by Katie McMillan

Judging from the packed dinning room floor this past weekend, Maui welcomed the opening of Peter Merriman’s new restaurant Monkey Pod with open arms.

Monkey Pod's Sommelier Jason Vendrell helped us choose the best wine for our meal

Maui Now stopped by on Saturday evening, and was greeted at the door by Monkey Pod sommelier Jason Vendrell.  He promptly pointed out the extensive array of over thirty beers on tap—the largest selection on Maui.

Monkey Pod mixes class with comfort, making it unique compared to many of the other pricy options available in Wailea. It is the kind of place where you can enjoy a great glass of wine or a Chimay on tap with simple yet gourmet comfort foods such as Hamakua Wild Mushroom Wood Fired Pizza.

Locavores will delight knowing that many of the menu options include locally sourced ingredients, such as Kula Strawberry Crème Pie.

Our favorites include the Organic Shaved Fennel and Cashew Salad and the Wood Fired Chicken Wings that came with a blue cheese dipping sauce that was so delicious it was hard not to lick the bowl.

With affordable prices, friendly staff, a variety of menu options, and a fresh open-air atmosphere, Monkey Pod is a worthwhile treat.

Wood Fired Checken Wings with Monkey Pod's out of this world blue cheese dipping sauce

Monkey Pod is located in the Wailea Gateway Center up the road from the Shops at Wailea and they are open from 11:30 a.m.- 10:30 p.m.

The Social Scene covers island buzz—from people and parties to the chitter chatter of what people are talking about on Facebook and Twitter. Send your Social Scene tips to katie@mauinow.com.