Take a big bite out of the Marukai Wholesale Mart from 6 to 9 p.m. tomorrow when the store, at 2310 Kamehameha Highway, hosts a benefit for the Honolulu Japanese Chamber of Commerce, the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawai'i and the Honolulu Junior Japanese Chamber of Commerce. Contemporary Japanese cuisine will include Eurasion tapas by chef Hiroshi Fukui, specialties from Gokujo Sushi, seafood, yakiniku beef and okonomiyaki (Japanese-style omelets), and there will be a sake tasting, too.

Tickets are $75 in advance and $85 at the door, and there will be a prize drawing for those who make an additional donation. Information: www.marukaihawaii.com/english.

RESTAURANT NEWS

ROMANO'S MACARONI GRILL SAYS YES TO RESERVATIONS

In a move many diners would like to see all sit-down restaurants take, Romano's Macaroni Grill has announced that it now accepts reservations. The number to call is 356-8300.

Chef Michael Longworth has also added a number of Tuscan-style specials for April, including Vodka Rustica, pork chops Emiliana and brick oven formaggio. And there are a couple of drink specials, too, including pomegranate martinis and caramel macchiato martinis.