By Kristin Hashimoto

Humuhumunukunukuapua'a restaurant graphic, courtesy of the Grand Wailea

This Friday, the Grand Wailea resort’s restaurant, Humuhumunukunukuapua’a will offer guests an edible adventure in its monthly dining program aptly named, “Toast! A Celebration in Grand Food, Spirits and Fine Wine.”  This month take a journey through California’s Napa Valley, and Cakebread Cellars’ 982 acres of vineyards. Swallow heaven in heady little sips of red and white, as Humu chefs Isaac Bancaco and pastry chef Natalie Wilkinson craft five courses of exceptional flavor, color and texture, paired beautifully with Cakebread’s wines.

Wine from Cakebread Cellars, image courtesy of the Grand Wailea

Phyllis Nishimoto, of Kobrand Wine and Spirits, will host this dining and wining event. The welcome reception begins at 5:30 p.m. and dinner begins at 6:00 p.m.

The food at Humu is classified as “Pacific Rim” or “Pac-rim” styled cuisine, where “fusion” transcends trend, and Eastern, Western, Southern and Northern tastes and multi-ethnic influences exist harmoniously. The flavors retain a certain cultural integrity individually, yet coalesce into a uniquely pan-Asian, palate teasing, smile inducing cuisine that has made large ripples across the globe.

Want to know what’s on the menu Friday night?

First course: ‘Oluwalu Tomato Caprese Salad, Crispy Sesame Mozzarella,White Balsamic, Evonuk Fines Herbs,Olive Oil Shaved Ice, paired with Sauvignon Blanc 2009.

Second course: Kula White Corn-Miso Soup, Bonito Poached Spiny Lobster, Braised Ke`anae Watercress, paired with Chardonnay 2009.

Third course: Hibachi Pork Loin, Jasmine Tea, Kalua Baked Beans, Watanabe Rainbow Chard and 3-Spiced Pineapple-Apples, paired with Merlot 2009.

Fourth course: Pulehu Prime Ribeye, Black Truffle, Black Lava Salt, Black Chinkiang Vinaigrette and Crispy Summer Savory, paired with Cabernet Sauvignon 2009.

The sweet treat of the night is a Macadamia Nut Baklava with a creamy Coconut Curry Ice Cream.

The night’s foray into a splendid five course dinner with wine pairings is $100 per person. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Maui Visitor Industry Charity Walk. This event is for  individuals aged 21 and older. Call 808.875.1234 extension 4900, for details and/or reservations. Seating is limited. Valet parking is complimentary for dinner guests.