Tonight! Wailuku First Friday – Holiday Edition! December 3, 2010

This promises to be the best First Friday so far in this growing series of events for downtown Wailuku. What, with the beer garden, discount drinks, ono food from some of the island’s best purveyors, and STELLAR entertainment from one of our personal favorite guitarists and his band, Vince Esquire, how can you NOT get into the holiday mood?As for gift shopping, the ever popular and totally cool “Maui Thing” is offering some deals and delights not to be missed. PLUS there’s a Christmas Village, handmade wreaths, pono keiki tatoos … all the classics.


Read up on more news and events from What's Cooking Maui!

Maui's Top 10 Holiday Treats!

‘Tis the season for lists – and here are the Top Ten Things I’m looking forward to most on Maui this holiday season. Big Waves, Whales, Restaurant Openings, Snow in Lahaina … Maui is a miracle of marvels this time of year.

1) The Annual Tree Lighting at the Ritz Carlton – Thursday, Dec. 2

Ritz Carlton Glows Glorious for the Holidays

Why? Start with the cheery festivities, joyful singing, happy faces of children, Elves climbing up the walls and into the building through the magic of technology, Santa’s anticipated arrival, hot chocolate and cookies. Plus, as kama`aina we get half price sushi at Kai from 5:30-6:30 pm!  An overnight stay at the lush hotelier is the best way I know for getting in the spirit – even better than Burl Ives singing “Frosty the Snowman.”

2) Japengo’s Coming to Town! In Time for Christmas!

Why? Hyatt Kaanapali GM Mike Jokovich tells me there will be a soft opening of the hip new sushi restaurant prior to Christmas, which means I can bring family and friends there to celebrate! The Japengo location in the La Jolla Hyatt really  impressed me when I dined there many years ago so I’m looking forward to enjoying equally stellar sushi in the Kaanapali ‘hood. I’m also eager to see the results of the 75 million dollar face lift of the new Japengo space.  I think that’s even more than Cher paid…

3) Girls in White Dresses with Blue Satin Sashes – Nutcracker Sweets! Dec. 5, 3-5 p.m.

Why? Because it just isn’t Christmas without Tchaikovsky and one hundred adorable keiki dancing around the Ulalena Stage making hearts melt faster than snow in Lahaina.  Cost is $20 adults; $17 children 12 and under, but the experience is truly priceless. I see visions of sugarplums already.

Read the complete list here!

Any suggestions?

Do you know an amazing restaurant worth reviewing? Have you found killer secret spots for Happy Hours, dining deals and great entertainment? Please let us know and maybe we'll get the chance to give it a great What's Cooking Maui restaurant review!

Feel free to leave us a comment with any and all suggestions! Aloha!

Mala Ocean Tavern in Lahaina

Mala Ocean Tavern
Prime Views

Every town has that perfect spot for weekend lunch; in Lahaina, that place is Mala Ocean Tavern. Opened in 2005, by Mark and Judy Ellman, right off the bat Mala’s was the undisputed best place to linger with friends on a long afternoon while sipping a refreshing drink.

Sharing a table on the open-air lanai is best; from there you can watch the sea turtles engage in their underwater paddling contests, moving close to shore, then back out to sea with the waxing and waning surf.  Order a custom muddled mojito, one of Mala’s specialties, and soon you’ll also be going with the flow, which is what dining with friends should be about. Also highly recommended is the Spanish style sangria, crafted of red wine, soda, fresh fruits and a secret ingredient as invigorating as it is delicious.

Start with something for everyone (you wouldn’t want to rush) such as the stir-fry Brussels sprouts, edamame guacamole or the Mediterranean Quartet (a platter of feta cheese, hummus, olives, and babaganoush served with the island’s tastiest grilled pita). Although you’ll be tempted by a fantastic selection of healthy, vegetarian, and unique flavor options (such as lamb raita or gado gado salad) don’t overlook the standard burger and fries. At Mala the burger is delicacy in a bun, a hand formed Kobe beef graced with caramelized onions and your choice of cheese. The accompanying fries are sprinkled with fairy dust in the form of truffle oil and taste-bud stimulating spices. Aloha Friday never tasted so good!

Click to read the rest of this restaurant review!

Pacific`O Screening “Ingredients” November 20, 2010

Save the Date, November 20, 2010,  for an open-air screening of the movie, “Ingredients,” a revelation of the impact what we eat has on the environment and our bodies.

The director, Robert Bates, will be on hand to schmooze and answer any questions you may have. This is also a chance for us to help with the funding of their next production by contributing a portion of our proceeds to the making of the “Hawaii Ingredients”. So plan to be there at Pacific `O Restaurant for a night of great food, drinks and a movie!

For more Maui dining news and events, click here!

Noble Chef Event Raises over $100,000 for Culinary Students!!

If you were fortunate enough to be there last Friday, October 29, 2010, you already know what a fantastic event the neighbor island guest Chefs and Students of MCA prepared for the occasion. Follow the link for a behind the scenes recap of the event with notes of thanks from the committee and comments from participants!

Get the latest in Maui news here!

Wailea Restaurant Week, November 7 -13, 2010!

RESTAURANT WEEK WAILEA RETURNS 
November 7 – 13, 2010

Amazing three course pre-fixe meals for
$29, $39 or $49 per person 
(beverage, tax and gratuity are not included)

17 Wailea Resort Restaurants will be participating
in this spectacular celebration of cuisine!

Click here for Full menu

Here's your chance to smack your lips on some of the island's classiest gourmet dining for the cost of going out to breakfast in paradise!

Back by popular demand, Wailea Resort is proud to announce the return of its very successful dinner promotion, “Restaurant Week Wailea”. This celebration of Wailea’s finest cuisine will take place at 17 participating resort restaurants throughout Wailea starting Sunday, November 7th, through Saturday, November 13th.

Read the full restaurant review here!

Have you scoped our Restaurant Guide? You should!

Check out WCM's comprehensive HI Restaurant guide for a full listing of Maui restaurants. You can sort by Features, Location and Cuisine type to quickly narrow your search for Maui, HI restaurants. Whether you want to find a family restaurant in Lahaina, late night dining in Kihei or a coffeehouse upcountry, use What's Cooking Maui's HI Restaurant Guide whenever you need a recommendation!

Aloha Halloween 2010!

Check out what Maui has to offer October 30th and 31st!

BU! THE MAGICALLY ENCHANTED FOREST

Gather in the apparition of Bu!, for the go-to Halloween event for Maui’s GLBT community. An ambient environment and primary dance floor will be created by DJ Joe King, and the night’s other-worldly theme will be mastered by local favorite DJ Michale Fong. Plus, hip hop beats will boom from the Schaefer International Gallery (?!) with a simultaneous dance floor manned by DJ Teknyq and DJ AstroRaph. $35 General Admission / $95 VIP Package. Phone, 808-242-7469 for more information.

THREE’S BAR AND GRILL ZOMBIE’S PINUP PARTY, 7 pm – Dawn

Island Girl Pin Ups is bringing the glitz and glam of the Pin Up era back to life for Maui’s hottest Halloween party!

Experience A live Zombie Pin Up fashion show (Costuming by Enchantress Boutique) while sipping Smoking Blood Orange Martini’s. Watch as Zombie Belly Dancers (performance by Twisted Hips) dance to the music all night long by Del Sol. Plus! A spooky performance by Maui’s own Elvira!

Best costume of the evening will win a free Pin Up makeover and photo shoot by Island Girl Pin-Ups.

PINEAPPLE GRILL KAPALUA, 5:30 – WITCHING HOUR

The third annual Kapalua alternative to partying down on Front Street, now that Front Street Halloween is no more, offers ½ off selected bar menu at this award winning slinger of sumptuous cuisine, along with super solicitous bar specials. A Halloween Costume Contest awards the first place winner $100, which is likely enough to cover the cost of those “devil in the details” accessories you went all out for again this year. Scotty Rotten and Friends play dance worthy music 7:30-10:30 again this year.
HAVE FUN AND BE SAFE OUT THERE! WISHING YOU ALL TREATS AND NO TRICKS.

Read more about Maui's spooky events here! 

Halloween- Maui Style

Whether your version of celebration involves dancing in the moonlight with the truly wicked or lurking in the shadows with the merely winsome, Halloween is a time honored festival with roots in ancient harvest festivals, a time when the cycle of life is acknowledged, feared and simultaneously revered. But enough with the philosophy – on Maui the party is on! Join in any or all of the following, many for a good cause far beyond your personal amusement.

October 29, 2010
LAHAINA GATEWAY PINEAPPLE AND PUMPKINS CELEBRATION

All the wonderful stores and restaurants of the Lahaina Gateway Center are putting their hands in the middle and shouting out for Fall in Lahaina by hosting all sorts of fun things starting t 10 am – 2 pm, followed by a keiki Trick-or-Treating and Costume Contest from 4 – 7 pm.

5th ANNUAL HARVEST FESTIVAL AND CRAFT FAIR

Montessori Hale O Keiki is delighted to announce its fifth annual HARVEST FESTIVAL AND CRAFT FAIR, to be held on the grounds of its North Kihei campus at Trinity-by-the-Sea Church, 100 Kulanihakoi Street, on Saturday, October 30th, from 10am to 2pm.

This fun-filled family event features: games, pony rides, bouncy castles, a pie-eating contest, face painting, arts & crafts, a pumpkin patch, food & drinks and lots more. Proceeds from the Harvest Festival will directly benefit the children of Montessori Hale O Keiki by providing funds for financial aid and educational programs.

Montessori Hale O Keiki is South Maui’s only independent, fully-accredited nonprofit school, currently serving nearly 100 children in preschool to eighth grade.

MAUI ONSTAGE’S 5TH ANNUAL HAUNTED HOUSE

From 6 -9 pm the brave among us are invited to take a tour of the scariest haunted house on Maui. The chills are so frightening, in fact, that it’s not recommended for keiki or the more impressionable scardy-cats. Ghosts, witches, goblins and the return of the “Thriller Dancers” will generate more excitement than the Rocky Horror Glee Show! Only $4 for adults and $2 for those under sixteen who can handle the intensity of it all! Repeated again on October 30 and 31st.

Follow the link for more spooky events!

Monkeypod Kitchen and Japengo opening December, 2010!

Two new eagerly awaited eateries arrive on the Maui scene this December; Monkeypod Kitchen in Kihei and Japengo at the Hyatt Kaanapali.

Interior Rendering of Merriman's Maui Pub

Monkeypod Kitchen 
Chef Peter Merriman’s newest entry into the Maui food scene, Monkeypod Kitchen, will feature locally sourced, delicious food, 29 handcrafted beers served at 29 degrees (farenheit – Maui is located at 18 degrees), and an extensive list of wines and culinary cocktails.
The chef driven concept makes sense coming from Peter Merriman, who is a food pioneer and one of the founders of Hawaiian Regional Cuisine. Inspired by the people and products around him, he lead the movement to look at food in Hawaii as a locavore.
Monkeypod Kitchen will also feature an environment ripe for interaction and mingling, boasting a bar that seats 20+ and a welcoming Pizza pub within a pub. Designed as place to hang out and meet up with friends, micro brews on tap, extensive wine list, custom crafted cocktails, Merriman’s promises to have it all under one roof. 

Interior Rending Japengo

Japengo
The second restaurant I’m really looking forward to is Japengo at the Hyatt in Kaanapali.With a design led by Island Design Center, the dramatic transformation of the old Cascades begins with an updated interpretation of a Japanese fishing village, with narrow alleyways and quirky level changes leading to the Moon Bar, Sushi Lounge and outdoor dining overlooking the ocean. Covered with mossy green rustic porcelain tiles, The Village Alley Walk leads guests to the Sushi Lounge. As described in the press release:  Glowing amber elongated pendant lamps and banquettes of wasabi-green and deep olive create a clubby ambiance. Outside, guests enjoy trade winds and panoramic views of the resort’s 40-acre grounds, the ocean and Molokai and Lanai. Sounds so beautiful!
If it’s half as good as the award winning Japengo at the La Jolla Hyatt, which I fell for ten years ago, everything will also taste as good as it looks.


Follow the link to read the rest of these reviews!

'Aipono Wine Dinner Series – The Pineapple Grill at Kapalua, Oct. 23, 2010

Maui No Ka ‘Oi Magazine Presents another ‘Aipono Wine Dinner Series dinner at The Pineapple Grill at Kapalua, Saturday, October 23, 2010, 6:00pm Reception, 7:00pm Dinner. Always a stellar evening of wine and food!

Don't miss this amazing menu!

Don't Miss the Noble Chef Benefit for MCA on October 29, 2010!

Call now to reserve your place at Maui’s Premiere Benefit to support Maui Culinary Academy, training ground for future Iron Chefs and Masters of the Culinary Arts. The University of Hawaii Maui College is honored to host this prestigious event, highlighting the talents of students and facility while raising funds for scholarship, development and expansion of the culinary arts program.

This year’s event features guest Celebrity Chefs from our neighbor islands, including Chef Fabrice Huet from the Four Seasons, Manele Bay, Lanai; Chef Colin Hazama, Kauai Grill at St. Regis; Chef Collin Thornot, the Fairmont Orchid on the Big Island; and Chef Sheldon Simeon from Maui’s own Star Noodle, who will each manage a course from the multi-course menu while mentoring MCA aspiring chefs. Chef Donald Wressel of the Guittard Chocolate Company will also prepare luscious treats for all attendees. A sneak peek at the menu reveals it will be another stellar evening of wine and food.

Also on hand for the event is Chef Tylun Pang signing his new book release, “What Maui Likes to Eat,” featuring many other local celebrity chef contributors who will also be on site to sign the cookbooks and celebrate culinary arts with the community.

The live auction will feature stupendous packages custom created to suit the tastes of foodies and aficionados of the finer things in life. Chef’s Dinners, luxury accommodations, artful dinner parties, sunset sail, paniolo ranch dinner, tours of organic farms, in all thirteen delightful packages to help raise funds and excite the night.

To reserve your seat, click here!

Chocolate and Truffles Decadenza!

Celebrate Pulehu, An Italian Grill’s first anniversary. Explore sweet treats, indulgent hors d’oeuvres, and tempting spirits centered around chocolate and truffles. Proceeds to benefit the Maui County Farm Bureau. Wednesday, October 27, 2010, 5:30 – 8:30 pm. Read up on this amazing event and let your taste buds delight over this chocolatey treat!

Oktoberfest- Island Style at Umalu, October 9, 2010 4 pm -1 am!!

Grab your flip flops and swim suits and come party poolside with Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa. Festivities will kick-off with happy hour from 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Event highlights include live stylistic sounds from “Nuff Sedd,” the local Maui band known for their fresh reggae harmonies, door prizes, and multiple beer stations. Enjoy the sunset views at Ūmalu while feasting on an Island & German-style “grinds” buffet from 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm for $20, paired with all-night $6 well drinks and $4 draft specials. Continue the celebration underneath the stars with a late night menu serving after-hour favorites until 11:00 pm. The bar will be open until 1:00 am. Enjoy live music, dancing, beer stations, drink specials, and an Island & German Themed Buffet!

Read all about it here!

Ratatouille at Pulehu!

I love to say it almost as much as I love to eat it — Ratatouille! Hard to find on menus in Maui, one of my “best kept secret” restaurants has announced a splediferous addition to the menu as noted below. Stop in and see what you think.


Read the rest of the review here!

Maui County Fair- Best Food Fest of the Year!!

The joy rides are thrilling, the livestock tent marvelous, the horticulture exhibits beautiful, but ask most people why they love the County Fair and they will tell you, “The Food!”  The 88th Annual Maui County Fair opens with the Traditional Parade, Thursday, September 30, 2010 and runs through October 3rd. View a list of the onolicious items available at this year’s fair. With so many options, it’s a good thing the Fair lasts four days!

Sansei's Half Off Specials!

A don’t miss spot for sushi; ask anyone where to get the best sushi and you’ll always hear the name “Sansei’s.”

Get there early on discount days, because there will be a line. On Thursday evening after 10pm enjoy Karaoke along with the same half off special which is always a great time.

If you’re driving toward the Ritz Carlton, Sansei will be the place with a line out the door, and for good reason. Everything on the menu is amazing; from Caterpillar Rolls to Sliced Steak with Udon noodles.

It’s a classic dilemma: though it’s hard to resist screaming the name from the rooftops, the joy becomes bittersweet when you’re required to wait a little longer each week because the new fans expand the long line. Once bitten, you, too are sure to fall in love with the food, the atmosphere, and sheer fun you experience from the moment you arrive to the moment you feast your eyes on the colorful, fresh as it gets rolls.

Follow the link to get the rest of the inside scoop on Sansei!

Dining Deals and Steals- Half off the Bar Menu Thursdays and Fridays 8-10 pm at the Pineapple Grill in Kapalua

A relaxing, upscale atmosphere that features live music both nights. You can indulge in complete meals or merely lounge with pupus at half off, so sample everything.

Stay up in the bar area and enjoy the musical styling of their jazz trio who play on Fridays. On Saturday they have the nice local Jawaiin music being strummed on the ukulele. You get all this, plus great bartenders, while enjoy plater after plate of half-off pupus along with a few specialty items. One evening I topped off my record and had four helpings of of the chicken sate with peanut dipping sauce. At around $7 a plate, you couldn't make it at home for less.

Follow the link to continue reading the full restaurant review and check out other deals and steals in Kapaulua!

Maui Baseball – Na Koa Ikaika

Before Dive Master Richard came into the office with last weekend sporting a logo hat and waving a banner like a kid fresh from a carnival, I had no idea Maui even had a Pro Baseball Team. After he went on (and on) to explain how fun, energizing and exciting the afternoon had been, never mind how downright cheap it was, I began taking interest.

“And when this guy came sliding into home…the crowd went wild! I nearly spilled my nachos!” Richard gushed.

“What else do they serve?” I asked, poking around at my quinoa salad and grilled veggies. “Something better than that, I hope.”

“Chief, you have to stop eating that junk. It’s making you crabby. Go to the next game – Cool Cats caters. Plus, they have all the usual food for a ball game, dogs, nachos, ice cream and beer…”

I can always count on Richard to have the inside scoop.

Attend the game on August 31st, Pack the Park Night and get $2 off all tickets, $2 Hotdogs, $2 Sodas. Cheap seats are already only $6/pp so it’s possible to get a $4 ticket and $4 meal while having one heckuva good time at the old ball game and get change back from your hard earned $10.

Na Koa Ikaika is Maui’s Home Team in The Golden Baseball League. The GBL is presented by Safeway Inc./VONS, is a professional baseball league operating in the western United States, Hawaii, Mexico and Canada. Golden Baseball League teams include the Calgary Vipers in Calgary, the Chico Outlaws, the Edmonton Capitals, the Orange County Flyers, the St. George Roadrunners, the Yuma Scorpions, the Victoria Seals, the Tijuana Cimarrones, and the Tucson Toros in Tucson, AZ. Over 100 GBL players have been acquired by major league baseball or professional international baseball organizations during the last four years and over 70 former major leaguers have played in the GBL. Recently on of Na Koa Ikaika’s players, Keoni Ruth, was signed with the Phillies. More info on the league at www.goldenbaseball.com.

Besides the pro level of play, great competition, fresh air and sunshine, there is also between inning promos and games just like in the big leagues. And most importantly, they serve Cool Cats burgers, ball park franks, beer and peanuts.

First Friday Festival This Weekend!

It’s time again for Wailuku’s First Friday Street fair complete with demonstrations, entertainment, food and fun. Poetry, music festival, organic wine tasting and much, much more!

Late-Night Dining at Lahaina Cafe

Finding yourself famished in the wee hours of after a long night of being out and about in Maui is never a pleasant experience, until that is, you stumble upon the Lahaina Cafe, which offers Vietnamese, Chinese, and Sushi, from 8 a.m. to 4 a.m. this is the place to net Dim Sum for breakfast and lunch. American breakfast is only served from 8 a.m. to 3 a.m. There is also a sushi Bar at dinner hour.

So the next time you find yourself hungry at 3am, having the time of your life of a rough time of life, venture over to the Lahaina Cafe to experience late night dining at it's best.

Best Breakfast Maui – Lahaina, Kaanapali & West Side

Fueling yourself well is a top priority if you want to feel energized while enjoying all Maui has to offer – or simply prefer watching the beauty of the day unfolding in paradise as you eat your pancakes. For an eye-opening meal sure to revive and restore, we present the Best Breakfast Maui list for Lahaina, Kaanapali and the West Side.

Follow the link for the full list!

Lulu’s Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii

Remember the first time you tasted alcohol? The first sip at age twelve seems ghastly and then, wonder of wonders, you find yourself enjoying the shocking potion as you come of age.

So it was when I tried Lulu’s Hawaiian Superman cocktail. The potent concoction of Hawaiian Chili water and gin comes with a word of caution printed on the menu. But you’re a he-man, you like it hot, so you ignore the warning and order the drink along with Calamari Dynamite and a kalua pork quesadillas. You settle back under the glow of the tiki torch, take your first sip, and suddenly wonder who in the world came up with the idea of hot Hawaiian chili water as a cocktail! Not to be wasteful, you take another sip and before the meal is over, you’re snagged. The adrenaline and dopamine release from that first hit lingers long after in the reptilian area of your brain. Next time out, you’ll order it again.

Follow the link to read our full restaurant review!

Spam Jam, July 24, Maui Tropical Plantation

Spam in your in-box? Not a good thing. But finding the ubiquitous minced meat on a potluck table in Hawaii is cause for celebration!

Rejoice in Maui’s Love of SPAM at the First Annual Spam Jam, 10am-5 pm, July 24, at the Maui Tropical Plantation Field of Dreams. The event is hosted by KPOA morning goddess, Alaka`i Paleka, who will introduce entertainment by Kolohe Kai and Na Hoku award winners, Na Palapalai.

Kanoa Leahey and Sam Choy will also be on hand to judge the exciting Spam Challenge recipe contest. Cultural and family-friendly activities, near to the hearts of spam-loving locals and visitors, will offer plenty of opportunities for fun, even for Spam-shunning vegans.

Click here to read the full article!

Son`z and Stars Dinner/Show Package Hyatt Resort and Spa, Maui

Take date-night to new heights with the Son`z and Stars promotion, the most romantic of Hyatt’s dinner/show packages.

Start the evening right, with a sunset stroll along the ocean; before winding through Hyatt’s lush gardens in the direction of the lagoon (follow the swans!). Here you’ll find the award winning Son`z Restaurant, which has garnered accolades for their innovative menu delicious preparations.

The special stargazer dinner service starts with a choice of red or white wine and a salad of romaine with shaved parmesan and walnut crostini, followed by your choice of entrées, including; “Potato Scaled” Mahi-Mahi – with Cabernet-Balsamic Beure Rouge, and White Truffle Oil; Pappardelle Veneziana – Filet Mignon, Hamaka Mushrooms, Hand-cut Pasta and Red Wine-Tomato Demi Glaze; and Roasted Free Range Chicken – with Bel Paese and Proscuitto Stuffing, Mediterranean Salad, and Avolemono sauce. Dinner concludes with a plentiful platter of mini-malasadas and a trio of dips.

For more delicious details, visit our main site.

Pulehu, An Italian Grill, Monday Night Buffet $29.95

Pulehu, an Italian Grill at the Westin Kaanapali Ocean Villas, recently won the `Aipono Award for “Best Kept Secret” in Maui. Now that the secret is out, expect this hidden gem to garner even more awards next year.

Best Buffet? Best New Chef? Best Open-Air Dining Venue? Best Deal on Maui?

We could predict a slew of additional awards that might soon grace the walls of the chic eatery.

The new Monday Night All-you-can-eat Italian Buffet may also be Maui’s best kept dining secret – but it won’t be for long. Already hotel guests are flocking to the extensive selection of antipasti, salads, pastas, pizzas and Italian specialties, eager to fill their plates as soon as the doors open at 5:30 p.m.

Click here for the full article!

Gerard’s Lahaina Celebrates Bastille Day with 50% Off

Any day is a good day to celebrate at Gerard’s, Lahaina but on July 14th, in observation of the day the French won independence from the monarchy, the French Chef doffs his toque to his motherland and local patrons by offering kama`aina 50% off entrees! Not much more to say here except read our review, then call 877-661-8939 tout de suite to reserve your seat at the party!

Slow Food Maui Taste Education at Ali`i Lavender Farm July 10

Ever wonder if locally grown lettuce taste fresher or if it’s more flavorful than lettuce imported to Maui? Do varieties of tomatoes taste different? Have you ever had grass-fed, all natural Maui beef?

Well, now is the time to learn more about the food you eat and the sheer pleasure found in food Grown on Maui. Join representatives from Slow Food Maui for Taste Education – a tasting event that will allow you to enjoy and learn about food locally grown on Maui. Cost $5.00 for adults and children 10 and older to sample, one time each, from four taste stations. The taste stations are varieties of tomatoes, beef, lettuces, and jams & jellies. All offered at the Family Fun Day at Alii Kula Lavender on Saturday, July 10 from 9a-2pm. Call 808-878-3004 or email aklreservations@aklmaui.com for directions.

For more info, click here!

Makawao Independence Day Parade and Rodeo July 3, Maui, Hawaii

If you haven’t had the pleasure of witnessing the Makawao Independence Day parade this should be your year to do so. Horses festooned with floral leis, artistic face and body painting, kids perched on fenceposts – you’ll find a rare, old-fashioned, home town feeling at Makawao’s parade and rodeo this weekend.

More than 350 paniolos (cowboys) attend the rodeo from all over the world and compete at Oskie Rice Rodeo Arena, Makawao Rodeo, a mile above Makawao town, on Olinda Road at Kaanaolo Ranch on Maui. This Hawaiian style rodeo, with rough stock and roping events, features rodeo clowns and true grit excitement. Before and after the rodeo, enjoy live entertainment and country western dancing and a verity of local favorite foods and drink. What a great way to expand your horizons and take part in the great diversity present on such a small island as Maui.

Read the full article here!

Star Noodle Take Out Deals! Save 10%!

Now you have one more reason to order dinner from Star Noodle (as if the great food wasn’t enough!) With a $30 order you net a free Star Noodle carryout bag. Return the logo bag and get 10% off your take out order.

What will you order? Visit our main site for the menu and our earlier review. Get ready for YUM!

Disco Divas Dance to DJ Del Sol at David Paul’s Island Grill June 26, 7-10 p.m.

Expanded hours promise the Daring Divas of David Paul’s more time to have fun again this month with energizing disco dancing to DJ Del Sol! What better occasion to wear the newest, latest incarnations of that famed era, i.e. over sized tops paired with spandex bottoms. You know the ones…

It’s all in good fun and, as always, the fun is served with great food and drinks to benefit Women Helping Women.

Click here to read the full article.

Who Cut The Cheese in Kihei steps out of their comfort zone a bit and has arranged a unique Sake and Wine tasting for their next event at Stella Blues Cafe. Always an eye-opener, this low-key tasting event regularly introduces participants to new favorites and sometimes overlooked options.

Friday, June 18, 2010

SPATS WHITE OUT EXTRAVAGANZA! Hyatt Regency Maui Resort, June 19th

Hyatt Regency Maui celebrates summer with the last Spats party of the year! The incredible summer series of exciting parties at Spats, Hyatt’s famous nightclub, concludes with an event to remember. Enjoy a rockin’ evening featuring Maui’s premier party rockers – DJC & JD LX of Da Jam 98.3 – playing club hits, hiphop, mashups, and old school favorites. Hyped by Jay J of Wild 105.5. Plus, a midnight Dance-Off for a chance to win a two-night stay at Hyatt Regency Resort & Spa. Gentleman’s dress code strictly enforced – collared shirts, closed toed shoes, no hats or shorts. Exclusive VIP seating from 9pm – 11pm.

Click here for more info!

Pineapple Grill Winemaker Dinners June 24, 26th – Kapalua Wine and Food Festival

The 29th Annual Kapalua Wine & Food Festival promises to be another Fun Week of Wine Tastings, Chef’s Demos and Wine Dinners. Besides the extensive schedule of wine events slated through Kapalua, two additional dinners at Pineapple Grill will tempt you between the Grand Tasting on Friday and Seafood Extravaganza on Sunday.

The first is a very casual bar lanai gathering tasting the Wines of Santa Barbara. Winemaker Greg Brewer, winemaker of all three wineries, will be present to chat and discuss his winemaking styles and philosophy. Greg has been touted as the next Superstar of the Santa Barbara Region. Greg and the staff of Pineapple Grill present this event on Thursday evening to kick off the Kapalua Wine & Food Festival week.

Click here to read the full article.

Yogurtland – A New Temptation at Whaler’s Village Kaanapali

Sometimes I wish I’d never heard about certain things because once you’ve heard, you can’t go back.

When a friend told me about their daily outings to Yogurtland I had to check it out immediately. Not because I’m such a big frozen yogurt fan but because this particular friend is in enviable shape so of course I started to rationalize that maybe her daily tasty treat has something to do with her stunning muscles and glowing skin.

Still not expecting to be impressed, I was taken by surprise when I entered Yogurtland. Upon witnessing the beautiful simplicity in this self-serve concept – something I usually reject (salad bars and the like) – I was delighted as a child on his birthday.

Click here for the full article.

Kapalua Wine and Food Festival June 24-27

On June 24, 2010, the longest-running and most prestigious festival of its kind in Hawaii, celebrates 29 years of fine food and wine with a four-day culinary extravaganza!

Inspired by innovation, excellence and intimacy, the 29th annual Kapalua Wine & Food Festival explores some the most exciting trends in the gastronomic world.

Festival Host, Master Sommelier Fred Dame brings together world-renowned winemakers, top Master Sommeliers, celebrated chefs and industry insiders for a long-weekend of daily culinary exhibitions.

For full article and complete schedule, click here.

Maui Film Festival Wailea June 16- 20, 2010

Featuring the Celestial Cinema, the “crown jewel” of the Maui Film Festival at Wailea. An unequaled movie-going experience that has been drawing raves from the entertainment industry and movie lovers alike. With Dolby Digital Surround Sound on a 30′ x 50′ screen, set in a perfect grass amphitheater-shaped ‘bowl’ that accounts for its “you’ve gotta hear it to believe it” sound and “you’ve gotta see it to believe it” image quality.

Enjoy the Taste of Wailea culinary event featuring the top Chefs in Wailea, the decadent Taste of Chocolate, the MoonDance party opening night, and more!

Click here for the full article.

Top Foods To Try In Maui

According to WikiHow (and they know everything) two of the best ways to expand your mind is to travel and try new food. Travel to Maui and you’ve already accomplished one, and if you try a new food while you are here that’s two, which should make up for any of the other mind-numbing pursuits you might engage in while on vacation such as doing nothing while drinking mai tais.

Think about it; if you are what you eat, there’s another strong argument for trying the local foods if you’d like to get slip more quickly into the rhythm of the islands. Before you can twirl fire like that guy you saw in the Luau you’re gonna have to eat some poi.

To learn about the seven things you absolutely must try while in Maui, click here to visit our main site.

Wailea Maui Restaurant Week May 23 – 29, 2010

Last November we told you all about the wonderful concept in discount dining presented in tony Wailea, of all places. It was such a success it’s back by popular demand! Wailea Restaurant Week!!

This celebration of Wailea’s finest cuisine will take place at 16 participating resort restaurants throughout Wailea starting Sunday, May 23rd, through Saturday, May 29th.

Wailea Resort has long been known for its award winning culinary talent, delectable restaurants and celebrity chefs; and have once again created some amazing three course, pre-fixe menus for just $29*/$39* per person (*depending on the restaurant – beverages, tax and gratuity not included). Some restaurants have enhanced this promotion, by creating wine pairings to enjoy with your meal, at a very special price.

Click for full article at What's Cooking Maui

Lahaina Restoration Foundation Dinner May 28, 29

For a fabulous, fun dinner show benefiting the preservation of Lahaina’s history, buy tickets now for the Lahaina Restoration Foundation Dinner being presented May 27 and 28th. Maui’s top chefs and chefs in training from the Maui Culinary Academy will provide the dinner while costumed “townspeople” entertain with delightful re-enactments of historical vignettes from the old whaling town.

For more information, and more importantly, the menu, visit our main site here.

50% off fish and chips at the Kahului Ale House, every Friday!

This Friday, head out to the Kahului Ale House for their weekly Thank God It's Friday special. Half price on of all orders of fish and chips - hard to say no to that! For more info, visit our event calendar here.

Want to know more about the folks who write the reviews and find you the very best dinner deals? Read all about our hard working and hungry team here.

2nd Annual Maui Brewer's Festival

It's officially May, and that means we're closing in on the 2nd Annual Maui Brewer's Festival! On May 15th, head over to the Maui Arts and Cultural Center event lawn from 3 to 7 PM for beer tastings, great food, live music, and prize giveaways. For more details and ticket info, follow this link to our main site: http://bit.ly/caP9eX

Best Breakfast on Maui's West Side!

Fueling yourself well is a top priority if you want to feel energized while enjoying all Maui has to offer – or simply prefer watching the beauty of the day unfolding in paradise as you eat your pancakes. For an eye-opening meal sure to revive and restore, we present the Best Breakfast Maui list for Lahaina, Kaanapali and the West Side.

Honolua Store – Kapalua Maui

This quaint, old-world plantation store is a favorite of people from all walks of life including the tony visitors at the neighboring Ritz Carlton and residents of posh Pineapple Hill. Tradesmen and locals love it too, for the hearty helpings of tasty grinds offered at reasonable prices. Sit a spell on the porch while enjoying your waffles, eggs, musubi or omelets and listen to the birdies sing to the golfers as they tee off across the street.

Pineapple Grill

On weekends the award-winning restaurant, chef and management team serve the best Huevos Rancheros on island from 9-2 p.m. along with a number of other stand-out brunch fare including Lobster Florentine Benedict and their famous short ribs done up on weekends as hash and eggs. For sweet treats there are fluffy waffles and lavender scones drenched with lilikoi butter.

MORE ON MAUI RESTAURANT REVIEWS.....

What's Cooking Maui now has exclusive Maui restaurant and business coupons!!
http://ping.fm/FRT2Z

Happy St. Paddy's Day from Maui- here's a free recipe for Guinness-soaked Tuna! http://ping.fm/a2fue

Hot Maui Bartender: Mai Tai Lounge's Isabelle Fuerst http://ping.fm/BfuiX