Visitors to a sun-drenched beach destination are always keen to extend the day with the ritual of sunset. Watching the sun sink into the ocean while sipping a mai tai at a restaurant table with a view, means you’ve mastered life in paradise. Unfortunately, restaurants in Kaanapali and Lahaina with the best views are often nabbed by less experienced tourists.
Those looking for a more sedate and relaxed environment for the tropical island ritual would be wise to head for the hills instead. Independent reviewers gave Plantation House consistent mention as Maui’s (and perhaps Hawaii’s) most glorious place to watch the sunset. Perched four hundred feet above the sea, diners have open plantation window makai views of lani as the sun sinks into moana. Time your visit just right and you’ll catch this memorable day’s end with the sun drifting into the ocean between Lanai and Molokai, both spectacularly visible from this vantage point.
Plantation House is a sort of "last chance" destination in West Maui before the road rounds the bend past Honolua Bay and continues precariously through the mountains. So special is the view that owner Mike Hooks, manager Chris Kiawe, and chef Alex Stanislaw could probably get away with serving poi on a ti leaf. But considering the out of the way destination, they take no chances and up the ante by providing a sumptuous menu to match the vistas.
The signature dishes are appropriately from the sea. Fresh catch of the day, usually a choice of two or three, is offered prepared Sweet Island Breeze, Taste of the Rich Forest or Mediterranean style. I’ve tried all three and though each has a way of enhancing the flavors of the ultra fresh catch, my favorite remains the Island Breeze with sweet Thai sticky rice. My husband recently tried the pork tenderloin and found that pork done Hawaiian style is every bit as unique and tasty as the fish preparations. A superb wine list and a number of wines by the glass will surely satisfy wine lovers of all types.
Plantation House is also a favorite for breakfast offering eggs benedict with island touches like ahi or crabcakes. One of Plantation House’s premiere treats is French Press coffee. Rumor has it that this powerful brew will not keep you up after your dinner due to the unique processing of the finely ground beans, but will give you what you need to get going on the links in the morning.
It‘s cooler and breezier on the mountain so after the sun goes Aloha and the lights of the distant Kapalua resort shine, Plantation‘s huge fireplace may be lit to take the chill from the open-aired dining room . In the cozy and romantic setting, linger a bit by ordering the Banana Foster, or da kine Brownie.
Living up to the view is the greatest nightly challenge of Plantation House. We haven’t been disappointed yet by their efforts.