Out & About: OKKO

Modern, sleek, metropolitan, and chic all describe Okko Hilton Head, the new, trendy hot spot for delicious Asian fusion cusine on Hilton Head Island. Located in the back left corner of Port Royal Plaza, Okko has hit the mark on both atmosphere and quality of food. Diners can enjoy Japanese, Thai, Hibachi, and Sushi Bar all under one roof.

Filled with intriguing architectural elements such as glass, stone, tile, and uber-mod mood lighting, the owner of Okko went all out to create an oasis for diners. They built it like they like they meant it, which means they are serious about making sure their customers have an all-around good experience.

Must Have Appetizer: Taco Tara is one of Okko's most popular appetizers for good reason-it is fabulous! Dressed to impress, this is my second time having this dish that pleases everytime. A creative masterpiece of pepper tuna, pepper white tuna, and spicy crabmeat served on individual crispy and light tortilla chips. Add a little avocado, special crunch and balsamic reduction and you've got a recipe for a proven winner.

Into Sashimi? There are so many options. We had the Tuna Tataki-fresh, rare and served with a ponzu sauce and marinated cucumbers.

Specialty Sushi Rolls: With 30 special rolls to choose from, it's easy to find a new favorite. We tried the Summer Roll-a light, tropical blend of king crab and lobster salad, mango, strawberry, avocado and spring mix, rolled in rice paper instead of rice, and served with a fruited sweet sauce. Very unique and delightful!

Full Sushi Bar: If you're looking for fresh and authentic, Okko's expansive sushi bar is both beautiful and impressive.

Two for Thai: One of my favorite Thai dishes is the ever-popular Pad Thai. Okko went the distance and hired an experienced Thai chef; that's why the Chicken Pad Thai was so darn good! Other Thai creations include entrÈes such as Panko crusted Chilean sea bass served with a choice of ginger-garlic or basil sauce and poached salmon fillet topped with spicy green curry-a nice selection.

The Bar: Completely full-service, large, perfectly lit, and full of energy, Okko's bar is the perfect place to meet friends for happy hour or girls' night out. Happy hour is everyday from 4-7 p.m. Enjoy late night happy hour drink specials. When dining, ask about the $15.99 wine tasting.you're going to like this!

The Service: This was my third time dining at Okko, and each time the service has been noticeably attentive. The staff is well-versed on the wine list, and are knowledgeable enough to make good suggestions for both wine and food.

Late night and hungry? Okko is the only Asian cuisine restaurant open late night. On both Friday and Saturday nights, diners can receive full-service until midnight. In addition, there is a special late night menu that offers half-portion plates and drink specials.

The Bottom Line: Okko is a great addition to Hilton Head Island. It provides upscale dining with high quality food in an unmatched atmosphere. This is exactly the standard of class Hilton Head has always been known for. Surprisingly, diners will find value in Okko's menu, with many entrÈes priced less than $20, and hibachi starting at $15.95.

If You Go: Located at 95 Mathews Dr., Suite C in Port Royal Plaza. For reservations call 843-341-3377 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Open daily for lunch, dinner, and late night. Business hours are Sunday-Thursday: 11:30 a.m. - 11:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday: 11:30 a.m. - midnight.