By Erica Garza

Enjoy excellent cuisine paired with mesmerizing entertainment at the Feast at Lele.

With numerous luaus on the island to choose from, including the historic Old Lahaina Luau and the kid-friendly Ka’anapali Beach Luau, the Feast at Lele is our favorite for the romance, the quality of food, entertainment and location. Ideal for both kids and adults, visitors and locals, the Feast at Lele might cost a little more than others, but is well worth the few extra bucks.

After being greeted with a fresh flower lei, guests will enjoy a private table with their own server—rare for a luau in Maui. A full premium bar is available in addition to soft drinks, juices, coffee and tea. The setting here is in one word, majestic. Every table offers panoramic views of the West Maui sunsets and you get to dine with the knowledge that you are eating at the same beach where the ancient royal family of Maui once feasted and entertained.

Where most luaus generally serve food in a buffet-style setting, the Feast at Lele turns it up a notch and offers a four-course gourmet dining experience instead. Every course represents a contemporary twist on traditional island cuisine and different cultures. Begin the culinary rendez-vous with traditional Polynesian banana, taro and sweet potato chips served with a tropical ginger salsa. The first course, inspired by Hawaii, consists of mango sauce poi, imu roasted kalua big, fresh island fish with pohole ferns and heart of palms salad. Next up, the second course represents New Zealand, and includes sea bean duck salad with poha berry dressing, and Maori fishcake with mussels, salmon and scallops. The third course, inspired by Tahiti comprises steamed chicken and taro leaf in coconut milk, marinated fish and scallop on the shell. The final dish is Samoan and offers supa-sui or a grilled steak dish with baked breadfruit, taro leaf and coconut cream.

Having dinner served right to your table is a major plus at the Feast at Lele. Since there’s no time wasted on long buffet lines, you can indulge longer and enjoy the entertainment. Throughout your dinner, let your gaze fall upon authentic hula dancing with the sunset as a backdrop, Maori dancing, traditional ori and fire dancing that will illuminate the night.

Make a reservation in advance by calling (808) 667-5353.

Maui Now covers the latest food news and events throughout the island and appreciates suggestions. Please send tips or feedback to erica@mauinow.com.