The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua Respects its Pineapple Roots

Hawaiian-style ceviche, a Summer pūpū special at The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua’s Banyan Tree Restaurant. Features tako, kampachi, ikura, ogo-inamona, crispy soft shell crab and grated foie gras. Courtesy photo

In honor of National Pineapple Day on Wed. June 27, The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua is unveiling new eco-friendly, pineapple-themed initiatives.

The resort respects its pineapple plantation history and Hawai‘i’s beloved fruit by rolling out a “pineapple menu” with dishes and beverages served in carved out pineapples, and by planting its very own on-property pineapple patch.

Nestled within the 22,000-acre Kapalua Resort on Maui’s lush Northwest shore, The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua stands on the grounds of a historic former pineapple plantation. Deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture and tradition, the luxury resort is dedicated to sharing an authentic Hawaiian experience and the warm spirit of Aloha with each guest.

In recognition of this whimsical holiday, the resort’s signature and award-winning Banyan Tree Restaurant is introducing a summer pūpū special of Hawaiian-style ceviche, which includes tako, kampachi, ikura, ogo-inamona, crispy soft shell crab and grated foie gras. There’s also an eco-friendly special of pineapple sausage skewers, using the biodegradable, excess pineapple exterior to serve the dish.

Maui Chef of the Year for 2018, Head Chef Alvin Savella, upholds his notability as the ‘Kitchen Assassin,’ using the pineapple to create this unexpected – but delicious – original dish. In addition to the summer special, the resort’s refreshing pineapple cocktail is actually served in fresh pineapples, making it the perfect photo-worthy and environmentally-sound tropical treat.

Recognized as a Hawai‘i Certified Green business, The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua is dedicated to implementing sustainable measures and environmentally-friendly practices. This past Earth Day, locals and hotel guests volunteered to help plant the resort’s very own pineapple patch, which is now an expanded part of the resort’s larger on-site herb garden. Aided by the warm Maui sun, these organic and local crops are featured in the resort’s restaurant dishes and spa treatments.