There’s always been a restaurant on the corner of Kapahulu Avenue and Kanaina Street, right across the street from Rainbow Drive-In.

For a long time, it was Harpo’s. Then it was ZenShu. And for months, it stood empty, waiting for the next tenant to take advantage of ZenShu’s major renovations to the kitchen and dining area.

But it’s a tough location.

First, there’s no parking, save for about four stalls located directly behind the restaurant. Then you’re competing with dozens of restaurants dotted along Kapahulu Avenue.

It’s no easy task.

But last week, as we were wandering around Kapahulu, we noticed the lights were on and people were sitting at tables. (We’re niele, what can I say.)

So we peeked in and asked if the restaurant was open. The general manager, Patti Sato, quickly waved us in and got us a table. Turns out, it was the soft opening of Corner Kitchen, a fusion-style restaurant that blends local favorites with an Asian twist. (The sushi bar is opening soon, too.) And there was live music!

So we checked it out. Here’s a look inside:

Yakitori sticks

Image 10 of 11

Like with the karaage chicken, this pieces of chicken have hardly any flavor. Maybe — maybe — just salt. You need to use the spicy yuzu sauce and homemade dipping salt to give this appetizer any flavor.

Corner Kitchen, 477 Kapahulu Ave. Hours: 7 a.m.-2 a.m. Sunday; 11 a.m.-2 a.m. Monday; 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 5 p.m.-2 a.m. Tuesday through Friday; 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday. Phone:(808) 732-3217