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Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua revitalizes signature restaurant, Banyan Tree

5 min read

The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua announces the debut of its newly reimagined signature restaurant, Banyan Tree, marking the final phase of completion for the resort-wide renovation and evolution of food and beverage outlets. With the talented and charismatic leader Chef Isabelle Toland at the helm, Banyan Tree is destined for a new level of culinary acknowledgement and praise for its fresh aesthetic, innovative menu and sustainable measures. The reimagined dining experience takes guests on a culinary journey of the various cultures of influence on Toland, while remaining anchored in local ingredients and Hawaiian traditions.

Highlighted by a modern, hand-crafted bar that serves as the focal point of the redesigned space by creating an open concept with expansive views, the restaurant's transformation pays homage to the history of the banyan tree in Hawaii as a gathering place to meet and share a meal under the shady of its canopy. Toland's vibrant new menu embraces that spirit and invites diners on a voyage to discover the roots of the land while incorporating the island's most unique and sustainable ingredients. Classic Hawaiian recipes are deconstructed and redesigned with a local twist using Mediterranean cooking techniques to develop a menu that will enliven the senses through the way of the islands.

With an emphasis on supporting local farms and farmers, Toland is bringing Banyan Tree back to its plantation roots, while dressing the menu with a French and Filipino flare inspired by her personal upbringing. A well-traveled and culturally versed individual, Toland vows to "put her past on the plate," showcasing her extensive years of culinary expertise in various regions of the world.

Born in Bordeaux, France and having lived her teenage years in Manila, Philippines, Toland drew inspiration for several dishes on the new Banyan Tree menu from the flavors and ingredients found in these traditional cuisines. As a child of the world who has called countless cities home, her culinary prowess and techniques are truly one-of-a-kind, reflecting her inspiring journey that has now landed her on the island of Maui.

"Growing up with a French dad and a Filipino-Spanish mother, food has always been a part of my upbringing. It's a culture, as opposed to a choice," says Toland. "My parents have always been travelers and so have I. I am grateful to be a world nomad with many cultures involved in my cooking and lifestyle."

As part of Toland's effort to connect the Banyan Tree restaurant back to its local and cultural roots, each menu item incorporates the Hawaiian culture in some capacity, be it technique, indigenous ingredients or a cultural custom. On the cocktail list, each beverage offered features an identifiable local ingredient with a story of the farmer or a nod to the source.

Toland and Banyan Tree's professional staff encourage guests to eat their food the way nature intended, with their hands. This is especially meant for items such as the Chef's Great Sea and Harvest towers, which includes a uniquely selected Ritz-Carlton caviar, Hawaiian sweet bread and Kona Maine lobster lumpia. The Banyan Tree restaurant is meant to invigorate each of the five senses -- sight, hearing, taste, smell and touch through a variety of delectable offerings.

Now with an expanded outdoor area complete with firepits, guests can sip cocktails and nosh on fireside bites as they witness the sun go down to unveil a canopy of stars that almost seems close enough to touch. And as the sun sets, diners will be treated to a fire knife and tiki torch lighting experience. The sounding of the conch shell will signal the beginning of the ceremony with chants that bid aloha and welcome to all.

The opening of Banyan Tree follows the debut of the resort's reimagined eateries including Ulana, a breakfast-only restaurant overlooking the gardens, pool and ocean, 'Olu, the poolside dining experience, and Kai Cafe, a new health-conscious grab-and-go spot with local, organic and seasonal items. The evolution of the resort's unparalleled culinary outlets is complemented by an extensive renovation that included a refresh of all guest rooms and residences, the stunning hotel lounge and lanai, and three-tiered pools and cabana area.

Should you be inclined to visit or find yourself on property, today is National Mai Tai Day, and the Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua knows how to celebrate with variations of this vibrant cocktail, including its own "Mai Tai Map," which offers a step-by-step guide to uncovering the best variety of Mai Tais served around the resort.

In keeping with the spirit, Banyan Tree has debuted its Signature Mai Tai, a refreshing island cocktail infused with exotic summer flavors of

Ron Zacapa 23 premium rum, Bacardi Reserva Ocho rum, Ferrand Dry Curacao, Lime Disaronno Amaretto and Macadamia Nut Orgeat as a fitting treat under the tropical Maui sun.

Banyan Tree is open for dinner nightly from 5 to 9 p.m. A separate Fireside Bar menu will accompany the main Banyan Tree menu for an additional, unique dining experience. Additionally, every evening during "Tiki Hour" from 5 to 6 p.m., guests will enjoy a savings on select pupu and Moet Imperial Champagne by the glass.

For more information or to make reservations at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, call (800) 262-8440, the hotel directly at 669-6200 or visit www.ritzcarlton.com/kapalua.

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