Hoku's at the Kahala Hotel & Resort

After a hectic week with my bosses in town, we relaxed over a nice meal and fine wine at Hoku's. We had a window seat with an incredible view, and just as we sat down, I noticed a cute couple that had just got engaged. The young smiling woman was holding a little black box, and was in constant embrace with her new fiancee. How sweet!

Dinner started off on a nice foot! It's been years since I've eaten at Hoku's so I was really looking forward to it. Hoku's is located in the Kahala Hotel and Resort, a gorgeous hotel which I love to frequent. Not only is the inside of the hotel breathtaking with its high ceilings and open air, but the stairs down to the ballrooms has a beautiful array of colorful orchids with a light, lingering scent. If you walk outside to the pool, there's also a little pond with dolphins in it, as well as a artificial waterfall, which is a nice backdrop for pictures. Don't care so much for the pool? You came to Hawaii to lay on the beach right?? Perfect! Walk right out of the pool area to the beach. The hotel is ocean side!

Go there to sit and relax away from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki. Beware, staying there is pricey! If you have the time and money, going there for afternoon tea or an early drink is a must. Their Mango Mojitos are silent killers! Tastes like juice, but once you stand up, you feel it. You get the gist ;)) The Plumeria Room also has great brunch/lunch and a Sunday buffet. My grandma loved going there. It seems like this hotel just puts you in a different mood overall. You forget all stress of the world, and you feel like you're on a never-ending vacation. That is, until you leave the hotel...

Anyway, aside from my Kahala Hotel personal advertisement (haha!), my dinner at Hoku's was really nice. A very fine dining experience with superb food and wine. All cravings and epicurean desires were immediately satisfied. What really stood out was the wine! Both the Merlot and Pinot Noir I had were full-bodied and buttery. I also recommend the Wok Fried Imperial Prawns. You can either order with the crispy skin ON or taken off for you. For me, I loved it with the crunch on! It added extra flavor!

Prawns and a glass of Merlot of Pinot, and you're ready for a night of ultimate relaxation!

American Apparel striped tank, Urban Outfitters Skirt, Jessica Simpson heels, Michael Kors watch, Express knot necklace, Butik rings, and Bamboo Sky Ladakh cardigan. I love the flowy and light fabric of this cardi. It's my most favorite item in my closet now!

Hoku's Ahi Poke Dip in place of butter for the bread basket! SO delicious. I could have eaten the whole basket with this slathered on the bread!

2003 Napa Valley Vine Cliff Merlot- So smooth and full-bodied.

Classy touches.

Chef's Scallop with Watermelon Relish to start

Salad Special- Hoku's version of Caprese! My favorite! Creamy cheese with sweet/salty balsamic reduction with juicy tomatoes on a nice crunchy piece of bread. Pesto drippings with minty basil!!!

Mom had their Seafood Chowder which sounded delicious. Chunks of Scallop, Lobster, Crab, Ogo, Chives.

Waimanalo Valley Green Salad- Acai Pomegranate Vinaigrette with Granola Croutons.

Fresh Island Sashimi

The most buttery Pinot.

Fresh Pacific Catch of the Day- Grouper

Imperial Prawns- Hoku's version of Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp. Wok Fried Jumbo Prawns, Wok Fried Vegetables and Fried Rice!!

Lilikoi Gratin for Dessert! Raspberry Sorbet, Kiwi Fruit Salad with a tinge of basil and mint flavor.

Hoku's Specialty! Chocolate Cake!

This is what I chose! Champagne and Cream Cheese Mille Feuille- Roasted Red Grapes, Apricot-Thyme Sorbet.

The Mille Feuille really tasted like flat champagne. Basically a dessert with a champagne taste sans the bubbles. Different. I think I'd stick with Mom and Dad's Lilikoi Gratin. A very light and citrusy dessert.

Complimentary Truffles for THE END. What a nice way to end the night!!