SIMMERING SUMMER . . . August is almost here and my garden is already wilting in anticipation. The sweltering air is also causing me to suffer from Polynesian paralysis.
The heat is on, and that is why people are flocking to Tutti Frutti frozen-yogurt store like bees to a hive. From 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, come to the Kahului store to cool off at its first anniversary party.
Win a Flip Ultra HD camcorder, cash prizes and enjoy live entertainment and 15 percent discounts. Tutti Frutti is easy to find in its spot across the street from Safeway. Check out new flavors and toppings, too.
Article Photos
The Maui News / CARLA TRACY photo
Katie Brenner of Longhi’s Wailea is part of the team that will serve the Summertime Chillin’ and Grillin’ Wines tasting at 5:45 p.m. Friday.
"Our seven machines always have 14 flavors and we rotate 30 flavors through," says owner and Maui boy Ken Chang. "You may swirl the yogurt and the flavors with our easy-to- use self-serve handles."
Popular yogurts include taro, peanut butter, chocolate and vanilla. Of course, the original tart is a great base from which to start. Local favorite toppings are mochi balls and azuki beans. But you may arrange fresh fruit, nuts, granola pieces and more on top. After filling, take the icy cups to the counter to be weighed.
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LIQUID LOWDOWN . . .There are two wine tastings on the horizon. The first will flow at Longhi's Wailea at 5:45 p.m. Friday.
"The theme for this one will be Summertime Chillin' and Grillin' Wines," says Jim Powlan of Chambers & Chambers Wine Merchants. "Taste five refreshing wines from around the world, paired with a tapas plate from Longhi's chef. Cost is $30, including tax and tip."
Cafe O' Lei in Wailuku will celebrate Spain's World Cup victory, when Maui's historic capital runs with its next First Friday event Aug. 6.
"You'll get three Spanish wines and paella all for $12," says Powlan. "It will be from 5 to 6 p.m., and I will be there to talk about soccer, and the wines, of course. Both Longhi's and Cafe O'Lei's events are a great way to meet new friends and start a weekend."
In addition, Powlan is an artist extraordinaire and his latest print hangs at Gannon's in Wailea.
For those who want to open a bottle of wine, but don't have a corkscrew, you may go online and view the funny, www.wimp.com/wineshoe. The link was sent to me by Gary Smith of the Waterfront. (Of course, Smith uses proper equipment on his award-winning list.)
We hear that Maui Brewing Co. was recently named Grand National Champion at the 2010 U.S. Open Beer Championships. "This puts us at the top of all breweries in the U.S.," gushes owner Garrett Morrero. "Go online and see the website at usopenbeer.com."
Wow Wee Kava Bar & Grill in Kahului reports diners love the new 808 Mango Vodka in martinis it is pouring to go with the sushi.
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BITS AND PIECES . . .Support Maui's farmers by enjoying fresh and sustainable produce, fish and meat with a $39 three-course dinner menu at Bistro Molokini in the Grand Wailea now through Aug. 3.
We Farm in Kapalua and Maui Cattle Co. will be featured and Grand Wailea will dish up oceanfront views and cuisine by Chef Clayton Arakawa. The farm-to-table menu sounds delectable.
Entree choices are wood-roasted Hawaiian parrot fish (uhu) with braised greens, prosciutto and parmesan-reggiano ravioli with white carrots and rock-shrimp champagne nage; or natural-beef tenderloin with red baby-beet gratin, and Surfing Goat Dairy cheese fondue.
Speaking of fondue, The Melting Pot in Lahaina is now offering a kamaaina deal with 15 percent off its Big Night Out menu for locals with Hawaii ID. Management also wants to get the word out that it's added steamed white rice to the menu.
* You may reach Dining Editor Carla Tracy at 242-6342.
