Maui Edition: Seafood Festfeatured

While we’re on the island vibe…let’s talk about the ridiculous closing finale of the Kapalua Wine and Food Festival: the Seafood Festival.

Beachside Grilling

Sponsored by Maui No Ka ‘Oi Magazine, this beachside party was the perfect culmination to an amazing weekend. 13 of Maui’s top chefs prepared two dishes each, featuring the freshest seafood the island has to offer.

Photo Credit: Martha Cheng

Participating Restaurants included:

• Bev Gannon Restaurants
• Banyan Tree
• Capische?
• David Paul’s Island Grill
• I’O/Pacific’O Restaurants
• Kai Sushi Bar
• Maui Culinary Academy
• Merriman’s Kapalua
• Pineapple Grill
• The Plantation House Restaurant
• Roy’s Restaurant Maui
• Ruth’s Chris Steak House
• Wolfgang Puck’s “Spago”

A lavish dessert spread was also created by Chef Ashley of The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua.

Escabeche of Island Snapper from David Paul's Island Grill

After some careful tasting by a panel of judges, David Paul’s Island Grill was awarded “Best Seafood Dish” for their Escabeche of Island Snapper — Olive oil roasted snapper on crisp rosemary crostini with a pancetta vinaigrette.

Charred Confit of Bit Eye Tuna from I'O/Pacific'O

I’O/Pacific’O Restaurants was awarded “Best Overall Dish” for their Charred Confit of Big Eye Tuna — seared big eye tuna in Kaffir scented olive oil served over carrot juice risotto with baby O’O Farm Heirloom carrots, garnished with organic watermelon radish and mint.

King Salmon Crudo from Capische?

I also personally loved the King Salmon Crudo from Capische? — crazy fresh salmon crudo with a surprising, refreshing tomato water ice, cucumber salad and an olive caramel garnish.

Enough talk though…I’ll let the dishes speak for themselves 🙂