The Brasserie at Maui Thai Bistro, opening March 11. Courtesy photo.

Maui Thai Bistro, a local favorite in Kihei, has expanded and will be opening the doors of its new bar space to the public on Friday, March 11. The new bar has been coined ‘The Brasserie’ and will serve drinks from a brand-new cocktail list and food from the Bistro’s revamped appetizer menu, in a relaxed and elegant setting.

The long-awaited Brasserie will be open seven days a week from 4 to 10:30 p.m.  It also features two daily happy hours, from 4 to 6 p.m. and again from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Leaders say customers can expect something new and very different, from tropical classics to Thai fusion drinks.  The goal is to “harmoniously balance Thai and tropical ingredients to enhance the flavors of Chef Prakong’s cooking,” says bar manager Cory Wymer, who created the new cocktail list.

Maui Thai Bistro opened in 2013, and co-owner Chit Tharnthong shared some ideas on the culture behind the restaurant.

“Our venture is about authenticity. We are Thai, but we are also serious food people with a deep appreciation for the roots of modern cuisine,” he says.

Co-owner Oey Meesook spoke with Maui Now’s Kiaora Bohlool about the big jump from global finance to the restaurant business in this video.

Maui Thai Bistro and The Brasserie are located side-by-side in the back corner of the Rainbow Mall Complex at 2439 S. Kihei Road.