The St. Regis Princeville Resort offers various dining options to satisfy those who just want a quick lunch in-between sunbathing sessions at the beach or those who aspire to a true gourmet experience while in Hawaii. Here is a review of the iconic Kauai Grill.
Being a fan of Jean-Georges Vongerichten (Jean Georges, Nougatine, Mercer Kitchen, and other Michelin awarded restaurants over the world) I had to book a table for dinner at the Kauai Grill during my stay on the island. Intimate mood lighting, tropical woods, dramatic views of the coastline, and modern cuisine make this restaurant unique on the island.
The menu is fantastic, and the wait staff is more than happy to suggest their personal favorites or specialties help you make up your mind. We were also told that more than 70% of the produce used in this restaurant is locally sourced.
After a first-round of exquisite cocktails, bread was served and it tasted like a piece of France – and I know bread! The emulsion of butter topped with sea salt and mango flavor was at the same time light and powerful.
For starters, we ordered the Pan Seared Sea Scallops and the Braised Octopus. The Scallops were amazing: so light, perfectly complementing the chopped bacon and apple puree. Even I, who am not a fan of octopus, must admit that these were magically delicious: tender and flavored with basil and fennel.
Then we moved on to the Nut and Seed Crusted Mahi served with a sweet and sour jus and grilled caramelized rice. If you think rice can’t be reinvented, wait until you taste this one. The fish was delicious, but it was nothing to compare with the second fish we ordered: Pan Seared Japanese Mero. It was soft and moist, simply fantastic in flavors thanks to the scallions, Thai basil, and Malaysian chili sauce.
To finish, we ordered the Caramelized Banana Cake and weren’t disappointed: the cake was light and airy, served with caramel ice cream, and crunchy praline bathed in a rich chocolate sauce. The Sauternes dessert wine pairing echoed the flavors of the plate perfectly, although we preferred the French Chateau Gravas 2010 for its subtle finish to the Far Niente ‘Dolce’ 2007 – still a great option. This overall experience has left a lasting impression on us and promises to be a highlight of your stay.
Where: The St. Regis Princeville Resort
5520 Ka Haku Rd, Princeville,
HI 96722, USA
Phone: +1 808-826-9644
Geoffrey Ravoire
Founder of UNITIATE, Geoffrey is a Marketing Expert, Luxury Specialist and Hospitality Enthusiast. Wherever he goes, his early career and personal interests have always helped him nurture and cultivate a passion for the Travel and Leisure industries. French-born, Geoffrey has accumulated an extensive experience abroad, thanks to regular visits to foreign countries but also thanks to years of expatriation. Currently based in Chicago, Geoffrey has already lived and worked in New York, Shanghai, Singapore and Monaco. You can meet Geoffrey on Twitter and Linkedin.
