If life really is "one long weekend," then Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar in the Shops at Wailea is the place to kick back and enjoy it.
The restaurant recently underwent an exciting face-lift and it dazzled attendees at its Starry Night Moondance party as part of Maui Film Festival at Wailea.
"Our goal was to make the restaurant upscale, classier with a sexy vibe, and I think we nailed it," says Rob Aspaas, general manager. "I think we elevated the party from what we had in year's past."
Article Photos
Regional Corporate Chef Rey Baysa and server Kanoe Clark showcase some new farm-to-table items that rolled out Monday.
The Maui News / CARLA TRACY photo
As for the ambience, even the private dining room was transformed into a VIP Room for the stars, with cozy couches and love seats and compelling photographs from the South of France on the newly papered walls.
"Even our menu is different. We elevated the look from a bungalow feel to what you would be served in a beautiful plantation home."
Now, diners will find Tommy's serves "better and cleaner dishes with lower price points," which are appealing to both locals and visitors.
"We don't want to be a special occasion type of place," continues Aspaas. "There is enough variety that you can come here three or four times during your stay. We don't want you to rob the bank."
The new farm-to-table menu just rolled out Monday, and it incorporates local produce and proteins from around the island chain.
Fish lovers will want to try the new ahi tuna tacos, a set of four situated on a cute metal stand. Wonton shells are filled with sesame chipotle dressing Asian slaw and wasabi-lime- infused avocado.
The mushroom and onion Kobe burger features local grass-fed Wagyu beef that comes on toasted brioche with garlic aioli, gruyere, braised mushrooms, grilled onion and crispy shiitake with fries.
"For the rest of the summer on Thursdays, we'll also offer half off our wine bottles, even the reserves," says Aspaas. I'll cringe a little when our Silver Oak reserve goes out at half price. But it proves that our food pairs really well with a good bottle of wine. So enjoy it!"
"With the film party and the remodel out of the way, our focus is to let the restaurant speak for itself. We also have a fun, daily happy hour from 3 to 5 p.m., and the new private room is perfect for parties for up to 44 people."
For reservations or more details, call 875-9983.
