The globetrotting star of the acclaimed new Apple Original series Chief of War is sharing some of her favorite restaurants in NYC, LA, and Honolulu.
LessThis low-key beachside restaurant at the Kaimana Beach Hotel is a favorite for brunch and its stunning ocean views. Why Luciane loves it: “I love the oysters there. I’m such an oyster person. They also have really good cocktails and it’s just a stunning restaurant. While you’re waiting for your food, you can literally go for a swim. It’s a beautiful beach."
Located on the 36th floor of the Ala Moana Hotel, this upscale fine-dining destination is known for its wet-aged steaks and stunning array of seafood. Why Luciane loves it: “You get these crazy panoramic views of Waikīkī. Wherever you’re sitting is a great seat. There’s also a big grand piano in the middle of the dining room, and they serve the best wine and steak. It’s basically everything you want in a steakhouse.”
This unfussy sushi counter serves traditional rolls, nigiri, and more in a classic setting. Why Luciane loves it: “I love sushi. The restaurant was in the hotel I stayed in while we were shooting the series. I would walk past every day, and it just looked amazing. It became a staple throughout the shoot. Inside it’s very traditional, with a little train on the counter.”
Celebrity chef Roy Yamaguchi’s Ko Olina restaurant serves his signature blend of Hawaiian, Asian, and American flavors on a breezy outdoor patio. Why Luciane loves it: ”We had our first ‘Chief of War’ cast dinner with all the Apple execs and producers, so this restaurant will always have a special place in my heart because of that. Ko Olina is such a beautiful spot on the west side. And the food is insane. You have to get the delicious seafood.”
Oaxaca-born husband-and-wife team Zack Wangeman and Diana Montano Wangeman opened Sobre Masa as a love letter to handmade tortillas and Mexican corn. Why Luciane loves it: “I would step out of my Brooklyn apartment and Sobre Masa was right there. They serve amazing Mexican food with the craziest flavors and really delicious cocktails. I love the ambiance. It’s really dimly lit.”
Although it’s expanded to multiple cities, 17-year-old Roberta’s is still a beloved Brooklyn destination, known for its charred pizzas, seasonal vegetables, and outstanding burgers. Why Luciane loves it: “This restaurant was also in my neighborhood. I first tried it after a long night shoot. I love the Bee Sting pizza, which has a great mix of sweet and spicy—I could eat an entire pie by myself.”
Italian-flecked New American fare (think: ricotta with nectarine relish, risotto with smoked mussels) is the draw at this popular, breezy brunch and dinner destination. Why Luciane loves it: “There are so many amazing places in Greenpoint. I love that area in general. They have great oysters. I’m always just suggesting places that have oysters because it’s all I want all the time. Amazing flatbreads, great staff. Sit on the street, which feels very NY.”
Helmed by celebrated chef Ignacio Mattos, MICHELIN-Starred Estela is known for its inventive but comforting American fare and intimate dining room. Why Luciane loves it: “It’s a wine bar and a great spot for a date, the sort of place you could even go for a snack if you’re heading somewhere else.”
Diners slide into this classic, cedar-paneled sushi bar for the freshest fish flown in from Japan, as well as its extensive sake collection. Why Luciane loves it: “Just super, super fresh sushi. I went there with a group of friends and couldn’t stop thinking about it. Inside, it’s very traditional decor. I think it was my favorite sushi in New York.”
Family-owned Carousel, which also has a location in Glendale, is one of the iconic Middle Eastern restaurants in LA, serving traditional dishes like kebabs, hummus and more. Why Luciane loves it: “A friend had a birthday there, and they do this crazy thing where they bring out all sorts of candles. There were probably 10 birthdays that night, really cool vibe. We don’t have a big Armenian community in NZ so it was my first time trying that food, it was so fresh and delicious."