Cilantro Restaurant to Move to Ka’anapali as “Sangrita”

By Maui Now Staff

Cilantro’s Spinach, Mushroom, and Poblano Enchiladas. Photo by Vanessa Wolf.

Cilantro Mexican Grill will be closing at the end of November to transition to a new venture, Sangrita Grill and Cantina in Ka’anapali.

Cilantro says it will offer their popular lunch specials all day, every day as it counts down to closing on the last day of November.

Cilantro opened in April 2004 and claimed to feature food with a “fresh take on Old Mexico.”

“This is our way of giving back to the residents and visitors who have supported us for so many years,” said chef and owner Paris Nabavi in an announcement. “We want to make sure everyone has the opportunity to say Alohadiós before we go. And it gives us a chance to welcome them to our new venture, Sangrita Grill and Cantina in Ka’anapali.”

Sangrita Grill and Cantina, which is targeted to open mid-January 2014, will feature sit-down, full restaurant service, tequila bar, and market in West Maui serving “inspired” versions of authentic Mexican soul food and the island’s “largest selection” of artisanal tequila and mezcal.

Located in the Fairway Shops, Sangrita says it will be open daily for lunch, happy hour, and dinner.

A classically trained chef with a business background, Chef Nabavi held executive–level positions as director of food and beverage for Fairmont Hotels and the Kapalua Bay Hotel prior to launching his first private restaurant venture, Pizza Paradiso Mediterranean Grill in 1995, according to the restaurant.

Exceptional Small Business (10 or fewer employees) awarded to
Paris Nabavi (second from right) of Cilantro. Maui County photo.

Nabavi’s current initiatives include partnering with Maui School Garden Network to sponsor organic seed for school gardens throughout the islands of Maui, Molokai and Lanai.

Nabavi was recently named “Exceptional Small Businessman” for 2013 for Maui County.

—

Cilantro Mexican Grill is located in the Old Lahaina Shopping Center 170 Papalua Street #140. 808-667-5444. www.cilantrogrill.com

Sangrita Grill and Cantina: 808-662-6000. www.sangritagrill.com