Tucked along Kauai’s lush north shore, Mediterranean Gourmet sits on a patch of green grass overlooking the ocean. It’s a peaceful, secluded spot to enjoy a leisurely lunch or dinner with family and friends. If you time it right, you get to see whales breaching 100 yards away.
If you are staying at the Hanalei Colony Resort as part of your Hawaii Vacation Package, all you have to do is walk across the lawn to enjoy delicious food and an ocean view. The atmosphere is relaxed and breezy and the afternoon can slip into evening if you are not paying attention.
The restaurant specializes in foods from Lebanon, Greece, Spain, France and Italy. Twists like coconut baklava and ginger infused hummus make the healthy Mediterranean fair uniquely Hawaiian.
Every night, folks enjoy dinner accompanied by live entertainment. Ocean waves blend with the soft sounds of classical guitarists or contemporary Hawaiian music. On Thursday nights belly dancers liven things up and every Tuesday night there is a luau.
Legendary Coppin Colburn and his family Hula Halau are what make this inside luau special. With a h3 emphasis on hula dancing, the luau sticks to Hawaiian tradition. Beautiful girls with long black hair dance among the tables and sway to melodic music and heartfelt lyrics that embody the Hawaiian connection to nature.
Tropical flowers line a wall and add splashes of color to every table top. Guests quickly laugh with neighboring diners during the two-and-a-half-hour family-style luau as gentle trade winds keep the evening cool. Everything for the luau is made in house and served buffet style. You will find traditional Hawaiian food like Kalua pork, fresh island fish, teriyaki chicken, lomi lomi salmon, taro rolls, Hanalei poi and a delicious vanilla cake with coconut pudding.
For those who prefer less exotic foods, the buffet also includes pepper steak stir-fry, vegetarian chow mein, Kauai organic salad, steamed rice, macaroni salad, and fruit salad. The first Mai Tai is on the house and the full bar and extensive wine list keep spirits high.
At the end of the show, heart pumping Tahitian and fire-knife dancing energize diners. The luau costs $69 and reservations are required because this fun luau books up fast! Call (808) 826-9875..
