Ever find a place that makes you drool before you even take the first bite? That was exactly how I felt trying Shootz for the first time. Located at Uptown Commons, this spot is known as the “original home of kimchi butter.” After one visit, I completely understand why people rave about their famous kimchi butter.

I got to try several dishes, and every single one was packed with flavor.

First was the Mixed Plate, which can be ordered regular or spicy. I chose the regular version. It comes with kimchi butter katsu chicken, kimchi butter katsu shrimp, two scoops of steamed rice, and one scoop of mac salad. The katsu chicken was my favorite part of the plate. It had the perfect crunchy coating with tender, juicy chicken inside. The kimchi butter added a bold, buttery richness that made every bite so satisfying. The shrimp was just as tasty, and the mac salad was smooth, creamy, and comforting.

Next was the Hot Kimchi Butter Katsu Chicken Sandwich, and this one was a standout. Crispy katsu chicken is topped with mac salad, kimchi aioli, brûlée brown sugar, then served on soft Hawaiian buns. It had the best mix of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy textures all in one bite. Easily one of the most memorable chicken sandwiches I’ve had.

I also tried the Spam Brûlée Musubi. I can never pass up a good spam Musubi at a Hawaiian spot. This fun twist on a classic spam musubi is finished with kimchi aioli and brûlée brown sugar. The flavors were salty, slightly sweet, and incredibly addicting.

For something refreshing, I had the Strawberry Pineapple Lemonade. It was fruity, bright, and a great balance to all the richer savory dishes.

Last but definitely not least were the ube beignets. This the newest item on the Shootz menuz. They are soft, fluffy, and dusted with sweetness, with that delicious ube flavor shining through. If you love ube desserts like me, these are a must.

Shootz is such a one spot! The food is creative, flavorful, and full of comfort Hawaiian goodness.

For more smiles, please check out my Yelp Review on Shootz Long Beach.