service and freshness of their food were as if we were their only customers. Upon walking in we were greeted immediately. The host knew that we were on our usual date night I guess by the way we were dressed to kill, I mean to go out. With that said he sat us outside in their well lit and decorated dining area which was a nice touch I might add. We ordered their lamb kabob entree, a dish of mussels they had on chef's special and falafels as a starter. The rest as they say is history because we were definitely taken on a trip to morocco and Lebanon with the amazing flavors of each dish. Their lamb kabob has to be the best I've ever had. I can say that with conviction unlike some people who takes bites of anything and say it's the 'omg best ever' yeah no. I've had my fair share of lamb kabob because I'm a real fan of Greek and middle eastern cooking. I've always found it to be a little tough and a bit gamey but that was not the case here! It had to be the most tender piece of meat I've had, I really mean that! Spices and herbs were hitting the taste buds without being under and over whelming. The mussels I'm glad we're a special dish that night because I felt lucky we were able to taste something not usually on their menu. Flavors were well balanced, the broth from the seafood went well as a dipping soup/sauce for the complimentary naan bread they give, extra points for that! The falafels stood out to me because most places I've been to just serve the falafels to you with a traditional Greek yogurt/tatiziki sauce. Here, you get that as a sauce, bigger puck size pieces of those delicious meat free nuggets but they finish it off with a generous amount of their secret drizzle. I'm still trying to figure it out but it really put their falafels over the top. With all their awards posted in their restaurant, it's easy to know why on an island flooded with everything Asian and plate lunches, they can thrive. The elaborate decor, phenomenal service and food really take your taste buds on a trip to a place with amaz I'll definitely be back!

    (5)

  • Tracey A.

    Moroccan and Lebanese cuisine probably isn't the first thing one envisions when thinking about Hawaii, but planning ahead for the day I arrived, Kan Zaman sounded intriguing enough to cause me to book an advance reservation. Arriving a solid 20 minutes late for that merited a wait out front until space was available. Hawaii seems to be embracing this unique-for-Hawaii cuisine. I've become somewhat of a fool for Mediterranean fare of late. I cannot seek out enough mezza samplers to sate my passion thus I began my meal with Kan Zaman's version. Served alongside warm, fresh baked pita, this Mezza Sampler ($16.95) included creamy hummus, smoky babaganoush, tart taktouka (a spiced salad of tomatoes and bell peppers), and unique, tangy warak inrab (grape leaves, rice, mint, & lemon with a mint yogurt sauce). The platter was a solid offering, plenty for two to share. I devoured it all but most favored the warak inrab and the babaganoush. A special, Moonfish topped with delectably crispy, hot, whole shrimp ($24), sat enticingly upon a bed of mashed sweetened potatoes topped with a wonderful yellow-tinged sauce. I doubt the authenticity of such a dish but it didn't affect my enjoyment one bit. Very good. A perfect accompaniment to this meal would've been alcohol but the menu here includes none. I surveyed the room with envy as I saw all the in the know customers who'd BYO'd it. You've been warned: Come armed with your own alcohol accompaniment. The host concluded the meal by dousing our hands with fragrant orange blossom water which left me sniffing my aromatic fingers for the rest of the evening. A little Mediterranean on the islands, it seems, is a quite worthy offering. Other stuff: * Wednesday nights feature a belly dancer who shakes her way around the dining room as distracted diners fish for dollar bills to slip beside her hips. * Al fresco dining out back on an airy patio.

    (4)

  • Nimai W.

    I'm about to drop a bomb on you guys. You won't believe this one. I drink the SWEETENED ice tea here!! Whoa. It's so refreshing and somehow, it takes me home. Try it. Okay calm down, catch your breath. Dramatic part is over. First Treat yourself to an appetizer or two. If you're with a group, go for it with the Mezza Sampler! I did once, and each one blew my mind. I don't like eggplant, but I loved that smokey babaganoush. My only frustration was trying not to eat too much, too fast, before my entree arrived. Hummus, Warak Inab, Babaganoush, Taktouka, and the Fries.. I'd get them all again in a heartbeat. Favorites I no longer have a favorite here. I just can't choose. First, there's the tuna melt. My God. As unexciting as a tuna melt sounds, it's just a must try. The other two are the Chicken Kebab, and the Kofta sandwiches. The chicken is cooked to perfection, and seasoned so deliciously. Same goes for the kofta, the meat is soft and so full of seasonings and flavors that you just wouldn't expect. If find myself craving all of these. Although the tuna melt is on the modest size, generally the portions are large. For lunch I could go with just a sandwich plate, no appetizer. The service has always been very friendly and accommodating. The one time I came for dinner, my server did seen a little overwhelmed, I think they were short staffed that night. Otherwise zero complaints. No parking, but it's no big deal. Find a municipal lot, walk 5-10 minutes. This is currently up in my top 3 places on the island.

    (5)

  • Kristine C.

    Lots of lessons have been learned before getting to experience this wonderful place. First, be thankful for changes in plans and there's always a reason when things don't work out. In result? Eating here changed the ball game which turned out to be a 100% better. We walked into this simple and well decorated place located at the heart of Chinatown on Nuuanu street. Jean-Christophe (JC) was our server for the night with the assistance of Samantha. They worked wonderfully well together. We chose the outdoor seating and the weather couldn't be more perfect. Outdoor seats have a rooftop with chairs covered in red seat covers and you're surrounded with nice lush trees which helped to set the mood. It doesn't feel like you're in Chinatown. Sharing is Caring This would be my first time trying the extensive Moroccan food. I say that because I've tried Hummus and Falafels before. But at the moment, I've not been introduced to other dishes in all the years of my existence. Everything is shared. The more dishes you order, the more dishes you get to try! I love my soups and I chose the Lentil Soup. It was very light, slow cooked red lentil soup with fresh herbs and some of their spices. I had a spoon full every after bite of the others. The Mezza Sampler consisted of Hummus, babaganoush, taktouka, warak inab. The Hummus is made with chickpea puree with tahini, lemon juice and olive oil. Babaganoush is made up of grilled eggplant puree, tahini, lemon juice and olive oil. Taktouka is salad made of tomatoes, bell peppers, olive oil, spices and herbs, served chilled. Warak Inab? What in the world is that? This specific one is a challenge for me but this comes with two small grape leaves stuffed with rice, mint, lemon and garlic Vinaigrette. The sampler is served on a nice platter on it's own. Tabouleh, I enjoyed since it was simply made with freshly chopped parsley, tomatoes and onions with olive oil, lemon dressing with pita bread. We couldn't forget to order the Falafel which is fried chickpea patties served with tahini sauce. I loved dipping pita bread on everything! My most favorite dish out of the entire night was the Lamb Couscous and consisted of steamed couscous in a broth with lamb shank, carrots, pumpkin, potatoes, zucchini, tomatoes and chickpeas. The lamb was extremely soft, tasty and can easily be peeled off the bone with a light tap using your fork. Perfectly well cooked! They have probably about 5 desserts to choose from their menu. We chose Baklava for the final touch after our meal. I loved how rich it was. One order comes with two small sizes. Oh yes, don't forget that it's BYOB if you're feeling for other beverages besides water. Making reservations was a breeze. I used Kan Zamans website via Open Table. Calling or emailing is also an option for both reservations and take out orders. kanzamanhawaii.com/reser… Parking can be challenging if you don't want to pay and you come here during the day. Otherwise parking is not a problem when the pay slots are free after 5:30 or 6pm during the weekdays. We came here during a weekday after 6pm and parked on Bethel St. with one of the parking garages for $2 for probably about one and a half hours. Come with an open mind and be ready to experience the culture. I recommend coming with at least one person and or as a group. Ordering lots of dishes and sharing them is the best way to go. I can't wait to come back to try their other main dishes!

    (5)

  • Raelyn B.

    The first time I ever had lamb was in a gyro in Greece from a cute restaurant a few blocks from our hostel. A friend of mine loved lamb and since I was in Greece, why not? Now I know you're thinking, "Raelyn this isn't a Greek restaurant it's Moroccan". But wait for it... the first time I came here I decided to get the lamb couscous, shred of lamb on a mount of couscous served with pita bread and hummus and holy moly did I feel nostalgic. Maybe I just like food way too much or it was way too good for my experience. I love trying new foods and I love that Chinatown has so many options for us foodies. A friend of mine really wanted to try this place our so we did. Stepping in just made you feel like you're not in chinatown in downtown Honolulu. I felt warm, welcomed and ready to eat! If you get there a bit early and are able to choose a seat, I'd suggest somewhere not near the window mainly because it's a little cramped but where else are you going to put the adventurous foodies? In the back, where they have extra seating oh yeah. What gets me every time is the pita bread and hummus! My friend also fell in love with the Moroccan tea. Step out of your comfort zone and try this place out. It's different and delicious!

    (5)

  • kristine f.

    After many rave reviews from my parents, we finally had the chance to try Kan Zaman this weekend. By the looks of the 200+ reviews, the restaurant had quite a lot to live up to and so I was a little worried. I ordered the Lamb Kebab which was amazing. The Lamb was so tender and juicy. Everyone on the table tried my dish and was amazed by the juiciness of the meat. It came with Hummus, Basmati rice and 4 pieces of pita. I say it was so worth the $14.95. I was even able to share some with my nephew since he found his dish a bit too spicy for his liking (Beef Slovaki). Another noteworthy dish was the Greek fries! It was so crispy and flavorful, I couldn't get enough. My step-dad ordered it and shared with the entire table. He would have had more to himself had he not shared with the gang. They are also BYOB which is such a great plus and huge cost saver! Ohhh weeee I can't wait to go back! We agreed to go back for the fries and the Lamb Kebab! Both were the bomb diggity and of course the awesome service.

    (5)

  • Kara P.

    This is an amazingly comfortable dining establishment! The ambiance is beautiful, warm and inviting. The staff is welcoming and accommodating. The food is ample and delicious. Very vegan friendly, I had no problems finding several dishes that suited my appetite so I ordered them all :) BYOB so I did... I will recommend to others :) personally I will return to further expand on my new found love for Mediterranean style cuisine. I did not catch the name of the tall gentleman who assisted me so well in my dining endeavors. Not sure if he was management or waitstaff but when I return to the business I will ask and then name drop on him because he deserves extra kudos!!!

    (5)

  • Rod U.

    For reasons of self preservation, I have never tried Lebanese food first hand. That said, my credentials: - I have watched a show or two on the Food Network where someone from the South cooked something "Lebanese" for a back yard get together. - I watched Anthony Bourdain's Parts Unknown on the region. - I ate some Lebanese food in LA (I think). Impressive, don't you think? Straight to it, for mezza, the babaganoush is good. Good bitterness from the grilling that is well balanced with the acidity from fresh lemons, peppery olive oil, and the earthy, nutty finish of sesame from the tahini. The hummus has a good consistency but could use more fresh lemon juice for some complexity, else good eats. The warm pita has just the right amount of seasoning to make it the perfect foil. Mains are troubling. Authentic or correct flavor profiles aside, the braised lamb shank in both the lamb tangine and lamb couscous is over braised. The bone is beginning to disintegrate and the meat is stringy. The lamb tangine itself has a good saffron flavor, the white beans well cooked and the braising liquid is flavorful. The same version over couscous is just OK. Insufficient saucing makes the couscous stodgy and heavy. Under cooked potatoes, zucchini and raw cabbage give texture but with a very strange flavor. Finally, both the beef and lamb kebab were very aggressively seasoned, bordering on salty. Both were overcooked. Cozy dining space. Very friendly but slow service. BYOB a plus. Parking is what it is. All said, being the only, probably makes it worth a visit, if only to say one tried the experience but if your foodie repertories is in Western and Asian cuisines, the cooking techniques will leave you wondering.

    (3)

  • Lori L.

    Dinning al fresco in the cute seating area behind the kitchen, you can forget you're in urban Honolulu. Kan Zaman has belly dancing on Wednesday nights if you're looking for a livelier atmosphere, otherwise it's a pretty chill spot for date night or catching up with a friend any other night of the week. The Baba Ganoush has a mild smokiness to it, drizzled with olive oil and served with pita, it's a nice start to the meal. The Chicken Tajine with flavors of lemon, cumin, and olives is served with fries to soak up the juices. The Lamb Tajine is a braised lamb shank scented with lemon and tomato, and served on white beans. The Merguez with couscous and vegetables is a lighter dish, or leave out the Merguez for a vegetarian option. After dinner, sip on a pot of fragrant and sweet Moroccan Mint Tea, enjoy a slice of beautifully scented, sweet and creamy Orange Blossom Cheesecake, and relax.

    (3)

  • Jon W.

    Decided to write my review in the version of a Haiku A flavor packed lunch Try merguez sandwich today Ono to the last bite

    (5)

  • Jed R.

    I first went to Kan Zaman with my mother for lunch We had the Chicken Taouk and Lamb Tajine. Both dishes were delicious. The tea was very good as well. About a week later, I went there for dinner with a friend. Suzanne or Susanna waited on us, she was very attentive and friendly. I tried the Chicken Tajine and the pupu sampler, both very good. My friend had the Chicken Taouk for the first time and enjoyed that as well. We sat outside for dinner and it was a delightful ambiance. I look forward to returning.

    (5)

  • DJ C.

    We were roaming the area trying to find Thai food when we had stumbled upon the entrance to Kan Zaman. I wasn't expecting much, however was pleasantly surprised by the beautiful outside dining area, friendly waitstaff, and delicious food! The outside dining area is pretty unique. I could be wrong (as I am much of the time) but I don't know of many restaurants in Chinatown that offer an outdoor dining area that is surrounded by adjacent buildings and provides privacy. We also had live entertainment provided by some guy playing some sort of stringed instrument. We also had a random gecko on the plants near our seats dancing along to the music. The food was great. We had the mussel stew and some sort of oxtail dish. Both dishes we equally tasty. For dessert, we tried the Turkish Chocolate Coffee Cheesecake. Dessert was great and probably would have paired well with a nice cup of warm coffee. At the end of our meal, our waitress came by and rinsed our hands with orange blossom water. I thought this was a nice touch and a pretty cool way to end the meal. I look forward to returning and trying of the other dishes on the menu.

    (5)

  • Doris B.

    We went here maybe a week ago for lunch. I've never had Moroccan/Lebanese food. I've had Greek food, but was not much of a fan. Our waitress was very knowledgeable of the menu. I had the chicken tajine with rice. It usually comes with fries but I went with the advice of a Yelper & I was not disappointed! It was delish!!!! We had the coffee cheesecake. Omg. Foodgasm in your mouth. We sat outdoor in the back. I love the privacy & atmosphere. I will definitely come back with the hubby!

    (4)

  • Amy O.

    Excellent fast & friendly service in spite of it being a busy Friday night (though we were early enough to avoid the busiest time). The hot mint tea was sweetened way more than I'd ordinarily drink, but it was so good I drank it all and would order it every time I go back. It's not a typical mint tea - I hadn't been expecting such an aromatic, floral mint tea. The grape leaves and cream of artichoke soup (special soup of the day) were both good. The Lamb Tajine was so moist and tender - it was really good. The white beans that came with it were okay. The Beef Shawarma was perfect. Very thinly sliced, slightly browned edges, the juices dripped down into the rice. The pickles were great and the babaganoush had a nice smokey flavor. On top if it all, the portions sizes were generous. I'd definitely recommend this place and go back next time I'm in Honolulu.

    (5)

  • Erica A.

    I treated a friend to lunch, and he highly recommended this place. We got seating out on the back lanai, which was a refreshing and open option compared the the comparatively cramped dining room. The seats were swathed with wine red covers and the dining area was surrounded with greenery, so for a second, I was certain I was no longer in Chinatown, but another more ethereal place. The service is a little slow but the atmosphere is amazing, and to be fair, we showed up in the thick of lunch rush hour. I tried shawarma for the first time, my friend making unrelenting Avengers jokes while we enjoyed the complex flavors. The pita was soft and the flavors were aromatic, not quite as spicy as I'd have expected, but it was a complex and delectable flavor. Perhaps more than the food, I loved the Moroccan Mint tea, which was served in a delicate silver tea pot with elegant glass cups. I heard they have belly dancers on Wednesday nights. See you on Wednesday.

    (4)

  • Amanda K.

    I come from a family of Moroccans on my father's side, so I was anxious to try this out to see how authentic it was. I went here for my birthday dinner with some coworkers and friends. We were seated on the outdoor patio out back, which was very cute and intimate. It was kind of hot and humid that day, so would have been nice if there was some fans blowing. But either way, it was nice to be outside. The indoor dining was also pretty small and casual. Also, I did not feel the decor and atmosphere was especially Moroccan, besides the wall decals. I guess that is because what I am used to, which is family members' houses and restaurants in the DC/Maryland area which are filled with elaborate Moroccan accents, vibrant colors and intricate details in furniture and art. This place is more simple, which isn't necessarily a bad thing, but just surprised me since it was built up to be more of a fine dining place. The service was good, and on Wednesday nights there is a live belly dancer. I wish they would do this on a weekend, or even maybe twice a week. But either way, it was nice to have that entertainment. She was pretty good and very sweet. She danced around and even had balanced a sword on her head and hip as she danced! Make sure to bring some ones and tip her! Also, they had a lady who was doing henna tattoos. I didn't really get to see how much she charged, but she was quick and go to many people during our meal, and they all looked very happy. The work looked great from what I could see, so I may go back and try it! Now onto the best part, the food. It was pretty good overall. The hummus was delicious!!!!!!! I also liked the tabouleh and the bell pepper salad. I ordered the lamb couscous, which consisted of a braised leg of lamb, cous cous and veggies. It was pretty tasty. The lamb was tender but not really that much meat on it. The cous cous was yummy. My coworkers really did not like the beef kabob or the chicken, but everyone who ordered the lamb was very happy with it. The best part was the sweet Moroccan mint tea after our meal. Absolutely delicious!! Overall, I was pleased. As a Moroccan, it wasn't really the best I've had, but it was fairly authentic and it's definitely amazing just to see a Moroccan (and Lebanese) place all the way here on the other side of the world. They did a good job with this, but to me Moroccan and Middle Eastern places are very much about ambiance of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influence. I think that's another great way to compliment and represent our culture, along with savory meals. But this was good enough. I would love to bring my father here one day when he visits to see what he thinks.

    (4)

  • Annie N.

    This place is an incredible gem! Sort of a hole-in-the-wall for first timers which was what we were. The inside itself was nicely decorated and the staff are so, so helpful. They could tell that we didn't know Lebanese cuisine very well, besides eating couscous. I recommend the lamb kebabs which were so flavorful and tender! I can't wait to come back and try the other dishes. Overall, A+ for food and service. Be warned, the space is pretty quaint, about 20 seatings so go on a weeknight or non-meal time to avoid waits.

    (5)

  • Mark O.

    Making my way through my Hawaii bucket list of places, I came to Kan Zaman to get together with a group of friends for a weeknight dinner. Located on Nuuanu downtown, the front part of the restaurant is not very much to look at. Fortunately, I had been here before and knew to reserve a table on the back porch which is a much different setting. The back seating is in an open courtyard that you would not otherwise expect to be there and the tables are elevated on a covered patio which is both nice and comfortable. The food here is generally very good although there are a few items which are better than others. I almost always get one of the lamb shank dishes for an entree here as I just can't really resist huge pieces of meat still on the bone. I did get the chance to try their kabab when a friend ordered it the other night though and I think this might be their best dish. Also of note is the mint tea and the babaganoush, both of which are delicious. Overall, this is a place that I always enjoy going to. It is definitely the best Moroccan place in town. Therefore, it is "as good as it gets"

    (5)

  • Vince B.

    The stars were in alignment today, and all were pointing towards Kan Zaman. First the day started off with Joanne V's nice Review of the Day. It just happened to be Kan Zaman and she loved it. I looked it up, read thru some reviews and I was sold. My wife was getting off just a bit early today. We had already planned to take advantage of that and go out to eat in town. Found easy parking...walked across the street and we were there! Ambience: Very small dining room and an outdoor dining area in the back too. Sort of dimly lit foreign design. It reminded me of middle east restaurants that I have been to in France and Netherlands. Moroccan music and designs too. I felt like I was in a foreign country very far from Honolulu. No sushi appetizer, no kalbi and no chicken katsu offered here. My wife wanted to sit at a little table for 2 in an alcove at the front of the dining room. Service: Friendly waiter who was helpful and intent on providing good service. Since we were first time visitors he suggested an appetizer sampler and answered questions about what the main courses were like. Food: Mezza Sampler was recommended. It comes with warm pita bread and was a good choice. Hummus, babaganoush, taktouka and warak inab all had lots of flavor. Best hummus and babaganoush I had ever had! It was expensive but was large and would have served 4 people. Wife had the Chicken Tajine and substituted rice for the fries. She loved the rice. The chicken was two large thighs with subtle seasoning of saffron, coriander, lemon and more. I had a taste and thought it was quite good especially when paired with some of the extra flavorful appetizer which lasted our whole meal. I had the Vegetarian Couscous which had lots of par boiled or steamed veggies with unique seasoning. The veggies were not over cooked. I enjoyed the subtle flavors but really enjoyed alternating a spicy appetizer bite with the couscous and veggies. Very nice indeed! My wife later admitted she had never eaten food like this before. She has had Indian food but nothing quite like this. She liked most of it as she cleaned her plate and ate most of the babaganoush. Vegetarian: The wonderful Mezza Sampler is all vegetarian and the Vegetarian Couscous is vegan as is the Lentil soup and the salads. My meal of the appetizer and the vegan couscous is the culinary equal of Roy's Special Vegan Prix Fixe meal. It was a meal to remember! I'm going back. Vegans will be happy here.

    (5)

  • Raquel T.

    Hit and miss. Hit - nice patio, miss - lizards everywhere out there (ceiling, at your feet). Luckily I didn't see them until mid-entrée, had to go inside. No dessert. Tabouleh was juicy and flavorful. Mussel appetizer special was described as having a "light sauce", poor description. Small mussels in a nice, rich tomato and fennel sauce with peppers. We ate all the mussels then fought over the sauce for our very boring side of rice that we ordered to go with our lamb shank (Tagine). Lamb sausage on lunch menu was good, but not spicy as stated. Server offered more spice and we agreed, then added 99 cents to the bill! We told them we wanted SPICY. The fries that another Yelper described as crunchy were ordered, but we made sure to tell them we did like them "crunchy, crispy, well-done, burned even". They were none of the above, had to send them back and then about 5% of them had a crunch to them, but no flavor, missing the spice blend noted before and even with the redo AND another send back to get more "spices" on top - all that came was extra parsley, no salt, no spices, no flavor and definitely no crunch. Dismal. Tagine was average, though the lamb tender it was pricey and had some undercooked beans in a thick red sauce - no hint of saffron, nothing worth repeating. My foodie cohort said they had been hit-and-miss before for a wedding she helped. The tasting by the bride before the menu offered a watery hummus with no flavor so they complained and stated they wanted tahini and flavor which was delivered as requested at the wedding. But again, our meal left her wanting and saying "I won't return." Sad, I know the head chef can make great food, but when he (or the owner) are not there, it is very average and lackluster. Too bad, I wanted to come again and get eggplant two-ways. Oh, make sure you get a current menu, we were handed one missing the new eggplant entrée (visible online and we would have ordered it) and it also had a great dessert (oh, the server says we don't make that anymore, hold on...came back apologizing, we had an old menu). Service by Ryan was good and friendly, but hidden charges, old menus, lizards running about, and lackluster food don't prompt returns - even if they leave you with a nice shake of orange blossom water on your hands (lovely) as you leave. Save your money, go to the Olive Tree's shop next door in Kahala and buy organge blossom water - make some Ramoz Fizz, and a shaker with the blossom water in it for your home and enjoy the days.

    (2)

  • Batool M.

    You know ??? It takes a special person to make your dinner evening enjoyable and Suzan did it ... Suzan the manager run this place like a pro ... Very welcoming ,, running around ,, checking on each table with her wonderful smile . The food was excellent I ordered the vegetable couscous and my husband ordered the taooq chicken . We will definitely go back there again .

    (5)

  • Jeff W.

    Very enjoyable dining experience! I had lamb tajine, and my wife just had a desert, and we both ordered mint tea. 30 bucks & everything was delicious. The portion size was generous, the wait staff was friendly, and the atmosphere was laid back. You can also bring your own wine! Reservations recommended.

    (5)

  • Juliet M.

    Just one of them days....that a girl goes through, when she is hungry inside and Kan Zaman will take care of you! Don't take it personal, I just want to bring my own wine... ...and VOILA. BYOB,W,and any boozy beve! If you are over thirty and like bad rap from the 90's then you will recognize that classic song, that I skillfully chopped and reconstructed like Kan Zaman! Yumm-tastic! Okay, this place is what Hawaii needs. The food is fabulous! I was on a lady night date and I will tell you we were happy and filled with delightful grub at the end of the night. We had reservations at 7p. I arrived a few minutes early and was promptly seated. Fabulous greeting, and of course....friendly staff. That is good but not good enough to get five stars out of this girl. I sat down and waited for my friend to arrive, and there was live frickin' music!! Are you kidding me? Ugh, it was a treat to decompress from searching for parking and sit and appreciate the music. Wait....put a screeeech on that..there is more. We sat out frickin'side what a gorgeous setting. I was hoping the man that I am not dating (since I am single) was going to bust out from the shrubbery and propose! Romance to the moon and back I tell you! When my friend arrived we ordered the appetizer sampler! Dear heavens, the hummus was sent from heaven. I dont pray often, but when I do I do it because it is meant to be. I pray that I can grub on that hummus again. Of course EVERYTHING on that sampler is legit. MC Hammer lyrics...insert here....2 legit to QUIT! The serving size was perfect, generous as a matter-a-fact! So we ordered the Chicken and Lamb Tajine. Do not get it twisted the spices are different in each dish. That is right, so do not get swayed from the Tajine's with different meats if you are at the same table. I had the lamb and it made me baaaaaah-ry happy. It was amazing. It was a shank of sorts over a bed of beans. The beans and meat were skillfully spiced and seasoned. Delightful I tell you. The chicken tajine is my favorite. ...and it is served with fries over the top! Ummmm.....really? Really? Why you got to play us like that? Can you make anything more heavenly? Didnt think so! As we enjoyed our food, we had the pleasure of watching a belly dancer! Yup....I really was wondering when this ish was going to go over the top and come back again. Okay...well, in all honesty the night, tummy, pretty much everythg kept getting better and better. That's right, no stutter steppin' here! As I was enjoying the total package this restaurant delivered-I saw Kamal! Ummmm really? I should have known....anything this amazing he would be a part of. He has done an upstanding job. He was sooooooooooooooo kind and attentive, and it was great to catch-up! He worked as hard as his team, which is always fabulous and quite important to observe. He was not walking around awkwardly as everyone worked their petunias off...he too shared the pleasure of interacting. (easy for me to say right?) She. Our glasses were low and begging for more Jesus juice he was there it fill our glasses. Bam. Bam... So....all and all the night was amazing. The food was fabulous. The service was unstopppable, and of course it was great to see a familiar face that I have not seen for awhile. Keep up the amazing work Kamal and Aiea is waiting for you to make a journey to our neck of the woods to do your magic here!

    (5)

  • Johanna M.

    Kan Zaman was beautiful and delicious. We met up with some friends at this spot on a Monday night and found it was pretty empty. It was great. We say outside and we had the beautiful back lanai to ourselves for part of the meal. The staff was sweet and walked us through the menu, while also making great suggestions. It is similar to Greek food. There was hummus, babganoush, pita bread...it was all delicious. We ordered the babaganoush as an appetizer and it did not disappoint. We also ordered the lamb tajine, chicken taouk, and lamb kabob. Everything was cooked perfectly. I will note that I am not a huge fan of lamb, but this was really great and not gamey. The seasoning was great and it was not too much food, but you could totally share a dish with an appetizer. We ended the meal with baklava, which was also really great, it was not overly sweet, but it was crispy, and I love pistachios, so I was happy. We got the mint tea and it was delicious though I will say the sweetness varied depending on the pot. One time we got the tea, it was really sweet, the next cup was not as sweet. They were both really refreshing and yummy, but I preferred the sweeter brew.

    (5)

  • Keun W.

    Our waitstaff was so helpful and friendly! The food is a bit pricey and on the small side, but lovely! And it's nice to get something than our usual. Would def come back again! :). Loved the orange blossom water that we used to rinse our hands afterwards!!!

    (3)

  • Sasheen T.

    This restaurant is pretty good. We weren't impressed with the grape leaves, thought they should be served cooked (warm), not cold. The sampler was really good, pita bread good. Second batch, not as good. Our server was really nice and informative. And the lamb kabob plate was beyond DELICIOUS. The dancer was good, really nice, and came to talk to use. And her costume was very very very beautiful.

    (4)

  • Greg S.

    I almost don't want to write a review for this place so it doesn't add more customers - I don't want the place to get too crowded because it's that good. If you're looking for new flavors and dishes, come here. The variety of flavors are astounding. Some spicy, some salty, some...I don't even know how to describe. Excellent food and variety. The one thing holding them back is more attentive staff. Glasses ran empty frequently, took a while to get our orders, and the check also took a while. Nothing terrible, just inefficient for such a small locale. Regardless, this place was very enjoyable. Get reservations!

    (4)

  • Jody W.

    The perfect place for dinner and drinks with friends. The outside dining ambiance was very relaxed and the service was excellent. The variety of Mediterranean cuisine was awesome. And did I mention about the no-corkage fee.

    (5)

  • Kathy A.

    Friday night at 5:00 met some friends for dinner. Starting with some great wine, BYOB, we enjoyed an order of babaganoush with wedges of pita. This was an outstanding choice, 5 stars. More wine, and entrees ordered. One Lamb Tajine, my choice and it was what I have been looking forward to since lunch a couple of weeks ago. Braised lamb shank seasoned with lemon and saffron in a bed of white beans that had been simmered in herbs and a light tomato sauce. It was everything I have been dreaming of. Love anything lamb and I was not disappointed. Damn I am drooling just writing about it. 5 stars. Honey Bunny ordered the Beef Shwarma. This was served over rice with the usual accompanying pickled cucumber, babaganoush and pita wedges. When I came up for air enjoying my dinner I noticed he was pushing his Shwarma around with his fork and not eating much. I snagged a bite and understood why. It was extremely dry, almost to the point of being inedible. 2 Stars because he wouldn't even take it home and can't say I blamed him. More wine! Dinner companions ordered the Fish of the day and the Chicken Tajine. Fish was Mahi Mahi, steamed topped with a very large shrimp, Oxymoron, and over a beautiful bed of baby bok choy. My my, 5 stars! Chicken Tajine seemed strange as it was topped with French Fries but apparently it was delicious as it was devoured. More wine finishing the third bottle we were all stuffed and didn't get to the desert. Still want to return, maybe have to have desert first and I will stick to the lamb dishes or the fish. The service was again excellent by the engaging and so tall Christopher. The restaurant was fairly empty and quiet until 7:00. Then it was like someone opened a gate and a flood of diners rolled in. The atmosphere completely changed and we were literally out the door but not without the orange blossom hand refresher. Great evening!

    (4)

  • Heather S.

    This restaurant has got it all! - an intricately decorated restaurant, delectably divine dishes, and very amiable knowledgeable staff. I'll start with the appetizers. We ordered the hummus and fries. Commonly found on menus at other restaurants, I had thought I knew what was coming. Oh boy was I wrong. The hummus was the best I've every tasted. Can't put my finger on what makes their hummus different from others, but you must take my word for it. And then their fries... Upon arrival, I was not too excited about digging into their fries. They just looked so plain, BUT they are the complete opposite of plain. It does come with a garlic sumac aioli sauce, which is to die for! Even without the sauce, the fries were amazing! For our main course, we tried the beef shwarma sandwich and lamb tajine. It would be hard for me to describe the flavors because this is a cuisine I am not very familiar with. With that being said, the flavors are very unique and very pleasing to our taste buds. No complaints on portions. They are very generous. But, the dishes were so good that we ate everything. Our tummies were so happy. I plan to come back real soon. There are quite a few more dishes I really really want to try.

    (5)

  • Lyn L.

    My girlfriend invited me to lunch here today....I had no idea what it would be like, but since she has such good taste, I figured it would be good. Located on Nuuanu Street in one of the older buildings is a very charming little restaurant. Decor is simple and pleasant with photos of Moroccan scenes and people. The menu is quite extensive...she started with grape leaves and they were very good...then I had the shaved beef in the pita bread (sorry I don't know the name), one of my girlfriends had the lamb and the other had the soup and cold salad. It was all very delicious!....so tasty and refreshing. The sandwich is accompanied by a very nice, large green salad with a lovely dressing. We just had water to drink and ended with sliced orange and baklava. They don't make their own baklava, but it was good Service was great...attentive, but not intrusive or overbearing. The 5 stars is for the restaurant...the bathroom gets 0 stars One thing I do need to mention....the bathroom...now I don't think it belongs to the restaurant...I think it belongs to the building, but just in case the restaurant people are reading this...you need to get the landlord to clean up that bathroom. I love old, charming, rustic buildings and all of the worn floors, etc that go with it, but the bathroom is just plain dirty...it needs a really good hosing down...and they need to put up toilet paper dispensers. They have packs of toilet tissue just in a box. One of the stalls had no paper and the other had the paper balanced on a fixture...I should have taken a photo of the condition of the bathroom....OMG, the negative review of the bathroom is as long as the review of the wonderful restaurant!

    (5)

  • Austin B.

    Came here for lunch a few times. Nice place to eat, and the service is usually friendly. Likes: The lunch sandwiches offer a good value. They're large portions, and are tasty. You can also sub the salad for fries for an additional charge (do it). Dislikes: The entrees are pricey if you're going here for lunch (they're essentially dinner entrees). I tried the chicken tajine, and while good, I'm not sure I'd pay for that myself (which I didn't at that time). Granted, they do give good portions. Favorites: I like the lamb kebab sandwich with fries. Just be prepared to smell like garlic for the next few hours. Parking in downtown consists of finding street parking or garages, but it's a close walk if you work downtown. It's a nice place if you're doing a lunch and want something different. While there are a some options for Lebanese/Greek food downtown, there's no place that offers Morrocan. Just be prepared to pay a little more for those options.

    (4)

  • G H.

    We went on a Saturday night and were seated by the entrance next to the window. They have out-door seating as well. Kan Zaman has: great ambiance, familiar music, delicious dishes, and a friendly & accommodating staff. I very much enjoyed their Moroccan salad which was very refreshing. The mint tea also had a nice sweetness to it. I had a large plate of the lamb tagine served with beans and my friend had the beef kebab which was seasoned perfectly. Both dishes were delicious, but we both could only finish half since the portions were that large...I'm not complaining. Hahaha.

    (4)

  • Heat H.

    Once again, delicious food. The tabouli and Moroccan salad were amazing! My bf loves meat and ordered the Merguez couscous which he loved also.

    (5)

  • Catherine G.

    I REALLLLYYYYY wanted to love this. Not to mention, I didn't want my lunch suggestion to be a BOMB! Well.... it was.. and it went off. Arrived here early for lunch on a Sunday and thought... hrm, its pretty empty. No worries, no one was at the door to greet us, its a small place. The server we got was nice enough and thankfully it was clean.... but thats about the best I have to say about this review. in the front corner was a gentleman working on his laptop, whom I assumed to be an owner. Never smiled, never acknowledged the only 2 customers in his whole place. But hey, who cares about that, I'm here for the FOOD! And....well... thats where this whole place falls flat... I ordered babaganoush to start...and well... it was just plain. To me it honestly tasted like something store bought, something out of a hummus page to be exact. No real distinction in flavor. Then the pitas they served it with... worse than some store bought places. It too was flavorless and just tasted bland. Fine, fine, maybe it was a one time problem... on to the entrees. My husband ordered the lamb pita with salad and I ordered the falafel. Well.... it had to be the driest falafal I've ever eaten in my life? I'm not sure if they cooked it to death, or it was just old, or what the issue was... but it was TERRIBLE. And their dressing that came with the salad... looked a bit too much like mayonnaise in dressing. It was like they had squeezed the dressing out of a bottle and it lay there in this weird squiggly pattern on top of the lettuce. It was disturbing... to say in the least. And while they used decent variety of lettuce, not just iceberg lettuce, with it sitting below the squiggly blob, i couldn't get myself to eat it. So we took the lot of it home. And I stared at it each day, trying to figure out if I would eat it and ultimately threw it out. What a waste. As you've noticed, I didn't say much about the lamb? Yeah... need I go into more? It too was dry and looked like old meat pieces that were left over and used. I don't know. I was hoping for fresh ingredients, fresh made that day or something. I wouldn't go back here even if you paid me to. Not unless you told me that they were overhauling their menu. Oh, by the way, someone raved about the baklava so of course I took some to go. It too was just ok. I once got baklava from Costco..... it was awesome and reminded me of what my Armenian grandmother used to make from scratch. (yeah Armenian grandmother is a long story.) Anyway, this baklava was meh. I think this place has really good days and really bad days. I'm just not willing go back to take the chance that it might be their "good" day for food....

    (2)

  • David P.

    Having never tried this type of cuisine before, but hearing great things about this place, we ventured in to celebrate a new job! We have tried other types of Mediterranean foods, so we weren't afraid of trying anything on the menu. We had the babaganoushe, lamb tajine, and the orange blossom cheesecake! The food was spectacular in that the lamb was not gamey, but the meat fell off the bone! The babaganoushe was not very creamy, but teemed with flavor, and the cheesecake had a grounded date on top which gave this dinner a reason to return. I suggest getting their mint tea. It was a delight! Not strong and not overly sweet. Instead, it was a great introduction to our meal. The service was pretty spot on too. They were friendly and gave great recommendations on which items to try. It was also nice that they seated us outdoors. It was a pretty cold night when we went, but it wasn't too cold outside. The lamb tajine was a perfect dish to warm our bodies up! I recommend this restaurant as we will definitely return to this restaurant and will try other dishes. Happy yelping!!

    (5)

  • Tania L.

    The more I read yelp reviews, the more I question whether yelpers should be able to post their ratings based on a single experience. Often I find myself inclined to post when I have an unusual experience - especially good or especially bad, and sometimes just plain interesting - and rarely take the time to post the tried-and-trues, as of late, anyhow. I mean, how accurate can one experience be? Maybe the stars were aligned just right/wrong, or you ordered the wrong food, or lucked out with ordering the good food... how can you measure consistency if all you had was the house salad? Anyway, that's just a personal issue I'm dealing with atm. Kan Zaman, it turns out, had a spot in a building of one of my ex's and I had eaten there and enjoyed it, though pricy for a plate lunch. Here, the restaurant form, you are immediately pleased visually at the high ceiling, the unobtrusive color palettes, and apparently there's that inside open area that most prefer to dine but we didn't make it that far and just sat at the nearest open table. The apps were great - had the sampler, yummy! We shared an entrée - I'm not too familiar with this region of food, so I cannot make claims of authenticity. I thought the chicken was pretty good; JB thought it was just OK and too soupy, also oddly topped with French fries. We did love that mint iced tea, though!!! We would go again, and probably order a different entrée.

    (4)

  • Cindy P.

    Well today's the day that I've decided to try Moroccan Lebanese food for the very first time! I have got to admit i'm sort of a fan. Kan Zaman is in the chinatown district on the same street as fresh cafe! Me and my friends found parking on the street (we were lucky) and we headed towards a teal colored door. I first walked into Kan Zaman, my first impression was "what a small little place!" (They actually have more seating in the back which looks like a patio area) We arrived during lunch and it was pretty packed, but thank goodness there was no wait as we were seated immediately! However when we were seated, we waited, and waited... and waited.... 7 minutes later the waiter approached us with cups of water and walked away without a word. We waited again.. Then a waitress approached us asking if we wanted mint tea. We nodded and she briskly walked to the counter to grab some mint tea. Eventually she came back with the mint tea and finally, the menu! Me and my friends ordered the following: -Chicken Shwarma Sandwich: My friend described it as fried pieces of chicken on a pita bread with hummus spread (it was pretty good) -Lamb Kebab: I found it to be a bit touch and rubbery. The spices and herbs were a bit too much for my taste as my taste buds were extremely confused. In addition it was on the dry side. However i've got to admit the hummus on the side was really good. -Beef Kebab Sandwich: I was not a fan of this. However I do not want to offend anyone as I am not an expert of Moroccan Lebanese food. Is it supposed to be oily? My beef was drenched in oil and my pita bread was soaked in oil. Every bite I took had me stifle. I only took a few bites and I wasn't able to eat more. What helped me break down the oil was their mint tea. (Which is $4.00 and it includes refills; yay!) Now for dessert, one word. Baklava. Just get it, trust me. Crispy crunchy flaky buttery crust with a firm caramel consistent like filling. Oh my word after we ordered three we got three more to go. I'll be back to try something different (:

    (3)

  • Arthur S.

    Great Middle Eastern style restaurant. Everything from the interior decor, the outdoor seating and ambiance seemed very authentic. We arrived here about noon and were promptly seated. Given the choice of indoor or outdoor seating. We opted for the outdoor. The establishment was not very busy at all. Our servers were very helpful, especially in answering my gf's many questions. After reading Grant S.' review of the place, i already had my sights set on the "Merguez" sandwich $13. The sandwich consists of lamb sausage, with cheese and Harissa, a (mildly spicy) sauce sandwiched between a pressed baguette. I gotta hand it to Grant. I wasn't let down with his recommendation. Along with the sandwich where a heap of perfectly crisped fries seasoned with delicious herbs and spices. The dipping sauce was perfect! My gf ordered the Chicken Taouk $16. The main portion of this dish, the chicken taouk were basically chicken kabobs with herbs and spices. Im guessing the cuts were breast meat. I wasn't really wowed by this. On the other hand, the sides that came with her dish which i am very familiar with, included a parsley salad, humus, and pita bread looked excellent. We also ordered the mint tea. Which was really refreshing especially during the humid afternoon, and a coffee. I'd consider the menu items a bit pricey, especially during lunch. Our total came out to $50 for the two of us. Maybe a lunch specials menu would be great.

    (3)

  • Nicole K.

    Two weeks ago we decided to try Kan Zaman. We read other Yelp reviews before trying them out. So we knew to make reservations and we reviewed the menu in advance. We went on a Thursday night, and when I made the reservation over the phone they suggested that we sit outside in their open courtyard area. However, by the time we arrived the winds had kicked up and had a slight chill within them and we requested an indoor table instead. The decor is simple but the music was pretty cool. We joked about whether it was legit Morrocan music or a tourists version. We still enjoyed it. The waitstaff were friendly, prompt, and attentive to our needs. They offered us Hot Morrocan Mint Tea which was DELICIOUS and just what we needed to warm up. They also made suggestions about menu items, but we already made our decision. We were gonna have the lamb! Hubs had Lamb Couscous and I had Lamb Tajine. Both were delicious, moist, and flavorful. Oh! We also had the sampler for our appetizer: hummus, babaganoush, and two other apps that I can't remember the names of. Sorry. Hummus and pita were great. We couldn't leave without dessert. So we ordered 2! Baklava and Turkish Chocolate Coffee Cheesecake. Baklava - meh. It was ok. Cheesecake? TO DIE FOR. Overall stars...4. What would have earned them that 5th star? They would need to drop the entree prices by $3-$4. We will return in the future and we suggest you give em a whirl.

    (4)

  • Shruti J.

    This place is amazing! I had the messa platter and the lamb shank! The platter was just delicious, hummus and babaganoush were flavorful. The pita was warm and fresh. Their service was excellent. I would say one of the best serviced places i have ever visited. The staff was kind and nice, and our server actually made suggestions as to what is good! I am definitely visiting this place again! :)

    (5)

  • Nicole S.

    Kan Zanman... I'm not an exotic food person. I'm seriously the type that likes plain white rice with plain spam and plain scrambled eggs (shoyu if over easy). Simplicity is what I grew to enjoy living in a Chinese house. So we got invited to a friends birthday celebration and he wanted to dine here. (BYOB if you want alcohol). I honestly thought to myself, "it's late enough in the evening that I could eat around 4p and be good until after we're done with dinner." That plan never happened. I'm not going to lie, I was terrified of the food all the way until the first bite into that Chicken Taouk. It was pretty damn good. Didn't know what to expect but when served, the chicken taouk came out like a kebab, kinda heavy seasoning with pepper and other spices but overall very good. I guarantee I will be back there! Some other little information about the actual location. Middle of downtown Honolulu, need to find street parking or park at Mark's Garage and walk down. It's about a block passed Fresh Cafe on Nuuanu Ave. They have some small party (2-4) tables in the front and if you venture beyond the cash register you'll find a little patio that allows for larger parties (like ours) to be sat. There is a little garden/yard that really makes the whole ambiance quite nice. It was quaint, I really do love it! Servers are very nice, one server was a little slow but so very nice that I wouldn't want to mention anymore about them to give any bad impressions. Overall, a great NEW experience for me.

    (4)

  • Chad Y.

    Huh? We're going to Kan Zaman? What the heck is that and how do you even pronounce it!? And what do they have? No matter what the response you get, try it out and you'll experience something really different with wonderful ambiance and good service. Set on Nuuanu, its nondescript storefront blends in among the crowd, yet as you enter and pass through its narrow hallway, its back courtyard is an oasis set amongst the hustle and bustle of downtown and Chinatown. If outdoor isn't your thing, indoors by the entrance is nice, but nothing special. Don't let Moroccan/Lebanese scare you away. It's really not that exotic. It's different, yes, but I wouldn't say it is truly exotic. The food features proteins with a lot of different herbs and spices, but not spicy hot spices. While lamb or tajine may scare you away, tajine is just the cooking vessel they use and lamb just has a gamey taste. The beef kebab is a good starting point with well seasoned and flavored cubes of beef that is grilled and served up with rice, tomatoes, hummus, and pita. It's simple but really well executed and flavored. The falafel is nothing to sneer at if frying is ok with you (some people don't like fried, I personally don't get why though). The chicken schawrma sandwich is a good lunch option plus you can be healthy with a salad or a little tastier with fries. Plus you get to say schawrma...who doesn't like saying that? I mean come on...Iron Man and the rest of the Avengers enjoy it at the end of the movie. Service is good, although it can get a little backed up during the peak lunch or dinner hours. However, water glasses didn't stay empty for long and they definitely are helpful as you make your menu selections. Some say exotic...and to some extent it is...but expand your horizons and expose your palate to something new.

    (4)

  • Mark H.

    Moroccan - Lebanese food... Err wot is that? I've eaten here three times and I still don't know... But I do know that I love it here! I haven't come for dinner--only for lunch. I have tried their chicken kebab sandwich, chicken schwarma sandwich, and marguez sandwich. Both of the chicken sandwiches were on pitas instead of your traditional bread. Flavors and seasoning that I am not very familiar with but they work for me! Authentic or americanized? Beats me and I don't care--happy tummy is a happy Mark! Portions are filling--I have left here full and content like a viking every time! Service is always wonderful here. A pleasant experience on every visit thus far. Tip: they have really good fries. Thin, seasoned well, crispy and goes well with their spread. Spend the extra couple bucks and swap the salad out for their fries!

    (5)

  • Tom C.

    A treasure of an eatery in the downtown Chinatown area! Kan Zaman delivers wonderful service, has an outdoor patio with great ambiance and fantastic food! I've eaten there twice now, and the experience has been consistently fabulous! Had waiter JC both times. His recommendations were spot on! Listen to the man! He definitely knows what's good! So far I've tried the Mezza Platter ( four deletable shares), the chicken swarma (large portion of tasty chicken pieces and veggies with rice and babaganoush with pita bread, and my favorite so far, the rack of lamb! The lamb here, whatever it is whether it's kebab, shank or lollipops of the rack are all excellent and the spices they use compliment the lamb never overpowering but enhancing the natural flavor of the meat! Awesome!!! For dessert, I've had the orange blossom cheesecake with a dollop of a date compote and I think a very very thin top layer of caramel! Am I right, anybody? Now this cheesecake is to DIE FOR!!!! Creamy, smooth, melt in your mouth! Heading back there tomorrow and taking 3 friends! I'm going to have the lamb couscous which a friend had the last time. I thought it was just going to be couscous with bits of lamb in it but it was a whole, melt in your mouth, fall off the bone shank sitting on a bed of couscous served with Morrocan mashed potatoes and veggies! I had a taste and was blown away! So THAT'S what I'm having tomorrow! Stay tuned!!!!

    (5)

  • Michael R.

    Lunch on a Monday was quite enjoyable. We arrived about 1:30p, after the lunch rush. We chose to sit in the courtyard and the setting was quiet and peaceful. Our server, Martin, was prompt and courteous. Our food came out quickly and we were treated to large portions of quality Lebanese food. The beef and chicken shawerma were each well spiced and came with a beautiful salad with an orange water vinaigrette. I chose the mint tea, refreshing but very sweet (you can opt for unsweetened). We finished with baklava and it was sweet, dense and a perfect end to a wonderful lunch...who knew a Monday could be so enjoyable!

    (4)

  • Cat D.

    Food was good: Lamb tajine was super good and the Beef schrama was delicious and flavorful. The babagamoush was also good, but i prefer the one at healthy cafe in downtown. Pita bread was nice and warm Sweetened mint iced tea was good and not overly sweet. We weren't offered dessert so couldn't comment on that. Service : nice waiter but he buses his own tables, which made managing an entire section somewhat slow. The place is small and they have outside seating (where we sat). Its a little tight tho. Music is nice

    (3)

  • Takashi H.

    Going out for Restaurant Week this year? Here's where you should eat. Kan Zaman is indeed an excellent choice for dinner as well as lunch. Since the walk to the restaurant can sometimes be daunting, I visit Kan Zaman when I am celebrating a special occasion or milestone. On this particular visit, it was to try their Restaurant Week menu and dinner options. Really hit the spot! For the vegetarians and vegans in Hawaii, participating in Restaurant Week can be rather tough. Thankfully, Kan Zaman offered a completely vegan course menu featuring the vegetable couscous as its main dish. Their meal is topped off with the revitalizing orange blossom, cinnamon, Moroccan mint tea which is a nice way to end the meal over final sips and conversation. Enjoy the small things in life and your days will be fulfilling. For me, a bowl of my favorite hummus and Moroccan mint tea is just a short drive into town.

    (5)

  • Quyen N.

    Wowsers! My party of 4 dined here on a weekday night. We dined al fresco in the courtyard out back. Nice little oasis in the Chinatown area. Very nice and intimate. Beautifully decorated. Wonderful dining service. - The Moroccan mint tea was pretty awesome. - Mezza sampler was delectable with hummus, baba ghanoush, stuffed grape leaves, and taktouka. The last item is a new one to me. - The vegetarian couscous was hearty, flavorful, and good-sized - plenty left over! - We split the baklava and the orange blossom cheesecake. The boyfriend and I will most definitely return for another fantastic dining experience. Addendum - I later went solo for an early dinner and ordered a soup and salad combo. The Moroccan salad was nice and simple - the highlights were the orange blossom and fresh oranges. The Harira soup was OK, maybe slightly salty - it is tomato-based with chickpeas. Not sure I would order the salad and soup again. Next time I will just order the Mezza sampler all for me! And maybe the falafel if I'm feeling extra hungry. :o)

    (4)

  • Terrance Y.

    Wow went here for lunch for the first time (although I've been to the location before when it was a Thai restaurant ) sat out back luckily it was not a sweltering day so it was okay out back. I ordered the Merquez Sandwich which is a grilled lamb sausage with a spicy Harissa sauce and cheese that was served with fries it was a great sandwich and I loved the spicyness of it! The others ordered the lamb kebab sandwich which also looked good it was interesting sitting out back where the decor changed slightly from when it was a Thai Restauant and with the Moroccan music playing felt the same but different lol. I had to admit I'd like to return to eat the lamb Sausage again it was great.

    (3)

  • Shay F.

    I love Kan Zaman! It's veggie friendly AND the food is good. I recently went for Restaurant Week and enjoyed the experience. The appetizer had 5 different dishes that were all very tasty. For the main, I got the veggie couscous which was really flavorful. Then, for dessert, I had a baklava. The food was good and the service was good. Downtown parking can be a bit crazy, but I just parked in the municipal lot on Smith and it was close enough!

    (5)

  • Diana T.

    To anyone interested in having a unique dining experience, try out Kan Zaman. We had reservations for a group of 4 for a Wednesday night dinner at 7:30 pm, for my friend's birthday. Well it just so happens that Wednesday night at 7:30 is when the belly dancing happens. Right when we were seated, the waiter let us know that the performance was about to start. Then we saw a woman walk out, and she began to dance. It was slightly awkward because we were seated at a table in the middle of the room. She was somewhat dancing in circles around us. But we still managed to carry on conversation. That is, until the mini finger cymbals came out. Holy cow, those things are amazingly loud. I tried to embrace the cultural experience of it all, but it was hard when I couldn't hear my friends sitting across the table from me. The dancer would stay in our room for a portion of the time, and then she would disappear - I assume to dance for the people seated at the other side of the restaurant in the back. I didn't get a chance to check out the other side, but the pictures look nice! While she was dancing for the other side, the waitress came and took our order. My friends ordered the Lamb Tajine, Chicken Taouk, and Beef Kebab. I ordered the Mussel Stew, which was on special that night. We also ordered Falafel to split between us. While we waited for the food, the belly dancer came back, this time with a sword. Also, by this time, her clothes had dollar bills sticking out in all kinds of places. I can tell you right now, I have never been to any restaurant in my entire life that has given me an experience quite like this place has. To some, it can be awkward (I myself didn't feel uncomfortable until I saw people putting money into her clothing). However, I think most people handle the situation well and enjoy it. Then our falafel, and the mussel stew came. Yes, that's right, my food came at the same time as the appetizer. It was a little awkward. When ordering, I believed I made it clear that the stew was my dinner, and that it wasn't necessarily going to be shared with others. It was made even more awkward because I was waiting to eat my stew until my friends also had their food, and the waitress came by and asked why we weren't eating the stew. I can understand where the miscommunication was, but it was still just a tad uncomfortable. The falafel, by the way, I would give a 6.5/10. It was very hard. I don't know if most falafel is that way, but it still tasted alright. Then my friends' food finally came, and we could eat! We all enjoyed our main courses. I'd give the mussel stew an 8.5/10. I just wish I had some bread to sop up the soup with. Pita is good, but doesn't quite do the trick. I tried some of my friend's lamb, which was tasty, and a piece of my friend's chicken taouk, which was, in my opinion, very impressive, and very well-spiced. If I ever come back here, I think I would order that. After dinner, we were too full for dessert, so we skipped on baklava. Shucks. When we got our check, the waitress came back with this water that she sprinkled onto our hands. She told us to rub it into our hands and that we could smell it and then rub it into our hair, etc. If that's not cultural, I don't know what is. I left feeling like I had stepped out of the middle east and suddenly back into downtown Honolulu. I was full and content, and definitely experienced a night to remember.

    (4)

  • Jessica G.

    Chef Kamal doesn't disappoint. Kan Zaman is beautiful - the front dining area is simple but really pleasant to the eye, and the lanai in the back is perfect if you are looking to be out of doors. I felt like I had journeyed far for dinner, but was smack in the middle of Chinatown. I was immediately welcomed and sat at a table, and though the back area was full, I was encouraged to go see it. I came in to have a lovely dinner by myself and was quite happy with the results! I had the babaganoush and grape leaves as appetizers. Both were excellent. The pita is not of the fluffy variety, if that is what you are used to, but it is freshly grilled. The babaganoush was flavorful and fresh. The stuffed grape leaves were the perfect size and the perfect taste. I ordered the chicken tajine as my main course. It came with pita on the side and with fries (!) on top. I asked for the aioli that comes with the regular side of fries and Joe, my server happily obliged. The chicken was cooked well - tender and moist. The tea is amazing. Freshly brewed, with mint and orange blossom that you can smell and taste and is the perfect accompaniment to your meal or with dessert. I could drink it all day long - it definitely has the "comfort" factor to it. I will be back to try the lunch menu, and to try dessert as well.

    (5)

  • Aaron P.

    Had a great time here, my comedy troupe went for a team dinner before we appeared in the improv festival. Great food, the server was really good with the suggestions, great big portions of food, we were a walk in party of 8 and they were able to put together a space in the back outdoor area and get us seated quick. The tea was great. The names of the food I knew but the presentation was very different than I've had before, and it was gooooooooooood. Highly recommended for a romantic dinner with a twist, I didnt have a romantic dinner with my team but the atmosphere (minus an 8 persom improv comedy troupe) seems very quiet, intimate, and relaxing. I will return with my girlfriend to try out the romantic feel of Kan Zaman, I will share the results... well not all of them because that would be WAY more information than you need about me.

    (5)

  • Mahozina E.

    OUTSTANDING FOOD AND SERVICE!!! Wish I could give more stars to this restaurant! Being raised by a Lebanese dad made me very pick about Lebanese food and Kan Zaman hit the spot! I've being on a long search for middle eastern food in Oahu since I moved here back in 2008 and never I had such good and authentic food! The spices, the presentation, the flavor are just incredible! To add even more stars to this review the restaurant is extremely intimate and charming and the chefs make an awesome effort to talk to each guest and make then feel welcome! LOVE IT! Don't forget to try the mint tea! ;)

    (5)

  • Mad D.

    I went in at 1:30 p.m. and was sat by the window which I thought was a cute little 2 seater. (I ate by myself). It's a small place with about seven 2-seaters and 3-4 group tables. I guess there's an outdoor area. I wanted to get the main course lamb with tahini, but I figured the lamb kabob was a lunch version. My idea was to try it first without spending a lot of money, then if I liked it, I'd definitely go back. $9.95 for the Lamb Kabob served with a side mixed green salad. I was pleasantly surprised at how good it was. Try it!!! They use the iphone credit card slider if you pay by card, but i found it slightly awkward when the waitress mentioned about leaving a tip or not on the phone, when the choices are on the screen 15%, 18%, or 20%. To me, it's indirectly asking for it. I think people who dine out on a regular basis would know to tip or will ask how to tip from the phone. Your receipt is emailed or text to you.

    (4)

  • Marilynn M.

    I don't eat out much but have been here twice for lunch. Both times I've had the lamb pita. The lamb is very tender, not at all oily, and seasoned to have a very pleasing flavor. The salad that accompanies it is simple but with a tasty dressing, which is a nice complement to the lamb. My lunch companions have had chicken pita and beef pita, and they raved about both.

    (4)

  • Jenna D.

    A cute little joint hidden in down town with a great atmosphere and delicious food to match. This Moroccan Lebanese restaurant has a friendly staff and outstanding service. My husband and I fell in love with the place and I would highly recommend you to try it out.

    (5)

  • Jude A.

    New Moroccan Lebanese restaurant in downtown Honolulu, friendly staff, outstanding service, the genius of it is in its simplicity, its focus on herbs, spices and the freshness of ingredients. Onolicious!

    (5)

  • Kat W.

    I have been searching everywhere for an authentic moroccan restaurant! Look no further. This place is as legit as they come from their baba ganoush to their delicious iced mint tea. The service was friendly and thorough and the ambience outside just set the tone to a wonderful relaxing date. I will definitely become a regular.

    (5)

  • Kelli C.

    Great location, beautiful patio, wonderful service and tasty food. Iced Mint tea is a refreshing drink paired with the falafel or lamb sandwich both yummy!

    (4)

  • Michael G.

    Lamb Kebab and Moroccan Salad were EXCELLENT!!! I ate there once and got takeout on another occasion. Food is super tasty both times! Service was superb. If you are in downtown, check this place out!

    (5)

  • Rita L.

    Seriously, this place is freaking awesome. I only tried the morroccan place in kailua and this beats that place hands down. The service, food, and ambiance was suberb! I will be back. Get the lamb with couscous and the baba gounoush. Also the mint tea is a must! The only downside is the location is sketchy, lots of bums hanging around, but that is to be expected around chinatown.

    (5)

  • Darren S.

    This is my first Moroccan experience but it definitely will not be my last. If you enjoy Mediterranean cuisine, this is a must try! Kan Zaman is a nice family-style, homey environment sandwiched between the Chinatown and business district of Downtown Honolulu. Prices are very reasonable for a healthy lunch!

    (4)

  • soufiane b.

    great food, great ambiance, I really love the outside seating ;) I am french from algerian parents and i am really happy now to have this restaurant in town. I have to try now the lunch specials :) amazing mint tea, authentic ,healthy tasty cuisine and good pricing. bon appétit

    (5)

  • K M.

    We were a bit disappointed with our dinner. A few of the starters were too salty but the most irritating thing was that our food was not hot when it was brought to us. It's a small restaurant and they were super busy, but it's still not an excuse to serve cold food. The chicken taouk (grilled white meat chicken on skewers) was really tasty and tender and moist. Over all, it was OK but not someplace I would return to.

    (2)

  • Michael I.

    I have had nothing but delicious experiences here. The lamb or chicken tagine are amazingly tender and delicious. The tabouleh makes a great light side to a dish. The hummus is fabulous. Actually every time i have eaten here (5 times) the service has been right on and helpful and the food fabulous. Remember to plan, it is BYOB which is a nice change don't you think? It is great to have Kan Zaman in Chinatown. What a great addition to the area.

    (5)

  • Rebecka A.

    I had the lamb kebab for lunch ($10) out on the back lanai. Tasted my friend's moroccan mint tea which was delicious. The lamb was all high quality, perfectly seasoned, the pita was fresh and you get a side salad. Tasteful decorations and a calm, cool lanai out back.

    (4)

  • Michael R.

    I enjoyed this place. I went for lunch on Memorial Day. The falafel sandwich with salad was pretty good. I really enjoyed the salad dressing and the mint iced tea. The place has a nice ambiance and could potentially be romantic in the outdoor area. Free parking is hard to find but should not prevent you from trying it out.

    (4)

  • Paul H.

    My cousin and I like to try different places for lunch when we have time. I had seen a review on a friend's blog and since she's a foodie and liked this place, I figured why not? My cousin made reservations for lunch (good idea if you plan to go midday) and we had a nice cozy table by the window. Tried the hummus and cooked veggie appetizer. It came with a basket of pita bread. Normally I really don't care for green bell peppers but that's what was in the cooked veggie appetizer, and I kept on eating it. The hummus was nice and refreshing and there was enough to take home to eat later. My cousin had the Chicken Tajine and I had the Kofta sandwich. My cousin loved the Chicken Tajine and the Kofta for me was large enough that I took half the sandwich home for din. She and I are aching to go back again. Maybe with other people to share our find. My sandwich also came with mixed greens which was a nice refreshing salad.

    (5)

  • Kelsey S.

    This BYOB establishment is located on Nuuanu just after S. Hotel Street. Street parking might be a pain on the weekends so your best bet is to try a weekday night. When we pulled up, I was surprised to find that the restaurant used to be where a Thai restaurant once was (the name escapes me at the moment). I remembered, from my past Thai experience, that there was seating both in and outdoors - that hasn't changed. The bf and I opted to sit indoors close to the front door (directly below the AC). At the end of the night, we realized that this was a mistake. It was a good thing we finished our meals when we did because a big load of water dump itself on the floor. Luckily, he was just sprinkled with some of the water but, had he been leaning against the wall, he would've looked like he just came from a wet t-shirt contest. We signaled for the waitress to come and when we advised her of the wet floor, her response was, "Oh, yeah...it's from the condensation. It happens all the time." Um...excuse me, but if you know this happens a lot, why place tables directly below it?! AC drama aside, the food was okay, at least my dish was anyway. I had the Chicken Tajine ($16.95). I read some of the reviews but still decided to try it for myself. It came out and basically, I was looking at a mountain of french fries piled on 2 pieces of chicken. Trying to be more health conscious, I pushed aside almost all of the fries to dig my way to the bottom. The chicken was pretty flavorsome. It had a slow-cooked taste/texture to it. It was swimming it a soup-base of saffron, coriander, lemon, cumin, smoked paprika & olives. Yes I was trying to be healthy, but come on...my inner fat kid was just dying to try to dip one of the fries into that base. It ended up tasting like fries with gravy...yum... Flavorful and all, would I pay $17 for just 2 pieces of chicken and a whole lot of fries I'd never eat? No...so not worth it. My date had the Lamb Couscous ($22.95) - definitely worth its price. The lamb was served over couscous in broth with carrots, pumpkin, potatoes, zucchini, tomatoes & chick peas. That couscous was awesome. Naturally, I wanted to eat it all, especially since my dish was so, meh. I was so jealous. Our dinner ended with the Katayef dessert - a banana pancake the size of a bread plate served with cream, honey & some kind of orange blossom water. That was a light & refreshing dessert and a good way to end the meal...until a load of water comes crashing down and ruins the whole thing. All in all, this is an okay place to eat. I'd consider coming back again, just not for the Tajine...or the AC shower...

    (3)

  • Mohammad H.

    It was awesome! Try it , especially if you are middle eastern! And nice music and staffs :D

    (5)

  • Daniel M.

    I was so looking forward to trying this place. I love Lebanese and Mediterranean food. Perhaps it was my fault my experience was not so great-- I should have asked more questions. Appetizers: We had Falafel-- tasty, yet pricey-- and fries-- awesome sumac and garlic aioli for dipping. Main Course: My wife had the one vegetarian main course, a vegetable couscous. Very bland and unremarkable. I had the lamb kebab-- envisioning cubes of succulent lamb meat on a skewer, but received a pile of luke warm "shaved lamb" bits over rice. The lamb had been ground and mixed with other ingredients which gave it a spongy texture remniscent of gyros, but softer. I asked the server about the beef kebab, and she said it came the same way. On the menu, it states "marinated cubes of beef", so this could be confusing. Being my first time to the restaurant, I should have asked about the menu items more. Everyone around me seemed to be enjoying sumptuous lamb shanks, and I should have gotten the cue. Service: Our server was quite pleasant, but didn't perform a key task: checking back soon after the entree is delivered. When she did return, it was obvious I was unhappy with my dish. As a former waiter, I didn't want to make a big fuss. I did make it clear to her that it was not what I expected and that I did not like it. I ended up eating the rice (which was delicious) and the hummus and tabouleh (which were average). The old school thing that I sort of wanted to happen was for the waiter to suggest or offer another item to replace a dish I was clearly unsatisfied with. Instead, my comments were met with a sympathetic smiles and nods of understanding. We got a box for the pulverized lamb meat to feed the homeless with it. I thought we might get a dessert comped, but all I got were refills of their delicious mint iced tea. People rave about this place as being the best middle eastern cuisine in town. But like it often is in Hawaii: maybe it's the "best" because it's the "only".

    (2)

  • T P.

    So I just wanna start out by saying that I love this place! It's a hidden little gem! I've tried the mezza sampler, lamb kebab, lamb couscous and the lamb tahine. All of my selections were delicious! The dessert is also to die for! I don't remember the name of the chocolate cheesecake that they have but it is fantastic! I also love the orange blossom cheesecake. It's light and perfect with a lovely mound of puree dates on the top! The service is great as well. All of the times that I've been here they were also super attentive. They also have byob...I don't ever remember seeing a corkage fee, so that's always a plus! The only downfall of coming here is the parking but that's how it is in Chinatown. Anyway the food makes it worthwhile!

    (5)

  • Laura G.

    I had the Chicken Tajine which was excellent - perfectly cooked and extremely flavorful! The tabbouleh was very fresh and had a great balance of herbs, tomatoes, and lemon, and the mint tea is something you must try - very refreshing on a warm day. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting - I would definitely come back here.

    (5)

  • Laurie M.

    So excited to have authentic Moroccan food in Hawaii! Admittedly some of the food is more Lebanese-ish, but its excellent. Service was great. Ambiance is perfect for an intimate dinner. Mint tea takes me back to Fez. Definitely worth the trip to Chinatown!

    (5)

  • Reid I.

    The food here was delicious. I would recommend requesting to be seated in the back patio. We started with the babaganoush, it was very tasty and I enjoyed it. I ordered the chicken tajine. This dish was excellent and very flavorful. I am a french fry eater so this was a plus. My girlfriend ate the lamb couscous. It was a lot of food, she like it but I think she was envious with my dish. We also drank the mint tea which was refreshing. I would surely come here again.

    (4)

  • Alex D.

    I took the advice of other reviews and decided to give this place a try, as I love Middle Eastern food and I was tired of eating at the same restaurants near my home. I was certainly not disappointed! I ordered the lentil soup and a side of pita bread (there were plenty of vegetarian-friendly options which made my stomach happy)--the soup was flavorful and smooth, and the pita was perfect for dipping. My date ordered the lamb tajine and while I'm generally grossed out by meat on the bone the lamb looked very tender (it fell off of the bone) and was accompanied by a good portion of chickpeas, beans, and spices. We shared a pot of mint tea (which, if I had learned to read, I would have seen was hot; I wanted iced, but that was my fault), and it was wonderful, sweet without being overpowering and married beautifully to the mint. I'm certainly making plans to go back and try dessert, as baklava is a weakness of mine and I was too full to order any. The servers were very friendly and helpful; they asked if we had a seating preference, and took us to a cozy courtyard located behind the restaurant (the indoor seating space was smallish, but for its location in Chinatown I was impressed by how they designed the space). Our food was served very quickly as we were the only ones in the restaurant at the time (which quickly changed as it became later in the evening; I would suggest making reservations if you are going to be eating later than 7pm). The only thing I would have liked more was if there had been maybe one or two more members of the waitstaff--it looked like our servers had their hands full and we waited for some time for the check. Whether this is due to the newness of the restaurant or the fact that we went for supper on a weekday, I don't know; the quality of the food and the friendliness of the staff more than made up for it, however, and I will definitely make a return trip.

    (5)

  • Melissa G.

    Kamal and his team are fantastic! the Morroccan mint tea, iced or hot is a must!

    (5)

  • Jobobb S.

    Excellent food. I had lunch here and had the Merguez that were perfectly grilled and very tasty. The mint ice tea was a nice compliment to the meal enjoyed in the quiet outdoor seating area. Definitely going back.

    (4)

  • Joe R.

    Love this find. Great backyard patio. Lamb taurine was excellent. Good banaganoush. Excellent service by Susannah.

    (5)

  • Pedro V.

    Great ambiance and decor, "poppin" zesty tabouli, fresh pita, and amazing succulent chicken tagine. I am looking forward to trying more dishes. Order the tea extra hot as ours didn't retain heat after I gave it a nice high bubbling pour. The tea's sugar mint ratios were exquisite, however.

    (5)

  • Marty J.

    I enjoy nothing more than the experience of trying something completely new. Couple that with wonderful service and amazing food and it makes for a perfect evening! The courtyard is charming and the staff strives to make your dining experience a memorable one. We will visit this place often.

    (5)

  • Paul C.

    Great service, even better food, the mint tea was wonderful, and the lamb kebab was incredible!

    (5)

  • Jenny M.

    Been there twice. Tried the koftka sandwich, merguez and hummus app. It took a surprisingly long time to cook my food. However, the flavors were tasty. Service is where I have my gripe with. I don't mean to be a d*ck but the people that work here don't have a clue on what's going on. I'd probably eat here there again when my schedule is clear.

    (3)

  • Kev E.

    Had lunch reservations for 4. Food was great. Would return here.

    (5)

  • Lee B.

    I've visited here 3 times and plan to keep returning! The food here has a lot of flavor. Good lunch options - I've tried the chicken falafel and lamb kabob; both tasted great. Also, tried the lamb tajine. I could not resist after seeing the pics and reviews posted here. It was delish! The indoor area is quaint, though I love sitting out back. It's got a relaxing atmosphere. Oh, and another BIG plus - the wait staff was excellent on each visit!

    (5)

  • Kimberely N.

    This place is so good! Better than I could imagine. And the mint tea is on another level!!

    (5)

  • Judith L.

    It is a great pity that the food is "nearly good". Far too little lemon on everything. For anyone who has lived in the Middle East this is definitely a let down. I sense that most of the food is supplied by restaurant supply companies and then heated up. Never again!

    (2)

  • Adly M.

    First time I ate at Kanzaman was two years when they just opened it was'nt a great experience. But I went last night and I was amazed how the quality of the food has improve. The food was delicious, Had Lamb with baba ghanouj and rice and some appetizers and mint tea. Delicious Thank you Kamal !

    (4)

  • C.A. Ferreira T.

    Great value and lots of tasty food! Lunched with hubby and ordered Kofta and Lamb Kebab. Plates came with generous mixed green salad with a light honey citrus dressing. Food was well spiced but not overpowering on the garlic or spices. The meats were moist, juicy, and you could tell the difference between the lamb and the beef. The food was served quickly considering the place was full. Wait staff was attentive and explained the dishes served. We'll definitely be back!

    (5)

  • Tim R.

    This little place in china town is a true gem! The service was outstanding and the iced tea was the best I have had In Hawaii! I was in for lunch and ordered the beef shwarma sandwich. I was very pleasantly surprised as it was filled with very flavorful beef and hummus on a beautiful, soft, warm pita. The portions are large and the sandwich was served with mixed green salad. I will recommend this special place to all my friends. For those who don't wish to have meat, there are many vegetarian options. There is no reason not to try this great eatery. It is added to my list of great Chinatown restaurants!

    (4)

  • Sharon L.

    Just excellent, the food and atmosphere! Love the outdoor courtyard and service was great! I had the Lamb Couscous (very large tender shank with tons of vegetables) and Babaganoush with Pita! They were both awesome and I also tasted the Lamb Tajine which was a great dish as well! Moroccan mint tea, Just tasty!!!! Great place for a date, "girls night out" or small party! Will definitely return! Thanks Kan Zaman for a great evening filled with great food and service! Happy 2 months old!

    (5)

  • Doris B.

    We went here maybe a week ago for lunch. I've never had Moroccan/Lebanese food. I've had Greek food, but was not much of a fan. Our waitress was very knowledgeable of the menu. I had the chicken tajine with rice. It usually comes with fries but I went with the advice of a Yelper & I was not disappointed! It was delish!!!! We had the coffee cheesecake. Omg. Foodgasm in your mouth. We sat outdoor in the back. I love the privacy & atmosphere. I will definitely come back with the hubby!

    (4)

  • Amy O.

    Excellent fast & friendly service in spite of it being a busy Friday night (though we were early enough to avoid the busiest time). The hot mint tea was sweetened way more than I'd ordinarily drink, but it was so good I drank it all and would order it every time I go back. It's not a typical mint tea - I hadn't been expecting such an aromatic, floral mint tea. The grape leaves and cream of artichoke soup (special soup of the day) were both good. The Lamb Tajine was so moist and tender - it was really good. The white beans that came with it were okay. The Beef Shawarma was perfect. Very thinly sliced, slightly browned edges, the juices dripped down into the rice. The pickles were great and the babaganoush had a nice smokey flavor. On top if it all, the portions sizes were generous. I'd definitely recommend this place and go back next time I'm in Honolulu.

    (5)

  • Erica A.

    I treated a friend to lunch, and he highly recommended this place. We got seating out on the back lanai, which was a refreshing and open option compared the the comparatively cramped dining room. The seats were swathed with wine red covers and the dining area was surrounded with greenery, so for a second, I was certain I was no longer in Chinatown, but another more ethereal place. The service is a little slow but the atmosphere is amazing, and to be fair, we showed up in the thick of lunch rush hour. I tried shawarma for the first time, my friend making unrelenting Avengers jokes while we enjoyed the complex flavors. The pita was soft and the flavors were aromatic, not quite as spicy as I'd have expected, but it was a complex and delectable flavor. Perhaps more than the food, I loved the Moroccan Mint tea, which was served in a delicate silver tea pot with elegant glass cups. I heard they have belly dancers on Wednesday nights. See you on Wednesday.

    (4)

  • Amanda K.

    I come from a family of Moroccans on my father's side, so I was anxious to try this out to see how authentic it was. I went here for my birthday dinner with some coworkers and friends. We were seated on the outdoor patio out back, which was very cute and intimate. It was kind of hot and humid that day, so would have been nice if there was some fans blowing. But either way, it was nice to be outside. The indoor dining was also pretty small and casual. Also, I did not feel the decor and atmosphere was especially Moroccan, besides the wall decals. I guess that is because what I am used to, which is family members' houses and restaurants in the DC/Maryland area which are filled with elaborate Moroccan accents, vibrant colors and intricate details in furniture and art. This place is more simple, which isn't necessarily a bad thing, but just surprised me since it was built up to be more of a fine dining place. The service was good, and on Wednesday nights there is a live belly dancer. I wish they would do this on a weekend, or even maybe twice a week. But either way, it was nice to have that entertainment. She was pretty good and very sweet. She danced around and even had balanced a sword on her head and hip as she danced! Make sure to bring some ones and tip her! Also, they had a lady who was doing henna tattoos. I didn't really get to see how much she charged, but she was quick and go to many people during our meal, and they all looked very happy. The work looked great from what I could see, so I may go back and try it! Now onto the best part, the food. It was pretty good overall. The hummus was delicious!!!!!!! I also liked the tabouleh and the bell pepper salad. I ordered the lamb couscous, which consisted of a braised leg of lamb, cous cous and veggies. It was pretty tasty. The lamb was tender but not really that much meat on it. The cous cous was yummy. My coworkers really did not like the beef kabob or the chicken, but everyone who ordered the lamb was very happy with it. The best part was the sweet Moroccan mint tea after our meal. Absolutely delicious!! Overall, I was pleased. As a Moroccan, it wasn't really the best I've had, but it was fairly authentic and it's definitely amazing just to see a Moroccan (and Lebanese) place all the way here on the other side of the world. They did a good job with this, but to me Moroccan and Middle Eastern places are very much about ambiance of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influence. I think that's another great way to compliment and represent our culture, along with savory meals. But this was good enough. I would love to bring my father here one day when he visits to see what he thinks.

    (4)

  • Annie N.

    This place is an incredible gem! Sort of a hole-in-the-wall for first timers which was what we were. The inside itself was nicely decorated and the staff are so, so helpful. They could tell that we didn't know Lebanese cuisine very well, besides eating couscous. I recommend the lamb kebabs which were so flavorful and tender! I can't wait to come back and try the other dishes. Overall, A+ for food and service. Be warned, the space is pretty quaint, about 20 seatings so go on a weeknight or non-meal time to avoid waits.

    (5)

  • Mark O.

    Making my way through my Hawaii bucket list of places, I came to Kan Zaman to get together with a group of friends for a weeknight dinner. Located on Nuuanu downtown, the front part of the restaurant is not very much to look at. Fortunately, I had been here before and knew to reserve a table on the back porch which is a much different setting. The back seating is in an open courtyard that you would not otherwise expect to be there and the tables are elevated on a covered patio which is both nice and comfortable. The food here is generally very good although there are a few items which are better than others. I almost always get one of the lamb shank dishes for an entree here as I just can't really resist huge pieces of meat still on the bone. I did get the chance to try their kabab when a friend ordered it the other night though and I think this might be their best dish. Also of note is the mint tea and the babaganoush, both of which are delicious. Overall, this is a place that I always enjoy going to. It is definitely the best Moroccan place in town. Therefore, it is "as good as it gets"

    (5)

  • Vince B.

    The stars were in alignment today, and all were pointing towards Kan Zaman. First the day started off with Joanne V's nice Review of the Day. It just happened to be Kan Zaman and she loved it. I looked it up, read thru some reviews and I was sold. My wife was getting off just a bit early today. We had already planned to take advantage of that and go out to eat in town. Found easy parking...walked across the street and we were there! Ambience: Very small dining room and an outdoor dining area in the back too. Sort of dimly lit foreign design. It reminded me of middle east restaurants that I have been to in France and Netherlands. Moroccan music and designs too. I felt like I was in a foreign country very far from Honolulu. No sushi appetizer, no kalbi and no chicken katsu offered here. My wife wanted to sit at a little table for 2 in an alcove at the front of the dining room. Service: Friendly waiter who was helpful and intent on providing good service. Since we were first time visitors he suggested an appetizer sampler and answered questions about what the main courses were like. Food: Mezza Sampler was recommended. It comes with warm pita bread and was a good choice. Hummus, babaganoush, taktouka and warak inab all had lots of flavor. Best hummus and babaganoush I had ever had! It was expensive but was large and would have served 4 people. Wife had the Chicken Tajine and substituted rice for the fries. She loved the rice. The chicken was two large thighs with subtle seasoning of saffron, coriander, lemon and more. I had a taste and thought it was quite good especially when paired with some of the extra flavorful appetizer which lasted our whole meal. I had the Vegetarian Couscous which had lots of par boiled or steamed veggies with unique seasoning. The veggies were not over cooked. I enjoyed the subtle flavors but really enjoyed alternating a spicy appetizer bite with the couscous and veggies. Very nice indeed! My wife later admitted she had never eaten food like this before. She has had Indian food but nothing quite like this. She liked most of it as she cleaned her plate and ate most of the babaganoush. Vegetarian: The wonderful Mezza Sampler is all vegetarian and the Vegetarian Couscous is vegan as is the Lentil soup and the salads. My meal of the appetizer and the vegan couscous is the culinary equal of Roy's Special Vegan Prix Fixe meal. It was a meal to remember! I'm going back. Vegans will be happy here.

    (5)

  • Raquel T.

    Hit and miss. Hit - nice patio, miss - lizards everywhere out there (ceiling, at your feet). Luckily I didn't see them until mid-entrée, had to go inside. No dessert. Tabouleh was juicy and flavorful. Mussel appetizer special was described as having a "light sauce", poor description. Small mussels in a nice, rich tomato and fennel sauce with peppers. We ate all the mussels then fought over the sauce for our very boring side of rice that we ordered to go with our lamb shank (Tagine). Lamb sausage on lunch menu was good, but not spicy as stated. Server offered more spice and we agreed, then added 99 cents to the bill! We told them we wanted SPICY. The fries that another Yelper described as crunchy were ordered, but we made sure to tell them we did like them "crunchy, crispy, well-done, burned even". They were none of the above, had to send them back and then about 5% of them had a crunch to them, but no flavor, missing the spice blend noted before and even with the redo AND another send back to get more "spices" on top - all that came was extra parsley, no salt, no spices, no flavor and definitely no crunch. Dismal. Tagine was average, though the lamb tender it was pricey and had some undercooked beans in a thick red sauce - no hint of saffron, nothing worth repeating. My foodie cohort said they had been hit-and-miss before for a wedding she helped. The tasting by the bride before the menu offered a watery hummus with no flavor so they complained and stated they wanted tahini and flavor which was delivered as requested at the wedding. But again, our meal left her wanting and saying "I won't return." Sad, I know the head chef can make great food, but when he (or the owner) are not there, it is very average and lackluster. Too bad, I wanted to come again and get eggplant two-ways. Oh, make sure you get a current menu, we were handed one missing the new eggplant entrée (visible online and we would have ordered it) and it also had a great dessert (oh, the server says we don't make that anymore, hold on...came back apologizing, we had an old menu). Service by Ryan was good and friendly, but hidden charges, old menus, lizards running about, and lackluster food don't prompt returns - even if they leave you with a nice shake of orange blossom water on your hands (lovely) as you leave. Save your money, go to the Olive Tree's shop next door in Kahala and buy organge blossom water - make some Ramoz Fizz, and a shaker with the blossom water in it for your home and enjoy the days.

    (2)

  • Marcia L.

    Wow, this place gives a lot of pita bread. We had it as a side with our hummus, the lamb entree, as well as the chicken dish. We ended up taking home most of it since there's no way a human can possibly eat that much pita bread. That was the most memorable memory I have of my dining experience here.

    (3)

  • Dede C.

    New favorite place The outside patio was gorgeous and the food was amazing The chicken is delicious, hummus is prime and same with the vegetarian couscous The pancake dessert was too sweet though ... a little on the $$$ side. but worth it.

    (4)

  • Carla P.

    Amazing lunch specials had the lamb kebab sandwich and it was amazing! The mint tea was also great!

    (5)

  • Juliet M.

    Just one of them days....that a girl goes through, when she is hungry inside and Kan Zaman will take care of you! Don't take it personal, I just want to bring my own wine... ...and VOILA. BYOB,W,and any boozy beve! If you are over thirty and like bad rap from the 90's then you will recognize that classic song, that I skillfully chopped and reconstructed like Kan Zaman! Yumm-tastic! Okay, this place is what Hawaii needs. The food is fabulous! I was on a lady night date and I will tell you we were happy and filled with delightful grub at the end of the night. We had reservations at 7p. I arrived a few minutes early and was promptly seated. Fabulous greeting, and of course....friendly staff. That is good but not good enough to get five stars out of this girl. I sat down and waited for my friend to arrive, and there was live frickin' music!! Are you kidding me? Ugh, it was a treat to decompress from searching for parking and sit and appreciate the music. Wait....put a screeeech on that..there is more. We sat out frickin'side what a gorgeous setting. I was hoping the man that I am not dating (since I am single) was going to bust out from the shrubbery and propose! Romance to the moon and back I tell you! When my friend arrived we ordered the appetizer sampler! Dear heavens, the hummus was sent from heaven. I dont pray often, but when I do I do it because it is meant to be. I pray that I can grub on that hummus again. Of course EVERYTHING on that sampler is legit. MC Hammer lyrics...insert here....2 legit to QUIT! The serving size was perfect, generous as a matter-a-fact! So we ordered the Chicken and Lamb Tajine. Do not get it twisted the spices are different in each dish. That is right, so do not get swayed from the Tajine's with different meats if you are at the same table. I had the lamb and it made me baaaaaah-ry happy. It was amazing. It was a shank of sorts over a bed of beans. The beans and meat were skillfully spiced and seasoned. Delightful I tell you. The chicken tajine is my favorite. ...and it is served with fries over the top! Ummmm.....really? Really? Why you got to play us like that? Can you make anything more heavenly? Didnt think so! As we enjoyed our food, we had the pleasure of watching a belly dancer! Yup....I really was wondering when this ish was going to go over the top and come back again. Okay...well, in all honesty the night, tummy, pretty much everythg kept getting better and better. That's right, no stutter steppin' here! As I was enjoying the total package this restaurant delivered-I saw Kamal! Ummmm really? I should have known....anything this amazing he would be a part of. He has done an upstanding job. He was sooooooooooooooo kind and attentive, and it was great to catch-up! He worked as hard as his team, which is always fabulous and quite important to observe. He was not walking around awkwardly as everyone worked their petunias off...he too shared the pleasure of interacting. (easy for me to say right?) She. Our glasses were low and begging for more Jesus juice he was there it fill our glasses. Bam. Bam... So....all and all the night was amazing. The food was fabulous. The service was unstopppable, and of course it was great to see a familiar face that I have not seen for awhile. Keep up the amazing work Kamal and Aiea is waiting for you to make a journey to our neck of the woods to do your magic here!

    (5)

  • Johanna M.

    Kan Zaman was beautiful and delicious. We met up with some friends at this spot on a Monday night and found it was pretty empty. It was great. We say outside and we had the beautiful back lanai to ourselves for part of the meal. The staff was sweet and walked us through the menu, while also making great suggestions. It is similar to Greek food. There was hummus, babganoush, pita bread...it was all delicious. We ordered the babaganoush as an appetizer and it did not disappoint. We also ordered the lamb tajine, chicken taouk, and lamb kabob. Everything was cooked perfectly. I will note that I am not a huge fan of lamb, but this was really great and not gamey. The seasoning was great and it was not too much food, but you could totally share a dish with an appetizer. We ended the meal with baklava, which was also really great, it was not overly sweet, but it was crispy, and I love pistachios, so I was happy. We got the mint tea and it was delicious though I will say the sweetness varied depending on the pot. One time we got the tea, it was really sweet, the next cup was not as sweet. They were both really refreshing and yummy, but I preferred the sweeter brew.

    (5)

  • Keun W.

    Our waitstaff was so helpful and friendly! The food is a bit pricey and on the small side, but lovely! And it's nice to get something than our usual. Would def come back again! :). Loved the orange blossom water that we used to rinse our hands afterwards!!!

    (3)

  • Sasheen T.

    This restaurant is pretty good. We weren't impressed with the grape leaves, thought they should be served cooked (warm), not cold. The sampler was really good, pita bread good. Second batch, not as good. Our server was really nice and informative. And the lamb kabob plate was beyond DELICIOUS. The dancer was good, really nice, and came to talk to use. And her costume was very very very beautiful.

    (4)

  • Greg S.

    I almost don't want to write a review for this place so it doesn't add more customers - I don't want the place to get too crowded because it's that good. If you're looking for new flavors and dishes, come here. The variety of flavors are astounding. Some spicy, some salty, some...I don't even know how to describe. Excellent food and variety. The one thing holding them back is more attentive staff. Glasses ran empty frequently, took a while to get our orders, and the check also took a while. Nothing terrible, just inefficient for such a small locale. Regardless, this place was very enjoyable. Get reservations!

    (4)

  • Jody W.

    The perfect place for dinner and drinks with friends. The outside dining ambiance was very relaxed and the service was excellent. The variety of Mediterranean cuisine was awesome. And did I mention about the no-corkage fee.

    (5)

  • Kathy A.

    Friday night at 5:00 met some friends for dinner. Starting with some great wine, BYOB, we enjoyed an order of babaganoush with wedges of pita. This was an outstanding choice, 5 stars. More wine, and entrees ordered. One Lamb Tajine, my choice and it was what I have been looking forward to since lunch a couple of weeks ago. Braised lamb shank seasoned with lemon and saffron in a bed of white beans that had been simmered in herbs and a light tomato sauce. It was everything I have been dreaming of. Love anything lamb and I was not disappointed. Damn I am drooling just writing about it. 5 stars. Honey Bunny ordered the Beef Shwarma. This was served over rice with the usual accompanying pickled cucumber, babaganoush and pita wedges. When I came up for air enjoying my dinner I noticed he was pushing his Shwarma around with his fork and not eating much. I snagged a bite and understood why. It was extremely dry, almost to the point of being inedible. 2 Stars because he wouldn't even take it home and can't say I blamed him. More wine! Dinner companions ordered the Fish of the day and the Chicken Tajine. Fish was Mahi Mahi, steamed topped with a very large shrimp, Oxymoron, and over a beautiful bed of baby bok choy. My my, 5 stars! Chicken Tajine seemed strange as it was topped with French Fries but apparently it was delicious as it was devoured. More wine finishing the third bottle we were all stuffed and didn't get to the desert. Still want to return, maybe have to have desert first and I will stick to the lamb dishes or the fish. The service was again excellent by the engaging and so tall Christopher. The restaurant was fairly empty and quiet until 7:00. Then it was like someone opened a gate and a flood of diners rolled in. The atmosphere completely changed and we were literally out the door but not without the orange blossom hand refresher. Great evening!

    (4)

  • Heather S.

    This restaurant has got it all! - an intricately decorated restaurant, delectably divine dishes, and very amiable knowledgeable staff. I'll start with the appetizers. We ordered the hummus and fries. Commonly found on menus at other restaurants, I had thought I knew what was coming. Oh boy was I wrong. The hummus was the best I've every tasted. Can't put my finger on what makes their hummus different from others, but you must take my word for it. And then their fries... Upon arrival, I was not too excited about digging into their fries. They just looked so plain, BUT they are the complete opposite of plain. It does come with a garlic sumac aioli sauce, which is to die for! Even without the sauce, the fries were amazing! For our main course, we tried the beef shwarma sandwich and lamb tajine. It would be hard for me to describe the flavors because this is a cuisine I am not very familiar with. With that being said, the flavors are very unique and very pleasing to our taste buds. No complaints on portions. They are very generous. But, the dishes were so good that we ate everything. Our tummies were so happy. I plan to come back real soon. There are quite a few more dishes I really really want to try.

    (5)

  • Lyn L.

    My girlfriend invited me to lunch here today....I had no idea what it would be like, but since she has such good taste, I figured it would be good. Located on Nuuanu Street in one of the older buildings is a very charming little restaurant. Decor is simple and pleasant with photos of Moroccan scenes and people. The menu is quite extensive...she started with grape leaves and they were very good...then I had the shaved beef in the pita bread (sorry I don't know the name), one of my girlfriends had the lamb and the other had the soup and cold salad. It was all very delicious!....so tasty and refreshing. The sandwich is accompanied by a very nice, large green salad with a lovely dressing. We just had water to drink and ended with sliced orange and baklava. They don't make their own baklava, but it was good Service was great...attentive, but not intrusive or overbearing. The 5 stars is for the restaurant...the bathroom gets 0 stars One thing I do need to mention....the bathroom...now I don't think it belongs to the restaurant...I think it belongs to the building, but just in case the restaurant people are reading this...you need to get the landlord to clean up that bathroom. I love old, charming, rustic buildings and all of the worn floors, etc that go with it, but the bathroom is just plain dirty...it needs a really good hosing down...and they need to put up toilet paper dispensers. They have packs of toilet tissue just in a box. One of the stalls had no paper and the other had the paper balanced on a fixture...I should have taken a photo of the condition of the bathroom....OMG, the negative review of the bathroom is as long as the review of the wonderful restaurant!

    (5)

  • Austin B.

    Came here for lunch a few times. Nice place to eat, and the service is usually friendly. Likes: The lunch sandwiches offer a good value. They're large portions, and are tasty. You can also sub the salad for fries for an additional charge (do it). Dislikes: The entrees are pricey if you're going here for lunch (they're essentially dinner entrees). I tried the chicken tajine, and while good, I'm not sure I'd pay for that myself (which I didn't at that time). Granted, they do give good portions. Favorites: I like the lamb kebab sandwich with fries. Just be prepared to smell like garlic for the next few hours. Parking in downtown consists of finding street parking or garages, but it's a close walk if you work downtown. It's a nice place if you're doing a lunch and want something different. While there are a some options for Lebanese/Greek food downtown, there's no place that offers Morrocan. Just be prepared to pay a little more for those options.

    (4)

  • G H.

    We went on a Saturday night and were seated by the entrance next to the window. They have out-door seating as well. Kan Zaman has: great ambiance, familiar music, delicious dishes, and a friendly & accommodating staff. I very much enjoyed their Moroccan salad which was very refreshing. The mint tea also had a nice sweetness to it. I had a large plate of the lamb tagine served with beans and my friend had the beef kebab which was seasoned perfectly. Both dishes were delicious, but we both could only finish half since the portions were that large...I'm not complaining. Hahaha.

    (4)

  • Heat H.

    Once again, delicious food. The tabouli and Moroccan salad were amazing! My bf loves meat and ordered the Merguez couscous which he loved also.

    (5)

  • Catherine G.

    I REALLLLYYYYY wanted to love this. Not to mention, I didn't want my lunch suggestion to be a BOMB! Well.... it was.. and it went off. Arrived here early for lunch on a Sunday and thought... hrm, its pretty empty. No worries, no one was at the door to greet us, its a small place. The server we got was nice enough and thankfully it was clean.... but thats about the best I have to say about this review. in the front corner was a gentleman working on his laptop, whom I assumed to be an owner. Never smiled, never acknowledged the only 2 customers in his whole place. But hey, who cares about that, I'm here for the FOOD! And....well... thats where this whole place falls flat... I ordered babaganoush to start...and well... it was just plain. To me it honestly tasted like something store bought, something out of a hummus page to be exact. No real distinction in flavor. Then the pitas they served it with... worse than some store bought places. It too was flavorless and just tasted bland. Fine, fine, maybe it was a one time problem... on to the entrees. My husband ordered the lamb pita with salad and I ordered the falafel. Well.... it had to be the driest falafal I've ever eaten in my life? I'm not sure if they cooked it to death, or it was just old, or what the issue was... but it was TERRIBLE. And their dressing that came with the salad... looked a bit too much like mayonnaise in dressing. It was like they had squeezed the dressing out of a bottle and it lay there in this weird squiggly pattern on top of the lettuce. It was disturbing... to say in the least. And while they used decent variety of lettuce, not just iceberg lettuce, with it sitting below the squiggly blob, i couldn't get myself to eat it. So we took the lot of it home. And I stared at it each day, trying to figure out if I would eat it and ultimately threw it out. What a waste. As you've noticed, I didn't say much about the lamb? Yeah... need I go into more? It too was dry and looked like old meat pieces that were left over and used. I don't know. I was hoping for fresh ingredients, fresh made that day or something. I wouldn't go back here even if you paid me to. Not unless you told me that they were overhauling their menu. Oh, by the way, someone raved about the baklava so of course I took some to go. It too was just ok. I once got baklava from Costco..... it was awesome and reminded me of what my Armenian grandmother used to make from scratch. (yeah Armenian grandmother is a long story.) Anyway, this baklava was meh. I think this place has really good days and really bad days. I'm just not willing go back to take the chance that it might be their "good" day for food....

    (2)

  • David P.

    Having never tried this type of cuisine before, but hearing great things about this place, we ventured in to celebrate a new job! We have tried other types of Mediterranean foods, so we weren't afraid of trying anything on the menu. We had the babaganoushe, lamb tajine, and the orange blossom cheesecake! The food was spectacular in that the lamb was not gamey, but the meat fell off the bone! The babaganoushe was not very creamy, but teemed with flavor, and the cheesecake had a grounded date on top which gave this dinner a reason to return. I suggest getting their mint tea. It was a delight! Not strong and not overly sweet. Instead, it was a great introduction to our meal. The service was pretty spot on too. They were friendly and gave great recommendations on which items to try. It was also nice that they seated us outdoors. It was a pretty cold night when we went, but it wasn't too cold outside. The lamb tajine was a perfect dish to warm our bodies up! I recommend this restaurant as we will definitely return to this restaurant and will try other dishes. Happy yelping!!

    (5)

  • Tania L.

    The more I read yelp reviews, the more I question whether yelpers should be able to post their ratings based on a single experience. Often I find myself inclined to post when I have an unusual experience - especially good or especially bad, and sometimes just plain interesting - and rarely take the time to post the tried-and-trues, as of late, anyhow. I mean, how accurate can one experience be? Maybe the stars were aligned just right/wrong, or you ordered the wrong food, or lucked out with ordering the good food... how can you measure consistency if all you had was the house salad? Anyway, that's just a personal issue I'm dealing with atm. Kan Zaman, it turns out, had a spot in a building of one of my ex's and I had eaten there and enjoyed it, though pricy for a plate lunch. Here, the restaurant form, you are immediately pleased visually at the high ceiling, the unobtrusive color palettes, and apparently there's that inside open area that most prefer to dine but we didn't make it that far and just sat at the nearest open table. The apps were great - had the sampler, yummy! We shared an entrée - I'm not too familiar with this region of food, so I cannot make claims of authenticity. I thought the chicken was pretty good; JB thought it was just OK and too soupy, also oddly topped with French fries. We did love that mint iced tea, though!!! We would go again, and probably order a different entrée.

    (4)

  • Cindy P.

    Well today's the day that I've decided to try Moroccan Lebanese food for the very first time! I have got to admit i'm sort of a fan. Kan Zaman is in the chinatown district on the same street as fresh cafe! Me and my friends found parking on the street (we were lucky) and we headed towards a teal colored door. I first walked into Kan Zaman, my first impression was "what a small little place!" (They actually have more seating in the back which looks like a patio area) We arrived during lunch and it was pretty packed, but thank goodness there was no wait as we were seated immediately! However when we were seated, we waited, and waited... and waited.... 7 minutes later the waiter approached us with cups of water and walked away without a word. We waited again.. Then a waitress approached us asking if we wanted mint tea. We nodded and she briskly walked to the counter to grab some mint tea. Eventually she came back with the mint tea and finally, the menu! Me and my friends ordered the following: -Chicken Shwarma Sandwich: My friend described it as fried pieces of chicken on a pita bread with hummus spread (it was pretty good) -Lamb Kebab: I found it to be a bit touch and rubbery. The spices and herbs were a bit too much for my taste as my taste buds were extremely confused. In addition it was on the dry side. However i've got to admit the hummus on the side was really good. -Beef Kebab Sandwich: I was not a fan of this. However I do not want to offend anyone as I am not an expert of Moroccan Lebanese food. Is it supposed to be oily? My beef was drenched in oil and my pita bread was soaked in oil. Every bite I took had me stifle. I only took a few bites and I wasn't able to eat more. What helped me break down the oil was their mint tea. (Which is $4.00 and it includes refills; yay!) Now for dessert, one word. Baklava. Just get it, trust me. Crispy crunchy flaky buttery crust with a firm caramel consistent like filling. Oh my word after we ordered three we got three more to go. I'll be back to try something different (:

    (3)

  • Quyen N.

    Wowsers! My party of 4 dined here on a weekday night. We dined al fresco in the courtyard out back. Nice little oasis in the Chinatown area. Very nice and intimate. Beautifully decorated. Wonderful dining service. - The Moroccan mint tea was pretty awesome. - Mezza sampler was delectable with hummus, baba ghanoush, stuffed grape leaves, and taktouka. The last item is a new one to me. - The vegetarian couscous was hearty, flavorful, and good-sized - plenty left over! - We split the baklava and the orange blossom cheesecake. The boyfriend and I will most definitely return for another fantastic dining experience. Addendum - I later went solo for an early dinner and ordered a soup and salad combo. The Moroccan salad was nice and simple - the highlights were the orange blossom and fresh oranges. The Harira soup was OK, maybe slightly salty - it is tomato-based with chickpeas. Not sure I would order the salad and soup again. Next time I will just order the Mezza sampler all for me! And maybe the falafel if I'm feeling extra hungry. :o)

    (4)

  • Terrance Y.

    Wow went here for lunch for the first time (although I've been to the location before when it was a Thai restaurant ) sat out back luckily it was not a sweltering day so it was okay out back. I ordered the Merquez Sandwich which is a grilled lamb sausage with a spicy Harissa sauce and cheese that was served with fries it was a great sandwich and I loved the spicyness of it! The others ordered the lamb kebab sandwich which also looked good it was interesting sitting out back where the decor changed slightly from when it was a Thai Restauant and with the Moroccan music playing felt the same but different lol. I had to admit I'd like to return to eat the lamb Sausage again it was great.

    (3)

  • Shay F.

    I love Kan Zaman! It's veggie friendly AND the food is good. I recently went for Restaurant Week and enjoyed the experience. The appetizer had 5 different dishes that were all very tasty. For the main, I got the veggie couscous which was really flavorful. Then, for dessert, I had a baklava. The food was good and the service was good. Downtown parking can be a bit crazy, but I just parked in the municipal lot on Smith and it was close enough!

    (5)

  • Kara P.

    This is an amazingly comfortable dining establishment! The ambiance is beautiful, warm and inviting. The staff is welcoming and accommodating. The food is ample and delicious. Very vegan friendly, I had no problems finding several dishes that suited my appetite so I ordered them all :) BYOB so I did... I will recommend to others :) personally I will return to further expand on my new found love for Mediterranean style cuisine. I did not catch the name of the tall gentleman who assisted me so well in my dining endeavors. Not sure if he was management or waitstaff but when I return to the business I will ask and then name drop on him because he deserves extra kudos!!!

    (5)

  • Diana T.

    To anyone interested in having a unique dining experience, try out Kan Zaman. We had reservations for a group of 4 for a Wednesday night dinner at 7:30 pm, for my friend's birthday. Well it just so happens that Wednesday night at 7:30 is when the belly dancing happens. Right when we were seated, the waiter let us know that the performance was about to start. Then we saw a woman walk out, and she began to dance. It was slightly awkward because we were seated at a table in the middle of the room. She was somewhat dancing in circles around us. But we still managed to carry on conversation. That is, until the mini finger cymbals came out. Holy cow, those things are amazingly loud. I tried to embrace the cultural experience of it all, but it was hard when I couldn't hear my friends sitting across the table from me. The dancer would stay in our room for a portion of the time, and then she would disappear - I assume to dance for the people seated at the other side of the restaurant in the back. I didn't get a chance to check out the other side, but the pictures look nice! While she was dancing for the other side, the waitress came and took our order. My friends ordered the Lamb Tajine, Chicken Taouk, and Beef Kebab. I ordered the Mussel Stew, which was on special that night. We also ordered Falafel to split between us. While we waited for the food, the belly dancer came back, this time with a sword. Also, by this time, her clothes had dollar bills sticking out in all kinds of places. I can tell you right now, I have never been to any restaurant in my entire life that has given me an experience quite like this place has. To some, it can be awkward (I myself didn't feel uncomfortable until I saw people putting money into her clothing). However, I think most people handle the situation well and enjoy it. Then our falafel, and the mussel stew came. Yes, that's right, my food came at the same time as the appetizer. It was a little awkward. When ordering, I believed I made it clear that the stew was my dinner, and that it wasn't necessarily going to be shared with others. It was made even more awkward because I was waiting to eat my stew until my friends also had their food, and the waitress came by and asked why we weren't eating the stew. I can understand where the miscommunication was, but it was still just a tad uncomfortable. The falafel, by the way, I would give a 6.5/10. It was very hard. I don't know if most falafel is that way, but it still tasted alright. Then my friends' food finally came, and we could eat! We all enjoyed our main courses. I'd give the mussel stew an 8.5/10. I just wish I had some bread to sop up the soup with. Pita is good, but doesn't quite do the trick. I tried some of my friend's lamb, which was tasty, and a piece of my friend's chicken taouk, which was, in my opinion, very impressive, and very well-spiced. If I ever come back here, I think I would order that. After dinner, we were too full for dessert, so we skipped on baklava. Shucks. When we got our check, the waitress came back with this water that she sprinkled onto our hands. She told us to rub it into our hands and that we could smell it and then rub it into our hair, etc. If that's not cultural, I don't know what is. I left feeling like I had stepped out of the middle east and suddenly back into downtown Honolulu. I was full and content, and definitely experienced a night to remember.

    (4)

  • Grant S.

    Downtown and Chinatown are becoming the place to eat in Honolulu. Kan Zaman is the collaboration restaurant of chefs Kamal and Youssef formerly of Shogunai Tagine and Xtreme Tacos. A complementary combo of Lebanese and Moroccan cuisine, the food is bright with spices and flavors foreign to the Hawaii palate. Initially I was drawn in by the dinner menu, the lamb tagine and veggie couscous are excellent choices. The lamb is tender and flavorful and the beans underneath are hearty and delicious. The veggie couscous has a nice combination of vegetables including kabocha pumpkin, carrots and chickpeas. But But But But But The reason I come back to Kan Zaman time and again is the lunch. The only thing you need to know is MERGUEZ SANDWICH. The cheesy, savory, spicy sandwich is pure bliss and the reason for countless kanak attacks. The sandwich comes with fries and a garlic aioli which are also amazing.

    (5)

  • Joe L.

    Great Moroccan joint! If you want good Med food go here. We started with the app sampler. Their hummus and bubaganoosh (sp) is fantastic. The special was rack of lamp that was seasoned and cooked perfectly. Oh and a rack of lamb there cost $25. Say what?! Yes, $25. Something like that in any other high end restaurant would be like $45. The only downside is they do not serve alcohol there. However, you can bring your own. I'll be sure to do that next time. Keep it up Kan Zaman!

    (5)

  • Cassie B.

    I absolutely adore this place. Why? FOOD: Their food is amazing. Great quality and great portion sizes are delivered every time I dine here. The fries and the SAUCE the fries are served with are exceptional. And I absolutely adore the chicken tauok during dinner time. GET IT. It comes with hummus, rice, pita, and MORE. And you also get about 10 big chunks of chicken. Such a deal. AMBIANCE: I love this place at night. I have been seated both in the back and in the front areas. The back area is a lot more romantic and dreamy, especially on a clear, breezy night. The back area is also better for larger groups, so make sure to ask if you can reserve that area if you plan on having a large gathering! However, the front area is also pleasant and is great for smaller groups. The vibrant walls help bring a festive air to your dining experience as well! SERVICE: I love the service here. The waiters and waitresses are always friendly. The food also comes quite quickly. I have nothing to say here. Just keep doing what you're doing Kan Zaman! OVERALL: Just come here. JUST COME.

    (5)

  • Devin A.

    I just love this place. Seasonings are very special. Best hummus I ever ate! Everything was yummy. Nice mint ice tea. Excellent Moroccan food near Chinatown

    (5)

  • Lan J.

    The hubby and I chose this place as a date night. We thought the outdoor setting was absolutely lovely. The waiter was very helpful with our selection of food. We started off with the sampler and that was delicious! I ordered the lamb couscous and it had a lovely range of vegetables in it. I was hoping for more vegetables and less couscous, however it was still really good. My husband had the special that night, the lamb shank. The pieces of lamb just fell off the bone. Overall, best Moroccan/Lebanese place on Oahu!

    (4)

  • Fran C.

    I met up with a few friends after work yesterday for some grindz, & a flick. My Yelp buddy Sharon H. picked out the place, so - Kan Zaman was the grindz location. The first thing on my mind when she picked this place was "GLUP!, then YIKES!" After experiencing a similar type food from a place called Shaloha......I started to have flashbacks of my meal there. Lol! After eating my meal, I was pleasantly surprised with my meal I had picked out. I ended up getting the Chicken Tajine which was a chicken in a curry type sauce, topped with french fries. I loved the taste of the chicken, but I wasn't too big on the fries. If I had to say something negative about this dish, I must say it was rather salty for me. I'm not sure if it was caused due to the fries sitting on top of the chicken, or that I tend to eat a lot of bland food, so I noticed the salt content more. Who knows? I also ordered a Moroccan ice tea.........very unique taste, with the strong mint in the tea. My friends ordered the following items - 1. Babaganoush - Charcoal grilled eggplant puree, tahini, lemon juice, & olive oil, served with pita bread. 2. Warak Inab - Grape leaves stuffed with rice, mint, lemon & served with mint yogurt sauce. 3. Pita Bread And one more dish, which I forgot to take a photo of......but I think it was called Falafel - which is a Fried Chickpea Patties served with Tahini sauce. I think they had this same dish at Shaloha too. But the one dish that scared me the most on the menu was - Hummus! Oooooh, man! I had this dish last month, and tried it at Shaloha, and all I can say to that is - "It's definitely NOT for me!" Overall a great meal! Service was excellent!!! Staff was very friendly too! I also noticed there was a sign in the front advertising "Belly Dancing, so I asked the owner, - "Hey where's the belly dancer?" She tells me - Belly Dancing is only on Wednesday night. I then tell her........"Hey you want me to lift up my shirt & shake my big belly for you?" Unfortunately she did not take me up on my offer. Lol! In fact, I think I might have shocked her too! Lol!!!! Oh well, it was worth a try! Anyways, if you're a foodie adventurer, you may want to give this place a go!

    (4)

  • Crissy K.

    I have never been to Morocco, but if I ever go there, I would like to think that the food will be exactly like what they have at Kan Zaman. Why? Because it's just THAT good! My friends and I admittedly only discovered this treat of a restaurant through Groupon. But now that we've been there, we'll definitely go back! Their entree portions are already huge, but you also have to try the appetizers, so you will always go home with leftovers. We love the fava bean starter and the baba ghannouj, both of which were simply a delight for the senses. For an entree, I had the lamb kebab, which was overflowing with delectable meaty morsels and, of course, more pita bread to balance out the flavors. Everything was delicious, and the mint iced tea was the perfect refreshing drink pairing. Service is really good. The people are nice and will not criticize you for not knowing how to pronounce anything -- so don't be afraid to order things you can't pronounce. Just point, if necessary. It's worth it. Trust me on this one. As others have mentioned, seating here is pretty tight. There are only a few tables inside. They have some seating out back, but I haven't been there. If you're going to go with a group for lunch, it's probably best to try to get there early. But get there!

    (4)

  • Brandon Y.

    This is great place to have a sit down lunch at if you're Downtown. There's not a lot of seating so make sure you go early or make a reservation. I give this place a solid 4 stars. They have good service and every dish I've had here so far has been made well. Kofta Sandwich - This is probably my favorite here and my go to for lunch. It's nice beef sandwich which is sort of like a hamburger and it comes with a salad on the side which makes you feel a little less guilty about having it for lunch. Chicken Taouk - Kabobs that come with a hummus and pita on the side along with rice. Nothing really special about this but the chicken was done well. Falafel - I've tried it and while it's not terrible I wouldn't order it again, I've had better elsewhere. Iced Mint Tea - You'll see everyone drinking this. It's a nice refreshing ice tea that's not overloaded with sugar.

    (4)

  • Ian T.

    Trying new food is always daunting with a mixture of excitement. I have never had Moroccan food before and was curious to try this place out since I've heard nothing but great for things. They were all true. The ambience of the place is warm and inviting and automagically transports you away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Honolulu. The food was simply put amazing. I highly recommend the lamb kebab. The meat was seasoned well but also extremely tender. I'm already looking forward to make next visit.

    (5)

  • Lei P.

    Let's start with the ambience, this place is phenomenal and so cute. The outdoor seating in the back is the perfect venue for a private party, intimate date or just a delightful dinner. On Oahu we have needed a venue with authentic Moroccan and middle eastern cuisine. This place hits the nail directly on the head with it's freshly made sauces, meats, cheeses and more. The lamb, was perfectly cooked, the chicken so moist and tender and everything else we ate was simply perfection. I can't wait to go back. Get a sampling of the hummus, baba ganoush and pita if you are hungry and looking for a hearty appetizer.

    (5)

  • Erica W.

    Located in the heart of Chinatown is a cute little morroacan restaurant. The employees are friendly and the place is clean. My parents and I shared lentil soup, rice wrapped in grape leaves, salad, lamb dish and a chicken dish. The food is really tasty. I don't know if I would order the rice wrapped in grape leaves again but I would definitely go back to try the other dishes on the menu. My only complaint is that it is a shared bathroom down a small alleyway with the Tea at 1024 restaurant.

    (4)

  • Iv T.

    Delicious food is delicious. OMG so delish. Kan Zaman has a unique variety of amazing food. Everything tastes super fresh and flavorful. Honestly, I'd recommend all their dishes but my absolute favorites are the lamb tajine which is fall off the bone soft, the baba ghanoush which is tasty and has an enjoyable tang and the lamb kebab...moist and flavorful, what more could you want? I usually order takeout and everything keeps well on the drive home. If you're looking for parking then you'd need to sell a kidney for street parking so just find a pay and don't risk illegally parking (cop on every street.)

    (5)

  • Farrah F.

    OMG! This place is so well decorated. The food and service are remarkable and it's affordable too! Would be a fantastic place to bring a client for lunch!

    (5)

  • Joanne V.

    It was 7pm & I was starving! Some friends & I decided to try Kan Zaman after hearing & reading such great reviews... And seeing lots of appetizing photos as well. This fine establishment is located in downtown so parking might be an issue if you decide to go on a night like St. Patrick's Day, Mardi Gras, Chinese New Year, etc. Other than that, street, lot, and/or garage parking shouldn't be a problem. We were seated right away & this is what we ordered: 1) Chicken Tajine (braised chicken paired with French fries) - chicken was moist and sauce was tasty and the FRIES! The fries were these thick cuts of potato fried to perfection (made even yummier when covered in the sauce.. Mmmm) 2) Beef Kabab - tender, flavorful, thick cubes of beef 3) Chicken Taouk - Absolutely DELISH! My favorite of the three dishes. The chicken was flavorful beyond description. Wasn't sure if I was supposed to eat the chicken with the tahini sauce, but I did (Kinda just eventually had a little bit of everything on my fork & ate it like a beast!) & had no complaints whatsoever. I definitely want to come back for this dish! Just FYI: The beef kabab & chicken taouk come with rice, tabouleh, hummus, & pita... All of which were delectable. We cleaned our plates! Would have licked it clean, but we wanted to be ladies :P 4) Mint tea with orange blossom - Very aromatic & a pleasant treat. Sorta like a cherry on top of a sundae. Would have ordered dessert if we weren't absolutely stuffed by dinner. Overall, we were happy with our whole experience: the service, food, and outdoor seating area put us in a really good mood. We arrived hungry & left with our bellies poppin', but definitely satisfied!

    (5)

  • Cheryl D.

    Definitely a hidden gem and by far the best Mediterranean cuisine on the island. Highly recommend, not only is the food great but the ambience and atmosphere is very quaint, romantic, electric and relaxing all at the same time. The food and vibe exudes itself, it's anything you want it to be...an adventure of the palette awaits

    (5)

  • Ruth S.

    I had a great dinner here a couple months ago. The staff was very friendly and the outdoor seating is lovely. My date and I got the appetizer sampler with falafel, hummus, baba ganouhs. I had a mussel soup for my entre. It was all delishous!

    (4)

  • Sheryl G.

    what: authentic moroccan and lebanese cuisine! something good: restaurant week brought me here for the first time! and i feel fortunate to have found this little gem of a restaurant! first, the decor is super cute! it doesn't even feel like a restaurant in downtown, honolulu! second, the food is excellent! and i'm kind of glad my first time coming here was for restaurant week because i don't think i would have known what to order! everything on the menu was so good! the appetizer was the mezza sampler, the main course was the vegetarian couscous and dessert was baklava! everything i really, really enjoyed and would order again! something not so good: parking is a bit of a pain~ but the restaurant is so worth the hassle : ) something to try: mezza sampler (17) & vegetarian couscous (17)

    (5)

  • Roxy W.

    Location/Parking: They are located in Downtown Honolulu. The best place to park is the street parking right in front of the restaurant. There are parking garages around the area as well. I paid $2.25 for a little over an hour at a parking garage nearby during the weekday for lunch. Food: The food was delicious! We ordered the babaganoush with pita for an appetizer and a lamb kebab sandwich lunch special and chicken taouk for my husband and I's main entrees. The lamb kebab and the chicken was very flavorful. Half of the lunch plate was a salad with a great tasting dressing. I didn't like the rice by itself. The combination of the rice, tabouleh and chicken was amazing. I felt like the tabouleh brought all the flavors together. You MUST get the iced Moroccan mint tea! It is a refreshing tasting mint tea. You get one free refill for the tea. Price: The lunch special is very reasonable! You get a sandwich and salad for $10 and the serving size was huge. The lunch special is only available for 11am-5pm only. The chicken taouk was $15.95 and well worth the price for the amount of food. The mint tea was $4. Ambiance: The walls are painted nicely and the artwork on the walls matched with the restaurant. The tea pots are displayed on a shelf. There is outdoor seating in their courtyard. Service: The service was great! We had two individuals helping our table. Our drinks were refilled on a timely matter and we didn't wait long for our meal. Overall, I highly recommend this place for Moroccan and Lebanese Cuisine.

    (4)

  • Ariana M.

    This was the first time I ever got to check this place out and I am so happy I did. The service and food was great! The dining area in the front was a bit small but they do have beautiful outside seating. Another thing that makes this place so great is on Wednesdays they have a belly dancer that performs at 7:30pm. It was a happy little surprise for us ;D Belly Dancer: yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… I also learned that this place is BYOB (wish I knew that before I got there!) However they do have red and white wine for sale, bottle only for $20. Pretty good deal to me! The Grub. [[ FALAFEL $6.50 ]] yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… These falafels are in a small patty shape. The ones I have tried in the past were always more rounder. They were a little more dry too, but they come with yummy tahini dipping sauce. [[ LAMB TAJINE $18.95 ]] yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… This dish comes with a HUGE piece of tanjia style braised lamb shank. Super delish and also served with beans! [[ CHICKEN TAOUK $16.95 ]] yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… The grilled chicken was served kebab style with rice, tabouleh, hummus and pita. Nom Nom Nom. [[ LAMB COUSCOUS $22.95 ]] yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… This dish was my favorite! Wish I was the one who actually ordered it! This is served with steamed couscous with carrots, pumpkin, potatoes, zucchini, tomatoes and chickpeas topped with a HUGE braised lamb shank [[ ORANGE BLOSSOM CHEESECAKE $8.00 ]] yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… This cheesecake was amazing and a great way to end out meal. Not super heavy and very flavorful. I highly recommend saving room for this after dinner! Overall: The food and service was great. I definitely would love to come back and try the outdoor seating!

    (5)

  • Abby F.

    First time trying Moroccan food and it was so delicious. I went here for my friends birthday. This place is a hole in the wall. You'll have to find street parking and walk your way there. But anyways lets get to it. The server was so nice, helpful and always checked in on us. They brought our food out pretty quick and it was so delicious. I got the chicken tajine it's basically two pieces of chicken in this type of curry sauce ( I think it was curry it tasted like it lol) then fries on top. Let me say it was so delicious, the fries were crispy, the chicken was soft. But let me say it comes in a very big portion so I would advise you to save your appetite if you plan on coming here. But overall it was a good experience, great service and very delicious food! Highly highly recommend coming here if you haven't yet :)

    (5)

  • Jamila J.

    I've got a few times under my belt. I have yet to be disappointed with the food. It's got much more seating than it looks like from the outside, a nice great courtyard in the back. I haven't been for dinner, but lunch is priced right, quick service, and great servers. If you haven't had Moroccan, its full of flavor, but not overpowering. The lamb kebab is amazing. I really love the tea and orange slices dessert. This place is completely worth it and you will not be disappointed. You even get to end with a nice orange bloosom hand wash that makes you alert and avoid the inevitable kanack attack.

    (4)

  • Dee S.

    We ordered khus khus with roasted vegetables and falafel sandwich. Taste - khus khus dish was terrible, it just had khus khus with huge amount of grape seed oil and some raw veggis and not roasted as described. Nothing great about falafel sandwich, it tasted just like heated frozen food. Cost- Super high. We paid ~$40. Service - was decent.

    (1)

  • Michael W.

    Great food with much flavor and taste... it was awesome... The different sauces make the Pita breads flavor come out greatly. Beef was seasoned well and rice was cooked perfectly with butter I assume.

    (4)

  • David D.

    Never had moroccan food before. Went with family to celebrate a birthday. Lamb couscous was awesome. Lamb was moist and tasty. I thought the chicken taouk was a little dry. Portions were good-sized. The desserts sounded good, but we were too full.

    (4)

  • Jurija M.

    Yet another location in downtown with a beautiful outdoor setting. Kan Zaman was referred to me by a new friend. He raved about the location and how he eats at Kan Zaman at least once a week. I decided to try it out the day after he recommended it for my lunch break. The interior decor upon walking in is eye-catching. I didn't realize there was an outdoor area until the waitress told me to continue walking. I figured there would be more indoor seating but to my pleasant surprise it was outdoor seating with beautiful background music playing and a light "winter" Hawaiian breeze. Kan Zaman offered up great lunch specials and pricing. They also offer the most refreshing mint iced tea I've ever tasted. The food isn't perfect nor is it the best I have had in my life so far. However, it is satisfying and very filling. The service was also great.

    (4)

  • Jerrene T.

    My husband was planning to surprise me with an awesome lunch on Valentine's Day because who honestly wants to fight crowds, take three hours to eat dinner, and most of all hang out with people that just make out the whole time. Not me. He was planning on taking me to MW but since we didn't know how long that would take, we played the safer option and I told him no surprise, let's just try out Kan Zaman. I made the reservation this morning on Open Table but turns out, it wasn't necessary. We got here around 11:30 and we were one of the few couples that were there. I heard about their open area seating on the back but it was taken and also a bit drizzly. I was more than happy to sit at a table inside in the cool AC. Once we were seated, the waitress asked us if we wanted to try the Moroccan iced tea. In fact she asked EVERY SINGLE TABLE if they wanted to try it. I'm not sure if she makes $2 of the $4 (cost of the iced tea) every time she sells, but she is definitely all about it. Since I'm curious, I tried it. It's okay... mildly sweet with a minty after taste. Not something I would get again but it was definitely worth trying once. However, it does taste like tea so my husband did not enjoy it. We ended up ordering the chicken tarjine (husband), falafel appetizer, and the lamb kabab sandwich (lunch only 11am-5pm). I have tried a few falafels in my life and the best ones have been in Europe although one in California was pretty delicious. My husband liked their fried falafel but I found it to be too hard and not too much taste. I did however enjoy my HUGE lamb kabab sandwich. It was very delicious and the side salad was also HUGE. The bread was so soft and delicious. You can ask to substitute the salad for fries but the waitress said she wouldn't recommend it because salads are healthy for you! She cares about your health! My husand did enjoy his chicken tarjine and he loved the sauce that accompanied it. I liked it okay but I was thinking like it was going to be like the chicken tarna from the formerly awesome Good and Healthy but alas, it wasn't. It definitely was a good experience and the food came out quickly. It was nice because sometimes I don't have a whole lot of time on my hands for lunch so we were able to get done eating and out the door in less than an hour. For you less than savvy downtown people (this is me even though I work downtown), this place is right by Hanks and they seem to share a restroom with Tea at 1024. I would come back when I'm working since parking seems to be an issue. The service is prompt and friendly so I'll definitely come back :).

    (4)

  • Z Z.

    On my second visit here, I decided to lower my review rating. I tried the beef shwarma and shish kebab. Both dishes were disappointing. The main problem was the beef. The kebab consisted of fatty cheap cuts of meat (probably chuck steak) and the shwarma tasted like dry slivers of overly spiced beef jerky. I was so disappointed that I don't think I will be returning, especially for the price we paid for each dish,

    (2)

  • Tze M.

    A cute little place tucked away on the outside of Chinatown. I would have never discovered this place if I didn't walk past it admiring their decor. Their walls are painted with a Moroccan pattern and the walls are accented with antique Moroccan wooden windows. The tables were adorned with Moroccan lanterns. Dimmed for a more intimate ambiance. I asked my friend, Laurie P. to come with me to check it out. Little did I know, this Yelp Elite has been here before. She already knew what she wanted. This is why I shouldn't have waited so long to write reviews, because I honestly don't remember details of what we had. What I really walked away with is how I enjoyed the ambiance. Indoor and outdoor seating is available. We went for lunch and got to sit outside in the garden. It's a cute covered area, simple. We started with the fries with garlic & sumac aioli $6.50, and the babaganoush $7.95. For my meal, I ordered the lamb kebab $9.95. I really enjoyed the iced mint tea, it was really refreshing. I recall the food was good, but I wasn't wow'd by it. The prices are reasonable, something along an average of $20 per person. The staff was friendly, and service was good. I don't see why not to try this place out.

    (4)

  • Crystal B.

    Kan Zaman offers really delicious food that is a feast for the senses as well as the taste buds. We went on a Wednesday around 7pm to enjoy the Wednesday night Bellydance performance by the fabulous Malia Delapenia (her performance starts at 730pm). Make sure to make reservations because it was packed and the restaurant is pretty small so they had to turn a few people away. We started with the Mezza Sampler & a small pot of hot mint tea. I had the vegetable couscous and my sister had the beef kabob with tabbouleh salad. We finished with the orange blossom cheesecake & orange slices. All the dishes were well prepared, flavorful and filling. The food came out fast but this is a meal you will want to savor...enjoy good conversation and enjoy interacting with Malia as she dances around the room. Make sure to bring cash and tip this lovely local artist. She is happy to take photos or give a mini shimmy lesson and let you dance with her. So fun! She & the restaurant also do private events like birthdays & anniversaries. The staff was also delightful. We got hugs when we left. Such a warm atmosphere. Highly recommend!!

    (5)

  • Scott K.

    The chicken taouk and mint ice tea is the best. The service is very friendly and fast. The only downfall is parking but that's the way it is in Chinatown.

    (5)

  • Lesley H.

    The food is super yummy and very tasty! And the workers are very friendly and nice. BYOB! Everyone should come and try this place out!

    (5)

  • Kurt W.

    Cool ambiance on back porch. Lebanese tunes. Orange water to rinse after meal. Had lamb sandwich and Moroccan salad. Fun spot. Tasty lamb. Salad was standard fare.

    (4)

  • Laura S.

    Came back, as I said I would, for the live music and sat on the back patio. Still awesome place with a great ambiance and food. I'm always craving the tabouleh! The service was once again excellent and the quality of food for the $$ is great. Will return again!

    (5)

  • Christa B.

    I had a very lovely dinner here celebrating my young daughters birthday. The atmosphere is intimate yet casual and the outside dining is quiet and quaint. It was an early evening dinner so it was not hot at all sitting outside. The outdoor tables are a bit close to each other so it might be a little cumbersome maneuvering through the tables if you have to get up to excuse yourself. The decor on the inside is simple yet elegant. As you walk through the door, you immediately encounter fragrant aromas coming from the kitchen. My daughter is somewhat of a picky eater when it comes to flavors from ethnicities she's not used to, but she loved the food so that says a lot about the taste of a meal when an eight year old raves about the meal! We started with the fresh home made (did I say homemade? Yes!) mozzarella and the babaganoush. It's so nice to have fresh mozzarella that's not stringy and chewy. You can't find that in too many places. The babaganoush was creamy and smooth. For our main entree we had the lamb kebabs that were full of flavor and so tender. The yogurt dipping sauce had a small hint of peanut which heightened the flavor of the succulent lamb. I would have eaten it all, but I wanted to bring some home for my husband to sample so he would have to come back with me on a date night! The employees are wonderful and were very good about explaining the various flavors and ingredients. They periodically checked on me and my girls. The server came out after we finished and poured some "orange blossom" water to clean our hands with. The owner was also very hospitable and truly concerned with how our dining experience was. They apparently have a belly dancer there on Wednesday nights. This is now on my top five restaurants on Oahu. As far as parking goes, if you go early enough, you might just snag a spot on the street and if you go after 3pm on the weekdays, it's metered. On weekends, it's metered until 6pm.

    (5)

  • Alexandria P.

    This place is my new favorite. I can't even give the food enough credit. I had the beef shawarma sandwich and my husband had a lamb kabob sandwich. We tried each others and srsly they were bombing. We also got the mezza appetizer sampler. I've never had baba ganoush but that was my favorite of the sampler. Really try this place, you won't regret it. Also nice atmosphere, cute decor, delish mint tea. Just go already.

    (5)

  • Jo Y.

    Moroccan & Lebanese cuisine? Yes, yes, yes! I didn't realize how much I liked it until I ate at Kan Zaman! This new restaurant had an interesting start. Its owners are Kamal Jemmari, from Morocco & previous owner of Shogunai Tacos (also helped to open Sould deCuba); &Youssef Daroub, from Lebanon & previous owner of Extreme Tacos. These 2 taco food truck competitors would be at the many food truck gatherings, until one day they philosophically asked themselves why they were cooking tacos instead of the foods that they grew up in Morocco & Lebanon. Despite that Morocco is in Africa & Lebanon in Asia, are on opposite sides of the Mediterranean Sea, & almost 2,500 miles apart in distance, these 2 guys decided to open a restaurant & have come up w/ a winning formula of the cuisine that are familiar w/. As such, the name "Kan Zaman" means "once upon a time" or "like the old days." yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… Moroccan cuisine uses a lot of mint, parsley, & bold spices (cinnamon, cumin, turmeric, ginger, pepper, paprika, anise, sesame seeds, coriander, saffron). In fact, many of the spice blends used by Kan Zaman are made by Kamal's mother in Morocco. Whereas, Lebanese cooking uses a lot of starches, whole grains, fruits, veggies, seafood; animal fats are used sparingly, w/ chicken eaten more than red meat (lamb preferred). Its menu includes soups, salads, appetizers, main entrees, sides, desserts, drinks, & a limited lunch menu. These food items are either Lebanese or Moroccan. Hubby and I recently had dinner there & absolutely loved what we had: - Lentil Soup (Lebanese). Slow cooked pureed lentils w/ fresh herbs/spices & garnished w/ lemon. So tasty and so creamy! yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… - Chicken Tajine (Moroccan). Two braised moist chicken thighs in a broth of flavorful spices (preserved lemon, olives, saffron, coriander, cumin, smoked paprika) & topped w/ fries. Unusual w/ fries, but complements well by dipping them into the broth or eating them crunchy as is. (Kamal noted that he actually ate it like this growing up in Morocco.) yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… - Chicken Taouk (Lebanese). Grilled chicken chunks on 2 metal skewers (brochette) served over rice pilaf; tabouleh (parsley salad w/ tomatoes, onions, olive oil, lemon dressing); hummus; pita; & yogurt-based sauce. A flavorful sampler dish, & everything was so flavorful, w/ the many spices complementing them. I used some of the rice to mix it w/ the broth in the Chicken Tajine. yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… - Katayef. An Arabic dessert of banana pancake w/ pistachio, cream, honey & topped w/ fresh homemade rose jam. Superb combination of ingredients that made this dessert so delicious & yet not too sweet. yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… - Iced Moroccan mint tea. Green tea w/ mint & orange blossom. Heavenly! I could drink pitchers of this! yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… At the end of the meal, the server will sprinkle your hands w/ orange blossom water from a Moroccan-style decanter. Good hand freshener w/ a nice fragrance. yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… We can't wait to return to try the other menu dishes, which looked just as stellar: lamb tajine (lamb shank w/ white beans, herbs); lamb couscous (steamed semolina w/lamb shank in broth of carrots, pumpkin, potatoes, zucchini, tomatoes, chickpeas); falafel (fried chickpea patties); kofta (grilled seasoned ground beef in baguette), merguez (grilled lamb sausage), fattoush (green salad w/ tomatoes, sumac, olive oil, Lebanese croutons), Moroccan salad (veggies w/ oranges, cucumber, radish, orang e blossom, honey vinaigrette), babaganoush (grilled eggplant puree w/ pita); warak inab (rice in grape leaves); briwat (seafood & vermicelli in crispy phylo); & baklava. Service is impeccable, as staff is very attentive/friendly. Staff is dressed in black & are always there to ensure that your needs are accommodated. Interior dining room of 26 seats has an authentic Moorish ambiance, w/ colors of red & teal, stenciled geometric patterns, art pieces on the walls, a high ceiling of elegant round chandeliers, an aroma of exotic spices in the air, & Moroccan music in the background. Charming outside dining on the grassy area has 24 seats. yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… It gets busy, so reservations are a must. Prices are so reasonable. Street parking or nearby municipal lots. We can't wait to go back. Truly authentic Moroccan/Lebanese, & a winner! Thanks, Kamal & Youssef, for taking us back to your heritage!

    (5)

  • Justin U.

    This was me and Meg's first ever Moroccan/Lebanese food experience and boy was it a good one. There's an inside area to sit or you can sit outside in the back patio/garden. The weather was nice so we sat outside in the back. Ambience was relaxing back there with the lights somewhat dimmed and Moroccan music in the background. We had falafel appetizers which were right on point. Definitely try their mint tea, I could not stop drinking it even though I wasn't the one who ordered it. I chose the Chicken Taouk as my main entree and WOW was it good. I'm not a huge chicken fan but this dish was packed with flavor and exceeded my expectations. The chicken came skewered sitting on some seasoned rice (also VERY good) with hummus and naan and a small side of vegetable mix. I highly recommend this for anyone going. The service was great too. Overall, it was a pleasurable dining experience with excellent food and great company. I want to go back ASAP and try more of their dishes. Lastly and most importantly, its BYOB so start poppin dem bottles.

    (5)

  • Trish N.

    So far, I've been here twice for lunch and once for dinner; all were excellent. For dinner, the lamb kebab & vegetable couscous were delicious, totally reminded me of the dishes we'd had on our trip to Morocco, just a few weeks prior! The only question-mark for me was the lamb tagine, which--though tasty--was more like regular leg of lamb over beans, & not reminiscent of any of the lamb tagines we'd enjoyed abroad. Perhaps this dish was prepared more Lebanese-style than Moroccan? Either way, it would've been much more exciting if it had actually been prepared/served in a real tagine (round clay platter with an upside-down cone-shaped cover) ... I totally believe that that adds something to the quality of the dish! It also would've been nice if they offered bread rounds, like the kind served with all meals in Morocco...but again, maybe the pita (which is served here) is more of a Lebanese influence. Overall, the staff here was very nice, service was prompt & professional, and no doubt I'll be back again in the future! NOTE: if you make a reservation for the outdoor patio, be sure they get your reservation right, because they mistakenly put my reservation down for 2 people instead of 3...so when 3 of us showed up, they weren't able to seat us back there (because everything else was booked). During our dinner visit, my friends & I had a chance to meet one of the owners, who was so sweet & welcoming, checking on each of his guests, and this definitely added to the cozy atmosphere in the restaurant. Another NOTE: if you want an "authentic" Moroccan mint tea experience, be sure to ask for double the sugar, because the tea was not nearly as sweet as we'd expected ... & the owner even explained that their mint tea now has only half the sugar of their original recipe ... because customers early-on had complained! 0=) Hehe, yes it does take some getting used to--kinda like sweet tea from the South--but if you're gonna try it, you might as well try the real thing! And I totally loved that our waitress served the tea from way up high, Moroccan-style!!

    (4)

  • Bella S.

    Delicious! Totally worth a trip to downtown. We came here for lunch and Everything on their lunch menu was A+++. I understand about Mediterranean food and this is really really good. Highly recommend.

    (5)

  • Stephanie T.

    The atmosphere here is so homey and cute. It's a great place to come for a tasty bite to eat. When it's busy, you may have trouble finding a seat, but there is also a patio out back that has some seating as well. The Tabouleh and Hummus is soooooooo good, you will want to eat both of them up by the spoonful. I suggest ordering extra pita, because theres never enough for the amount of humus that you get. This trip I had the Kofta and it was pretty good, but I wish the beef was cooked just a tad bit more, it was a little to squishy for me. I tried falafel as well which was superb. If I wasnt coming here during work hours I would have brought my own beverage.

    (4)

  • Lynvi S.

    So I'm told that Kan Zaman is a place for Moroccan and Lebanese cuisine. I'm not familiar with both cuisines and I'm not sure how they work together because these countries are on opposite sides of the Mediterranean from one another, but I guess it all works out because the food is decently tasty. Iced Mint Tea - Yum! It's just at the cusp of my sweetness tolerance, but it's delightfully refreshing and comes with free refills. Kofta - This lunch sandwich is the best thing I've had at Kan Zaman so far. It's juicy, well-seasoned, and exploding with bold flavors, and I love that it is served with salad. Falafel (Lunch) - It's okay...the falafel is on the soft side, so I wouldn't recommend this if you prefer crispy falafel. Lentil Soup - Straightforward yet nice. It's smooth, creamy, and enjoyable overall, yet it's not something I would order on a regular basis. Lamb Tajine - I wouldn't say the flavors are subtle, but everything tastes homey and seasoned in a way where I can appreciate the lamb without excessive spices. The meat is tender and scrapes off the bone easily, and it goes well with the white bean gravy, but it's not something that I would order again. Chicken Taouk - Not as juicy as I would have hoped, but it's not bad with all of the other components in the dish. Pass. Service is excellent. The servers are friendly and during lunch the food arrives quickly. During one visit I mentioned that we would be sharing the soup so we just needed an extra spoon, but they were cool enough to split the portion into two separate bowls. Sweet. I'd suggest sticking with the reasonably priced lunch menu, since the regular entrees are a little spendy.

    (4)

  • Doris D.

    Very good place for Moroccan fare. The atmosphere is lovely - we sat in the garden area which was very nice. We had the Babaganoush ($8, good), Tatouka ($7, good), lamb tajine ($19, excellent! - meat was super moist, tender, flavorful, loved the sauce), chicken taouk ($16, rice was terrific, chicken kebob had great flavor but a little on the dry side for me), and baklava ($3.50, very good). I'd come back to try the other dishes, for the atmosphere, and lamb tajine.

    (4)

  • Ellen K.

    The outdoor area in the back, byob, great service most of the time, and superb food all makes for a great dining experience.

    (4)

  • Janet K.

    Chicken Taouk FTW. Everything on the plate was so perfectly seasoned and mind blowing that had I not been dining with my colleagues, I would have licked my plate... Twice. Just in case I missed a spot because it was that good! I'll have no problems visiting this place again and eating the same dish again over and over. In fact, I wanted to eat there the very next day but I wasn't in Downtown so I didn't. Yes, that good!

    (5)

  • Jordana F.

    ORDER THE KOFTA SANDWICH!!! Oh my goodness that was hands down the best sandwich I've ever had in my entire life! And the salad it came with--the dressing!!! I asked the waiter if he could ask the chef how they make their dressing because it was pure heaven in my mouth. Mint tea is still as good as ever but if you've never had the kofta sandwich, you haven't lived yet. It's seriously THAT good!

    (5)

  • Stephanie C.

    Absolutely great service, and you really must get the babaganoush and the Moroccan mint tea :) I came here with a friend I hadn't seen in a while over the holidays (yes, this is a bit overdue), and she hadn't had Moroccan food before. I like Moroccan food, and now she does, too :D I'd made a reservation, and they seated us in one of the little window corners at the front of the restaurant, which was absolutely perfect and cozy--best spot in my opinion! We got the Mezza Sampler, and everything was good, but the babaganoush was just stellar. I will probably come back again next time I'm in the islands, and I will be getting the straight up babaganoush appetizer, it's fantastic! I got the vegetarian couscous with a glass of the iced Moroccan mint tea and my friend got the lamb tagine (I suggested she get a tagine, because they're always amazing when I can find vegetarian ones that I can eat), and I really liked my dish as well :) We also later split a baklava, which was tasty. As the two of us yammered on into the night, catching up and reminiscing, I was worried that the waitstaff would get annoyed with us for taking up such a great spot for so long. On the contrary, they brought us a complimentary pot of the Moroccan mint tea, and let me tell you, that is a fabulous drink, hot or cold :D They also graciously told us we could stay as long as we liked and were really great about not pestering us much at all, except to top off our water etc. I don't know if they realized we would totally take them up on that, as we were there until closing (and even then they were very gracious about not making us feel rushed at all). I was really impressed by how great the whole staff here was, and combined with the delicious food, I have to say, this place is a real gem :) I will definitely come again sometime! :D

    (5)

  • Jo Z.

    Got to check this place out during lunch...enjoyed the chicken kebab sandwich, the hummus spread had a nice garlicky kick to it. It came with a mixed green salad topped with orange blossom vinaigrette which made it seem like I was eating healthy...Washed it all down with the refreshing mint tea...overall the food was tasty and if sit al fresco in the back, it doesn't even seem you're in town...

    (4)

  • Chris V.

    Overall good Lebanese food for Oahu. Had chicken tajik, beef swarma and mint tea. The flavor was pretty good, but honestly I've had much better at a street side stand at 2AM in many a city. Hard to reconcile the $50 tab for what should be cheap street food. The place is cozy though, nice back patriot, but plan on making a reservation cause it seems to fill up quick. Be sure to save room for the Turkish Coffee chocolate cheese cake, that was the possibly the best cheesecake I've ever had.

    (3)

  • Bethani E.

    Had a Groupon deal a few months ago to try Kan Zaman, and was glad it was for takeout since my office building is downtown. After perusing through pictures and Yelp reviews, I decided to try the Merguez sandwich with fries. Restaurant was easy to find, food was ready upon arrival and staff was friendly. First initial bite was a bit spicier than I was expecting. Once I started dipping the sandwich into the sauce and got a cold beverage, I was able to enjoy the flavors exploding in my mouth. This lunch was definitely a treat, and I can't wait to try the other dishes.

    (4)

  • Kyle H.

    I couldn't wait to try this place out. I absolutely love Middle Eastern cuisine and was happy to walk by on our way for a drink and spot the location. We had a few drinks and made our way back for a late dinner. I was pleasantly surprised when seated on the back patio - it was a little surreal, I didn't expect such a nice al fresco dining area from the look of the front entrance. Unfortunately we didn't realize it was BYOB until we had already made our way to downtown but this is definitely a big plus. The service was swift and so was the food. Unfortunately the food was extremely underwhelming. At upwards of $15-$20+ a plate for dinner, I'd expect more flavor and a wow factor... otherwise I'd eat casual-style at Shaloha for an extremely better price. Perhaps it was our choices: We shared the falafel for our appetizer - this was decent, I don't know what to make of the thin, tangy sauce that came with them. It didn't do much to add flavor, rather, I used it to add some moisture. The pita bread served with the dish was thin and kind of rubbery. We also shared the chicken tajine and vegetable cous cous. Don't get me wrong, the food wasn't bad per se, it just wasn't that great. There weren't any pronounced flavors or strong spices, which made me think I could create the same meal at home (I'm no betty crocker if you haven't guessed). I would be willing to come back and try other dishes - perhaps at lunch, as I'm not willing to waste such a nice chunk of change (or the bf's wallet rather) again on disappointing food.

    (2)

  • Sean C.

    Parking: street parking or garage parking The cost: $25/person The food: chicken tauok, lamb tajine, orange blossom cheesecake, lentil soup, lamb kebob, mezze sampler Restrooms: yes in the back Reservations: yes on the weekend Located in downtown this place serves up authentic Lebanese and Moroccan cuisine in a place with the ambiance to match. The entrance is pretty unassuming and the owners of the joint are usually standing outside the door. You enter to a dimly lit place and feel instantly transported to some place that reminds you of the middle east. There's a couple of tables in the front of the restaurant in front of the bar but much more seating in the back in the garden. I definitely did not know that there was a garden in the middle of downtown! But the outside area is quite nice with a patio area and plants and vines on trellises. The mezze sampler is a nice thing to share although I thought that most of the stuff on it tasted the same. The chicken tauok was quite dry. The lentil soup is a winner. The lamb kebob tasted great and well seasoned. The lamb tajine is essentially a lamb shank served up straight, and I thought the meat was tender and moist. The orange cheesecake was an interesting dessert and a nice way to end the meal. Overall, a nice place with good food and nice ambiance. Good for groups and serving up authentic lebanese and moroccan food.

    (4)

  • Tongu K.

    Amazing mediteranian food in a nice atmosphere and wonderful friendly staff. I had the special of the day ox tail and it was delightful, im told filled with some 29 spices. Also had a mix of chicken and beef shawarma with some super garlicky tziziki. The babaganoush was a bit too smokey for me, but i wont dock them for being authentic!

    (5)

  • Arthur S.

    Great Middle Eastern style restaurant. Everything from the interior decor, the outdoor seating and ambiance seemed very authentic. We arrived here about noon and were promptly seated. Given the choice of indoor or outdoor seating. We opted for the outdoor. The establishment was not very busy at all. Our servers were very helpful, especially in answering my gf's many questions. After reading Grant S.' review of the place, i already had my sights set on the "Merguez" sandwich $13. The sandwich consists of lamb sausage, with cheese and Harissa, a (mildly spicy) sauce sandwiched between a pressed baguette. I gotta hand it to Grant. I wasn't let down with his recommendation. Along with the sandwich where a heap of perfectly crisped fries seasoned with delicious herbs and spices. The dipping sauce was perfect! My gf ordered the Chicken Taouk $16. The main portion of this dish, the chicken taouk were basically chicken kabobs with herbs and spices. Im guessing the cuts were breast meat. I wasn't really wowed by this. On the other hand, the sides that came with her dish which i am very familiar with, included a parsley salad, humus, and pita bread looked excellent. We also ordered the mint tea. Which was really refreshing especially during the humid afternoon, and a coffee. I'd consider the menu items a bit pricey, especially during lunch. Our total came out to $50 for the two of us. Maybe a lunch specials menu would be great.

    (3)

  • Nicole K.

    Two weeks ago we decided to try Kan Zaman. We read other Yelp reviews before trying them out. So we knew to make reservations and we reviewed the menu in advance. We went on a Thursday night, and when I made the reservation over the phone they suggested that we sit outside in their open courtyard area. However, by the time we arrived the winds had kicked up and had a slight chill within them and we requested an indoor table instead. The decor is simple but the music was pretty cool. We joked about whether it was legit Morrocan music or a tourists version. We still enjoyed it. The waitstaff were friendly, prompt, and attentive to our needs. They offered us Hot Morrocan Mint Tea which was DELICIOUS and just what we needed to warm up. They also made suggestions about menu items, but we already made our decision. We were gonna have the lamb! Hubs had Lamb Couscous and I had Lamb Tajine. Both were delicious, moist, and flavorful. Oh! We also had the sampler for our appetizer: hummus, babaganoush, and two other apps that I can't remember the names of. Sorry. Hummus and pita were great. We couldn't leave without dessert. So we ordered 2! Baklava and Turkish Chocolate Coffee Cheesecake. Baklava - meh. It was ok. Cheesecake? TO DIE FOR. Overall stars...4. What would have earned them that 5th star? They would need to drop the entree prices by $3-$4. We will return in the future and we suggest you give em a whirl.

    (4)

  • Shruti J.

    This place is amazing! I had the messa platter and the lamb shank! The platter was just delicious, hummus and babaganoush were flavorful. The pita was warm and fresh. Their service was excellent. I would say one of the best serviced places i have ever visited. The staff was kind and nice, and our server actually made suggestions as to what is good! I am definitely visiting this place again! :)

    (5)

  • Nicole S.

    Kan Zanman... I'm not an exotic food person. I'm seriously the type that likes plain white rice with plain spam and plain scrambled eggs (shoyu if over easy). Simplicity is what I grew to enjoy living in a Chinese house. So we got invited to a friends birthday celebration and he wanted to dine here. (BYOB if you want alcohol). I honestly thought to myself, "it's late enough in the evening that I could eat around 4p and be good until after we're done with dinner." That plan never happened. I'm not going to lie, I was terrified of the food all the way until the first bite into that Chicken Taouk. It was pretty damn good. Didn't know what to expect but when served, the chicken taouk came out like a kebab, kinda heavy seasoning with pepper and other spices but overall very good. I guarantee I will be back there! Some other little information about the actual location. Middle of downtown Honolulu, need to find street parking or park at Mark's Garage and walk down. It's about a block passed Fresh Cafe on Nuuanu Ave. They have some small party (2-4) tables in the front and if you venture beyond the cash register you'll find a little patio that allows for larger parties (like ours) to be sat. There is a little garden/yard that really makes the whole ambiance quite nice. It was quaint, I really do love it! Servers are very nice, one server was a little slow but so very nice that I wouldn't want to mention anymore about them to give any bad impressions. Overall, a great NEW experience for me.

    (4)

  • Chad Y.

    Huh? We're going to Kan Zaman? What the heck is that and how do you even pronounce it!? And what do they have? No matter what the response you get, try it out and you'll experience something really different with wonderful ambiance and good service. Set on Nuuanu, its nondescript storefront blends in among the crowd, yet as you enter and pass through its narrow hallway, its back courtyard is an oasis set amongst the hustle and bustle of downtown and Chinatown. If outdoor isn't your thing, indoors by the entrance is nice, but nothing special. Don't let Moroccan/Lebanese scare you away. It's really not that exotic. It's different, yes, but I wouldn't say it is truly exotic. The food features proteins with a lot of different herbs and spices, but not spicy hot spices. While lamb or tajine may scare you away, tajine is just the cooking vessel they use and lamb just has a gamey taste. The beef kebab is a good starting point with well seasoned and flavored cubes of beef that is grilled and served up with rice, tomatoes, hummus, and pita. It's simple but really well executed and flavored. The falafel is nothing to sneer at if frying is ok with you (some people don't like fried, I personally don't get why though). The chicken schawrma sandwich is a good lunch option plus you can be healthy with a salad or a little tastier with fries. Plus you get to say schawrma...who doesn't like saying that? I mean come on...Iron Man and the rest of the Avengers enjoy it at the end of the movie. Service is good, although it can get a little backed up during the peak lunch or dinner hours. However, water glasses didn't stay empty for long and they definitely are helpful as you make your menu selections. Some say exotic...and to some extent it is...but expand your horizons and expose your palate to something new.

    (4)

  • Mark H.

    Moroccan - Lebanese food... Err wot is that? I've eaten here three times and I still don't know... But I do know that I love it here! I haven't come for dinner--only for lunch. I have tried their chicken kebab sandwich, chicken schwarma sandwich, and marguez sandwich. Both of the chicken sandwiches were on pitas instead of your traditional bread. Flavors and seasoning that I am not very familiar with but they work for me! Authentic or americanized? Beats me and I don't care--happy tummy is a happy Mark! Portions are filling--I have left here full and content like a viking every time! Service is always wonderful here. A pleasant experience on every visit thus far. Tip: they have really good fries. Thin, seasoned well, crispy and goes well with their spread. Spend the extra couple bucks and swap the salad out for their fries!

    (5)

  • Tom C.

    A treasure of an eatery in the downtown Chinatown area! Kan Zaman delivers wonderful service, has an outdoor patio with great ambiance and fantastic food! I've eaten there twice now, and the experience has been consistently fabulous! Had waiter JC both times. His recommendations were spot on! Listen to the man! He definitely knows what's good! So far I've tried the Mezza Platter ( four deletable shares), the chicken swarma (large portion of tasty chicken pieces and veggies with rice and babaganoush with pita bread, and my favorite so far, the rack of lamb! The lamb here, whatever it is whether it's kebab, shank or lollipops of the rack are all excellent and the spices they use compliment the lamb never overpowering but enhancing the natural flavor of the meat! Awesome!!! For dessert, I've had the orange blossom cheesecake with a dollop of a date compote and I think a very very thin top layer of caramel! Am I right, anybody? Now this cheesecake is to DIE FOR!!!! Creamy, smooth, melt in your mouth! Heading back there tomorrow and taking 3 friends! I'm going to have the lamb couscous which a friend had the last time. I thought it was just going to be couscous with bits of lamb in it but it was a whole, melt in your mouth, fall off the bone shank sitting on a bed of couscous served with Morrocan mashed potatoes and veggies! I had a taste and was blown away! So THAT'S what I'm having tomorrow! Stay tuned!!!!

    (5)

  • Michael R.

    Lunch on a Monday was quite enjoyable. We arrived about 1:30p, after the lunch rush. We chose to sit in the courtyard and the setting was quiet and peaceful. Our server, Martin, was prompt and courteous. Our food came out quickly and we were treated to large portions of quality Lebanese food. The beef and chicken shawerma were each well spiced and came with a beautiful salad with an orange water vinaigrette. I chose the mint tea, refreshing but very sweet (you can opt for unsweetened). We finished with baklava and it was sweet, dense and a perfect end to a wonderful lunch...who knew a Monday could be so enjoyable!

    (4)

  • Cat D.

    Food was good: Lamb tajine was super good and the Beef schrama was delicious and flavorful. The babagamoush was also good, but i prefer the one at healthy cafe in downtown. Pita bread was nice and warm Sweetened mint iced tea was good and not overly sweet. We weren't offered dessert so couldn't comment on that. Service : nice waiter but he buses his own tables, which made managing an entire section somewhat slow. The place is small and they have outside seating (where we sat). Its a little tight tho. Music is nice

    (3)

  • Takashi H.

    Going out for Restaurant Week this year? Here's where you should eat. Kan Zaman is indeed an excellent choice for dinner as well as lunch. Since the walk to the restaurant can sometimes be daunting, I visit Kan Zaman when I am celebrating a special occasion or milestone. On this particular visit, it was to try their Restaurant Week menu and dinner options. Really hit the spot! For the vegetarians and vegans in Hawaii, participating in Restaurant Week can be rather tough. Thankfully, Kan Zaman offered a completely vegan course menu featuring the vegetable couscous as its main dish. Their meal is topped off with the revitalizing orange blossom, cinnamon, Moroccan mint tea which is a nice way to end the meal over final sips and conversation. Enjoy the small things in life and your days will be fulfilling. For me, a bowl of my favorite hummus and Moroccan mint tea is just a short drive into town.

    (5)

  • S B.

    LOVE BYOB!!!! My husband and I went here for the first time he got beef swarma and I got lamb kabob. Didn't come out looking like I expected but lots of flavor. We also got the humus and it was super tasty. They allowed to make reservations even though it was first Friday, which I don't think they usually do. The decor was cute, the place it pretty small but nice.

    (5)

  • Amy B.

    I don't know why I haven't written a review sooner but after last night I couldn't NOT write a review. I have been to KZ many many times. Lunch, dinner, take out. Last I went with a gf who was visiting from Kauai and had never been. We started with the sampler appetizer. Something I get every time because you a little bit everything. It is always on point and deeeelish. For our entree we got the special rack of lamb. This is what caused me to write this review!!! Hands down THE BEST lamb I have ever had in my life!!! There are no words to describe the flavor and the way it literally melted in my mouth!!! I will order this every single time I go if it's on the menu!!!! Service gets an A+ as well!!!! Oh!!! And the cheesecake is also the best ever!!!! ;-)

    (5)

  • Traci H.

    I know it's a bit much for me to give 5 stars when the restaurant has only been open for a week and I have only been there once...but I can predict that I will be back. It's a small restaurant that can fit maybe 30 people max...ocean-side of Hotel and Nuuanu. Went for lunch--didn't need a reservation, but once people figure this place out, I can see it might get crowded. But it was pretty fast. Lunch opens at 11am. Falafel $6.50: appetizer came with 4 small disc shaped falafel things. Small but packed some good flavor + the yogurt sauce. I could have inhaled another plate of rhtese. Chicken Tajine $16.95: it normally comes with fries on top but you need the tasty rice to soak up all that sauce. Mmmmm. So good but so bad. 2 Chicken thighs (bone-in) soaked in a saffron type sauce. Wow. Chicken Kabobs (Shish Taouk) $15.95: hearty portion with 2 kabobs, a mound of rice, tabouleh, hummus (garlic goodness). I couldn't finish it all, but I really wanted to. I think it is chicken breast, cooked on the skewer Vegetarian couscous $15.95: a huge pile of buttery couscous covered in veggies. I could have done without the undercooked hunks of cabbage. I hear there is an outdoor patio seating area but I didn't see it. Next time I want to try more of the appetizer dishes that looked really fresh and tasty. There is a tabouleh like appetizer that comes with hearty tomatoes I think. There's also a mint tea that looked good, but I'm not a mint fan, so not for me. Takes credit cards. Street parking or municipal lots. I'll be back...for lunch, for dinner, for whatever they serve.

    (5)

  • Lika G.

    Worst place ever. The service and atmosphere nice but scary in a bad part of down town and parking horrendous. U have to park in marks garage closest parking lot where it is safe and walk past all the street and homeless people. The food was so bad. The lamb in the spoiled couscous was good but way to salty The hummus okay and mixed veggies okay. The falafel, the pancake,the cheesecake,eggplant and the chicken tangeine awful not edible that's how bad it was. I would not recommend this place to any one. After a $100 spent we ended up at home eating dinner. Worst place ever. Jack in the box serves a better cheese cake. Also the tea was horrible. If u have ever had good morrocan food this comes in at the bottom of the list doesn't even deserve 1 star

    (1)

  • Eddie P.

    Recently went out with a friend and were somewhat undecided on where to go. At the last possible moment we decided on Kan Zaman as we hadn't been there before. I knew this place was there, but simply forgotten about it. Trust me...I won't make the same mistake twice! Once seated we were attended to in a timely manner and the staff were courteous and friendly. We started out with the sampler which was rather tasty and included Babaganoush, Hummus and some other awesome things whose names escape me and would probably butcher anyway. I ordered the Lamb Kabobs and was not disappointed. The serving size was huge and could come nowhere near finishing it all. (I ended up having awesome lunch leftovers the next two days) The lamb was very tender and flavorful. The only thing missing was women doing a Chaabi dance (but this place is too small for that) It would have sealed the deal on a five star rating...whoop whoop! Instead I settled for dessert which was the Cheesecake with dates and rum sauce. The cheesecake was so good I could have pulled a Fred Sanford...had a coronary, died on the spot...and been completely happy. Will definitely visit again.

    (4)

  • Janine M.

    Came across this restaurant on accident walking to the next stop in the Crawl for the Cure. My friends and I were intrigued and added it to our list of "Must Try". After reading the awesome Yelp reviews and learning that there was also a Belly Dancing performance on Wednesday, I immediately booked our reservation through Open Table. Loved that I did not have to stop what I was doing to make a call! 7 of us... 5 extremely loud women with 1 husband and 1 boyfriend in tow made it to our 7:00 p.m. mid week reservation. Lots of street parking or very affordable parking in the Municipal lots all in walking distance. None of us had been here before and were quite excited. The main room of the restaurant was beautifully painted with just about 10 tables. I did not wander out, but my friends complimented the patio seating. After being seated right away, we were given menus and drink order taken. They don't serve alcohol and there isn't a corkage fee. But you HAVE to try the fantastic mint tea! We started with the Mezza Sampler for $14.95 which included Hummus, Babaganouh, Taktouka & Warak inab. All very excellent! We placed our orders just before 7:30 when the Belly Dancing show began. Malia, was PHENOMENAL... I'd go back just to see her again! Our entrees were served within 20 minutes of placing our orders. 4 of us had the Chicken Tajine (Braised chicken with saffron, coriander, lemon, cumin, smoked paprika and olives) topped with fries... DELICIOUS! I found myself craving it a few days later. The BF ordered the Lamb Couscous (Steamed couscous in a flavorful broth with carrots, pumpkin, potatoes, zucchini, tomatoes & chickpeas, topped with lamb shank) and the husband ordered Beef Kabab (Grilled marinated cubes of beef served on rice with tabouleh, hummus, tahini sauce and pita) The presentation of everything was fabulous and it tasted even better! The 5th girlfriend order a large bowl of soup - I don't recall what it was, but it was very tasty. Of course we ordered dessert... 2 Orange Blossom Cheesecake (Creamy cheesecake with warm date rum sauce) and 2 Katayef (Arabic banana pancake with pistachio, cream & honey). Can I use the word DELICIOUS again? DELICIOUS! There is an auto gratuity for parties of 6 or more. The waitress was polite and appropriately attentive. She did hem and haw about splitting our checks three ways, but it was understandable since it seemed she was the only waitress on to service both the main room and the outside patio. We all have a great night... the food and the entertainment won us over. We all vowed to be back!

    (4)

  • Diana W.

    Wonderful! My favorite thing about this place is the lovely ambiance. I never would've guessed that there was a beautiful garden behind the restaurant. .. but there is and it's gorgeous! Sit out there! The food was great but not the best ever (I think the food is better at Casablanca in Kailua ). I totally recommend the baba ganoush and mint tea though. Great place!

    (4)

  • Noni B.

    Loved the atmosphere...loved the lamb with favs beans, & chicken tajine.

    (4)

  • Clarissa M.

    If your willing to try a different cuisine with lots of flavor this is a place to try. Wait staff were friendly and super efficient. We were offered a choice of sitting outside or inside and we opted for outside seating. Super intimate setting with enough lighting. Area was clean and no bugs interfering with our meal. We tried the falafel and Mezza sampler (which is the best way to try a little bit of everything offered on their appetizer menu) which came with pita bread. For our main course we tried the Chicken Thigh with bone that came with Fries and Lamb Kebab (rice, hummus, etc. included). None of the foods we tried were spicy or salty. The foods had so much flavor and the chicken and lamb were so tender! They size portions were more than enough for two people. Throughout our meal the wait staff checked on us and refilled our soft drinks. The evening was filled with a full and satisfied belly and a pleasant new experience. We shall return!

    (5)

  • A T.

    We had a lovely date night at Kan Zaman for my birthday. The food was delicious, the service was wonderful, and the ambience was delightful. We highly recommend it and will definitely be back! We went early in the evening (5:30) so it was not at all crowded but had made reservations ahead of time just to be on the safe side. When you go, ask to sit outside on the back lanai, if it is available. They have created a really nice space out there with good atmosphere. I grew up in the Middle East and this is some of the best food I have eaten since I left there many years ago.

    (5)

  • Crystal A.

    this place is awesome!! everything on the menu is extremely delicious. Tabouleh is really good, moroccan salad is also amazing. I had these both with the Chicken taouk. I usually do not order grilled chicken because I do not want to chance it being dry, but this was amazing. It was very moist and seasoned so well!!! we also ordered the Lamb tajine which was a huge serving. It was a heavier dish so unless you are really hungry or wanting to share with someone else I would think about ordering this dish..... but it was so tender and also very tasty. Lamb kebab was my favorite!!! We all ordered the iced tea and it was slightly sweet and perfect with our meals. I now crave going to this place!!!

    (5)

  • L M.

    Our waitress greeted us promptly and was very courteous. We sat inside and on Sunday for lunch. The decor was really nice and cozy. We both ordered off the lunch menu. I got the lamb kabab which was ok and my husband got the Kofta Sandwich which he really enjoyed. His favorite was the Lentil soup. He said that he had not found anything comparable to the lentil soup he had in Turkey until he came here. I think the next time I come I will have to order off the main menu because I was more in the mood for the full on rice with kabab deal not just the kabab in the pita with a side salad. The mint tea is a definite must try (well if you like tea)!

    (4)

  • Laurie P.

    My first trip to Kan Zaman was for lunch the first or second day they were open, thanks to a post by Grant "Chuggy Bear" S. I've been back with Tze M. and my husband for lunch and recently brought my family there for dinner. First of all, if it isn't raining, try and get seated in the outdoor area. It is just such a lovely green space both during the day and at night and is so unique. The decor of the restaurant is just gorgeous and really has that modern/Moroccan feel. If I was basing this review on lunch alone, I would easily give them 4 or even 5 stars. I think Kan Zaman is one of the best lunch options on island. They are relatively fast, the food is tasty, and it is just a touch over the perfect price for lunch (~$16 per person). I can accept the lunch price as middle eastern ingredients are hard to find and expensive here in Hawaii nei. I've had the kofta (which in Arabic means ground) kebab (which in Arabic means grilled) and the merguez sandwiches. The kofta is perfectly spiced and is aromatic with cumin and other spices and served on a pita. It really is my favorite sandwich. Even my husband, who is Persian, really enjoyed this sandwich and that is hard to say as he is super picky about kofta kebab. The merguez is a lamb sausage served on a baquette, panini style. Merguez is a spicy beef or lamb sausage flavored with harissa. It wasn't nearly as spicy as I would have wanted a ground meat sausage to be, and I ended up dissecting this sandwich to just eat the meat whereas I completely devoured the kofta sandwhich. Still a good choice, but at the end of the day, it is a sausage panini. I can highly recommend a side order of french fries with sumac garlic aoili. Sumac is ground up sumac berry, but don't worry this kind of sumac is edible and not poisonous! It gives the garlic a bit of a lemony kick. Try it! You'll like it. The hummus is also a solid choice. I don't have much to say about it other than it is good. Honestly, this could be sabra hummus out of a container, I really wouldn't know the difference. I had to knock them down to 3 stars based on my dinner experience. While making reservations was easy and they were BYOB, I just wasn't impressed with dinner. We had ordered tabuleh salad and babanganoush for appetizers, only the babaganoush came out. I have to say, it was terribly disappointing. It taste like hummus, not even a hint of roasted eggplant. I almost wonder if they are just throwing a little grilled eggplant into their hummus batches and calling it babaganoush. Babaganoush is supposed to be redolent with garlic and grilled eggplant and just a touch of tahini and olive oili to smooth it all together. Kan Zaman's babaganoush was none of these things and way overpriced at $8 a serving. I ordered the Lamb couscous, my husband ordered the lamb tajine, and my mom ordered the steak kebab. It took an exceptionally long time for them to cook our dinner, like easily an 45minutes. Then I felt that while the lamb was cooked to tender perfection, it completely lacked seasoning. My husband ended up trading me for his tajine. Again the lamb was cooked to tender perfection, but the beans were swimming under a layer of oil. Again, not much in the way of seasoning. I was really disappointed as I found the lunch here exceptional and flavorful, but dinner was only so so. My husband did enjoy the lamb tajine but wasn't overly impressed with the lamb couscous. This is saying quite a bit as my husband will rarely order or praise lamb that his mother or grandmother didn't cook. So he and I had to agree to disagree on the taste factor, I will say we both agreed that while tasty the lamb dishes were not worth their $33 price tag. The steak kebab is a safe bet as it is pieces of well spiced filet mignon that look like they have been pan seared and not grilled over an open fire, I have a semantic argument with anything not cooked over a grill being called kebab. All in all the stand outs for dinner really were the desserts, which can be ordered all day. I recommend the orange blossom cheesecake which is very light and airy and just perfect. It has a rum date sauce on top and while I am no fan of dates, I enjoyed this topping mixed with the cheesecake very much. The baklava was buttery, nutty, sweet perfection. Kan Zaman makes their baklava free daily, which is no small feat as this dessert involves laying pastry dough with a honey-nut mash. Seriously try this. Their portion is huge, with two pieces and drizzled with nuts and honey. I was also disappointed by the service, which seemed slow and spotty at dinner compared to when we came for lunch. There was another large party the same night we were there, and they seemed to know the hostess/owner so maybe they were giving them the star treatment. Who knows. All in all, Kan Zaman is a delicious Moroccan/Lebanese taste experience that I think everyone should try. Maybe just try rocking the Casbah at lunch, because dinner service seemed spot

    (3)

  • Stefanie D.

    This review is based on my visit on Valentine's Day this year and ordering the Prix-Fixe menu! First off, props to the boyfriend who impressed me by finding out about this place and thinking I would be interested in it. I had totally read up on it on Yelp for months before and was super excited to finally try it! The interior space is very beautiful. It has a giant print on one wall and bright colors splashed on the others and offers ample seating. Outside on the terrace where my boyfriend and I dined was equally beautiful. It has nice warm lighting and it's very inviting and makes it feel more intimate. The server took longer than usual to come to the table with menus, but being Valentine's Day and very busy, it's understandable. We both ordered the Prix Fixe special menu for the occasion. For ordering, the server used an iPad. This seemed like it made the process of ordering a million times harder for her instead of easier. I told her my choices, she repeatedly read them back to me wrong. My boyfriend ordered, the same thing happened. When we both ordered, she read it back and it was still wrong... I don't think I've ever ordered one meal so many times. I honestly just prepared myself for a surprise meal because I was sure she wasn't able to get it down correctly. For the appetizer, he got the Moroccan salad and I got the hummus. The Moroccan salad was delicious and a very generous portion. It had big slices of orange on the bottom and was the perfect start to a meal. Very refreshing and light. The hummus was also delicious and a little on the chunkier side, which I actually prefer over the super creamy types. We took a little longer on our appetizers than usual because they were good sized portions but we didn't expect to wait as long as we did for the entree to come out. We sat there staring at an empty bowl of pita slices and a half-eaten bowl of hummus for a long time before someone came over to offer us more pita bread. She also apologized for the long wait time. I just hoped it would be worth it. So far, we were just happy that we got the right appetizers and they were so good. Luckily the orders continued to be accurate and well worth the wait. I got the catch of the day, which was simple but delicious. Not sure on the kind of fish but it was a white fish. It had a long grain rice in a creamy buttery garlic sauce, the grilled fish and then three large shrimp on the top. The fish could not have been more perfect. Dessert was next and we ordered the baklava of course and also what I think was cheesecake. I just know it was pure heaven. The baklava had honey drizzled on top of it and was also perfection. After dessert we got tea served to us, a nice minty kind that was just the perfect end to a meal. I love tea so much, so this was awesome. The server also came by to pour some orange water on our hands at the end which made them smell nice but I'm not sure the point of it. Honestly my only complaint here is the service. The food is amazing but the servers could use some extra training. It seems like it's a very busy, fast-paced restaurant and it's hard for them to handle the volume of patrons. But maybe the restaurant is doing so great so soon they had no time to adjust and it will come to improve in time. Either way, I know I will be back again because the food is just too good to miss out on!

    (4)

  • Darin O.

    EXOTIC, EUPHORIC, ETHNIC FOODS! Going in a group is a definite must for this place. It is not a big room, seats maybe 30 people in the normal seating area. There is more open air area seating but it is outside. Food. I ordered lamb as my main plate. I can not see ordering chicken if it is going to taste like chicken which btw it does taste like chicken. The lamb (which I know from experience can be hard to cook) was great. It was tasty - not juicy - but cooked well so that each CM has taste on it. It is spiced and salted evenly so that the flavor just pops out onto your tongue. The beef is well done, both cooked well done and has flavor tastes that are well presented. I tasted from another the chickpeas/ falafel (sp?) it was fried and I liked that but the taste was odd and I would not recommend ordering that- I just personally did not like it and if asked I would advise not to order it- only saying IMO the lamb was by far way better for taste and uniqueness. Style French Fries are just basic fries but the cream sauce instead of ketchup are what make the flavor stick. The garlic oil paste sauce goes so well with the fried flavor. The side salad that comes with many meals is basic fresh garden greens with slices of red onion that soak up the fragrances of the red vinaigrette like dressing that is lightly added. The food is filling!!!!!!!!! Don't be fooled with what looks to be a small plate of food- with the pita bread and other fillers - one can get full very quickly and feel full for a long time. Getting splashed with orange water is a different cultural treat. Fragrant and unique that as a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (though in the Pacific -not a Muslim country) I can really appreciate. Price is good. It is in the $10-20 range so a ticket for a couple is not that hard to get to $50 with appetizers. This used to be the Café Joy location which was Thai and before that It was Vietnamese type food and I forget the name of it when it was that but is seems that many different restaurants have come and gone though in and out of this location- Hopefully since the food at Kan Zaman is way better than what was previously here that it will be better and stay longer in the area. I know it is a hard area to make it in since the nightlife is random at best. They do say that they have belly dancing on Wed Nights at 7:30 pm which may draw in some people but by then most of the city worker crowd is already out of downtown. It is located between the King and Hotel bus stops on Bethel. So if you know the area you know that parking is a pain in the butt. Just plan accordingly.

    (5)

  • Merle K.

    Last week Saturday, I had lunch at Kan Zaman. I was pleasantly surprised to see that they added another vegetarian entree to their menu, Badinjan Mahchi (eggplant stuffed with Lebanese rice with zataar sauce.) I was eager to try it and was assured that it's really good. I also ordered the Lentil soup, which was excellent as usual. The eggplant entree arrived. I was a little surprised... for $16.90, I got a plate with lots of sauce and three small pieces of eggplant with rice and a plate of pita. The eggplant pieces were about 2 inch slices (eggplant about an inch in diameter). It was very delicious, don't get me wrong. But, I was still hungry, as you can imagine, so I ordered some hummus. Suggestion: How about lowering the price and putting this delicious eggplant dish on the appetizer menu instead of entree? Is it because of the Zataar that the price is $16.90?

    (4)

  • Mark P.

    As a new adventurer in china town food affairs I was in search of an experience that not only offered excellent cuisine but also was able to transport me to a whole new world. Fortunately such a place existed... And that place was Kan Zaman. Kan Zaman is a beautifully decorated restaurant with wall to wall trimmings of Mediterranean culture. As if that wasn't enough of cultural submersion, I was fortunate enough to witness an alluringly choreographed display of belly dancing. It was an amazing experience, but falls short to the amazing food. Everything that I ordered was delicious beyond words. From their flavorful babaghanoush to their hearty Lamb Tajine, there seemed to be no wrong choices when ordering. This won't be the last time that I eat here and I'd definitely suggest everyone to try it at least once.

    (5)

  • Genevieve A.

    Hmm, where do i start off. I would've given them 5 stars, 1 less for service. Although it wasn't too bad of service, they took awhile to take our orders and such. I think there was a party in the back so that could've been the cause. Anywho, on to food! Started off with the sampler for lunch. It came with babaganoush, hummus, pita etc. Pretty good portions. Then the lamb kabob.... and wow.... it was huuuuge. I barely ate half and I was full Overall, great food, great portions, pricing isn't bad at all (for lunch), and the ambiance. Will come again.

    (4)

  • Ivy Lou H.

    Ok, I'm ready to Yelp our wonderful dinner experience tonight. First, I gotta say don't be deceived by the look of the restaurant outside because it may not look nice but once you get inside you wouldn't think that you're downtown. Service is very good! Staff are friendly and the food gets to your table in 15 minutes (yes, we timed it!). I highly recommend the Shish Kebab (beef, tabouli salad and rice with Moroccan noodle) plus a side of pita bread that's super tasty. The entrees are affordable ranging from $10-$17. A nice touch is that before the server hands you the bill they do a Moroccan ritual---a sprinkle of orange blossom water to wash your hands and make them smell good. If you're planning to come here make a reservation for a table in their outdoor courtyard!

    (4)

  • Robert D.

    Fantastic food! I highly recommend the oxtail with date jam. But be prepared for a loud belly dancing floor show.

    (4)

  • Lauren M.

    They were PACKED when I went (only once) and we had a reservation. They messed up our reservation but did their best to accommodate us, which was a sincere attempt. They are friendly, and the food is pretty good. Don't order the chicken... The lamb is great! I'd try them again but it wasn't my favorite dining experience for sure!

    (3)

  • Marcia C.

    I happened upon this place the other day as I was taking care of some errands and I decided to give them a try. I love Middle Eastern food and there aren't many places on the island. This restaurant did not disappoint. The food is amazing! I ordered the lamb kebob dinner and it was beyond scrumptious. Came with rice and hummus. Large portions too that lasted me 2 days for a great price. I will definitely be going back first chance I get. The restaurant is lovely and clean. I want to go back at night to take advantage of the courtyard dining area outside and hopefully catch some belly dancing. The host was very friendly as well and I got my food quick.

    (5)

  • Diana N.

    I had high expectations of this place due to the rave reviews from fellow yelpers. I honestly didn't know what to expect because I've never tasted Moroccan or Lebanese food, but I have an open mind. Our waiter, who btw was suberb, suggested anything lamb. So...we got just about every lamb item that was on the menu. Lamb Tajine: Yelpers fave by far. My friend said the lamb was perfectly cooked and well seasoned. A must try... Lamb kababs: No stick here..just a nice portion of seasoned ground lamb that was DELICIOUS! I stole quite a bit of it from my friend's plate. Lamb Couscous: My lamb was perfectly cooked but lacked flavor, thus I had to take off a star. It fell right off the bone but the flavor desperately desired some of the wonderful flavors that were in the other two lamb dishes. To be fair, the couscous and various veggies in the dish were amazing. Katayef: Better to save your 6$ for something else. It's just a pancake with a pudding and some bananas. My daughter and I usually love dessert but we left this half eaten...and that says a lot. Baklava: VERY VERY nutty...loved the flavor but lacked the flaky crunch I love about Baklava. I highly suggest you eat in the patio, which is located in the back in the restaurant. Its fresh air, and adorable decor make it a refreshing affair. Don't forget your iced mint tea to cleanse your palate. Next time I go..I'd order the lamb kebabs over couscous and assorted veggies. They're very flexible about substitutions. Our server also kept the iced tea coming. He didn't just fill up our glasses but gave us a new one each time. Impressive =)

    (4)

  • Cassie C.

    Cute hidden gem in the middle of Chinatown - love the decor of the indoor seating and the outdoor terraced seating. I'm extremely biased towards any establishment that is BYOB, so this was a win in my book before even trying the food. The food itself was delicious - tasty, portions are good size and fast, friendly service.

    (4)

  • Angela C.

    We had so much fun tonight at Kan Zaman. We loved the middle eastern decor, the nice atmosphere, the friendly and fast services, the belly dancing, the music, and the Food! Saw on Yelp that Kan Zaman has Belly dancing tonight, we decided to ride bikes out there to have dinner. The restaurant has inside and outside seating. We sat inside because outside is full. Next time we will try to sit outside because it is even nicer in the back Garden. The lamb Tajine was so moist and tasty, with large beans around it. The Maza had two hummus, a roasted tomato and pepper and two piece of grape leaf rolls, it is also very good. The iced Moroccan mint tea was delicious. But don't order the mozzarella appetizer, it is not good, expensive, and not authentic. Hubby lived in Lebanon and traveled to Morocco, he liked all the dishes at Kan Zaman, except the mozzarella appetizer. He said they don't have raw mozzarella dishes over there. Plus, it is really not good. The Belly dancing made up for mozzarella appetizer. She was really a good dancer, and moved her body in unbelievable ways to the fast beat of the music. Her costume was very bright and pretty. Overall, we will enjoyed our night at Kan Zaman!

    (5)

  • Kshira N.

    I'd say this place was decent. The ambiance was pretty good but the music was on the louder side. The chair I sat on was precariously placed towards the edge of the step :/ Food: The soup was pretty good but I really wanted to have the ful but I guess the hunt for good ful continues... The main course was interesting. I had the eggplant dish and it was stuffed with rice and parsely mixture and the plate came with pita bread. The bread didn't feel fresh and warm but the hosts made up through their warmth and friendly touch. My husband ordered the lamb with couscous and he was impressed with the tender meat. We finished our meal with a mint tea. Overall I'd say it was good but not the best I've had.

    (4)

  • Travelmeister T.

    4 stars even though one meal was not great. I had the lamb tajine after asking the waitress for her recommendation between that and chicken shaorma. Shoulda gone with the shaorma. The lamb shank was just okay. No taste really. But the beans it was served atop were fantastic, so the plain lamb mixed with the beans did taste quite good. My wife had the lamb kebab that was outstanding! Huge portion too. Super tasty and cooked really nicely. I'd go with this dish next time (or maybe the shaorma I should have tried). Hot as hell inside the restaurant Friday night (yes, it's been miserably hot here for weeks now). One of the AC units (above us) was turned on but we couldn't feel anything. Outside in back the temp was much nicer but that area was pre-booked. BYOB is a major plus. I'd read here, and when I called to reserve a table was told, it's BYOB. Nice way to throw down and save a lot on alcohol charges. Plus they were nice enough to keep my spare beers in their fridge. And the waitress was Juanita-on-the-spot to bring the next beer for refills so I never ran out! So, meh and great food. Hot inside but BYOB. Lots of great and not so great things. Plus BYOB +1 Lamb kebab+1 Con Hot -1 Very plain lamb tajine -1

    (4)

  • Amy Y.

    I bought a groupon $12 worth of $20 food here. It was definitely worth it. Of course, a good deal has it's rules. We can only use it during weekdays Monday-Thursday between 1:30pm-4:30PM. That did not stop me. I made a reservation (required, and stated on the groupon) 2 weeks beforehand, just in case it got busy. I cannot risk pushing the dining date later because of my busy work schedule, and finding someone to eat with is definitely a struggle. When I made the reservations, the guy didn't sound like it was necessary. But I did, Monday at 1:30PM. On Monday, it was really empty. We went in a little before 1:30PM and got seated right away. The decor was really Moroccan-ish? It was a little dim. We had a choice of sitting inside or outside. I didn't want to be sweaty out in the sun nor get mosquito bites (cuz they love my blood). So we sat inside cuz it was a little bit cooler. Though I wish I had chose outside. On my way to the bathroom I passed by the outside dining and the view and set-up was really beautiful. Darn, wish I said outside. Much regret. *sigh* To the food: I ordered Chicken Kebab sandwich $12~ and my bf ordered the lamb kebab sandwich kebab. Both plates come with salad on the side. The server told us the dishes were the most popular. Wow, what a surprise. The food came out pretty quickly. It was of course hot. It was a lot of filling to wrap and to hold with hands. The chicken was stir fry? The spices mixed with the chicken was ooooo so delicious. It wasn't too salty, but just right. The lamb kebab was sooo yummy with the blue cheese. The meat was tender. The food was amazing and filling. The guy server was really attentive and nice. After our meal he poured us drops of this flower scent aroma. I guess its to cover up the food smell when we were using our hands? I would love to come back for more.

    (5)

  • Luis R.

    So I go back to Kan Zaman after a year hiatus and while the food did not improve in any significant way (see previous review) I had another issue. Unfortunately I paid with my debit card and left a cash tip. For most customers, paying with debit is standard practice but after a couple of days I looked at my online statement and I was overcharged by $6.00. I called my bank to dispute the charge but since it was on debit it makes things a bit more challenging. FYI. Use credit as it makes it easier to dispute charges should issues arise. Well, lucky for me I had my receipt and I called the restaurant. To be honest, they were pretty proactive and refunded me the total charge and then gave me 20 percent off the original bill. This was a nice gesture on their behalf. I just hated the fact that I had to go through this. Maybe I will give them another shot in the future.

    (3)

  • Kaori I.

    Another great dinner at Kan Zaman before 4th of July fireworks. We got there before 5 so it wasn't too crowded yet and be able to get cozy sofa in the lanai to enjoy beers we brought. We started with Lentil soup and today's special Mussel stew. They were both great but we loved especially the mussel stew. Its rich tomato sauce had a great essence of seafood and so delicious! We shared today's special Lamb chop and my favorite there Lamb Kebabs. The lamb chop!!!! It was so tender and nicely seasoned with authentic herbs. It was a good portion and so tasty but priced just 20 something I think. So reasonable!! No need to mention about lamb kebabs. Always GREAT here! Kebabs could be too salty for me but not here so I can eat a lot!! Great food in affordable price and BYOB!! The servers are always nice and friendly and I love the lanai tables there. Nothing fancy decor but really cozy lanai. It's one of my favorite spot.

    (5)

  • Nat N.

    Maybe Moroccan/Lebanese food is not my thing. Never tried it before so I have nothing to compare it to. That being said, my review is really just my gut talking about what it liked/didn't like. The best thing about Kan Zaman is the portion sizes. Wow. It's been a long time since I've walked away from a restaurant uncomfortably full, especially after lunch. While most restaurants scale down their portion sizes for lunch, Kan Zaman does not. The lamb kabob sandwich was pretty good. Bread was nice and soft, and it was topped with a heaping amount of lamb. In fact there was so much on there that I had to eat this sandwich with a fork and knife. My sandwich came with a salad, but I really wanted to try their fries, so I asked the server if I could get fries instead of the salad. "Sure, i can do that for you". What he didn't tell me was that he was going to charge me $2 for this substitution. I hate being blindsided like that. The baklava seems to be loved by many on Yelp, but not by me. It was cold and overpriced at $6 for two small triangles. It's a rare occurrence for me to not finish my dessert, and in this case, I left a few bites on my plate when we left. If you're coming here for lunch, dress casually and comfortably - it's hot in here.

    (3)

  • Alexander G.

    Amazing food, lovely ambiance, and friendly service make this a must-stop restaurant in Honolulu! I have been trying to eat here for months now, but the stars have not aligned until last night. The wait was worth it! Nestled on Nuuanu in an old Chinatown building, Kan Zaman has a cute and tight feel in their small storefront. The big windows and decor are welcoming. Despite this, we opted to sit outside in their peaceful courtyard. Surprisingly green and open for Chinatown, the courtyard offers a serenity and freshness in which to enjoy all their incredible fare. I noticed the soft strings of light, that gradually added to the coziness over the course of dinner. The seating area is a small wood area with nicely spaced tables. I liked the comfortable seat covers and table cloths. The waitstaff was very professional, efficient, and more friendly than I've experienced in a long time. They made my birthday special, thank you JC and Samantha. With the Chinatown location, parking is a bit of a hassle, but there is a municipal parking garage across the street with reasonable charges. It is also just off Hotel Street's multiple bus lines, and easy to walk from A'ala Park, Downtown, or Chinatown areas. The restaurant is traditionally Middle Eastern, so they offer various teas to drink. If you're inclined for alcohol make sure to plan ahead and BYOB! For dinner, my dining companion and I ordered many small dishes and one entree to share and enjoy together. We had the Mezza Sampler including stuffed grape leaves (my favorite), babaganoush, hummus, and peppers. We tried the delectable felafel with tahini. The lentil soup was so flavorful, a true dish to nourish the soul. My favorite salad, tabouleh, was lightly refreshing with a hint of citrus. Our main entree was the lamb couscous; the lamb just fell off the bone and was so tender and lean. Served over a bed of saffron couscous, the various vegetables were just as soft and nutritious. I ate a lot but felt more content and happy than anything. This is definitely one of my favorite restaurants in Honolulu; I'm happy there is an authentic Moroccan/Lebanese/Middle Eastern restaurant so close by. Definitely give this place a try if you're looking to try something distinctively not Hawaiian!

    (5)

  • Alison S.

    Came here around 5 on Saturday for a late late lunch/pre dinner. After seeing the review and looking at all the pics and menu pretty much knew what I wanted us to order! We started out with the sampler for an app and split a dinner special they had....rack of lamb with a sauce and saffron mashed potatoes. We also got their mint iced tea. I don't normally drink sweetened iced tea but it's mint and lightly sweetened and refreshing especially on a humid day. So good!! The sample was ahhmazing!! Hummus, and babaganoush, and grape leaves with rice, and red and green bell peppers with lots of pita! So tasty. The entree which we split was out of this world. The gravy sauce was so good and I can't even tell you what flavored I tasted cause I would prob be wrong. Lol. The mashed taters were yummy! Never would've thought to add saffron to them. We ordered the orange blossom cheesecake to go. Will have to update on that later....it's still in the fridge. Lol. But from the reviews it sounded good which is why we chose it! Will definitely come back to try their other dinner entrees! Oh and Samantha was our waitress and she's awesome! Super sweet and friendly and helpful! We didn't have a reservation which I guess on a Saturday is prob helpful but we beat the dinner rush so we had time before the reservations came. We sat outside and it's a cool little patio area with music and lights and lanterns. Ambiance is 100%

    (5)

  • Krysten I.

    Kan Zanman is a nice little Moroccan/Lebanese place in Chinatown. I'm not really sure how the combination of morocco and Lebanon came about, as morocco and Lebanon are not even really close to each other, but hey, the food is good, so I'm not complaining. I've been here a couple times, both for dinner. Of the menu items I've tried, I particularly like the Orange salad, the Orange blossom cheesecake and the babaganoush. I'd be back to try the lunch specials, as the entrees are a little pricey for dinner. For drinks, Kan Zanman offers a yummy sweet mint tea!! It's so refreshing and perfectly sweet. They offer one free refill too!! If you're not into tea or prefer your favorite wine with your Moroccan/Lebanese dinner, Kan Zanman is BYOB! The service is good, nothing special; the waiters and waitresses are nice, but not particularly attentive, especially when it gets crowded. Apparently there is an outside seating area, but make sure you make a reservation if you don't want to eat in the main restaurant. I also follow Kan Zanman on Instagram and look forward to their specials. However, my one complaint is that the prices for the specials advertised on Instagram do not match what you actually pay. Boo.

    (4)

  • Aim H.

    We came here to try some morrocan food. We tried many dishes such as the mezza sampler that had hummus, grape leaves, and babaganoush ( it was kinda like salsa) with some pita bread. We also ordered lamb kabob, chicken Tajik, beef kabob, chicken tajine, lamb couscous, falafel, baklava, and orange blossom cheesecake. All of the food was good but the best dish out of everything we tried was the lamb kabob. We went on a Wednesday night and they have a belly dancer who performs at 7:30pm. And it's BYOB! Parking sucks though. I found myself going round and round to find some parking because there is only street parking until I finally decided to park in a lot that I found a few blocks away. Great experience, great food, great service. If you are looking to try something different, I would recommend this place and I would suggest the lamb kabobs!

    (4)

  • Michael C.

    A recent conversation between M=Mike, and A=Yelp Friend M: Where are we eating dinner? A: Ala Kazam! M: Huh? Do you mean Kan Zaman? A: Oh......?? Yeah, I meant Kan Zaman. While this particular convo was initially confusing, all of our dinner group (thankfully) ended up at the right place for dinner. No spells needed. Kan Zaman is a restaurant in Downtown Honolulu specializing in Moroccan and Lebanese cuisine. I've had this restaurant bookmarked for centuries it seems, and I'm grateful some fellow Yelpers extended a dinner invitation recently. Truth be hold, I dined at Kan Zaman two weeks in a row for dinner as I enjoyed the food, ambiance, and company (of course!) very much. PARKING: Street or nearby municipal lots. Be sure to check the signs for restrictions if parking on the street. SETTING: Our group sat in the front section of the restaurant on both visits. Additionally, I was told there is also a section in the rear past the kitchen area. The front section is cozy, neat, and simply decorated. There are various color and black and white photos adorning the walls, and I must admit I found one of those to be very captivating. NOTE: BYOB! No corkage fee! I freely admit we took full advantage of this circumstance as each person brought one bottle of wine. Cheers everyone! FOOD: On both visits, we ordered the babaganoush to share. Yes, admittedly this appetizer has a very peculiar name, but this mixture of eggplant puree, lemon juice, and olive oil was a pure delight. I highly recommend it. Make sure to ask for extra pita bread, you'll thank me later. For dinner entrees, I have tried the lamb tajine and lamb kebab. Firstly, I absolutely loved the lamb tajine. The meat was incredibly tender, the sauce flavorful, while the white beans and herbs complemented the dish well. I would order this dish again on a future visit. The lamb kebab was a very generous portion served with rice pilaf, hummus and pita bread. Overall, I liked the dish as the lamb chunks were a decent size, and they were not skimping on the sides. Sadly, the lamb was slightly salty and for that reason I chose not to finish my entree. I am entirely not sure if that is the traditional way this dish is prepared, but I do wish I could have eaten more. SERVICE: Very good. The staff was friendly, polite, and very patient with our boisterous group. As the evening progressed and the restaurant grew crowded, we did have more of a difficult time catching the attention of a server. BOTTOM LINE: Cozy restaurant in downtown. BYOB is a plus for sure. The babaganoush is a true standout on the menu.

    (3)

  • Trisha G.

    My first time having Moroccan/Lebanese food. I know, I know. I'm a local girl that likes what she likes. So when someone suggested this place, I figured I give it a try. And guess what . . . Yum! I am so excited to add this place to my list of go-to restaurants downtown. There were so many choices on the menu and I had no idea how to choose. So, I relied on my fellow Yelpers and went with the Chicken Taouk. For me - rice, in any form, can't be a disappointment. This rice had great spice and was topped with two kabobs of grilled chicken. Yay! Add hummus and tabouleh with pita bread and another creamy dipping sauce. It's like a delicious mediterranean deconstructed burrito. Delicious. We shared a pot of mint tea, which I didn't care for hot, but I later saw that they serve it iced as well. I think that would have been better. We also shared two cheesecakes - chocolate coffee and orange blossom. Both to die for. Apparently, Wednesday nights are belly dancer nights. The performer was really entertaining and it added to the ambiance. It was pretty busy for a week night. I can't wait to take other people here.

    (4)

  • Malia V.

    Awesome! Fun place! Byob! Belly dancing. Loved the hummus & lamb w/ caramelized onions. Definitely will be back!

    (5)

  • Loryn G.

    This is my new favorite lunch spot, I've gone once a week since I found this little gem. I always like to sit in the outdoor seating area in the back, very nice ambiance. I have gotten the lentil soup (large portion, they don't just serve a cup), very tasty. I tend to order the lamb kebab sandwich which is comes in a pita wrap with hummus feta and olives and is served with a hearty side salad. The portions are very generous and the lamb is delicious. If you are extra hungry, get one of the kebab plates for an entree (I like the lamb one), the tabouleh is TO DIE yummy. Also, if you are with a friend or two, get the sampler platter as an appetizer-- the hummus and babaghanoush are all-stars and again, the portion is generous. While a little pricey, their mint tea is super tasty and refreshing- great on a hot day. Maybe the best thing about this spot is the service-- the staff are authentically friendly and accommodating. After a couple times going there, they already remembered me and made a point of saying welcome back. To top off your meal, they come to you with orange blossom water to spritz on your hands. Smells delicious - such a treat. I'll be back next week!

    (5)

  • Mike M.

    Who would've thought of all places, you could find great Moroccan and Lebanese dining in Hawaii and in our Chinatown district for that matter? Me and my wife came for dinner about 45 mins before closing yet that did not matter as their customer service and freshness of their food were as if we were their only customers. Upon walking in we were greeted immediately. The host knew that we were on our usual date night I guess by the way we were dressed to kill, I mean to go out. With that said he sat us outside in their well lit and decorated dining area which was a nice touch I might add. We ordered their lamb kabob entree, a dish of mussels they had on chef's special and falafels as a starter. The rest as they say is history because we were definitely taken on a trip to morocco and Lebanon with the amazing flavors of each dish. Their lamb kabob has to be the best I've ever had. I can say that with conviction unlike some people who takes bites of anything and say it's the 'omg best ever' yeah no. I've had my fair share of lamb kabob because I'm a real fan of Greek and middle eastern cooking. I've always found it to be a little tough and a bit gamey but that was not the case here! It had to be the most tender piece of meat I've had, I really mean that! Spices and herbs were hitting the taste buds without being under and over whelming. The mussels I'm glad we're a special dish that night because I felt lucky we were able to taste something not usually on their menu. Flavors were well balanced, the broth from the seafood went well as a dipping soup/sauce for the complimentary naan bread they give, extra points for that! The falafels stood out to me because most places I've been to just serve the falafels to you with a traditional Greek yogurt/tatiziki sauce. Here, you get that as a sauce, bigger puck size pieces of those delicious meat free nuggets but they finish it off with a generous amount of their secret drizzle. I'm still trying to figure it out but it really put their falafels over the top. With all their awards posted in their restaurant, it's easy to know why on an island flooded with everything Asian and plate lunches, they can thrive. The elaborate decor, phenomenal service and food really take your taste buds on a trip to a place with amaz I'll definitely be back!

    (5)

  • Tracey A.

    Moroccan and Lebanese cuisine probably isn't the first thing one envisions when thinking about Hawaii, but planning ahead for the day I arrived, Kan Zaman sounded intriguing enough to cause me to book an advance reservation. Arriving a solid 20 minutes late for that merited a wait out front until space was available. Hawaii seems to be embracing this unique-for-Hawaii cuisine. I've become somewhat of a fool for Mediterranean fare of late. I cannot seek out enough mezza samplers to sate my passion thus I began my meal with Kan Zaman's version. Served alongside warm, fresh baked pita, this Mezza Sampler ($16.95) included creamy hummus, smoky babaganoush, tart taktouka (a spiced salad of tomatoes and bell peppers), and unique, tangy warak inrab (grape leaves, rice, mint, & lemon with a mint yogurt sauce). The platter was a solid offering, plenty for two to share. I devoured it all but most favored the warak inrab and the babaganoush. A special, Moonfish topped with delectably crispy, hot, whole shrimp ($24), sat enticingly upon a bed of mashed sweetened potatoes topped with a wonderful yellow-tinged sauce. I doubt the authenticity of such a dish but it didn't affect my enjoyment one bit. Very good. A perfect accompaniment to this meal would've been alcohol but the menu here includes none. I surveyed the room with envy as I saw all the in the know customers who'd BYO'd it. You've been warned: Come armed with your own alcohol accompaniment. The host concluded the meal by dousing our hands with fragrant orange blossom water which left me sniffing my aromatic fingers for the rest of the evening. A little Mediterranean on the islands, it seems, is a quite worthy offering. Other stuff: * Wednesday nights feature a belly dancer who shakes her way around the dining room as distracted diners fish for dollar bills to slip beside her hips. * Al fresco dining out back on an airy patio.

    (4)

  • Nimai W.

    I'm about to drop a bomb on you guys. You won't believe this one. I drink the SWEETENED ice tea here!! Whoa. It's so refreshing and somehow, it takes me home. Try it. Okay calm down, catch your breath. Dramatic part is over. First Treat yourself to an appetizer or two. If you're with a group, go for it with the Mezza Sampler! I did once, and each one blew my mind. I don't like eggplant, but I loved that smokey babaganoush. My only frustration was trying not to eat too much, too fast, before my entree arrived. Hummus, Warak Inab, Babaganoush, Taktouka, and the Fries.. I'd get them all again in a heartbeat. Favorites I no longer have a favorite here. I just can't choose. First, there's the tuna melt. My God. As unexciting as a tuna melt sounds, it's just a must try. The other two are the Chicken Kebab, and the Kofta sandwiches. The chicken is cooked to perfection, and seasoned so deliciously. Same goes for the kofta, the meat is soft and so full of seasonings and flavors that you just wouldn't expect. If find myself craving all of these. Although the tuna melt is on the modest size, generally the portions are large. For lunch I could go with just a sandwich plate, no appetizer. The service has always been very friendly and accommodating. The one time I came for dinner, my server did seen a little overwhelmed, I think they were short staffed that night. Otherwise zero complaints. No parking, but it's no big deal. Find a municipal lot, walk 5-10 minutes. This is currently up in my top 3 places on the island.

    (5)

  • Kristine C.

    Lots of lessons have been learned before getting to experience this wonderful place. First, be thankful for changes in plans and there's always a reason when things don't work out. In result? Eating here changed the ball game which turned out to be a 100% better. We walked into this simple and well decorated place located at the heart of Chinatown on Nuuanu street. Jean-Christophe (JC) was our server for the night with the assistance of Samantha. They worked wonderfully well together. We chose the outdoor seating and the weather couldn't be more perfect. Outdoor seats have a rooftop with chairs covered in red seat covers and you're surrounded with nice lush trees which helped to set the mood. It doesn't feel like you're in Chinatown. Sharing is Caring This would be my first time trying the extensive Moroccan food. I say that because I've tried Hummus and Falafels before. But at the moment, I've not been introduced to other dishes in all the years of my existence. Everything is shared. The more dishes you order, the more dishes you get to try! I love my soups and I chose the Lentil Soup. It was very light, slow cooked red lentil soup with fresh herbs and some of their spices. I had a spoon full every after bite of the others. The Mezza Sampler consisted of Hummus, babaganoush, taktouka, warak inab. The Hummus is made with chickpea puree with tahini, lemon juice and olive oil. Babaganoush is made up of grilled eggplant puree, tahini, lemon juice and olive oil. Taktouka is salad made of tomatoes, bell peppers, olive oil, spices and herbs, served chilled. Warak Inab? What in the world is that? This specific one is a challenge for me but this comes with two small grape leaves stuffed with rice, mint, lemon and garlic Vinaigrette. The sampler is served on a nice platter on it's own. Tabouleh, I enjoyed since it was simply made with freshly chopped parsley, tomatoes and onions with olive oil, lemon dressing with pita bread. We couldn't forget to order the Falafel which is fried chickpea patties served with tahini sauce. I loved dipping pita bread on everything! My most favorite dish out of the entire night was the Lamb Couscous and consisted of steamed couscous in a broth with lamb shank, carrots, pumpkin, potatoes, zucchini, tomatoes and chickpeas. The lamb was extremely soft, tasty and can easily be peeled off the bone with a light tap using your fork. Perfectly well cooked! They have probably about 5 desserts to choose from their menu. We chose Baklava for the final touch after our meal. I loved how rich it was. One order comes with two small sizes. Oh yes, don't forget that it's BYOB if you're feeling for other beverages besides water. Making reservations was a breeze. I used Kan Zamans website via Open Table. Calling or emailing is also an option for both reservations and take out orders. kanzamanhawaii.com/reser… Parking can be challenging if you don't want to pay and you come here during the day. Otherwise parking is not a problem when the pay slots are free after 5:30 or 6pm during the weekdays. We came here during a weekday after 6pm and parked on Bethel St. with one of the parking garages for $2 for probably about one and a half hours. Come with an open mind and be ready to experience the culture. I recommend coming with at least one person and or as a group. Ordering lots of dishes and sharing them is the best way to go. I can't wait to come back to try their other main dishes!

    (5)

  • Raelyn B.

    The first time I ever had lamb was in a gyro in Greece from a cute restaurant a few blocks from our hostel. A friend of mine loved lamb and since I was in Greece, why not? Now I know you're thinking, "Raelyn this isn't a Greek restaurant it's Moroccan". But wait for it... the first time I came here I decided to get the lamb couscous, shred of lamb on a mount of couscous served with pita bread and hummus and holy moly did I feel nostalgic. Maybe I just like food way too much or it was way too good for my experience. I love trying new foods and I love that Chinatown has so many options for us foodies. A friend of mine really wanted to try this place our so we did. Stepping in just made you feel like you're not in chinatown in downtown Honolulu. I felt warm, welcomed and ready to eat! If you get there a bit early and are able to choose a seat, I'd suggest somewhere not near the window mainly because it's a little cramped but where else are you going to put the adventurous foodies? In the back, where they have extra seating oh yeah. What gets me every time is the pita bread and hummus! My friend also fell in love with the Moroccan tea. Step out of your comfort zone and try this place out. It's different and delicious!

    (5)

  • kristine f.

    After many rave reviews from my parents, we finally had the chance to try Kan Zaman this weekend. By the looks of the 200+ reviews, the restaurant had quite a lot to live up to and so I was a little worried. I ordered the Lamb Kebab which was amazing. The Lamb was so tender and juicy. Everyone on the table tried my dish and was amazed by the juiciness of the meat. It came with Hummus, Basmati rice and 4 pieces of pita. I say it was so worth the $14.95. I was even able to share some with my nephew since he found his dish a bit too spicy for his liking (Beef Slovaki). Another noteworthy dish was the Greek fries! It was so crispy and flavorful, I couldn't get enough. My step-dad ordered it and shared with the entire table. He would have had more to himself had he not shared with the gang. They are also BYOB which is such a great plus and huge cost saver! Ohhh weeee I can't wait to go back! We agreed to go back for the fries and the Lamb Kebab! Both were the bomb diggity and of course the awesome service.

    (5)

  • Jen B.

    Hubby and I went here for a lunch date. We ordered the falafel for an appetizer, chicken schwarma and lamb kabob for entrees. The Falafel was very dry and crumbly, I would definitely not order again. Both entrees came with a generous salad with a tasty dressing. My lamb was so tender and delicious! My husbands chicken was also tender and seasoned to perfection. My only disappointment with the entrees was the pitas, they were dry and took away from the high quality of the meats.

    (4)

  • Chris W.

    Tried this spot for lunch finally after noticing it about it month ago. Good prices and portion sizes. The lunches are about 12 bucks and include a tasty salad that was overflowing the bounds of the plate. The beef shwarma on pita and falafel on same were excellent. Started with the hummus plate. What is better than fresh hummus? Fresh pita. I don't know how I can eat the store-brought crap again. We will absolutely be back.

    (5)

  • Rod U.

    For reasons of self preservation, I have never tried Lebanese food first hand. That said, my credentials: - I have watched a show or two on the Food Network where someone from the South cooked something "Lebanese" for a back yard get together. - I watched Anthony Bourdain's Parts Unknown on the region. - I ate some Lebanese food in LA (I think). Impressive, don't you think? Straight to it, for mezza, the babaganoush is good. Good bitterness from the grilling that is well balanced with the acidity from fresh lemons, peppery olive oil, and the earthy, nutty finish of sesame from the tahini. The hummus has a good consistency but could use more fresh lemon juice for some complexity, else good eats. The warm pita has just the right amount of seasoning to make it the perfect foil. Mains are troubling. Authentic or correct flavor profiles aside, the braised lamb shank in both the lamb tangine and lamb couscous is over braised. The bone is beginning to disintegrate and the meat is stringy. The lamb tangine itself has a good saffron flavor, the white beans well cooked and the braising liquid is flavorful. The same version over couscous is just OK. Insufficient saucing makes the couscous stodgy and heavy. Under cooked potatoes, zucchini and raw cabbage give texture but with a very strange flavor. Finally, both the beef and lamb kebab were very aggressively seasoned, bordering on salty. Both were overcooked. Cozy dining space. Very friendly but slow service. BYOB a plus. Parking is what it is. All said, being the only, probably makes it worth a visit, if only to say one tried the experience but if your foodie repertories is in Western and Asian cuisines, the cooking techniques will leave you wondering.

    (3)

  • Lori L.

    Dinning al fresco in the cute seating area behind the kitchen, you can forget you're in urban Honolulu. Kan Zaman has belly dancing on Wednesday nights if you're looking for a livelier atmosphere, otherwise it's a pretty chill spot for date night or catching up with a friend any other night of the week. The Baba Ganoush has a mild smokiness to it, drizzled with olive oil and served with pita, it's a nice start to the meal. The Chicken Tajine with flavors of lemon, cumin, and olives is served with fries to soak up the juices. The Lamb Tajine is a braised lamb shank scented with lemon and tomato, and served on white beans. The Merguez with couscous and vegetables is a lighter dish, or leave out the Merguez for a vegetarian option. After dinner, sip on a pot of fragrant and sweet Moroccan Mint Tea, enjoy a slice of beautifully scented, sweet and creamy Orange Blossom Cheesecake, and relax.

    (3)

  • Jon W.

    Decided to write my review in the version of a Haiku A flavor packed lunch Try merguez sandwich today Ono to the last bite

    (5)

  • K M.

    We were a bit disappointed with our dinner. A few of the starters were too salty but the most irritating thing was that our food was not hot when it was brought to us. It's a small restaurant and they were super busy, but it's still not an excuse to serve cold food. The chicken taouk (grilled white meat chicken on skewers) was really tasty and tender and moist. Over all, it was OK but not someplace I would return to.

    (2)

  • DJ C.

    We were roaming the area trying to find Thai food when we had stumbled upon the entrance to Kan Zaman. I wasn't expecting much, however was pleasantly surprised by the beautiful outside dining area, friendly waitstaff, and delicious food! The outside dining area is pretty unique. I could be wrong (as I am much of the time) but I don't know of many restaurants in Chinatown that offer an outdoor dining area that is surrounded by adjacent buildings and provides privacy. We also had live entertainment provided by some guy playing some sort of stringed instrument. We also had a random gecko on the plants near our seats dancing along to the music. The food was great. We had the mussel stew and some sort of oxtail dish. Both dishes we equally tasty. For dessert, we tried the Turkish Chocolate Coffee Cheesecake. Dessert was great and probably would have paired well with a nice cup of warm coffee. At the end of our meal, our waitress came by and rinsed our hands with orange blossom water. I thought this was a nice touch and a pretty cool way to end the meal. I look forward to returning and trying of the other dishes on the menu.

    (5)

  • Joe R.

    Love this find. Great backyard patio. Lamb taurine was excellent. Good banaganoush. Excellent service by Susannah.

    (5)

  • Pedro V.

    Great ambiance and decor, "poppin" zesty tabouli, fresh pita, and amazing succulent chicken tagine. I am looking forward to trying more dishes. Order the tea extra hot as ours didn't retain heat after I gave it a nice high bubbling pour. The tea's sugar mint ratios were exquisite, however.

    (5)

  • Marty J.

    I enjoy nothing more than the experience of trying something completely new. Couple that with wonderful service and amazing food and it makes for a perfect evening! The courtyard is charming and the staff strives to make your dining experience a memorable one. We will visit this place often.

    (5)

  • Paul C.

    Great service, even better food, the mint tea was wonderful, and the lamb kebab was incredible!

    (5)

  • Lorilynn L.

    The place is very small, the food was alright and price was fair, but the service was a bit stressed. They were not very accommodating and quite rude at some points. They are not prepared for the larger bunch and thats ok, they did inform us, but they were a bit snippy about it. I have had Lebanese cuisine in California and it was different than what I experienced here. I would recommend that you try it for yourself at least once, I haven't decided if i'd go back yet. If you're going to have a large group, make reservations well in advanced, they apparently get full very quick.

    (3)

  • Michael I.

    I have had nothing but delicious experiences here. The lamb or chicken tagine are amazingly tender and delicious. The tabouleh makes a great light side to a dish. The hummus is fabulous. Actually every time i have eaten here (5 times) the service has been right on and helpful and the food fabulous. Remember to plan, it is BYOB which is a nice change don't you think? It is great to have Kan Zaman in Chinatown. What a great addition to the area.

    (5)

  • Rebecka A.

    I had the lamb kebab for lunch ($10) out on the back lanai. Tasted my friend's moroccan mint tea which was delicious. The lamb was all high quality, perfectly seasoned, the pita was fresh and you get a side salad. Tasteful decorations and a calm, cool lanai out back.

    (4)

  • Michael R.

    I enjoyed this place. I went for lunch on Memorial Day. The falafel sandwich with salad was pretty good. I really enjoyed the salad dressing and the mint iced tea. The place has a nice ambiance and could potentially be romantic in the outdoor area. Free parking is hard to find but should not prevent you from trying it out.

    (4)

  • Mad D.

    I went in at 1:30 p.m. and was sat by the window which I thought was a cute little 2 seater. (I ate by myself). It's a small place with about seven 2-seaters and 3-4 group tables. I guess there's an outdoor area. I wanted to get the main course lamb with tahini, but I figured the lamb kabob was a lunch version. My idea was to try it first without spending a lot of money, then if I liked it, I'd definitely go back. $9.95 for the Lamb Kabob served with a side mixed green salad. I was pleasantly surprised at how good it was. Try it!!! They use the iphone credit card slider if you pay by card, but i found it slightly awkward when the waitress mentioned about leaving a tip or not on the phone, when the choices are on the screen 15%, 18%, or 20%. To me, it's indirectly asking for it. I think people who dine out on a regular basis would know to tip or will ask how to tip from the phone. Your receipt is emailed or text to you.

    (4)

  • Marilynn M.

    I don't eat out much but have been here twice for lunch. Both times I've had the lamb pita. The lamb is very tender, not at all oily, and seasoned to have a very pleasing flavor. The salad that accompanies it is simple but with a tasty dressing, which is a nice complement to the lamb. My lunch companions have had chicken pita and beef pita, and they raved about both.

    (4)

  • Jenna D.

    A cute little joint hidden in down town with a great atmosphere and delicious food to match. This Moroccan Lebanese restaurant has a friendly staff and outstanding service. My husband and I fell in love with the place and I would highly recommend you to try it out.

    (5)

  • Jude A.

    New Moroccan Lebanese restaurant in downtown Honolulu, friendly staff, outstanding service, the genius of it is in its simplicity, its focus on herbs, spices and the freshness of ingredients. Onolicious!

    (5)

  • Kat W.

    I have been searching everywhere for an authentic moroccan restaurant! Look no further. This place is as legit as they come from their baba ganoush to their delicious iced mint tea. The service was friendly and thorough and the ambience outside just set the tone to a wonderful relaxing date. I will definitely become a regular.

    (5)

  • Kelli C.

    Great location, beautiful patio, wonderful service and tasty food. Iced Mint tea is a refreshing drink paired with the falafel or lamb sandwich both yummy!

    (4)

  • Michael G.

    Lamb Kebab and Moroccan Salad were EXCELLENT!!! I ate there once and got takeout on another occasion. Food is super tasty both times! Service was superb. If you are in downtown, check this place out!

    (5)

  • Rita L.

    Seriously, this place is freaking awesome. I only tried the morroccan place in kailua and this beats that place hands down. The service, food, and ambiance was suberb! I will be back. Get the lamb with couscous and the baba gounoush. Also the mint tea is a must! The only downside is the location is sketchy, lots of bums hanging around, but that is to be expected around chinatown.

    (5)

  • Paul H.

    My cousin and I like to try different places for lunch when we have time. I had seen a review on a friend's blog and since she's a foodie and liked this place, I figured why not? My cousin made reservations for lunch (good idea if you plan to go midday) and we had a nice cozy table by the window. Tried the hummus and cooked veggie appetizer. It came with a basket of pita bread. Normally I really don't care for green bell peppers but that's what was in the cooked veggie appetizer, and I kept on eating it. The hummus was nice and refreshing and there was enough to take home to eat later. My cousin had the Chicken Tajine and I had the Kofta sandwich. My cousin loved the Chicken Tajine and the Kofta for me was large enough that I took half the sandwich home for din. She and I are aching to go back again. Maybe with other people to share our find. My sandwich also came with mixed greens which was a nice refreshing salad.

    (5)

  • Kelsey S.

    This BYOB establishment is located on Nuuanu just after S. Hotel Street. Street parking might be a pain on the weekends so your best bet is to try a weekday night. When we pulled up, I was surprised to find that the restaurant used to be where a Thai restaurant once was (the name escapes me at the moment). I remembered, from my past Thai experience, that there was seating both in and outdoors - that hasn't changed. The bf and I opted to sit indoors close to the front door (directly below the AC). At the end of the night, we realized that this was a mistake. It was a good thing we finished our meals when we did because a big load of water dump itself on the floor. Luckily, he was just sprinkled with some of the water but, had he been leaning against the wall, he would've looked like he just came from a wet t-shirt contest. We signaled for the waitress to come and when we advised her of the wet floor, her response was, "Oh, yeah...it's from the condensation. It happens all the time." Um...excuse me, but if you know this happens a lot, why place tables directly below it?! AC drama aside, the food was okay, at least my dish was anyway. I had the Chicken Tajine ($16.95). I read some of the reviews but still decided to try it for myself. It came out and basically, I was looking at a mountain of french fries piled on 2 pieces of chicken. Trying to be more health conscious, I pushed aside almost all of the fries to dig my way to the bottom. The chicken was pretty flavorsome. It had a slow-cooked taste/texture to it. It was swimming it a soup-base of saffron, coriander, lemon, cumin, smoked paprika & olives. Yes I was trying to be healthy, but come on...my inner fat kid was just dying to try to dip one of the fries into that base. It ended up tasting like fries with gravy...yum... Flavorful and all, would I pay $17 for just 2 pieces of chicken and a whole lot of fries I'd never eat? No...so not worth it. My date had the Lamb Couscous ($22.95) - definitely worth its price. The lamb was served over couscous in broth with carrots, pumpkin, potatoes, zucchini, tomatoes & chick peas. That couscous was awesome. Naturally, I wanted to eat it all, especially since my dish was so, meh. I was so jealous. Our dinner ended with the Katayef dessert - a banana pancake the size of a bread plate served with cream, honey & some kind of orange blossom water. That was a light & refreshing dessert and a good way to end the meal...until a load of water comes crashing down and ruins the whole thing. All in all, this is an okay place to eat. I'd consider coming back again, just not for the Tajine...or the AC shower...

    (3)

  • Mohammad H.

    It was awesome! Try it , especially if you are middle eastern! And nice music and staffs :D

    (5)

  • Daniel M.

    I was so looking forward to trying this place. I love Lebanese and Mediterranean food. Perhaps it was my fault my experience was not so great-- I should have asked more questions. Appetizers: We had Falafel-- tasty, yet pricey-- and fries-- awesome sumac and garlic aioli for dipping. Main Course: My wife had the one vegetarian main course, a vegetable couscous. Very bland and unremarkable. I had the lamb kebab-- envisioning cubes of succulent lamb meat on a skewer, but received a pile of luke warm "shaved lamb" bits over rice. The lamb had been ground and mixed with other ingredients which gave it a spongy texture remniscent of gyros, but softer. I asked the server about the beef kebab, and she said it came the same way. On the menu, it states "marinated cubes of beef", so this could be confusing. Being my first time to the restaurant, I should have asked about the menu items more. Everyone around me seemed to be enjoying sumptuous lamb shanks, and I should have gotten the cue. Service: Our server was quite pleasant, but didn't perform a key task: checking back soon after the entree is delivered. When she did return, it was obvious I was unhappy with my dish. As a former waiter, I didn't want to make a big fuss. I did make it clear to her that it was not what I expected and that I did not like it. I ended up eating the rice (which was delicious) and the hummus and tabouleh (which were average). The old school thing that I sort of wanted to happen was for the waiter to suggest or offer another item to replace a dish I was clearly unsatisfied with. Instead, my comments were met with a sympathetic smiles and nods of understanding. We got a box for the pulverized lamb meat to feed the homeless with it. I thought we might get a dessert comped, but all I got were refills of their delicious mint iced tea. People rave about this place as being the best middle eastern cuisine in town. But like it often is in Hawaii: maybe it's the "best" because it's the "only".

    (2)

  • T P.

    So I just wanna start out by saying that I love this place! It's a hidden little gem! I've tried the mezza sampler, lamb kebab, lamb couscous and the lamb tahine. All of my selections were delicious! The dessert is also to die for! I don't remember the name of the chocolate cheesecake that they have but it is fantastic! I also love the orange blossom cheesecake. It's light and perfect with a lovely mound of puree dates on the top! The service is great as well. All of the times that I've been here they were also super attentive. They also have byob...I don't ever remember seeing a corkage fee, so that's always a plus! The only downfall of coming here is the parking but that's how it is in Chinatown. Anyway the food makes it worthwhile!

    (5)

  • Laura G.

    I had the Chicken Tajine which was excellent - perfectly cooked and extremely flavorful! The tabbouleh was very fresh and had a great balance of herbs, tomatoes, and lemon, and the mint tea is something you must try - very refreshing on a warm day. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting - I would definitely come back here.

    (5)

  • Laurie M.

    So excited to have authentic Moroccan food in Hawaii! Admittedly some of the food is more Lebanese-ish, but its excellent. Service was great. Ambiance is perfect for an intimate dinner. Mint tea takes me back to Fez. Definitely worth the trip to Chinatown!

    (5)

  • Angelica Z.

    Mommy date - we shared the mint tea (delicious!) and a dinner plate of Chicken Taouk. Everything was so flavorful and delicious. The chicken was moist, the rice inventive and buttery, and pita/hummus/tabouleh were spot on. The plate was big enough for two not-extremely hungry people and only $16 at dinner! The ambiance was fantastic. Mom and I sat inside the restaurant, and we nabbed a table by the front door near the window. It was the perfect spot - under a little cove. On the way to the bathroom, I spied the outside patio area which looked so fun and cute. Will have to sit there next time, but I was definitely impressed as I thought the indoor seating space was the only seating capacity of the restaurant. I appreciated the little touches, such as the orange-water given to clean our hands post-dinner. The waitress kindly informed us that the oil in the water is actually from Morocco. Speaking of server, I also give 5 stars for service - we were seated promptly and had such a kind and patient server. I'm glad to finally find a mediterranean-style restaurant in Hawaii that is worth going to over and over again (I was spoiled in the SF/Bay Area!). I will be back!

    (4)

  • Vivian D.

    I have come here at least 5 times in the last two months and am always impressed. The flavors in the food are better than any I have tasted in like middle eastern restaurants that I have been to in Northern California (where there is a large middle eastern population). The chicken shawarma and beef shawarma (mountain of delicious bite sized pieces) haunt my dreams. The lamb is beautifully spiced. The appetizer platter is so delicious (do try all of them on the platter). All the portions are huge, but it is hard to stop eating. The sweet mint tea with orange water is inspirational. The outdoor seating is so romantic. The orange water for your hands at the end of dinner is refreshing (take a deep breath of the scent off your hands). Bring your own bottle of wine. I wish they were open today!

    (5)

  • Jan T.

    This is based on the combination of two visits. The first time was a great experience overall. Food was great. The 2nd visit was today, using a Groupon. Had the Chicken Taouk, the chicken was too dry for me. The rest of the food that came with it, rice, sauces, veggie, hummus, pita were good. Website menu prices needs to be updated.

    (4)

  • Shelley N.

    Worst service ever. 8:30 reservation, seated at 9:15. Had two servers because the first server was too afraid to tell us they are out of all types of tawook, shawarma, and HUMMUS. How a Lebanese restaurant runs out of hummus, not sure? Anyways, I know the food is good here, but may not be worth the terrible service. Pick a different restaurant in downtown people. Seriously.

    (1)

  • Aaron C.

    Excellent food, nice ambiance. We sat inside but there is a great outdoor patio area behind that looks like a great space as well. We shared some hummus and tabouleh to start, both were super fresh and really tasty. For dinner I had the lamb couscous which was great, super tender lamb shank, great flavor and my wife really enjoyed the chicken tajine, also super tender chicken with delicious sauce and fries. We shared the turkish chocolate coffee cheesecake which was awesome as well, rich and creamy, great texture and flavor. The waitstaff were all friendly and responsive. Overall great dinner and we will definitely be back... likely requesting to sit outside next!

    (5)

  • Lee B.

    I've visited here 3 times and plan to keep returning! The food here has a lot of flavor. Good lunch options - I've tried the chicken falafel and lamb kabob; both tasted great. Also, tried the lamb tajine. I could not resist after seeing the pics and reviews posted here. It was delish! The indoor area is quaint, though I love sitting out back. It's got a relaxing atmosphere. Oh, and another BIG plus - the wait staff was excellent on each visit!

    (5)

  • Kimberely N.

    This place is so good! Better than I could imagine. And the mint tea is on another level!!

    (5)

  • Judith L.

    It is a great pity that the food is "nearly good". Far too little lemon on everything. For anyone who has lived in the Middle East this is definitely a let down. I sense that most of the food is supplied by restaurant supply companies and then heated up. Never again!

    (2)

  • Jessica A.

    5star plus !!!! Amazing food !!! Great Service!!! Must try lamp kebab plate it's the best lamp I have ever tried , tender and spiced to delicious perfection !!!! Chicken kebab is great as well , but Lamp is to die for !!!! I will be back :)

    (5)

  • Warren N.

    I'm a fan, I gave only 4 stars because I want to come back and taste even more! If the rest of the menu is as good as what we had tonight I'm sure I'll raise it to 5 stars. We went light tonight with falafel, baba ganoush, Moroccan salad and tabouleh. Our server Suzanne was ultra polite and helpful. The decor is done in red, orange and green, but muted enough so that they weren't clashing. The falafel was crisp and hot with a mild dipping sauce and pita. Oh how I miss Da Falafel King on King Street! I may have found my new falafel place. The ganoush was served with a large basket of pita and had a very strong char-grilled taste. Although it went well with the pita, the strong grilled smoky taste can be overpowering after a while. Moroccan salad was refreshing, with a hint of orange blossom water maybe? The tabouleh was different: this time the cracked wheat was not the star, the rough chopped parsley and mint was. It worked! Very zesty lemon dressing complemented the creamy ganoush and pita. We hoped to end out meal with Katayef, the banana pancake, but alas, our served sadly informed us that the special cream accompanying it did not turn out s the chef had wanted so he was not serving it. Kudos to them for telling us about the problem. We'll be back to try it another day. The orange blossom water to refresh our hands is a nice touch. Our Moroccan iced mint tea was very refreshing and light. Try them! Downtown needs more gems like this!

    (4)

  • N K.

    I went to this restaurant with a friend by chance and may I say what a pleasant find. The restaurant was so warm and friendly. Simple Moroccan decor, courteous staff, and a nice outdoor space for seating as well. The food was amazing and the mint tea was divine. This will definitely be a regular spot for satisfying my craving for mediterranean/ middle eastern food.

    (5)

  • Sue B.

    Great food and service and at a reasonable cost. Portions were great; didn't leave hungry. Will definitely go back again. Also, it is "BYOB" so be sure to do so!!

    (5)

  • Batool M.

    You know ??? It takes a special person to make your dinner evening enjoyable and Suzan did it ... Suzan the manager run this place like a pro ... Very welcoming ,, running around ,, checking on each table with her wonderful smile . The food was excellent I ordered the vegetable couscous and my husband ordered the taooq chicken . We will definitely go back there again .

    (5)

  • Jeff W.

    Very enjoyable dining experience! I had lamb tajine, and my wife just had a desert, and we both ordered mint tea. 30 bucks & everything was delicious. The portion size was generous, the wait staff was friendly, and the atmosphere was laid back. You can also bring your own wine! Reservations recommended.

    (5)

  • Jed R.

    I first went to Kan Zaman with my mother for lunch We had the Chicken Taouk and Lamb Tajine. Both dishes were delicious. The tea was very good as well. About a week later, I went there for dinner with a friend. Suzanne or Susanna waited on us, she was very attentive and friendly. I tried the Chicken Tajine and the pupu sampler, both very good. My friend had the Chicken Taouk for the first time and enjoyed that as well. We sat outside for dinner and it was a delightful ambiance. I look forward to returning.

    (5)

  • Al D.

    Cute place with reasonable dinner prices. Byob is a big draw. Service is friendly. The Moroccan salad and the fries are good starters. I'm not a fan of the falafel or hummus here. I do like the vegetarian couscous and my friends really enjoyed the chicken taouk. The cheesecake is also tasty. It can get very loud indoors. I bad trouble hearing my friend who was sitting across from me. I haven't eaten outside but it looks very nice.

    (4)

  • Stephanie D.

    Food was amazing. Atmosphere is relaxing. And staff were phenomenal. Try the mint tea both cold and hot!

    (5)

  • Sam G.

    Enjoyable ambiance and a food niche not to be easily found in Downtown Honolulu. Enjoyable fare including lamb kebab, babaganoush, and other Moroccan and Lebanese offerings. Large portions, I often save some for later!

    (4)

  • Omar M.

    just went here the other day. pros: -amazing chicken kebabs, cooked with amazing quality spices -intimate patio location, great for a date cons: -rice felt undercooked but still ok, wasnt as moist as what im used to

    (4)

  • Valerie R.

    This is a quaint lovely restaurant. My daughter and I actually had dinner at Kan Zaman and lunch on a another day. The food is very well prepared and fresh. I had the lamb shank (can't recall the name) simmered in a sauce with beans it was so so good and tender. My daughter had the lamb (in a sandwich and salad). We had the mint moroccan tea which was good and for dessert a very good pastry Katayef. The service was great and there are belly dancers on Wednesday's. There is indoor and outdoor seating. I would definitely return to Kan Zaman and definitely recommend it to others.

    (5)

  • Elizabeth K.

    Vegetarian couscous was extremely salty though the chicken taouk was great. Came back and tried the lamb kebab and chicken tajine, the lamb and chicken were tasty. They have a cute outdoor space and it's BYOB so it's great for a big group!

    (3)

  • Tellia W.

    I've been here twice and love this place. The food is semi exotic the atmosphere is great for a date or small group and the service is excellent.

    (5)

  • Ricky B.

    Terrible...Worst food on the island, not recommended. Food is just bleh and I almost threw up.

    (1)

  • Keesha G.

    This place was exceptional. I went buck hungry and luckily my friends ( shout out! ) were already into some eggplant dip and grape leaves so I popped some wine and dove right in and ordered falafles the first chance I got. All were good. I ordered the lamb couscous. Oh damn! It was good! The freshness of the root veggies with the tender lamb and perfectly cooked cous cous that had soaked up the lamb juices, deserves a savoring of every bite. We also had three desserts all great and unique and the best mint tea ive ever had. The katayef made me wanna dance and the cheescake with the roasted dates with orange blossom essence, made me sing opera and raise the roof. Youseff and Kamal, ( shout out) we had so much fun enjoying your amazing food. Raise the roof. People if you havent gotten there yet, get there soon.

    (5)

  • Stacy D.

    Was a great place to check out and we will return. Pretty crowded for a Wednesday and were glad we made reservations. Service and food were both great and had belly dancers! Good to know there is also an outdoor patio.

    (4)

  • Mike T.

    My wife and I first time here last week. The Service and food was great.

    (4)

  • Uli K.

    Friendly, kind of nice industrial ambiente in the back yard, and good food, but not outstanding and limited choice. What I really found disturbing is that they used the cheapest chairs available. You can't actually see them because they're all wrapped in cloth - for a good reason as I could judge from my extremely worn out seat. Apart from that we enjoyed the evening.

    (4)

  • Rita C.

    My mother is an amazing Lebanese cook so I was spoiled with the best and usually very disappointed with Lebanese food out here but this place is pretty damn good! The kafta is yummy and the service is amazing!

    (5)

  • Paul M.

    Awesome place! Great food. Do take advantage of the BYOB! The chicken taouk was delicious. Walk away from this place stuffed like a king. I would advise eating outside where they have a nice little environment set up in the back. Can't wait to go back.

    (5)

  • David T.

    I came here for the second time this past Friday, it was the only place downtown that could seat us without a wait. We had a concert to go to and needed to be in and out in 45 mintues. Even though they were totally packed, they managed to fit us in, on the outside dining area behind the restaurant. I let them know we were sort of in a rush and they were very accommodating, and the service was fantastic. Now, I'm no foodie, and I don't know squat about Moroccan and/or Lebanese cuisine and cannot attest to Kan Zaman's authenticity. I can say that I thoroughly enjoyed my meal and experience here, both times. For appetizer, I ordered french fries (yes, fries). They were AMAZING! I know it's crazy but these were probably one of the best fries I've had at a restaurant, they were perfectly seasoned and cooked, nice and crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They came with an amazing dipping sauce. I can't stress enough how awesome these fries were! For entree, I had the lamb kebab, and it was very good. I really like the hummus, pita, and green salad thing (no idea what it's called) that comes with the plate. The lamb was a little overcooked this time, but on my first visit here, it was perfect. I would definitely recommend this place again. It isn't too pricey, you can expect to pay $15-20 for an entree, and the portions are HUGE. The fries are big enough for a party of 4 and the entree is good for 2 servings (though I finished mine). Definitely coming back!

    (4)

  • Brooke M.

    Love it! Food, service, decor- all stellar! Can't wait to go back for more baba and to try the lentil soup.

    (5)

  • Megan M.

    Kan Zaman is a welcome addition to the island's dining options, which are severely limited in the Middle Eastern category. The baba ghanoush, followed by the lamb couscous were both memorable. Portions here are generous so splitting an entrée turned out to be a good idea. Service was attentive and having lunch in the courtyard in back was delightful. We parked in a municipal lot as we had shopping to do in Chinatown afterwards but it might be a challenge otherwise. The only thing that worries me though is the restaurant's name... It's not immediately obvious what cuisine it serves, at least to the uninitiated. Hope that doesn't keep people from trying this downtown oasis.

    (5)

  • Russel M.

    BYOB

    (5)

  • Kearn O.

    Wow! This is Truly a Hidden Treasure in Honolulu! Looking in from the outside, seemed like a quaint little eatery. Upon entering, our waitress took us past the kitchen into the back area where we were seated in a covered porch area overlooking a hidden garden area. What real estate find in the middle of Downtown Honolulu! We started off with the Babaganoush and Mint Tea, then ordered the Chicken Tijane and Lamb Kabob. To finish it off with the Baklava and Cheesecake topped with an amazing date topping. Although I am not the greatest of writers, this place is worth the stop. Amazing customer Service! Attentive, but not bothersome. Being the IG/Twitter person that I am, I wish I knew they had accounts to check out some of the dishes ahead of time. Didn't really matter on the end. Every dish was to die for!

    (5)

  • Akiko K.

    I was happy to know that the small hidden counter/rest. shogunai tajine had transcended to this great downtown spot. Generous portions. The lamb dish was excellent. BYOB.

    (5)

  • Jillian P.

    My new favorite restaurant! ATMOSPHERE: Ughhhhhhh. This place is TOO cute for words! As soon as I walked in to this place, I was immediately impressed. The decor looks gorgeous! The setup makes for a nice, intimate feeling! The lights are a little dim, but not TOO bright, which I think adds/creates the PERFECT ambiance for dinner. :) I chose to sit our party outside and I'm glad we did! I THINK, if it weren't "fall" in Hawaii and we were still summer, outside would have been a BAD idea. But there was a nice breeze rolling through which made it just the perfect temperature. The outside patio area is adorable and makes me feel as if I'm sitting somewhere that's not in Hawaii. LOL. Loved every part of it. PS: A PERFECT place to bring a date. ;) SERVICE: Spot. On! We were immediately greeted by the entire working staff as we walked in. They were very friendly and seated us immediately. I was quite impressed. :) Our server was very fun and nice. He was helpful in helping us order our dishes and was constantly by to check up on us. It wasn't TOO much to the point we weren't able to enjoy our meal, but it was just enough for us to feel like we were being taken care of. Our waters were refilled as soon as they were getting low (we never had empty cups) and I definitely liked that! FOOD: AHHHHHH-MAZING! Instead of ordering our own, individual plates, we decided to go pupu style! So we ordered Hummus, Chicken Tajine, Lamb Tajine and the Shish Kebab! FRICKIN' PRIME! The hummus = best I've ever had. Their pita bread was also very soft and yummy :) So delicious! The chicken tajine came with fries that were already good on their own. :) The chicken was also very tender and juicy, yet super flavorful. The shish kebab came on a bed of rice with hummus and pita as well and GOOD GOD, it was so good. LOL. And then, I had to save the best for last.... LAMB TAJINE = officially my FAVORITE dish of all time. The lamb was sooo tender, it just melted in your mouth. It is served in this soupy bean thing (LOL, fail for not knowing what it was), but it was DELICIOUS. The beans reminded me of american baked beans. Mmmmm goodness. TO DIE FOR. My friend and I wanted to devour the lamb, but we couldn't really, since we were doing pupu style. LOL. Alls I know is, next time I go to Kan Zaman,lam is DEFINITELY on my plate. OVERALL: After the five star rating and all the rave in every other category, you know I'm most DEFINITELY going to be recommending this place. But, I have a GOOD, GOOD FEELING that I'm gonna be bringing people here VERSUS just recommending it! LOL :) LOVE KAN ZAMAN! Kudos to the person who created this lovely place!

    (5)

  • Dio P.

    I've come here 3 times already and have had a great experience every single time. If you're there for a meeting you should ask for the garden table since the inside is quite loud because all the surfaces are hard and no carpet or sound absorbing material to lower the volume. If I'm eating inside, I just pretend that that's the way it is in Morocco and just go with the flow. For appetizers we usually go with the sampler so we can taste all of the wonderful flavors. The dishes are really meant to shared family style, so I usually don't come alone. My favorite dish is the Chicken Taouk that's roasted on the skewers. I usually skip the dessert because when you've had baklava, you've pretty much tasted them all. Just my opinion, it seems it's all nuts, honey and filo dough. Oh well until I'm proven wrong... Actually after eating all the great food in this place, I usually don't have enough room for dessert. The meal usually end with the waiter giving us a rose scented oil to take all that food smell on our hands, a nice touch!

    (4)

  • Helen Y.

    A charming neighborhood spot with really good food! My friend had the chicken tajine and I had the lamb kebab - both were so yummy! I would've like it even better if the pita had been grilled/hot. The service was good but could've been a bit better (didn't get water refilled and took a while to get our check). I would recommend it and go back :)

    (4)

  • Ben C.

    Really good food with great service. Enjoyed our visit and will be back. The baklava is awesome.

    (5)

  • Ryan V.

    My wife and I really enjoyed eating here. The mint tea was excellent. We had the baba ganoush for an appetizer. The pita bread was fresh in the dish was very tasty. My wife had chicken tajine and I had the lamb tajine. Both were served very timely, well prepared, and they were delicious. Service was excellent. The price was a little high but was normal for downtown. We also appreciated the decor.

    (5)

  • Sean O.

    My wife is Moroccan...legit...and her family came to town from Rabat. The food was weak compared to their cooking. Babaganoush was store bought overcooked and gross, Harira soup was not good or authentic, grape leaves had too much vinegar, sample mezze is WAY overpriced for what you get. If your on oahu and have a craving for Moroccan I highly recommend Casablanca in Kailua.

    (2)

  • Chuck M.

    Delicious falafel! Great salad that came with it and the service was served with a perfect smile! :))

    (5)

  • Gary G.

    What a wonderful experience! The food was delicious and the owner and staff were so warm and hospitable. A fantastic addition to the Chinatown restaurant scene! I tried almost everything on the menu because we had a large group. The Moroccan Tea was a beautiful touch at the end of the meal, as was the sprinkling of orange blossom water to refresh our hands after dinner. It wasn't just a meal, it was an experience!

    (5)

  • Wendy A.

    An experience you won't get anywhere else in Hawaii...

    (5)

  • Janet M.

    Amazing fresh food! Went there a few weeks ago and ordered six different dishes. They were all very good but the favorite was the chicken tagine. We are going back tomorrow. Kan Zaman is a must try. Don't forget to bring your own wine. It is BYOB!

    (5)

  • Sarah P.

    A Feast for the Senses! I had a solo dinner at Kan Zaman on their opening night. What struck me first was the genuine friendliness of the staff. I was offered to sit in the outdoor patio, a cosy area decorated with simplicity and good taste, Moroccan style with great music playing. You suddenly feel like you have landed in an exotic place, without the 24 hour flight.. :-) I had the lentil soup (pureed) with fresh herbs and spices, tasty and healthy. Next, I tried babaganoush (eggplant puree) served with pita. Unlike lentil soup that I could eat every day, charcoal grilled eggplant is not my favorite thing so I was curious to taste it. I really liked it ; the olive oil, lemon juice and tahini were perfectly blended. I then ate a Taktouka (cooked salad made of tomatoes, bell peppers, olive oil, spices and herbs). It was recommended by one of the server for its freshness, he was right. The food is made to order, so everything is fresh. As for drinks, I had the iced Moroccan mint tea (I love mint), slightly sweeten (my server offered to remake it to my liking if needed). I also had a (directly shipped from Morocco by Chef Kamal's mother and beautifully carved) pot of hot mint tea ... heavenly. At this point I was really full so I decided to have baklavas to go. I am usually hesitant because they are always too sweet. However, since everything so far had been perfect I gave it a try. They were simply exquisite. Almost too good actually, I ended up craving for more. Both Chef Youssef and Chef Kamal made their customers feel valued by acknowledging them as soon as possible. They also came back and check on every dish making sure everybody was happy. The servers were amazing too, not only attending to their assigned tables but to every guest. They were eager to help, cheerful and courteous. I had a wonderful experience at Kan Zaman (which by the way means "Once upon a time"). Located on Nu'uanu street next to HPU where I work, I'll be able to go there on my lunch break and unwind in their mini oasis backyard. One more thing that was such a sweet touch, Chef Kamal bid his customers farewell by sprinkling orange blossom water into their hands. Amazing fragrance and perfect hand freshener. I will definitely come back soon with friends to try the couscous and tajines.

    (5)

  • Shelby B.

    Four stars because I have only been there once. I had the Chicken Taouk (grilled chicken brochette, w/ rice, tabouleh, hummus, & pita) with the mint tea. That was delicious. I've never had this kind of food before but I've had greek food and the concept of screwed meat and humus with pita bread. We sat outside and we got there around 12:30, 1pm and it was empty. I enjoyed it. But the space is pretty small if it gets crowded. Overall will go again.

    (4)

  • Frank H.

    Kan Zaman has just opened in Honolulu with an inventive Lebanese/Moroccan menu that brings Middle Eastern specialties to the islands. I had the Moroccan lamb shank Tajine ... very subtly spiced with the meat from the lamb shank falling off the bone. Others with me had the shish kebab and another lamb dish (I forget the name) all of which were thoroughly enjoyed. I had no room for dessert, but one of the guests had a flaky baklava - thankfully just sweet enough and not dripping with honey. The restaurant is small/intimate and very nicely decorated. The service staff was prompt and friendly (despite the challenge of a newly opened restaurant). There's beautiful outdoor seating in the back of the restaurant.

    (5)

  • Sherry K.

    We saw this new restaurant on a walk through Chinatown and decided to stop back for dinner. The atmosphere is great. The outside patio has a nice feel with authentic music to set the mood. We started with babaganoush which was awesome. Lots of pita for dipping. A perfect balance of flavors. Loved it. We had a chicken and a lamb tajine. I usually don't eat lamb because of that gamey taste but this was amazing. I ordered the chicken and found myself picking off my hubby's plate. I will order the lamb next time for sure. The chicken came with a saffron sauce and fries which went well with the sauce. The lamb had a tomato white bean sauce which was killer. The owner came to our table to check on us and introduce himself. He explained the marinating process on the lamb that made it taste so great. This is a man who really cares about food and culture. The restaurant is BYOB and will provide glasses and an opener, but try the mint tea. We had it hot and it was beautiful in flavor and aroma. We finished with the baklava and the pancake. Yummm. When our check arrived, the waiter offered us a splash of warm orange scented water to freshen our hands. It was a nice touch. The menu is short and sweet. I hope to see some seafood choices in the near future. We will definitely be back.

    (5)

  • Kimberly D.

    I wanted to love this place. We walked by at Christmas and were unable to get in, but later got reservations without a problem. The veggies are delicious and fresh. The wait staff is excellent. If there food have more flavor, all would be good. The vegetarian couscous was without flavor. My husband had a dish with beans that were undercooked and poorly seasoned. Mezza platter was just okay, though I did like the smokey babaganoush. Would have a hard time going back with so many better places to eat in Honolulu.

    (3)

  • Paula G.

    This was the most incredible food I've ever tasted . . and as one person describes it as a party in your mouth. Everything is absolutely fantastic and seasoned to perfection. I can't wait to go back and take all of my friends with me. The Lamb Couscous is out of this world. Please when in China Town give this a shot. You will be delighted with the food and great service. P Gail

    (5)

  • Gluten L.

    The first time we tried it, neither of us liked it very much. It was mediocre and not very flavorful. We were disappointed that they did not serve any alcohol (it was BYOB). If it were $10-$20 cheaper, maybe we would try it again, but eating out is too expensive here to bother, especially when there are so many great restaurants in Honolulu. The service was great, and they were very nice. I have to eat gluten free and they were quite accommodating in that regard. The second time, I had the Merguez sandwich and it was DELICIOUS! I've had it again many times.

    (3)

  • Esther S.

    I love Morrocan food and was looking forward to eating here but was disappointed. The best part about Morrocan is the great bread that comes with all the delicious appetizers but at this restaurant, you get the same pita bread that you would find at Safeway. The Babaganoush was good and also the mint tea. I had better lamb kebabs at a Gyro take out place and the baklava wasn't home made.

    (1)

  • Crystal J.

    I had my birthday dinner at Kan Zaman last weekend. It was my first time there and I was so thoroughly impressed!! They accommodated myself and 20 of my friends. Then when some extras showed up, they accommodated them as well. The staff was incredibly helpful, personable, and friendly The chefs even came out and talked to us for a bit. Then on top of all that, the food was innnnncredible! Next day leftovers were pretty great too. Just make sure you call ahead on a weekend night to make sure you have a table The only reason I didn't give them a 5 was 1 or 2 appetizers didn't come out but when you have such a huge party, things like that can happen. I will certainly be including this restaurant in my dining rotation!

    (4)

  • Clover Dan ..

    cute patio seating, enjoyable vegetarian menu, solid service. no complaints, going back again!

    (4)

  • beth m.

    Have to agree with the Star Advertiser's recent review. We had the tabouleh, grape leaves, lamb couscous and chicken tajine, with mint tea. The tea had real vibrancy, and the tabouleh was zesty with plenty of lemon and not too much bulgur, but everything else was rather bland. I adore middle eastern food for the rich flavors, luscious spices, fruits, etc but found that each of the dishes we ordered lacked any real oomph. Are the chefs here afraid to give islanders the real thing? Where was the cinnamon, saffron, cumin, dates, etc. I will come back and try a few other dishes to see if there was something I missed. But on first pass, was not impressed. And I so wanted this place to be a winner.

    (2)

  • Melissa H.

    I love this place! It is a very relaxed atmosphere in the middle of China town. You must sit out on the outdoor patio area. The food is excellent, best lentil soup I've had and the lamb sausage sandwich is so unique and flavorful. The orange blossom cheesecake is so light and delicate and melts in your mouth. Of course at the end of your meal your hands are doused lightly in orange blossom water... Could it get any better?? Service is good however, the servers should check up on your iced tea refills a little more often ;)

    (4)

  • Jadot S.

    The first time I considered dining here with a friend, I peered into the window and saw every seat in the tiny establishment was full. It took looking the place up on Yelp to realize that they have more seating in an outdoor area in the back. Maybe they could find a way to make this more apparent? When I finally did try this place, it was great! The waitstaff were pleasant, attentive, and patient. The food was exactly what I had hoped: a nice escape from generic island fare. As someone who is "Hawaii born and raised," yet ever repulsed by the ubiquitous and unhealthy plate lunch, it has always been difficult to find food that is actually engaging without going to a high end gourmet restaurant and paying top dollar. Add that to a recent foray into vegetarian life and the options become even more limited. I'd call Kan Zaman a hidden gem, not only because of the rarity of Moroccan food on the island, but also because they had vegetarian options that were flavorful and filling. Usually, unless the restaurant is advertised as a "farmer's market" or "organic health food" type joint, I am likely to be relegated to a sad and boring Caesar salad or cheese flatbread. While Kan Zaman had a variety of dishes featuring meat, more than half the appetizers were vegetarian friendly and every other section of the menu had at least one option I could try. And by option I mean a large plate of fluffy, perfectly seasoned couscous topped with a variety of perfectly cooked vegetables. If you're a vegetarian foodie and want to dine out with non-vegetarians at a restaurant with worthwhile options, try Kan Zaman. Because it's tasty and easier than trying to get your friends interested in dining someplace where half the menu is different combinations of quinoa, kale, and portobello.

    (4)

  • M H.

    Love the outside garden area. The lamb dishes are very yummy. We have been for lunch and dinner - both were great - though I might prefer lunch because it is such a nice break from the office. Mint tea was very good.

    (5)

  • Melinda D.

    I would like to preface that I am by no means an expert on Moroccan food, and I do not eat it very often. A friend and I came to Kan Zaman and ordered the Moroccan salad and the Vegetarian couscous. I didn't feel that the salad was as flavorful as I would have liked it to have been. Without the oranges, I think it would have just tasted like wet leaves... The couscous was much more flavorful, but a little salty for me (I don't really eat salty foods, though). Still, I enjoyed the different vegetables atop the couscous itself (tomatoes, pumpkin, zucchini...). We ordered the baklava for dessert, and it was yummy! We both would have liked it a little flakier, but it was soaked in honey and there were tons of almonds and pistachios. Besides the food, the service was great, granted there was only one other table in the indoor dining area (apparently, there's an outside patio in the back!). The bathrooms are clean, and the place is well-decorated overall. I would like to go back and try the other dishes and perhaps eat in the outdoor seating area. I recommend this place to others, and it's a great find in Chinatown!

    (3)

  • Teresa C.

    Fabulous food, friendly service, lovely atmosphere. Chicken taouk was delicious-would be perfect with rice vs fries. Delicious Moroccan salad-love the dressing. Orange blossom for your hands post-meal smells wonderful. Oh- and really great mint orange blossom tea! Definitely returning!

    (5)

  • Lillian A.

    First time lunch today. First impression was ambience nice; good job cleaning up this space and making it look "Moroccan." Didn't look at the outdoor space since time ran out, but heard its great. Lots of people kept coming through the restaurant, so I know its probably same size as inside. At 12:30, the restaurant was full with folks waiting outside. Enjoyed iced Moroccan mint tea - wonderful, refreshing, best; hummus and pita bread - the best; we had Merguez sandwich (panini-style) that comes with fries and this ono sauce looks like mayo and something; lamb kebab with green salad - fantastic. I like my servers a little more talkative, but they had a full house to worry about. Will definitely recommend this place and go there often. Wanna try more of their menu.

    (4)

  • Rachel O.

    Ate here for the first time this past weekend, staff is friendly. Busy restaurant decent priced food and interesting music! I had the French bread dish (name I can't recall) and enjoyed it, what was leftover still tasted great the next day.

    (4)

  • S Q.

    Amazing!!! I have been waiting along time for this type of restaurant to open!!! So delicious...A must!!!

    (5)

  • Justin W.

    Despite being only 10 days old, Kan Zaman feels like an old friend. Servers were extremely attentive. Hard to choose between dining indoors or on the patio because ambiance of both are exceptional. Byob from store around corner (15% off if you mention the restaurants name). Good for a date night or dinner with friends & family!

    (5)

  • Pamela S.

    I came here for lunch and was very impressed. The food was awesome. Everyone's meat at the table was tender and yummy and I will be sure to come back again! We also liked the ambiance with the orange blossom water at the end of the meal and the Moroccan music playing over the speakers.

    (5)

  • Suzanne A.

    With the lack of Moroccan & Lebanese cuisine in Hawaii, Kan Zaman was a must try! We first ordered the iced mint tea and hot mint tea to start off our dinner. Our server was friendly and very attentive, as she was constantly refilling the iced mint teas (free refills!). The tea had a good level of sweetness and was refreshing. Between my boyfriend and two friends, we shared family style and ordered the lamb couscous, chicken tajine, and the chicken taouk. The chicken tajine comes with two chicken thighs that are braised in a yummy saffron and spice concoction, and topped of with fries. I'm not a big fan of lamb so I can't tell you how the lamb tajine was, but my friends seemed to enjoy it. My boyfriend said it was a bit gamey, so I probably wouldn't like it. I went ahead and tried the couscous, though. It was delicious, seasoned well, and had a hint of lamb which I didn't mind. The chicken taouk came with two skewers of grilled chicken, over a rice pilaf, salad, and baba ganoush. The chicken was not dry, as I usually fear grilled meats turn out to be, and the rice pilaf was flavorful. Our meal also came with a basket of pita that we could dip in the baba ganoush. Having a big sweet tooth, my favorite part of the meal was the katayef, an arabic pancake topped with bananas, honey, puddling, and chopped almonds. You can also taste strong hints of orange blossom. Light and sweet! Only downside is that portion was small so this couldn't really be shared evenly. Our dinner came out to a total of $75 for four. At the end of the meal, our sever gave us a few drops of orange blossom water to pat onto our hands and feel all clean. Smelled refreshing! I'd like to come back for lunch~

    (4)

  • Reid I.

    The food here was delicious. I would recommend requesting to be seated in the back patio. We started with the babaganoush, it was very tasty and I enjoyed it. I ordered the chicken tajine. This dish was excellent and very flavorful. I am a french fry eater so this was a plus. My girlfriend ate the lamb couscous. It was a lot of food, she like it but I think she was envious with my dish. We also drank the mint tea which was refreshing. I would surely come here again.

    (4)

  • Jenny M.

    Been there twice. Tried the koftka sandwich, merguez and hummus app. It took a surprisingly long time to cook my food. However, the flavors were tasty. Service is where I have my gripe with. I don't mean to be a d*ck but the people that work here don't have a clue on what's going on. I'd probably eat here there again when my schedule is clear.

    (3)

  • Kev E.

    Had lunch reservations for 4. Food was great. Would return here.

    (5)

  • Alex D.

    I took the advice of other reviews and decided to give this place a try, as I love Middle Eastern food and I was tired of eating at the same restaurants near my home. I was certainly not disappointed! I ordered the lentil soup and a side of pita bread (there were plenty of vegetarian-friendly options which made my stomach happy)--the soup was flavorful and smooth, and the pita was perfect for dipping. My date ordered the lamb tajine and while I'm generally grossed out by meat on the bone the lamb looked very tender (it fell off of the bone) and was accompanied by a good portion of chickpeas, beans, and spices. We shared a pot of mint tea (which, if I had learned to read, I would have seen was hot; I wanted iced, but that was my fault), and it was wonderful, sweet without being overpowering and married beautifully to the mint. I'm certainly making plans to go back and try dessert, as baklava is a weakness of mine and I was too full to order any. The servers were very friendly and helpful; they asked if we had a seating preference, and took us to a cozy courtyard located behind the restaurant (the indoor seating space was smallish, but for its location in Chinatown I was impressed by how they designed the space). Our food was served very quickly as we were the only ones in the restaurant at the time (which quickly changed as it became later in the evening; I would suggest making reservations if you are going to be eating later than 7pm). The only thing I would have liked more was if there had been maybe one or two more members of the waitstaff--it looked like our servers had their hands full and we waited for some time for the check. Whether this is due to the newness of the restaurant or the fact that we went for supper on a weekday, I don't know; the quality of the food and the friendliness of the staff more than made up for it, however, and I will definitely make a return trip.

    (5)

  • Melissa G.

    Kamal and his team are fantastic! the Morroccan mint tea, iced or hot is a must!

    (5)

  • Jobobb S.

    Excellent food. I had lunch here and had the Merguez that were perfectly grilled and very tasty. The mint ice tea was a nice compliment to the meal enjoyed in the quiet outdoor seating area. Definitely going back.

    (4)

  • Scott F.

    Food was awesome as well as the service provided by Alakai!! In the back is a beautiful courtyard for outdoor dining and worth the wait if you must. Don't forget to have a piece of orange blossom cheesecake before leaving.

    (5)

  • India R.

    I'd like to being by saying I was a fan of this location when it was previously Cafe Joy (Thai Cuisine). I always enjoy most of the buildings in downtown due to the historic architecture, but that's another review, for another day. I love Moroccan flavors, all those herbs and spices! Yuuumm! This is a great place to grab a bite, centrally lactated in Honolulu, on Nuuanu Ave. Municipal parking is usually $2. and if you're lucky you can grab a street parking... OK, back to Kan Zaman, their menu reads of flavorful dishes such as lam tajine, pulled mozzarella with tomato and pita, and have daily specials such as the catch of the day and soups. The atmosphere is quaint and quiet, there is a bonus with a back seating area, outside of the restaurant. I love outdoor seating on a prefect Hawaii weather night, and ocean side seating, which we don't have enough of here in my opinion. However, the back seating was occupied at the time so we did seat inside, which can be good as well being that you assume you'll receive quicker service. I say assume, because on this day we did not. It took sometime for our food to arrive and water glasses to be full. Let me state that I have been in the service industry for most of my working years, so I know how customers can be. Although I can clearly see when a restaurant isn't busy enough that you should receive more prompt service. Nonetheless I don't let this steer me away from enjoying my flavorful meal! I was with one of my friends and we started of with sharing the pulled mozzarella, tomato and pita appetizer! So simple yet amazing flavors, I could eat and entire 2 dishes alone. A heaping amount of mozzarella freshly pulled like a mound of well, perfect cheese. Warm pita and sliced tomatoes on top. Heavenly! We each got a main dish so we could try different things, of course. We had the chicken tanjine and the merguesz couscous (I will post pics). Both were delicious, the tanjine was 2 slow cooked chicken thighs, in a light citrus herb and green olive sauce, topped with a pile of salted fries-I think I would get this with rice the next time, there was definitely too many fries over powering the rest of the dish. The merguez, was fluffy steamed couscous with a variety of vegetables, pumpkin, carrots, zucchini and chickpeas with a broth for the sauce and 2 lamb sausages cut in half. Both dishes were equally flavorful and colorful. A fest for the eyes an belly! I would go back here for sure and try something new on the menu, the photos that other Yelper's have posted look mouthwatering as well! I would also recommend going with a 4 or more people so you can try new things that your flavor pallet hasn't had! oooh, and the best part this location in BYOB! So be responsible!

    (4)

  • Lei L.

    Food was 4 stars Ambiance was 4 stars Service unfortunately was 0-1 star The girls & I had a night out about a couple months ago when we tried KZ for the first time. The restaurant was jam packed & we had a hard time getting a table (60min wait). Service was not up to par then, but we thought we'd give them another shot. Unfortunately, our server (same guy) was not attentive to our table once again. He wasn't around much and he added the tip on automatically (6pax).

    (2)

  • Michelle L.

    The Do's and Don't's of Kan Zaman... Don't make your reservations within two hours before closing time because they will passive aggressively try to rush you. (I don't blame them) But Do make reservations especially for a Friday night. Do BYOB! Do get the Moroccan Salad. Ok that's pretty much all I could come up with so onward with the food. For starters my friend and I ordered the Babaganoush and Moroccan Salad. We shared the Chicken Tajine for entree and Baklava for dessert. The Babaganoush ($7.95) is very similar to hummus but it is made of eggplant instead of chickpeas and has a smokier flavor. Honestly, if you told me I was eating hummus, I would believe it because it has the same texture. Served with pita bread. The Moroccan Salad ($7.95) was my favorite of the night. Fresh greens with sliced oranges, cucumbers and radish. The dressing is an orange blossom and honey vinaigrette. I loved the bright flavors and it was very refreshing. Because my friend doesn't eat lamb, we opted for the Chicken Tajine ($16.95). Three chicken thighs cooked in a fragrant broth with fries on top and side of pita bread. I was apathetic towards this dish because it reminded me of the shoyu chicken during school lunches. For what it was, I didn't feel it was worth the price. The Baklava ($3.50) was a nice finish to the meal. Not too sweet but still rich in flavor from all that buttery goodness. Good service and LOVE the BYOB in the patio seating. Other than that, my friend and I felt underwhelmed from the meal as a whole. I'm all about second chances and do want to come back to try their lamb dishes but until then it gets 3 stars from me :) PS: did I mention I liked the salad?

    (3)

  • Seeca K.

    Small but comfortable atmosphere and amazing food! Must stop in for dinner before braving Chinatown for the evening!

    (5)

  • Ilene B.

    Cozy feel to the place. Ordered the sampler. Prices are a bit high and the food was bland. Ordered Perrier and asked for lime... Was told they don't have lime, hmmm a block away are food stands - for four dollars a bottle u would think they would provide lime. Won't be back.

    (2)

  • Lon H.

    You'll be impressed. Start with a pot of hot mint tea. I would also suggest the sampler for starters...baba is excellent. Make reservations and sit on their back porch at night. Staff is friendly and accommodating.

    (5)

  • Malia D.

    Such a fun place for a ladies dinner out! The restaurant features a beautiful belly dancer every Wednesday evening!

    (5)

  • Emi N.

    Love going to Kan Zaman. My favorite restaurant in Honolulu. The lunch deals are great. Loved the merguez dish!!

    (4)

  • Kris B.

    Definite DO'S: Babaganoush, Chicken Taouk, and Iced Mint Tea. Went with some wonderful people, and we ordered three plates: Chicken Tajine, Lamb Couscous, and the Chicken Taouk. The Chicken Tajine is very tasty, but the fries were a little weird for me. Their Lamb Couscous is cooked wonderfully - comes right off the bone. BUT the best all-around plate we had was definitely the Chicken Taouk. Please, for the sake of everything good in life, try this plate. There was also a belly dancer when we went, which was really cool. EXCEPT the music was so loud outside that our waitress had to leave until the dancer's show was done so she could actually hear our order. (Btw, the place looks small from the street but there is nice spacious outside seating in the back.) Municipal parking on Bethel or up on King.

    (4)

  • Jennifer C.

    The food here is pretty freaking good, but what really made me give them 5 stars was the service. I showed up for dinner with the husband during the week of Christmas, with no reservation. Literally every table had a "reserved" sign on it. The hostess let us know that they had a table reserved for later in the night, but if we wanted it, we would have roughly an hour and fifteen minutes to eat. She was very polite about it, and I definitely appreciated the gesture. It worked out because we had plans later in the night and didn't intend on staying long. The waitress we had was very attentive, too. Food wise, everything was pretty darn good. We started with the falafel. The flavors were robust and they may have been on par with some of the falafel I've had back home in NYC. My only complaint is that the falafel order consisted of five very small balls. I was expecting a larger portion. I had the lamb tajine ($19) and the husband had the lamb couscous ($23). The tajine comes on a bed of stewed beans, while the couscous...obviously on a bed of couscous, and mixed vegetables. I had a taste of the couscous, and I preferred my stewed beans more. The lamb was very tender and fall off the bone goodness. It didn't seem like much when the dish arrived, but I wasn't able to finish the plate. I had enough to last me another meal. We also both had an iced mint tea. It wasn't overly sweet, and was super refreshing. Tip 1: Make dinner reservations. Tip 2: This could definitely be a cute date place.

    (5)

  • Shiloh R.

    What a gem! I LOVED my dinner I had here a few months ago. Great date spot! I sat outside--it's a really cute outdoor seating layout. At first I thought it would be strange to sit outside in Chinatown but trust me (and the other reviews!) you won't be disappointed. Yummy food I had....falafel, vegetarian couscous plate, baklava and hot tea. Everything was delicious and brought me back to my comfort food--I love Mediterranean food! The servers were all delightful too!

    (5)

  • Michelle J.

    The staff was awesome and attentive. The food was really good. On Wednesday nights they have belly dancing around 7:30pm. It makes for a really fun night! i I highly recommend it!

    (4)

  • Izack G.

    Awsome spot! Music& food are just making this place a must if you are into exploring great places to eat..

    (5)

  • June O.

    This place is a gem located on the Chinatown/Downtown Business District border. It's located behind the First Hawaiian Bank of Chinatown. I'm not one to walk in to just any Mediteranean Restaurant, especially since I'm not familiar with the cuisine but decided to give this place a try since I was craving something new and different. It was so good I decided to introduce this place to a number of colleagues and ended up eating here twice in one week! Now on to the food... To start with I tried the Mezza Sampler which had the Babaganoush (so fun to say), Hummus (which was delicious), Taktouka and the Warak Inab (which I didn't care too much for). It was a nice and hearty sampler so we didn't finish it. It would probably be good for 3 people. The entrees I've tried are Chicken Taouk and the Chicken Kebab sandwich (on two different occassions of course!). I've got to say, the Taouk was much better. More pricier indeed but the rice and parsley salad that came with it was exquisite and FRESH. The same chicken kebab came on both of the plates. The rice that came with the Taouk tasted like butter rice and flavored wonderfully. I was afraid to ask about calories. =( Since it came with hummus, we really didn't need to order the sampler. I ended up taking left overs home to enjoy for dinner. The Chicken Kebab sandwich came with a generous portion of the Moroccan salad. It was spring mix/field greens with a zesty citrus dressing and diced tomatoes on top. Delicious as well but we had to ask for more dressing for the table. They say they're known for their mint ice teas. One of the owners were pouring the hot mint tea (sweetened) version at the different tables as a sampler which I thought was a nice touch. I've tried the unsweetened cold version but it wasn't as impressive as the hot tea. If you don't mind the sugar in the tea, I would definitely recommend it. If you're one to order tea unsweetened, then I would say try to save yourself a few bucks. The place gets rather busy in the front but I believe there is more space in the back which is linked to a courtyard. They also take reservations so call ahead! My favorite surprise was towards the end when our waitress brought our check. She offered us orange blossom water in a beautoful antique oil pourer. She put a generous amount of drops on my hand and told me to rub my hands together. I left the restaurant with my hands up on my nose probably looking like a weirdo. The entire walk back to work I kept smelling my hands enjoying the sweet, delicate smell of floral goodness. =)

    (5)

  • Tatiana W.

    I've been here 3 times now and LOVE IT! I always opt for the outdoor seating, even when it's hot out. The fans they have hanging from the ceiling really maintain the temperature, and I've never been bothered; however, it's nice to know they have an air conditioned option as well. I've now tried their Mezza Sampler, which includes their hummus, babaganoush, taktouka, warak inab, and pita. If you don't know what half of those are, their menu includes some good descriptions, and the servers are always extremely kind and ready to answer questions. I loved the taktouka and warak inab! I've also tried the Kofta Sandwich served with sald, and the Lamb Kebab Sandwich, also with salad. The salad is as big as your face with plenty of delicious dressing and fresh ingredients. The Kofta Sandwich is hearty, thick, and juicy, and the Lamb Kebab is just a little lighter, but with more flavor I think. Both are absolutely delicious, filling, and plated well. The decor of this place is always a plus. It can be very romantic, or a nice getaway with friends. And the service is amazing, with great lunch prices. Oh, and I DIE for the Iced Moroccan mint tea. I can't go and not have that! Love it!

    (5)

  • Laurie M.

    Can't say a bad thing about this restaurant. The service is top notch and the food is wonderful! It is a nice change of pace from the ordinary. I think what makes this restaurant stand out is the customer service. Not only are they super friendly and helpful, they pay attention to detail. We brought out own wine and they immediately brought out a bucket of ice to keep it cool and when we took home some leftovers the server threw in an entire container of pita bread at no charge. It's these small niceties that made this dinner wonderful. We ordered the lamb tagine and chicken skewers as mains with the mixed appetizer plate for a starter. We rounded out the meal with the hot mint tea and Turkish chocolate cheesecake which hit the spot. Will be back again soon and will ask to be seated outside. Very cute outdoor seating in the back.

    (4)

  • Ephraim S.

    Great food, great service...Great times celebrating a buddies birthday. Everything was on point. the outdoor seating is great, and the tea was unbelievable, really the tea! and ask to wash your hands after the meal with their infused water. I'm definitely going back. Thank you.

    (5)

  • Shawn G.

    First time at a Moroccan/Lebanese restaurant. The merguez couscous and the chicken tajine were excellent choices to introduce us to the flavors of the cuisine. We started with the sampler platter. The flavors were great, but the amount of pitas provided was not nearly enough. The service was quick to bring more when asked. I had the merguez couscous. The sausage was the real deal with a touch of heat at the very end of the flavor profile. The couscous itself was extremely moist and almost reminded me of a risotto. The only letdown was some of the veggies were pretty underdone, but this was a small blemish on a great dish. The wife had the chicken tajine. The skin on, bone in chicken may give less adventurous palates a pause, but adds to the great chicken flavor that permeates the entire plate. The fries topping the dish was a great starch choice that helped sop up the plate. We had a pretty large group so we were sent to the back side of the property. The 'backyard' has a decent sized open air shelter that allowed everyone to move around and socialize without disturbing the other guests. A perfect setting for a great meal.

    (4)

  • Bruce T.

    We had an amazing meal! We all tried something different so we could taste the options made here. Everything was spectacular!!! Tasty tea also. The service was extremely good also. Very attentive but not in your face. Everyone was happy to explain the meals. The decor is modest but very nice. We want to try the outside seating on our next visit. The chefs here are doing a great job... We will be back for sure.

    (4)

  • Sherry S.

    OMG! Can I say AWESOME! the food here is AMAZING! I have been here twice and so far the food was great. The mint tea drinks are very refreshing and DELICIOUS! Both times I ordered the lamb kebab sandwich. VERY DELICIOUS! The lamb is succulent and soft. There are two types of cheese in the sandwich that make it salty and sweet. Also the dressing for the salad has a sweet and savory taste that just makes you want to keep eating it. Plus I am not a salad eater, not really big on it. But the moment I tasted the dressing. I was in love with every leaf on my plate :))) lOl will definitely return if Im in the area. Thanks Kan Zaman!

    (5)

  • Chris C.

    The food was good, the service excellent, the delivery fast and the decor trendy and clean. We (party of two) dropped by on Friday night without a reservation, and they were pretty booked up. They graciously agreed to seat us anyway. I ordered the beef kabob with hummus, rice and tabouleh. It had a cinnamon-type rub on the meat. The beef was tender and the portions were generous. There was some sort of noodle mixed in with the rice. The rice had a lot of ghee or butter. My boyfriend ordered the lamb tagine. I am not used to the strong taste of lamb but it was very tender and spiced well. The portion was large. My boyfriend ate my pita bread which was unfortunately not toasted so it was a little soft and mushy. The problem with the lamb dish is that it came with beans but no visible vegetables. My dish didn't have any vegetables either except for the tabouleh which the server jokingly suggested we share. We ordered a $9 salad to split, which was good if a little underdressed for me. We also both had the iced mint tea (one free refill included) which was okay. Our servers were extremely efficient and friendly, and the food came out from the kitchen quickly. They treated us like family although they were already very busy. Overall the meal was extremely tasty - I just feel they could improve the balance of the dishes by serving more vegetables. I had a discount coupon giving us one of the entrees free, and they were extremely gracious about accepting it, no problems. After the coupon and tip (which was of course on the pre-discount amount) the bill was around $46 for two. Full price would have been around $65 which seems like a bit much for everyday dining but I would not mind going back for a special occasion.

    (4)

  • Amber C.

    This place was a pleasant surprise. Went for lunch and we got some hummus and a lamb kebob sandwich (gyro). The hummus was tasty. It came with tomato which was different but good. The gyro was awesome. The black olive and feta cheese are a great touch. It was my favorite gyro I've had on the island though my gf preferred the taziki (sp?) sauce of other places. If you work downtown i suggest checking this place out for lunch sometime. After lunch they come by with some plumeria scented water for your hands.

    (4)

  • Kim M.

    MOROCCAN / LEBANESE CUISINE Kan Zaman offers exciting and exotic Moroccan and Lebanese dishes at affordable prices. If you enjoy Middle Eastern food and exotic spices, this place is def worth a try. The flavors and spices work together harmoniously. It's quite spectacular. Warak Inab ($6.95) yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… Grape leaves stuffed with rice, mint, lemon & garlic vinaigrette. I haven't had anything quite like this before, but I loved it. I wasn't expecting it to be served cold, but it was tasty and refreshing. Baba Ghanoush yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… It looks like hummus, but it is so NOT the same thing. Baba Ghanoush is made with roasted eggplant that is mashed and blended with olive oil, tahini, and other various seasonings and spices. It has a much more distinct and smoky flavor and is served with warm pita. yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… A great starter. Lamb Tajine ($18.95) yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… Braised lamb shank with preserved lemon, saffron, white beans & herbs. If I had to choose a favorite dish from the entire meal, I think it would be the Lamb Tajine. For one, I love lamb. But aside from that, it was juicy, tender, and poppin' with flavor. And the beans were scrumptious. With a bit of the house hot sauce, Harissa, I was in Euphoria. Like, close the eyes and errythang. Chicken Taouk ($15.95) yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… Grilled chicken brochette, served with rice, tabouleh, hummus & pita. I prefer red meats over chicken, but this chicken was stellar. The combination of spices were somewhat magical and made chicken much more appealing to me. The tabouleh (fresh parsley, tomatoes, onions, olive oil, lemon dressing) was refreshing and tasty! Actually, this whole dish was freakin' delish - even down to the rice! Harissa ($0.99) yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… Moroccan cooking incorporates lots of different flavorful spices, but not the kind that provides that extra punch of heat. Harissa, their house-made hot chili sauce, is available for those who need / enjoy / love that tongue-sational fire. It's not incredibly hot or anything, but it does the job. I'd actually purchase bottles of their Harissa if they decided to sell it. It's much better than the usual sriracha / garlic chili sauce I buy from the store. Iced Moroccan Mint Tea ($3) Refreshing! Baklava ($3.50) yelp.com/biz_photos/kan-… This baklava was different from other ones I've tried. I liked this one particularly because it wasn't overly sweet and it was light. A little crumbly, but whatevs. It was still a nice way to end a fulfilling meal. AMBIANCE / SEATING I love the Middle Eastern decor. It's somewhat modern, but also has that cute, comfy, old-timey / antique-y feel. Both indoor and outdoor seating are available. We opted for indoor seating, but the outdoor gazebo seating looked really cute. I think I may want to try sitting out there next time. RESTROOMS The restrooms are a little creepy, but whatevs. If you gotta go, you gotta go. The restrooms are located through the hallway and around the corner to the left. It's outside, opposite to the pavilion / gazebo seating area. The sinks are incredibly small and there's no mirrors in the bathroom area. However, there's a little lounge area just outside the bathroom with a couple mirrors and some creepy old-timey decorations. PARKING As far as parking goes, your guess is as good as mine. Street? Expensive municipal pay-lot? If you're lucky enough to find street parking, I'd go with that. The lots in the DT area are ridic. SERVICE Excellent. Susanna was our gracious and knowledgeable server. She was helpful and very friendly, which was super great for us Kan Zaman newbies (me and my SS). Oh, and for the things she didn't know, she found the answers for us. VERDICT If I could give this place more stars, I would. My experience here was nothing short of excellent. I will be back for sure! #likeaboss I could go on and on about this place, but really, my words don't do this place justice. Try it for yourself!

    (5)

  • Lea D.

    Excellent food, good service, and luv luv that it's BYOB!!! We had the lamb (amazing fell right off the bone), falafel ( yum!), and chicken with hummus and pita. It was all very delicious! I recommend sitting outside, it has a more open feel, inside feels a little clastrophobic.

    (5)

  • S. M.

    We had lunch here, the staff and waiter were excellent. The food very good. Nice outdoor seating and wasn't busy when we went on a Monday afternoon :-)

    (4)

  • Dawn H.

    If you like trying new foods and have not been to Kan Zaman do yourself a selfie and try it out. I did just last night and it made me very happy. The staff is very friendly and the decor simple with just enough cultural aspects(patterns on the wall, lamps on the tables etc.) to give the room a middle eastern atmosphere. Situated on Nuuanu Avenue in the heart of downtown it's kind of a hole in the wall in a hole in the wall district It's proximity to some rather sketchy joints and the nearby homeless population could be a deterrent but I'm not judging just saying. Once through the doors of Kan Zaman the world and it's worries dissipate. You can bring your own adult beverage if you choose to indulge. I brought a bottle of pinot grigio that had a twist top so I didn't need an opener but they have them available should you need one as well as wine glasses for your use. My friend drinks red and didn't have time to pick up a bottle so here's a tip. HASR Wine Co.is 2 blocks up from Kan Zaman and they have a wide selection of wines to choose from. So he did a quick dash up the street and secured a nice bottle of red. Let's talk food. We ordered the house made mozzarella with zatar and mezza platter for starters. The mozzarella was so fresh as were the vine ripened tomatoes that it was served on. Drizzled with a luscious olive oil and sprinkled with a very generous amount of black pepper and served with their to die for pita I was in heaven. The mezza platter is a divine array of vegetable based side dishes, hummus, babaganoush, taktouka and warak inab. In this day and age everyone pretty much knows what hummus is. if you don't it's a dip made from chick peas and other delicious things. Then there's babaganoush baby. This stuff is stellar. Roasted eggplant combined with other ingredients its similar to hummus but has a very distinguishable smokiness to it. Nice. The platter also came with stuffed grape leaves which I have had before. These were the best I have had. The mint and lemon accents made the difference. Lastly there was taktouka. Its sort of an salsa like tomato green pepper salad served cold with pita of course. I liked it. By this time I'm wondering how I'm going to eat my dinner. I ordered the chicken taouk for my entrée. It was very spiceful and tasty a little dry. It came with tabouleh more hummus and more pita and rice. I love tabouleh. My friends ordered the lamb tanjine and the catch of the day. Not a lamb eater so can't comment on that but the catch of the day was killer. Fresh monchong on a velvety spread of mashed potatoes topped with prawns(with the heads on..yum oh). That is what I'm going to order the next time I go. Mind blowing. Last thing I'm going to say is that I loved our dining experience and the last last thing I'm going to say is next time I'm going to sit outside on their cute outside seating.

    (5)

  • Marku M.

    I forgot if it was Joe or Joel but he was a very very awesome server. He took the time to educate me and my sister about the dishes they serve in the restaurant also she was very friendly. I had the lamb Taijin my sister had the lamb couscous and it was amaziny delicious meat fell off the bone and very very tasty

    (5)

  • Stephen H.

    Gastronomic Adventure Log date: 1/9/14 entry: Kan Zaman---After a so-so "Vegetable Couscous", my spirit of adventure has been re-energized by "Chicken Taouk"---a port of call to which I will return. Mmmmm. Large cubes of spiced, grilled breast meet sans brochette served on a bed of long grain rice, with pita, hummus, and tabouleh on the side. Chicken surprisingly moist and tasty. Good as is. No need for the weak yogurt (?) dip. Rice mixed with what looked like short segments of a thin noodle. I wonder what that is. I've seen that in another "Mediterranean" rice (see my review of 10/5/12). Rice tasty because of that? Or the goodly amount of oil or butter. But onward! The journey continues.

    (5)

  • Andree F.

    This restaurant is consistently awesome. The flavors of the food are unique and sumptuous! We had the lamb kebab sandwich and the lentil soup...our favorites. Really cute interior and outdoor courtyard.

    (5)

  • Daniel F.

    Food: 8/10 We got the appetizer platter and an order of falafel to start. Everything was excellent - falafel was some of the best I've had (definitely my favorite on the island) texture of it was unique, slightly crunchy and not doughy inside. Platter was light and very good - I wish there was more pita though! Mint Tea was great, sweet and flavorful without over-brewing or too much sugar (not sure if they add any or if its just quality ingredients?) For dinner I had the beef kabob, which was good but I think I ordered wrong - I had my brothers lamb kebob, and it was much more tasty and unique - the beef kabob felt like I could have found it anywhere. Portions are epic like all the (good) Mediterranean places Ive been to. Despite the enormous portions, we decided to be extra fat and get one of each desert~ Orange blossom thing was alright, thin slices of orange with cinnamon and a mint leaf garnish (more of a palette cleanser than a substantial desert I think). The Arabic banana pancake thing had a subtle flavor but very different from anything Ive had - worth a try. Cheesecake was mediocre, nothing too special in my opinion (I eat a lot of cheesecake). Baklava was gooooood. Definitely worth having if you have room. Flaky, sweet but not overpoweringly so, not too chewy, just all around good. Not like the stuff sitting in a display case all day or out on a ledge in front of the cashier. Atmosphere/Service: 9.5/10 servers were attentive and friendly, except we came on a belly dancing night, and when the music came on it was a little bit much. Servers couldnt hear us (had to yell everything) and I'm not a fan of the whole belly dancing thing anyway, especially since we were there for my mom's Mother's Day Dinner - the table next to us seemed to enjoy it though, cultural relativity and all, so I dont mind that much (just turn the music down a little bit !!! Or move the speakers away from the tables a little !) This would be more like a 4.5 star in my book, but I'm real stingy with my 5's, sorry Kan Zaman! Maybe next time~

    (4)

  • Sammy S.

    Food here is absolutely delicious and seems pretty healthy. Nice courtyard out back, and very nice servers. A few dishes are a little pricey, especially if you want to add a starter, but overall moving up on our regular places to go. FYI- it is BYOB.

    (4)

  • Amina M.

    While I love Hawaii, I sometimes get homesick for the diversity of food back in the NYC/Northern NJ area. That's why when I heard this place was open (and had halal lamb), I drove myself downtown and didn't even care that I spent $12 on parking in order to eat here. The first thing I noticed was the friendly waitress who seated us despite not having a reservation, and a friendly waiter who came over right away to take our drink orders. We were seated in a cozy nook next to the entrance, a perfect vantage point from which to take in the interior design. They managed to create a space that looks modern but draws from antique Islamic architectural motifs, as evidenced by recurring patterns on the wall, placemats, and frosted glass. I loved the attention to detail... which also carried over to the FOOD! We were hangry when we left the house, so we decided to not hold back and got an appetizer. I opted for the safe but deilcious homemade baba ganoush, which did not disappoint. It came with warm pita triangles for dipping and was topped with fresh tomato, olive oil and parsley. the best park about it was the smoky flavor of the eggplant and the fresh lemon mixed in. This was the best baba ganoush I have ever had (including my NYC/NJ eateries)! At the start (and end) of our meal, we decided to order a small pot of sweetened mint tea to share. The tea service was beautiful. Our waiter brought it over in a beautiful silver tray with a silver teapot (complete with colored tassle), and even did a dramatic high pour into small glasses for us. It reminded me of the tea service we always got at sandwich shops in Paris owned by Alergian and Moroccan families. For the main course, I ordered the lamb tajine and my husband got the lamb couscous. I fully expected the meal to take a downturn at this point because a tajine and lamb stew over couscous are not easy to get right. What I found when I took my first bite (and second, and third..) was that I was completely and utterly wrong. This was some of the most delicious lamb I have ever tasted. The meat was so incredibly tender that it fell right off the bone, and I couldn't stop myself from soaking up every bit of sauce in the bowl with pita. The portion was more than enough, so I obliged (this time, anyway) when my husband wanted to try bits of my food. I was tempted to be greedy even though I was stuffed. His main course, the lamb & couscous was also very good. I've never been a huge fan of couscous, but this was again one of the better dishes I have tried across many middle eastern restaurants. The flavor was much more subtle than the tajine, but still pleasant. We finished off with another elegant tea service and skipped dessert because we were so full at this point, but we saw a traditional sweet pancake that my husband wants to go back and try. This was singlehandedly the best meal I have ever eaten in Hawaii since moving here 18 months ago. I left with both a happy stomach, and a happy heart as I felt a little closer to home after having this wonderfully delicious meal. They sprinkled frangrant orange blossom water into our hands from a traditional Moroccan decanter as a nice finishing touch, which my husband called the "ultimate test" and informed the water that he "passed" (haha!!). Bottom line is, Chef Kamal has got it going on. I want everyone to go here and experience how good it is, but I also am kind of selfish and don't want to have to fight other diners for a table at this little gem of an establishment. Areas of improvement: Restaurant was quite loud.. Need to do something to filter out the noise.

    (5)

  • Yvonne M.

    EXOTIC, ETHNIC FOOD! Moroccan/Lebanese cuisine! It's always great to try new adventurous foods, especially when it's rare to find in Hawaii! And you never know which Yelper you might bump into when trying new places! Thanks Grant S., Santi, and Malia H. for letting us hang with you and share dishes! The more the merrier! FOOD 1) LAMB TAJINE - best dish! Cooked well. Exciting flavors! You can't go wrong with this! This really embodies the moroccan/lebanese cuisine! 2) CHICKEN TAOUK - This grilled chicken was soo good! Flavors of tumeric and paprika danced in my mouth! 3) BABAGANOUSH-an eggplant puree, that was so fun to try especially with a name like that! 4) CHICKEN TAJINE - the lamb tajine was better. 5) MINT TEA - Hot, but refreshing? Loved the tea pot! Aladdin action,okay! ENVIRONMENT Located in downtown. Indoor and outdoor seating. Warm colors, wooden seating, accents of moroccan culture. Street or Municipal parking (closest is the Chinatown Gateway Plaza, enter on Bethel St.) SERVICE Friendly and quick. TIP BYOB!! CONCLUSION Coming back to try lunch or try the patio seating!

    (4)

  • Holly B.

    Finally tried Kan Zaman! We enjoyed the hummus with pita and the tabouleh for appetizers. The tabouleh was FRESH and flavorful, with great lemon flavor. We tried the chicken taouk, which was tasty and came with hummus and tabouleh as sides. We also tried the lamb couscous. Note that the vegetables are al dente, so a little on the crunchy side, though cooked. There were zucchini, carrots, kabocha pumpkin, potatoes, chickpeas, tomatoes and onions. The lamb shank was tasty and falling off the bone. We also tried the merguez, which was lamb sausage and tasted OK, but the lamb shank was better! Then for dessert we had the katayef, which is a Arabic pancake with fresh bananas, toasted nuts, orange blossom cream and honey. The pancake tasted like buckwheat, a little grainy, but the fresh bananas and honey made the entire dessert very nice. The orange blossom cheesecake was OK; I'm not particularly a fan of cheesecake, but I did like the warm date rum sauce. Need more sauce on the cheesecake! At the conclusion of our meal, I enjoyed the orange blossom water sprinkled on our hands. Nice touch! All in all a very nice experience, good and attentive service and charming atmosphere. Having a reservation definitely helped!

    (4)

  • Kelli B.

    We decided to try this place because the idea of Moroccan and Lebanese sounded intriguing to try, but I ended up having the best meal I have ever eaten in my life. No kidding, she wants to go back tomorrow. I'm not going to be the one who says no. Try the sampler and the mint tea for sure, the staff were extremely helpful and friendly, ask their advice on the food and you will not be disappointed!!!

    (5)

  • g m.

    I really want to like this place, but I can't unless they try harder. The falafel looks and tastes like premade patties from Costco. Same with the pita: store-bought kine, cut into tiny triangles useless for doing anything with other than dipping. The lentil soup is okay, but only okay. Many items are overpriced, even for Honolulu. The service is well-intentioned but amateur. The kitchen turns out food in random order. One person in our table of 6 had nothing served after 30 minutes, while others of us had multiple dishes (again, served at random). I want to like you, Kan Zaman. Please try harder.

    (3)

  • Victorious D.

    Everything is good. Literally. I've eaten probably half the menu and it's amazing. They said they are adding to the menu in 2014. Moroccan Mint tea: hot for taste, iced for quantity (not quite as delicious). Hot it is so great. Sooooo great. Lamb couscous: rare, fatty lamb shank, so tender and fantastic with the mmmmm and the omnomnom yes plz. Chicken tajine: sauce is fantastic, chicken tender over excellent fries Lamb tajine: nothing like the chicken. Tender lamb shank with delicious sauce with beans Lamb sausage sandwich: I forget it's name. But holy cow. It comes with fries and this sauce I'm pretty sure could induce orgasm. Fantastic. Lambs a little spicy. Beef sandwich: also forget the name. Tasty, heavy cumin flavor. Desert: orange blossom cheesecake was light and fluffy, good date sauce. Orange slices: refreshing and yummy Banana pancake: tastey and light. My favorite items are the hot Moroccan mint tea, lamb couscous, and lamb sausage sandwich thing. Service is also excellent.

    (5)

  • Geezer B.

    Place used to be fantastic. Great food atmosphere and service was personable and knowledgable on the menu. Went today and the food was so bland. Waiter got my order wrong and had to send back. The waiter cursed twice very loudly, very unprofessional. Huge shame as this was such a great spot.

    (1)

  • Saltwatersweet T.

    Fantastic experience all around-amazing food, atmosphere and service. Absolutely delicious! I know where our weekly girls night dinner is going to be from now on! :)

    (5)

  • Mei-Lan C.

    really was looking forward to try this place . we came here for lunch and ordered the lamb kebab 9.95 $ and falafel 8.95 $ . the portions were generous and the waiters friendly , but unfortunately it was really dry. both my husband and me had to take a sip of water after every bite we took. don't get me wrong , it didn't taste bad , just dry . maybe it was the combination of pita bread with hummus and tahini but no salad or veggies in the wrap that made it dry . there was salad on the side , but it didn't made a difference when we added it to the wrap.

    (3)

  • Cindy L.

    Moroccan food in Hawaii is rare, so I was excited to try Kan Zaman. I went there for lunch and was surprised to find out that they actually have an outside seating in the back of the restaurant. It's a cute little area that can fit 15 people comfortably. I tried out their lunch menu, price ranges from $9 to $13 for kebabs and sandwiches. They also have entrées that run from $15 to $19. I had the lamb kebab for $10, comes with a side salad. It was very good and the portion was generous. Service was quick and friendly. Great downtown lunch place!

    (3)

  • Chris J.

    This is a great place, even if you don't have much experience with middle-eastern cuisine. I got the beef shwarma - one of the best that I've ever had (I've traveled extensively around the Mediterranean). The baklava isn't made in-house, but was pretty good, nevertheless. Highly recommended.

    (4)

  • Ada R.

    Had a quick dinner there the other night. We ordered the big pot of tea which was delish. Ordered a sampler appetizer but really didn't need it after we recieved our order. There was just so much food given for each dish ordered. The food was awesome! Great place to visit. Will do so again soon.

    (5)

  • Chris C.

    This was my first time here. My daughter had a school assignment to try some new food and write a review. I had asked her to do mine but she rejected that idea and told me to write it myself. Onto the story...nice and small restaurant with outdoor seating. The outdoor seating was like sitting on someone's back porch looking out into the backyard. Comfortable and relaxing. I ordered the braised lamb shank. It tasted good, but I was expecting an explosion of exotic spices in my mouth. I have never been to this type of restaurant or have eaten authentic Moroccan food so I didn't know what it's supposed to taste like. My son really enjoyed his beef shawarma. It had the right kick of flavors that I was looking for. I'll go again, however, I think I'll ask for suggestions from the server before ordering.

    (3)

  • Sheila Marie C.

    Really good food and had a really awesome waitress! I want to go back here again! The lamb kabob was the bomb! The meat just melts in your mouth!

    (5)

  • Mandie C.

    FOOD WAS BLAND! Pretty dissappointed in this place, how do you have bland lebanese food? 3 of us went ordered entrees and appetizers (don't remember which ones cause they were very unremarkable). Good thing about this place it is BYOB. Maybe it should be bring your own spices too. Service was okay, but it took awhile just to get waters and wine glasses. I wouldn't go back, to many good places to eat downtown.

    (3)

  • Daniel C.

    From the first time I've been here and the many times I've been back, the food here is awesome! Susannah greets you with a warm smile and gives you the option to dine inside the restaurant or out back under a very nicely decorated deck area. Both are good, just depends on what you're in the mood for. I haven't had anything bad here yet but I particularly like the lamb dishes and always get the Mezza Sampler here. The food comes out very quickly in large portions. I feel so healthy after having lunch here. Kamal was very kind to ask about our experience and thanked us for dining at Kan Zaman. This place reminds me of the diversity of good food in the bay which I do miss from time to time. Parking is street parking but it's a close walk from most downtown office and residential buildings. The last thing that blew my mind is the fragrent liquid they put on your hands after you eat. It just makes your hands feel so clean and smell quite good. The smell isn't too over powering but just subtle enough to remind you of the great dining experience you just had.

    (5)

  • Little D.

    Kan Zaman is located at where "Café Joy" used to be, mountain side of Tea at 1024, across from Chinatown Gateway Parking. I missed Shogunai Tajine food after they stopped serving. I tried to follow Shogunai Tacos, but that was over as well. I am so glad Chef Kamal's food is back! Just open this restaurant 08/25/13. Lunch time menu is good for one, Main course is good for two. I will be a regular! Service is awesome as well.

    (5)

  • Ian K.

    Have been here multiple times. Great food. Lentil soup is rich and satisfying. Squeeze lemon in to kick it up. Lamb kebab sandwich is amazing. This time I had a lunch date who was running really late and Jared took great care of me. Service is also 5 Stars. Thank you, Jared!

    (5)

  • caroline c.

    One word describes it......WOW!!! Went with some girlfriends for a birthday dinner, we sat outside on lanai and let me say it didn't even seem like we were in Honolulu, the seating was intimate and you felt like you were in the Middle East. It was a wonderful cool night so it was perfect. It was PACKED!! and that was a Monday night! The outdoor area had some large parties, so I must say it was too noisy, but still lovely. I wish I knew the name of our waitress (shame on me), she was running her legs off, way to many people for 2 girls (I think they got got caught off yard since it was a Monday night), regardless, she was so sweet under all that pressure. She was very in tune with the menu and was such a help for us being there for the first time. They do not have a liquor license as of yet, so feel free to bring whatever beverage you like , no corking fee! We ofcourse started with quite of few appetizers, because we couldn't choose! Messi Sampler...EXCELLENT!! Falafel, I was not impressed as I have eating quite a bit of falafel in Israel and this was the ONLY thing not up to par. It tased very dry rather than light and fluffy. The french fries with the aloi dip were so good...yummy!! The Warak Inhab were very tasty and the House pulled Mozzarella with zaatar, was very different , not what I expected but good enough. Entress.....I personall had the Lamb Tajine, because my husband doesn't care for lamb so any chance to have it I jump on. It was delicious !! So much food! The white beans under the shank would have been enough to eat. Other had Chicken Tajine, one gal is not fond of thighs.. but tasting it was yummy! Oe had Vegetarian coucous, she finished it all! Of course far to full we order the Baklava..perfection!!! and The dessert pancake, it was OK, but not really my thing. Will I go back????? Is there a doubt??? Ohhh there is a parking lot about 1/2 block away across from the beach , its an outside parking lot (I'm not too fond of most the the Financial District parking structures. and its $5.00 for the entire time and we were there for 3 hours. MAKE SURE YOU HAVE A RESERVATION!! this place is taking off. Thank you for a wonderful dinner, Zan Zaman!

    (5)

  • Kristian C.

    We rented out the place for a formal dinner, the staff was more than willing to help. Very happy with their services. The food was absolutely amazing the chicken and lamb was amazing. I was skeptical to eat this type of food but I'm glad I did. The environment was great, the out door seating was a nice touch as well. Thanks again Kan Zaman, I would recommend this place to anyone. -Rowdy B

    (5)

  • Bruna I.

    Great Atmosphere and good food..Just a little overpriced.

    (4)

  • Giovanny G.

    We have been wanting to check this place out for a while and I wish we hadn't waited this long. Really nice and cosy place, a bit on the small size but it makes it up with character. The outdoor seating in definitely where you want to sit. I suggest you call up for a table since it is so small. Overall very impressed we were seated quickly and the food came out fast. The Chicken Taouk were exceptional. A bit pricey but not too bad what can you expect from Hawaii. Two drinks, appetizer, two main courses and dessert for $60.

    (4)

  • D M.

    Chinatown's historic, Nu'uanu Ave, has played home to a great number of businesses in the last century and most recently Kan Zaman. Kan Zaman is a small restaurant serving Moroccan and Lebanese influenced food. The dinning area hosts about twelve tables. When the restaurant is full it gets quite loud and can be hard to hear a conversation. Upon entering I was greeted warmly by the three servers working that day. There is an out door patio which in downtown is a gem. I have returned on a couple other occasions and normally the courtyard is taken by a group so if it is available and the weather is nice I suggest you experience it. The staff has always been very friendly and helpful. The menu has a good selection not too small to limit your choices but not so large as to overwhelm customers and confuse a back of the house staff. If you've never tried lamb before I highly suggest it, Moroccan spices lends itself particularly well with lamb. On my first trip, I was disappointed there was no Mezza sampler. I recently went back to to Kan Zaman and found, to my delight, they had added a sampler. If the sampler is too much I suggest their Hummus or Taktouka. Everything goes best with a refreshing mint tea (served both hot and cold). Whether you are new to Moroccan cuisine or connoisseur Kan Zaman is a must try.

    (4)

  • Seth I.

    Have been here for lunch and dinner and the food and service was outstanding. The lamb sausage is a must, as is the baba ganoush. I loved the lentil soup, though some might find it a bit salty. Make reservations if you're planning on going to dinner as it fills up quickly.

    (5)

  • Charmaine C.

    Wow!!! The food here was phenomenal and service was so wonderful. The hummus was the best ever!! I really enjoyed the Lanai outside. Must go to, I suggest ever. Parking can be a pain but at the very end of the street is parking, pay parking but still parking.

    (5)

  • Tisa T.

    I am totally in love with this place.. This was my first time trying this place out but it totally blew my mind... The food was really tasty and my taste bud thanked me for every bite I took :) the place was very beautiful.. Nice ambience and service. The music made this place more authentic. Their mint ice tea is worth to try for. I ordered chicken tauk and it was the best . will definitely return again. :)

    (5)

  • Debbie R.

    The food here . . .divine. Wonderful kebabs, hummus, falafel and other delightful choices. Lamb sausage-perfect! However, service is a little slow. Be sure you have reservations if you go at lunch, people were waiting out front for seats. I knew this and made a reservation. Got right in, got our seats, but waited 10 minutes before we got menus. I actually had to go ask for them. Then another 10 minutes for our server to finally get to taking our orders. So, my solution? From now on, when I go to Kan Zaman, I will do take out. Food here is simply too good NOT to return. Despite the service, I give this place 4 stars. Would have been 5 if not for the service.

    (4)

  • Grace L.

    As much as I love me some Asian food, it was a nice treat to munch on something a little different! Their location in right in Chinatown, with parking being a bit difficult. We ended up paying $10 for the open parking lot towards Nimitz cuz honestly, we were lazy and are tummies were complaining too loud hehe The waitstaff were all very friendly, although they don't seem to communicate with each other so we were asked to order drinks, order food, and about boxing things up several times each. From a management point of view, I would fix that. It may also be a little less confusing if you had one main waiter/waitress rather than the "everyone for themselves" tactic. But for us, it was no big deal so, whatevs. Okay, now for the good part.. the food was AHHHHH so yummy! The iced mint moroccan tea was DELICIOUS and for the chang part of me, all-you-can-drink!! YAY!!! We ordered some mezza: stuffed grape leaves (yum!), baba ghanoush (excellent!), falafel (delish! but the sauce was way too thick, like creamy peanut butter consistency.. yuck), and the fries (AMAZEBALLS with the tahini sauce!! just don't order this if you are ordering the chicken tajine though cuz it will be fries overkill.. yes there is such a thing i promise) For the main courses, the shish kebob was tender and well flavored but I have to say that the chicken skewers won by a landslide. However they marinated and seasoned it.. bravo!! If you like lamb, the lamb tajine was super tender (gamey for my taste but I don't really like lamb) and really well cooked. It's a huge dish so be hungry. Oh and what REALLY stole the show.... drumroll please... the RICE! That came as a surprise to me cuz I'm a noodle girl, not a rice girl. But their rice was so buttery and flavorful zOMG. actually... i stole my friend's leftovers so i'm gonna go munch on some rice right now muhahahahah

    (4)

  • Fern K.

    Late Post: Last Tuesday, November 18, 2014, my nephew (Kamahana Kealoha) & I once again had lunch at my favorite Arabic/Mediterranean Cuisine Restaurant - Kan Zaman! He had the Beef Kebab (my favorite dish) & I wanted to try something different & tried the Chicken Shawarma & it was absolutely phenomenal! I have yet to be disappointed by the cuisine served here! My old time friend & part-owner, Yousef Dakroub, & other part-owner, Jemmari Kamal, have done an outstanding job on the menu, decor & ambience of this restaurant!

    (5)

  • Terri K.

    This place is simply amazing. My friend and I went on a week night and the seating was limited there but we were determined to go. We started off with their homemade Moraccan Mint Iced Tea....wow. I've tried a bunch of teas before and this is definitely up high on my list. It's a must try. We then got the sampler appetizer which was simply amazing. There were 4 different hummus dips with the bread. Just looking at the presentation of the dosh had my mouth watering. The flavors are so bold yet doesn't over stimulate your palate. Everything is well balanced. Moving onto our entrées..I got a chicken dish and my friend got the lamb. Everything was cooked perfectly and seasoned very well. I'm definitely bringing my husband next. Such a great small restaurant that deserves a lot of recognition. Cheers Kan Zaman! Keep bringing the fantastic food.

    (5)

  • Rozie A.

    The lunchtime rut is nothing new when you work in Downtown Honolulu. My escape is Kan Zaman where I can tuck away on the back courtyard patio and dine al fresco without seeing every co-worker on their lunch break. The sounds of middle eastern music and aroma of exotic spices are also just the right mix for sensory escapism. For lunch, you cannot go wrong with the Chicken Kebab (Chicken Taouk for dinner) which is spiced and grilled to near perfection. The Kofta Sandwich is also tasty and filling. All for the price of a plate lunch. The babaganoush is a smokey swirl of heaven and the tabouleh is fresh and zesty. I love middle eastern food and I'm glad we have Kan Zaman for my mid-day eastern fix.

    (4)

  • Jocelyn Z.

    Where do I even start with Kan Zaman? Absolutely awesome! I had the fish of the idea which was mahi mahi with shrimp and moroccan potatoes and I literally finished the whole thing. It was perfectly flavored and cooked. For an appetizer we had the hummus and pita, but that hummus was absolutely phenomenal. I definitely haven't tried hummus that good anywhere in CT. Besides their great food, their service is awesome!! I never had to ask for anything because the multiple servers pretty much read my mind at all times. I love the environment, service, and food at Kan Zaman... I just hope they could one day relocate to CT! Hahahah, definitely recommend coming here!

    (5)

  • Rissa K.

    Great spot! Very intimate and great service! There's a cute lil outdoor seating area too. This place is also BYOB! I had the Chicken Taouk which was huge portion but I ate almost all of it because it was so yummy! It came with 2 chicken kabobs, pita and hummus, tabouleh and tasty rice! The serving portion is huge! Will def be back to try other things on the menu!

    (4)

  • Michelle F.

    Enjoyed a girls dinner on the outdoor patio. Brought a few bottles and wine and had a fabulous night. I ordered the chicken taouk and loved it. Huge serving, delicious flavors and perfectly cooked. Hummus was amaze. The best part of my entire meal was the refreshing iced mint tea. Absolutely divine. I would go back for that tea alone!

    (5)

  • Rob B.

    Chef Kamal and Chef Youssef are serving authentic moroccan and lebanese cuisine in a new downtown location. I was fortunate to already try several dishes on the menu and my mouth is watering to eat more! I started with a simple but delicious chickpea puree with tahini, lemon juice & olive oil served with pita bread. My first main course was a braised Chicken Tajine with saffron, coriander, lemon, cumin, smoked paprika and olives. This also came with fries which I dipped into the broth which was a delicious treat. Next was the steamed Vegetarian Couscous in a flavorful broth with carrots, pumpkin, potatoes, zucchini, tomatoes & chickpeas. This had a delicious buttery taste and went perfectly with the beans that came with the Tanjia style braised lamb shank. This was followed by a light desert of fresh sliced oranges with sugar, cinnamon & orange blossom. After my glass of wine I tried the Moroccan mint tea with orange blossom, perfectly sweet and delicious but my favorite part was the way the tea is poured. Inside the decor was modern but still had a sense of tradition. In addition to the main restaurant area, you can also go to the back where there are several tables under the outdoor gazebo with a nice view of a grassy yard. The prices are very reasonable and the flavor is amazing! I have no doubt that Chef Kamal and Chef Youssef's Kan Zaman will be a huge success!

    (5)

  • Victoria C.

    Absolutely love the food here! Didn't realize Moroccan food could be so good. We got a little sample of babaganoush & pita bread.. I could not stop eating it! I ordered the chicken taouk which came with chicken kabobs, rice, tabouleh, hummus & pita bread.. so much food! Everything was really good and flavorful. I especially loved the rice. Only thing I wished was giving more pita bread cause there was a lot more hummus and not enough pita for it. Oh well, the portions are still very generous and I enjoyed everything there! I also tried the banana pancake type dessert which my friends were not too fond of but I actually really liked it. It has a very jasmine-y taste. Overall I was pleasantly surprised by this restaurant and will definitely be back!

    (4)

  • Stacie O.

    My husband and I had a great dinner at Kan Zaman during restaurant week. We started with the appetizer and enjoyed it tremendously. The hummus and babaganoush were my favorites, but the amount of pita bread they gave wasn't enough. We paid two more dollars for more pita. For entrees, my husband got the chicken schwarma and I got the vegetable couscous. They were both tasty and filling. The baklava dessert had to be doggy bagged because we were stuffed. The only room we had left in our stomachs was for the tea that came with the restaurant week deal. It was refreshing and a nice ending to a delicious and satisfying dinner experience.

    (4)

  • Zeshan C.

    I love Arab food, and this definitely the best I have had on the island! Sat in the outdoor seating in the back, it had a nice and quaint courtyard feel. Went for lunch and had the merguez sandwich. It was super tasty and fresh! Also, had the Moroccan mint tea which was very refreshing! Will be coming back for dinner at some point!

    (5)

  • Kelly G.

    Friday night, I call in to ask for seating for 8 and the lady said no problem! So half of us arrived to get the tables....womp womp, tables aren't ready. When we asked one of the servers his reaction was "Who did you speak to? ... Oh ya, that's why." So they tell us it would be another 30 mins until a table of 8 would be ready. So we head to Murphy's for a drink and the other half decided they didn't want to wait. Back in we go at half hour later and we are seated indoors. Got the chicken and beef kebobs. Both were delicious. I asked for the hummus to be replaced with babaganoush (since we got hummus for an appetizer) - it was smokey and delicious. Servings were generous, mah belleh was content, but the pricing was a touch high for my taste. Each kebob plate as just under $20 a plate. Cute ambiance. Nice outdoor seating in the back. Again, food is delicious, just not sure how I feel about the pricing. BYOB! They can provide glasses AND had our white wine chilled at the beginning when we had our wait.

    (3)

  • Monica B.

    Great restaurant. Delicious food and great service. We came here for a birthday dinner this last April. We had a pretty big party and we reserved rather late - but they were able to accommodate us and were so wonderful. The entire party loved what they ordered. We had a lot of lamb kabob orders and a few appetizers - all delish. We definitely plan to return to try out the rest of the menu. Great ambiance too. I also brought a cake from elsewhere and they were happy to store it in their fridge while we ate and presented it after the meal - exceptional. Worth a trip into town for sure.

    (5)

  • Chet Y.

    Hankering for some good Mediterranean food & heard about this place in Chinatown. We were not disappointed, the food, service & ambiance were great. We had Babaganoush- charcoal grilled eggplant puree & pita bread for pupu which started dinner off right! I had the Lamb Kebab served on a bed of rice & hummus with pita slices. The Lamb was very tender & flavorful. My wife had ChickenTaouk which was a kebab too, which was equally as good as well. They served a lot. We both couldn't finish. The price was reasonable for what we got. Their mint ice tea with dinner was excellent. We'll be back.

    (5)

  • Nadine K.

    The food was full of flavor, service was good, and mint iced tea was refreshing. I will definitely dine here again

    (5)

  • Erik H.

    Delicious. Absolutely delicious. And the staff was genuinely nice and welcoming. The food, the people, the whole experience made me feel good. Even the background music was awesome.

    (5)

  • Rona L.

    The food deserves a 5 but after factoring in the service they get a 4. Yes this place in in Chinatown which is known for lots of homeless & druggies and NO parking. However, the food is good and the decor is very inviting. I really like the outdoor seating...yes its hot out there but really?? We live in Hawaii soooooo....um yeah anyway...Did I say the food is good... The lamb and chicken were prepared perfectly (tender) and the flavor was AMAZING!! I want to go back an try everything on the menu...oops I almost forgot to mention that they have THE BEST mint tea & free refills...I think I had 4 glasses :-)

    (4)

  • Robo-belly A.

    I'm going to write a brief review for now because I really feel like I need to give them another chance. I've eaten here twice, and while I don't share in the glee-ful reviews of my fellow yelpers, I do think the restaurant has potential. In short - the food was good, but not amazing. I think maybe if you've never had authentic Moroccan and/or Lebanese food, you might think it's out of this world, but myself and other friends who've had a taste of the authentic stuff elsewhere feel differently. Like many other restaurants in Hawaii that try to bring some sort of "ethnic" flavor, they fall short of doing just that - bringing flavor. I know they can, just not sure why they've chosen not to. Make it AUTHENTIC with the spices and taste that we've come to expect from these types of restaurants if they were in their own home country, or even on the mainland for that matter. Perhaps they could offer two options for patrons - the "bland" option for people who can't handle it, and the "proper" option for those of us who want to be bathed in spices and flavor. I'm not the only person that feels this way, fyi. Anyway, I really want to like this place, and I kind of do. The fries, for example, are amazing. The hummus lacked some zing (compared to Olive Tree), but isn't bad. The Merguez was pretty tasty actually, and the Lamb Kebab was pretty decent - again, the kebab could have been AMAZING if they didn't hold back on spices and flavor; both of those dishes were pretty good for the $10-$12 range, and quite filling at that. The Lamb tajine, however, was my least favorite dish - while the lamb itself was cooked to perfection, it was extremely bland (for my taste); and for $20, honestly, I expected a lot more - as should anyone. I'm sure the other dishes are much better, and while I'm eager to try them all, the $18-$22 price point makes me hesitant. Service and staff are top notch. I think I may have inadvertently met on of the chefs, too, and he's a really nice guy. A+ hospitality and friendliness. Love the decor of the space, too. It's simple, yet has a lovely character that adds to the overall ambiance and feel of the restaurant. It's really nice to see these types of establishments pop up in downtown, because this community really needs it. I'm in full support of Kan Zaman and I want them to grow, expand their menu and thrive as a business. I hope they can at some point bring the flavor up to the levels that some of us expect from "ethnic" food, and lower the prices just a tad. $10-$12 for their lunch menu items aren't too bad for a downtown restaurant that offers something different. However, I find that their dinner menu items are a little pricey at $18-$22 for just the entrees. Anyway, I think I'm going to wait a month before I go back. I want to try more dishes here, and I really WANT to rave about this spot to all my friends instead of having to pause before I answer the "how was it?" questions. I'm hoping that by then they'll be able to work through the kinks and improve their restaurant on all levels. Please guys, give us some food to drool over!

    (3)

  • Eva F.

    Delicious food! I ordered the lamb kebab, and it comes with hummus, rice, and tabouleh. The meat was tender and flavorful, and a healthy sized portion. Good service and reasonable prices. I would definitely come here to eat again!

    (4)

  • Amy N.

    I've been here a couple times and each time is always great! The food is amazing. Something I always order every time is the fries. The garlic and sumac aioli is just ridiculously good and addicting. It has the perfect balance of saltiness, tanginess, sweetness and creaminess. The portions here are really large, so be prepared to take home leftovers. The first time I came here I had the lamb tajine. Let me just say first that I hate beans. I hate the texture and the grittiness of it. BUT the beans with the lamb tajine was really good especially when you have the lamb and beans in one bite. Perfect combination together. Second time I came here I had the catch of the day, which was mahi mahi cook in butter with rice. This was pretty amazing, too! Although when the plate came out, the bottom was just soaked in butter. I was a little bothered by it but it added more flavor to the rice. I came here a third time for lunch, unfortunately I don't remember what I ordered! I know I definitely ordered the fries and salad.

    (4)

  • Bryon S.

    Every Mediterranean restaurant I've ever been to has had a lot of vegetarian options but not this one. Only one main course was vegetarian and it was horrible. The vegetables were over cooked and mushy and the couscous was bland. I couldn't even eat it. Blah no flavor whatsoever. I gave 2 stars because my friends enjoyed their food but I will never go back.

    (2)

  • LeaDan Y.

    First of all, I HAD to try it because, well, how many Moroccan Lebanese restaurants do you know in Hawaii? ... Exactly! I was also trying to find something healthy to eat and wasnt at all disappointed. My friends started off with the fries as an appetizer. That choice was lame sauce, on my friends part. I couldnt eat it, for my own health reasons, and we could have ordered fries anywhere. For dinner, I ordered the Vegetarian Coucous, my boyfriend ordered the Lamb Couscous, and my friend ordered the Chicken Taouk with yogurt which he described as being akin to dipping lobster in butter. We all enjoyed our meals and would definitely return for more. We werent as impressed with the dessert since the Katayef really just tasted like a banana pancake. Though the Baklava was among the best wed ever tried. My favorite though was the Moroccan Min Tea. Though if you want to drink more of it, then get it iced. If you dont mind paying for additional pots and you want to try a smoother version, then get it hot.

    (4)

  • Connie H.

    Food was good but one thing that bothered me, did their babaganoush taste like hummus to you? I didn't taste as much eggplant as usual....

    (3)

  • Sedat E.

    Good food slow service. Some halal items like lamb tajin beef skewer. Very good ambiance, back yard open air section is great if it's not raining

    (4)

  • Nani P.

    Mingled with other small businesses on Nuuanu Avenue, the setting as you enter makes you wonder why you came here....until you go to the outside dining area! Very romantic/intimate setting. It's very popular with families...good food, great customer service! Love the environment. BYOB.

    (4)

  • John C.

    I knew nothing about Moroccan and Lebanese food before I came here. I just thought about that Ben Stiller in Along Came Polly so I figured it would be super exotic. The setting was quite different but very nice. You have the option of sitting outside. Service was outstanding because we got our food pretty fast and we got checked on a few times. Lentil soup - Nothing exotic about it but I hadn't had it in years so it was a nice change. Falafel - I didn't know what it was but other people here said to get it and it was small patties of what looked like meat that you're supposed to eat with pita bread and a white dipping sauce. Lamb Tajine - Juicy and tender lamb that is served in a bean soup. It comes with a plate of pita bread. Someone here suggested getting rice with it but I think it is unnecessary because you'll get full from the dish. Baklava - This was our dessert. Yelp user Sean M. described it as "chopped almonds and walnuts sweetened and layered between sticky coated sheets of crispy and chewy phyllo pastry, as well as sweet oranges scented with sugar, cinnamon and orange blossom, and a katayef." There was enough to feed two people and we are definitely bringing wine next time because that's what other people were doing.

    (4)

  • Lynn T.

    Great food at reasonable prices with large portions. Attentive, prompt service and a casual atmosphere. We shared two appetizers and one entree and were stuffed! The lamb kebob was delicious! Wish I had known it was BYOB!

    (4)

  • Allen H.

    The hummus is delicious and the owner is a gracious host. We had a wonderful dinner, loved the food, and the price is very reasonable.

    (5)

  • Gina S.

    I went to Kan Zaman the first time on a Wednesday night because I heard belly dancers were performing. I didn't give too much thought to the food at the time. Wow! My man, his son, and I were pleasantly surprised how fantastic the food was! I was happy I made reservations in advance to get the outside seating, which was lovely. The boys had meat dishes that looked delicious to my non-meat eating gaze and they left not a bit on the plate. I had the vegetarian appetizer platter (Mezze Sampler with stuffed grape leaves, babaganouh, and hummus) with the lentil soup (all soups are vegetarian!!!)...YUMMY!!! I woke the next day craving their food, a sure sign I will make this my regular spot! Now, lets talk about the entertainment...AH-Ma-Zing!!! Ms Malia Delapenia danced that night and we were treated to a fabulous performance with beautiful costuming, finger cymbals, sword dancing, and FIRE on her head!!! What!? Her professionalism and skill was incredible as she paid individual attention to every single guest. She carried herself with a very respectful yet romantic demeanor that brought the already romantic atmosphere to a higher level. The next time I visited I went, with a girlfriend who also loves the dancing, on another Wednesday night. This time I had the Harira Soup, a tomato based soup that I now crave on a regular basis and the Moroccan Salad that is simply delicious! My friend had the vegetarian couscous that she loved and we both enjoyed the BYOB wine that just highlighted the meal. The dancers were amazing! This time we were inside and I was worried I'd miss the best part of the show. I was mistaken. There were TWO dancers (Malia and Cassie) dancing twice each and they performed both inside and outside equally. I felt spoiled with so much entertainment, the good food and I didn't break my budget! I haven't yet gone for lunch but I do so love my Wednesday night visits where I get my taste buds tantalized and my cultural arts fix at the same time. I am so happy to have a place like Kan Zaman Downtown. Looking forward to trying more YUMMY menu items and seeing more of Malia and her insane skills!!!

    (5)

  • Paul O.

    Harira soup, Katayef, Lamb Tajine, belly dancer for entertainment, set in the old part of town, not too loud, friendly staff. A totally blissful experience. I would recommend a visit.

    (4)

  • Taylor M.

    Made reservations on a Thursday night because after reading the reviews on how crowded this place gets I was a bit worried about getting a table. Upon arriving to our 6:30 reservation, the place was empty so it was perfect! We got to sit outside where it is beautiful! Very nice, peaceful and calming. Our waitress was so sweet and explained some of the menu items we didn't understand. I ordered the lamb kebob and the lamb was delicious but I felt like my plate was missing some flavor. We had other dishes as well like the beef kebob, lamb tajine, & chicken tajine. I tried a bite of everyone's food and it felt like it was missing flavor as well. I'm not a expert when it comes to Moroccan/Lebanese food so my review might not be as helpful. This place was great though! I liked the ambiance and the service.

    (3)

  • Michelle W.

    We really enjoyed the chicken kebab plate. The chicken was plentiful and very moist and juicy. The hummus was not too garlicky and very creamy. My husband loved the rice as well. A must try!

    (4)

  • Liz P.

    Food was fantastic-- large portions and every bite was delicious!

    (5)

  • Leslie A.

    It was a hot, humid day. My boyfriend and I sat outside in the back area and ordered the mint tea. It was lightly sweetened, cool, refreshing, and delicious! Perfect for the weather. We split the Lamb Gyro and Kofta Chicken Sandwich for lunch. Each bite was so flavorful! Both came with a large portion of salad. The dressing was sweet and fresh. The pita was soft and more on the doughy side, which I like because other places I have ate at, the pita will become dry and hard if not eaten shortly after it is served. We were stuffed. At the end of the meal, I asked "Which dish did you like the most?" We both couldn't decide because both dishes were so good. Will definitely be back soon!

    (5)

  • Chloe G.

    I have been to this restaurant about 5 times. Each experience was divine and wonderful. The staff were incredibly sweet, kind, respectful and attentive. You can see the passion for their job in their eyes and their smiles are genuine. I see them walking around, helping people to their best abilities and smiling for the smallest things. This makes the atmosphere 10x happier. The food is delicious. What else can I say? Everything on the menu is awesome. The cooks are doing a wonderful job...keep up the good work! I will be coming back here all the time. First restaurant I've been impressed with in a long time (I'm very picky). Blessings!

    (5)

  • Diane O.

    This is one of my favorite restaurants in Honolulu. The food is fresh, delicious and original. Their hummus and babaganoush sp? are to die for. Wait staff is friendly and service is wonderful. It is BYOB.

    (5)

  • C H.

    The lamb was perfect. Even the salad that came with my lamb sandwich had good flavor. I'm definitely coming back to try dinner. The baklava was good. I am not sure I would get it again. My friend had the chicken shawarma and loved it.

    (4)

  • Paul K.

    I have come here twice to validate that they are worthy of all five of my stars. They clearly are and not only is the menu very authentic, cuisine delicious, the staff full of Aloha but the location is perfect and there's tons of parking. The dishes I tried and sample platters were all exemplary and very balanced tastes for the local peeps like me have been accommodated perfectly. I overheard the staff coordinating huge parties here as well and I check and they do affordable rates to host parties here in the restaurant and the beautiful space they have outdoors and back café! Even the restroom is emasculate. Coming back again soon! Brenda and Suzanne gave great service too!

    (5)

  • John H.

    This place was a unique experience and made for a lovely evening for my wife and I celebrating an anniversary. The service was quite friendly and the food was well prepared and full of flavor!

    (5)

  • Kevin C.

    Had a groupon for $15 and the food was really good. I got the chicken kabob which was really good. The dining area is small but I had take out. I prolly would come back here if I visit Hawaii again.

    (4)

  • Roxanne R.

    This place is pretty great. It's BYOB. I've never had food here I didn't like. Nice how they give you rose water on your hands after.

    (5)

  • BubbaluArare G.

    other than being in downtown (where i hardly tread because i can't be bothered trying to figure out parking) and CRAMPED for our group, i rather enjoyed our meal here! since we came in a larger group of 13, we were prearranged to be seated in the back "garden" area which is really squishy and quite uncomfortable as they managed to pack in two other groups with us in that gazebo-like back patio area. with screaming kids it was also rather noisy but if you BYOB after a while you won't really care. the food was pre-ordered since our group was too big and we were happy to work that menu out with kamal. he was very responsive and managed to get a decent spread worked out within the price range we desired. because one of our peeps flaked at the last minute we had to cover for her so from $30/head we wound up paying an extra $3. which was fine cos i enjoyed dinner. here's what we ordered: - mix green salad with cucumbers, red radishes and orange blossom vinaigrette yummers. fresh and light. i couldn't really taste the orange blossom water but it might have been the beers getting in my way. - homemade hummus standard. tasty but more on the course side. -taktouka: roasted peppers and tomato dip YUMMS! i loved this. savory and great with the accompanying pita - grape leaves with yogurt sauce not one of my favorite things to order but it was fine. the middle part was very firm and i thought i was eating ground chicken actually, lol - lamb kebob WHOLEY SMOKES BATMAN!!! i don't usually even like lamb. this was NOT gamey and it was extremely tender and flavorful, served with some sliced cooked onion and yogurt sauce. sooo sooo good. -chicken kebob ( Lebanese style) boring. at least it was well seasoned and juicy for chunks of seasoned breast meat. - rice pilaf sooo ssoooooo good with the lamb! that's all i needed was that lamb and this rice. i swear it is so good because it is dressed with ghee or gobs of butter anyway (the nose knows)!!! but it's light and fluffy and just plain yummers. - pita for all the apps. - Moroccan iced tea standard. some peeps have complained about poor service but we were well taken care of! even the chef popped out to ask how we liked our dinner! everyone was all smiles and very pleasant and accommodating! i told one of the owners i will surely be back if i ever make it back into downtown, heh. btw, they share restrooms with Tea at 1024 it looks like...

    (4)

  • Susan F.

    The restaurant is small and reservations are recommended but Ashley quickly seated us on a Saturday evening. We ordered the Babaganoush, falafel, lamb kebab and iced Moroccan mint tea. Everything was delicious, service was spot on and enough food for two to bring leftovers home. Next time we'll bring a bottle of wine.

    (4)

  • Emmett J.

    Everything cool with this place. Chicken tajin with fries. Hey it works. Good places for educating people try lamb, as theirs in not gamey. BYOB a plus.

    (5)

  • Rachael O.

    Their Lamb is the best! I've been there several times for both lunch and dinner and each time I have been there, everything has been excellent! Their waitstaff is friendly, the food came out in a timely manner, and the food tasted great! Can't wait to go again soon!

    (5)

  • Melissa S.

    I went there this past Friday with my boyfriend. We made reservations because it was First Friday so figured maybe it would get busy, but when we got there we were the only ones. They did ask if we made reservations so I guess it was a good thing that I did make one. We ate there 2 other times for lunch so I figure going there for dinner would really be a deal breaker for a Yelp Review. Dinner was 10x better than lunch and lunch was pretty dang good. The waiter greeted us and took us to the back of the restaurant which I didn't even know they had. My bf was worried that it would be hot outside, but it was so pleasant. Very nice atmosphere, peaceful and if you are looking for a place to rent and have a party I would suggest this place. The only thing is that there is really no parking around here. Its in Chinatown so you would have to find street parking. The food was so good. I had Lamb Kebobs which were perfectly cooked with a little crunch. I was expecting them to come on a stick, but to my surprise they did not. No complaints though. There was of course Hummus and the salad with greens and tomatoes, pita bread and rice along with my lamb. Also this place is BYOB and there is NO CORK FEE! so bring as much bottles as you would like. The workers are so friendly, sooo if you are in Chinatown and looking for a nice place, you have to try out this place! A+++++ for Kan Zaman

    (5)

  • Rni M.

    Went here for lunch on a Saturday. My husband ordered the Mecca Plate and I ordered the chicken shawarma plate. My chicken was tender, plentiful, and tasty. Husband had a delicious selection of hummus, baba ganoush, grape leaves and touka (sp?). Restaurant was not full which was nice for us. I've frequented with a girlfriend on a Monday, and lunch was busy then. Quality of food is consistent.

    (5)

  • Miguel B.

    Great little gem. Awesome service. The staff was extremely friendly and attentive. The food was very well seasoned and tasted amazing. We went for dinner on a Saturday night without reservations. Seating was quick and the food came out fast as well. Great place for a dinner date.

    (5)

  • Dalani T.

    Really like Kan Zaman, as does my husband who is from Egypt but this is pretty close. The staff is great and friendly, remembered us on our second visit and happy we drove all the way in from Makaha. Food is really nice, loved anything with the lamb. The outside sitting area is a little oasis in the heart of town. Definitely recommend.

    (4)

  • Skydebster S.

    We just had dinner there for the first time and we were pretty impressed. We had Lamb Tajine, Beef Kebab, Moroccan Salad, Moroccan Mint Iced Tea, and Baklava. Lamb was a little tough, but flavor was excellent. Beef Kebab came with hummus, pita bread, couscous mixed salad, bedding of rice. Definitely portion was worth the money. I asked for my beef, medium well, so it was a little tough as well. However, excellent flavor. Moroccan Salad is like MUST TRY!! Dressing was just delicious and exotic. Moroccan Mint Iced Tea is also MUST TRY. Refreshing and very clean light taste to it. Baklava was ok... I would say average, nothing special. At the end, they offer Orange Blossom drops to wash your hands and it definitely was a nice touch. I definitely enjoyed their food and service. Would love to go back. This place is in downtown, parking is a little hard and reservation is recommended. Enjoy~

    (4)

  • DJ Nocturna R.

    We were lucky to grab the parking right in front of the door of Kan Zaman, a Moroccan and Lebanese cuisine on Nuuanu Ave. Then we were greeted by the representatives of the two countries, briskly even handed a menu in the car at our request. That's great service to be graciously welcomed by the owner Kamal, a true testament to genuine hospitality of the Moroccan culture. As we entered, a familiar handsome gentleman with a French accent quickly seated us to a nice cozy more private corner. This restaurant has a romantic ambiance with dim lights, red and green walls with beautiful art and high ceiling. Everything you can tell were fastidiously selected from the wooden chairs and tables to the painted details on the windows to make dining in this beautiful restaurant a pleasure. Playing the right music certainly sets the mood. Lana ordered the delicious shisk kabob with Basmati rice, and I order lamb shank tagine prepared in a soupy base with white beans. I have to try the other choices in the menu next time. The price is reasonable for both dinner and lunch. Don't leave without dessert-the tender and moist baklava. Even better- The restaurant is BYOB so before you go there, swing by at the Liquor Collection in Ward to get the best wine reasonably priced to compliment your meal. We will definitely go back since its conveniently located in the heart of downtown Chinatown. Thanks for the great dining experience!

    (4)

  • Howard B.

    I'm not coming back here again. Food and service was very repulsive and inadequate. They used the word "authentic" but there is nothing authentic about this place (except the music). I would write more negative reviews about this place but not worth my time. Cheers! (Will post this on Tripadvisor)

    (1)

  • B. Kamahana K.

    Love this place. Can't get enough of all of the items. No where else in Honolulu do I know of a place with the items they serve here. Delicious. Perfectly cooked and seasoned.

    (5)

  • Mahozina E.

    OUTSTANDING FOOD AND SERVICE!!! Wish I could give more stars to this restaurant! Being raised by a Lebanese dad made me very pick about Lebanese food and Kan Zaman hit the spot! I've being on a long search for middle eastern food in Oahu since I moved here back in 2008 and never I had such good and authentic food! The spices, the presentation, the flavor are just incredible! To add even more stars to this review the restaurant is extremely intimate and charming and the chefs make an awesome effort to talk to each guest and make then feel welcome! LOVE IT! Don't forget to try the mint tea! ;)

    (5)

  • Darren S.

    This is my first Moroccan experience but it definitely will not be my last. If you enjoy Mediterranean cuisine, this is a must try! Kan Zaman is a nice family-style, homey environment sandwiched between the Chinatown and business district of Downtown Honolulu. Prices are very reasonable for a healthy lunch!

    (4)

  • soufiane b.

    great food, great ambiance, I really love the outside seating ;) I am french from algerian parents and i am really happy now to have this restaurant in town. I have to try now the lunch specials :) amazing mint tea, authentic ,healthy tasty cuisine and good pricing. bon appétit

    (5)

  • Kalani C.

    4.3 stars. Great little restaurant. Sat outside on their deck patio: Very quaint & secluded spot where buildings meet, creating a courtyard. We were greeted warmly & our server was eager & attentive. Service: 4 stars. We started with the Moroccan salad & refreshing grape leaves. Both were decent, fresh, but just average: 2.5 stars. The Baba ghanoush on the other hand was probably the best I've ever tasted. Creamy is an understatement as usual baba ghanoush's texture always seems a bit lumpy. This was heads above that variety and the roasted smokiness of the eggplant sent this into another dimension. It would be a sin not to order this dish: 5 stars! Corkage is zero and they have applied for a liquor license but in the meantime, feel free to bring your favorite beverage. Bring your own crystal if you're one of those that can't stand drinking wine out of taster glasses. Our entrees were two different tajines: The lamb and the chicken. Both were quite amazing dishes and worlds apart. The lamb from New Zealand was fall of the bone goodness and had a wonderful grass-fed taste that made it oh so much more succulent. The chicken was skin on bone in thighs in a delectably rich broth topped with pommes frites. Not overpowered with seasoning, but humbly prepared dishes I enjoyed down to the bone. Both 5 stars! Dessert was the creamy cheesecake with a date sauce with hints of floral water that made up for my preference for thicker texture cheesecakes. Memorable and something I'm already missing: 5 stars! During the meal, the chef visited our table and chatted about our preferences. Nice old school touch (or is that still new but I haven't been getting?) A great experience altogether. Greatly executed with all the right touches that make me eager to return while in the meantime pine for more in their culinary arsenal. Tally: Service: 4 stars Moroccan Salad & Grape Leaves: 2.5 stars Baba ghanoush: 5 stars! Lamb & Chicken Tajine: 5 stars! Cheesecake w/ date sauce: 5 stars! 4+2.5+5+5+5= 21.5/5= 4.3 stars.

    (4)

  • Kastriot K.

    As a man of Mediterranean descent I can assure you that this place is one of the if not the best Mediterranean restaurant in all of Honolulu. The service is great the food is great and the prices are reasonable. The lamb shank the couscous the shish kabob the hummus and the baba ganoush were absolutely perfect and the dolma (rice in grape leaves) are exactly how my mother makes them. The authenticity of this menu is second to none in all of the Hawaiian archipelago.

    (5)

  • Matt M.

    We went to Kan Zaman because it's near the Kumu Kahua Theatre and had some good Yelp reviews. This is a kind of pan-mid-eastern place (Lebanese & Moroccan). I had the merguez sausage couscous and my friend had lamb kebabs. I am not the biggest fan of chunks of lamb, but this meat was simply delicious: moist, savory, tender. I may actually order it myself next trip. The couscous was astounding. The grain itself was the best I've ever had, steamed in water flavored with stock. The sausages were excellent, and the veggies in the couscous were tasty and tender but not cooked to mush. I come from NYC, and eat Arab and Israeli and Middle Eastern a lot, and the best of this cuisine I've ever had is in Honolulu. Which is simply ridiculous. But true. Check this place out.

    (5)

  • Dawn Y.

    Food is amazing! Babaganoush is fluffy and creamy, the couscous light and savory, all the lamb dishes are tasty and beautifully presented. The mint tea is refreshing and just strong enough. The beef shwarma is tender and all entrée portions are generous. Little skimpy on the pita with the mezze platter, but fresh and warm. 4* not 5* because of the lousy service when we were there last time. Problem with reservation, which was solved quickly [+] ordered appetizer and drinks but only appetizer appeared. When entrée arrived, got tea, but no more water and no soft drinks we ordered. After 30" finally got attention from not even our server to ask about missing drinks and empty water glasses. The soft drinks finally arrived 1 hour after we ordered our food. For some reason our waitress would stop at all the tables around us, but never at our table. The soft drink was delivered by the other waiter, who was very nice. My advice to staff? If you screw up with customers, apologize and ask for a reset and just focus on trying to make it end well, that's what counts, especially since the food is epic! My advice to myself? Don't get seated in a dark corner.

    (4)

  • Krystel P.

    Outside seating is a must! Went on Wednesday and the beautiful belly dancer, amazing service and great food will have me coming back soon! Ordered the lamb and appreciated the flavors and tender meat!!!

    (4)

  • Chuco T.

    Holy Cow! This was some of the best stuff I've had in a long time. Its been a little while since my last review, and this has definitely got my foodie blood boiling. The food was absolutely fantastic. First things first, get the baba ghanuj! While their hummus was also delicious, I'm a sucker for a good baba ganoush, and theirs is by far the best I've had yet. Also highly suggested, the "Merguez". Sort of a Lamb Sausage Panini, if I had to describe it. So full of flavor and deceptively filling. I can not wait to get back there and get another one myself. I mean, I have had Chef Youssef and Chef Kamal's cooking before, but they have really raised the bar for their new Chinatown restaurant. I need more, NOW

    (5)

  • Kimo S.

    I have been here twice since they opened and it was such an amazing experience that I had to bring a friend to try this place to make sure I wasn't imagining how good the food was. I've had the Lamb Kebob lunch plate which is one of the most well stuffed pita plates I have had in ages. This plate is my favorite and while I admit I need to try something else next time, it really is tough when the lamb is flavored and cooked so perfectly. I have had their hot tea and Baklava each time as well and it can not get any better here from start to finish. The wait staff is attentive, kind and exactly what you would expect to have serving you at a fine dining establishment. This place is going to become difficult to get a table soon enough, mark my words, so try it as soon as you can. This really has set the bar high to me.

    (5)

  • Sean M.

    After months of meticulous planning, Kamal Jemmari of Shogunai Tajine and his business partner Youssef Dakroub--previously owner and chef of the Xtreme Tacos food truck--decided to open up Kan Zaman. Unlike Shogunai Tajine, Kan Zaman represents a venue accessible to all who wish to experience the delightful selection of dishes that incorporate influences from the birthplace of the Marrakesh-born Kamal, synthesized with recipes of his Lebanese colleague. Upon entering Kan Zaman, the breathtaking interior establishes an exotic Moorish feel, with vibrant hues of teal, tangerine and crimson complementing the warm wooden furnishings. A stenciled trellis-patterned wall takes the gaze up to the high vaulted ceiling to where elegant endless circle-latticed chandeliers illuminate the inviting space below. Patrons are embraced by the warm aromas of exotic spices, almost transporting them to a Moroccan bazaar. Just outside is an equally charming courtyard seating area incorporating a pre-existing wooden framework that makes for a perfect lunch or dinner setting on those breezy afternoons and evenings. The food is equally impressive, being authentic and approachable. Using a number of spice blends made by Kamal's mother in Morocco, Kamal and Youssef developed a menu starting with traditional lentil and harira soups, and a modest selection of salads including tabouleh and fattoush. There is also a variety of meze with more common finds as a garlicky and thick hummus, a smoky babaganoush and crispy falafel, but stretching the gamut to accommodate more exotic fare as warak inab (grape leaves stuffed with rice, mint, lemon and garlic vinaigrette), taktouka (cooked salad of tomatoes, bell peppers, olive oil, spices and herbs) and briwat (crispy phyllo pie filled with seafood and vermicelli). For the main courses, a few tagine and couscous options are available, as are a shish kabob of perfectly grilled marinated cubes of beef and a shish taouk, which is a grilled chicken brochette. Rounding out the selection are a few desserts, including the must-have baklava, with chopped almonds and walnuts sweetened and layered between sticky coated sheets of crispy and chewy phyllo pastry, as well as sweet oranges scented with sugar, cinnamon and orange blossom, and a katayef, an Arabic pancake topped with creamy banana sweetened with honey, which go well with a pot of the addictive sweetened Moroccan mint tea. Recommended dishes: 1) Tabouleh ($7.95) - Parsley salad with tomatoes, onions and bulgur wheat dressed simply with olive oil and lemon juice had clean, fresh flavors. 2) Babaganoush ($7.95) - Charcoal grilled eggplant puree, tahini, lemon juice and olive oil made for a silky smooth spread. Roasted sesame notes were perfectly integrated into the beautifully smoky eggplant flavors, finished with a lemony acidity. 3) Hummus ($6.95) - The chickpea and tahini puree was thicker than most I have had in the past, but possessed savory garlic and bright acidity. 4) Briwat ($8.95) - Crisp on the outside, the briwat was stuffed with a warm, moist filling of shrimp, squid and vermicelli. 5) Chicken Tajine ($16.95) - The slow-braised moist chicken with preserved lemon, briny olives and saffron had savory touches of coriander, cumin and smoked paprika. 6) Lamb Couscous ($22.95) - The steamed couscous soaked up the flavorful broth enriched from the moist and fall-off-the-bone tender lamb shank with flavors and juices from the carrots, zucchini, tomatoes, potatoes, carrots and chickpeas. 7) Shish Kabob ($17.95) - Tender marinated cubes of beef were moist and perfectly seasoned and served on a bed of fragrant rice.

    (5)

  • Miki L.

    I dined here for dinner with a friend who happens to adore Middle Eastern food. We both loved it. The small menu makes it easy to make a choice of several small bites or appetizers to full on meals. I had the lamb, my friend chicken. Both tender, well seasoned. Plus we enjoyed a few dips. All in all, our eyes were bigger than our stomach, but can't wait to tackle the leftovers. Portions are generous and very fairly priced. If you have self control, try to share a few things with friends. Otherwise, you too will be taking leftovers home! Service is friendly and helpful. Save room for the sweet mint tea -- hot or cold. Refreshing. Kan Zaman is an intimate spot, with authentic decor and music, and some tables inside and some outdoors (under a covered porch area). And it's BYOB!! I think the outdoor area would be fabulous for a birthday party among friends. Go before this little gem becomes so popular...you'll end up waiting in line.

    (5)

  • Maria G.

    Great new Moroccan joint in Chinatown. Authentic tasting food and convenient to the downtown lunch goers. Got to try the kofta, lamb kebab and falafel. The kofta was prepared almost like a panini and was very tasty. The lamb was soft and succulent. The greens that accompanied the dishes were fresh and yummy. I can't wait to come back at night to try the larger entrees. The lamb cous cous is next on my list. The outdoor patio seating is a plus and can be a romantic setting for a sweet date! Glad to finally have some great middle eastern food in HI!

    (5)

  • Jane M.

    Tasty food, pleasant atmosphere, great waitstaff. The owner was very interested in our level of enjoyment. No corkage fee! We parked in the lot behind Marks Garage for $6 and walked. The only negative was dodging the homeless druggies en route.

    (5)

  • Ann B.

    Kan Zaman serves Morrocan and Lebanese cuisine which I would summarize as exotic comfort food. I've had three meals at Kan Zaman so far; dinner and two lunches and I haven't had anything I didn't like. My favorite would have to be the vegetarian couscous. Zucchini, carrots, kabocha pumpkin, buttery cabbage and chickpeas served on a bed of buttery couscous. I could eat this every day. You can get this alone or with the lamb shank which is served on a tomato based sauce with beans. The sauce goes really well with the couscous. The Chicken Tajine is also a crowd pleaser. Chicken braised in Moroccan spices, topped with french fries. Chef Kamal instructed us to dip the fries in the sauce. Thank goodness I had the couscous to drench the rest of that sauce. We also had the chicken and lamb shish kabobs which were good, but not as unique as the aforementioned dishes which still haunt me. My lunch time favorite so far is the ground beef sandwich. The beef is infused with savory spices, a sauce that mellows out the spiciness of the beef and served panini style, kind of like a cuban sandwich. I typically don't like to eat anything this heavy at lunch, but the flavors are so addicting I couldn't seem to put it down. The portion sizes of the entrees are large. I recommend ordering family style and sharing, unless you're there for lunch. Appetizer and dessert portions are smaller. Lunch items are around $12-14, dinner entrees about $16-24. The hot Moroccan tea is a nice treat after your meal. It's a sweet tea with orange blossom and a hint of mint, served in a silver tea pot and tray. I forgot I was in downtown Honolulu. The decor and vibe is casual, contemporary, Moroccan inspired. There is also an outdoor lanai space that's hidden. You have to go through the hallway as if you're going into the kitchen, at the back of the restaurant. Kan Zaman is a unique, delicious addition to the downtown food scene.

    (5)

  • Reed B.

    Finally! For years I've been saying Honolulu needs more outdoor seating, as well as more Mediterranean offerings. Delicious Middle Eastern/North African cuisine AND outdoor seating?! Color me impressed. Being from the multicultural megalopolis that is New York City, I like to think I've got high standards for my beloved ethnic foods. Moroccan and Levantine foods being favorites of mine, I feel delighted to say that I have finally found my go-to spot here in Honolulu. Chef Kamal's (Shogunai Tacos, Shogunai Tajine) newest venture is his best yet! So far, I've tried the Chicken Tajine, Lamb Tajine, Veggie Couscous, Shish Kebab, Hummus, and Baklava. The lamb is always cooked just right, falls right off the bone and melts in your mouth. The portions are generous, the dishes have great flavor, and the service is friendly. What more can you ask for? Oh yeah, it's also BYOB! P.S. - Don't forget to order the Moroccan mint tea!

    (5)

  • Ralph R.

    Had high expectations for the food here based on the reviews. Obviously these were written by people who have never had real Moroccan/Lebanese food. The ambiance is good. Service is prompt and courteous. Portions are good. What is severely lacking is flavor. The dishes could have been great as they were well cooked but had zero spices. Had the lentil soup, grape leaves, lamb tagine, and mint tea. All had little to no flavor. Will not return.

    (2)

  • Michael G.

    The food here is so good! Service was great! The environment is perfect. I will tell all of my friends and family about this place. I will be back.

    (5)

  • Peter C.

    I walked in the door and was immediately greeted by dark haired man in black. At first I thought he was the Dread Pirate Roberts, but then realized he was the wait staff. The inside dining room was half full. Dread Pirate Roberts seemed to be handling things just fine in his own. Right off the bat, I ordered the Hummus as an appetizer. To my delight the Dread Pirate Roberts responded with "As you wish." The hummus was delicious, but I think they gave me too much. Normally i would say I ran out of Pita because i still had half of my Hummus left. But it's an appetizer and the amount of pita was perfect for one person. So maybe they served me too much hummus. About 2 minutes after I finished my pita and hummus, my main course was placed in front of me. Kofta, a lunch so epic that's it's quite INCONCEIVABLE! The chef came over and asked how everything was: Me: Your food is wonderful. Man in Black: Thank you; I've worked hard to make it so. Me: I admit it, I wish I could eat your food faster. Man in Black: Then why are you smiling? Me: Because I know something you don't know. Man in Black: And what is that? Me: I... am not left-handed. [Moving my fork to my right hand and began to eat faster] Me: You are amazing! So in conclusion I say to my fellow Yelpers: I swear on the soul of my father, Domingo Montoya, you will have the best lunch you've ever had in your life at Kan Zaman!

    (5)

  • Jessica G.

    Chef Kamal doesn't disappoint. Kan Zaman is beautiful - the front dining area is simple but really pleasant to the eye, and the lanai in the back is perfect if you are looking to be out of doors. I felt like I had journeyed far for dinner, but was smack in the middle of Chinatown. I was immediately welcomed and sat at a table, and though the back area was full, I was encouraged to go see it. I came in to have a lovely dinner by myself and was quite happy with the results! I had the babaganoush and grape leaves as appetizers. Both were excellent. The pita is not of the fluffy variety, if that is what you are used to, but it is freshly grilled. The babaganoush was flavorful and fresh. The stuffed grape leaves were the perfect size and the perfect taste. I ordered the chicken tajine as my main course. It came with pita on the side and with fries (!) on top. I asked for the aioli that comes with the regular side of fries and Joe, my server happily obliged. The chicken was cooked well - tender and moist. The tea is amazing. Freshly brewed, with mint and orange blossom that you can smell and taste and is the perfect accompaniment to your meal or with dessert. I could drink it all day long - it definitely has the "comfort" factor to it. I will be back to try the lunch menu, and to try dessert as well.

    (5)

  • Aaron P.

    Had a great time here, my comedy troupe went for a team dinner before we appeared in the improv festival. Great food, the server was really good with the suggestions, great big portions of food, we were a walk in party of 8 and they were able to put together a space in the back outdoor area and get us seated quick. The tea was great. The names of the food I knew but the presentation was very different than I've had before, and it was gooooooooooood. Highly recommended for a romantic dinner with a twist, I didnt have a romantic dinner with my team but the atmosphere (minus an 8 persom improv comedy troupe) seems very quiet, intimate, and relaxing. I will return with my girlfriend to try out the romantic feel of Kan Zaman, I will share the results... well not all of them because that would be WAY more information than you need about me.

    (5)

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Map

Opening Hours

  • Mon :11:00 am - 9:00pm

Specialities

  • Takes Reservations : Yes
    Delivery : No
    Take-out : Yes
    Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
    Good For : Dinner
    Parking : Street
    Bike Parking : Yes
    Good for Kids : Yes
    Good for Groups : Yes
    Attire : Casual
    Ambience : Intimate
    Noise Level : Average
    Alcohol : No
    Outdoor Seating : Yes
    Wi-Fi : Free
    Has TV : No
    Waiter Service : Yes
    Caters : Yes

Kan Zaman

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