Maui's The Fairmont Kea Lani Re-Opens Signature Restaurant

Kō, which translates to “sugarcane” in Hawaiian, showcases the diverse culinary history of the sugarcane plantation era, serving innovative Hawaiian, Chinese, Filipino, Portuguese, Korean, and Japanese dishes. Led by Executive Chef Tylun Pang, the menu features family recipes that have been passed down for generations. Pang utilizes the island's fresh produce, meat and seafood and gives these authentic recipes a contemporary twist.
Designed to capture the beauty of Maui's sugarcane fields, every color, texture and design element in the new space blends effortlessly with the plantation-inspired cuisine. Supported without exterior beams, the new curved roof appears to be floating like a cloud hovering over a cane field in central Maui. Thousands of small, stainless steel beads are found hanging in fluid designs from the bottom of the roof. As they dance in the breeze, they're reminiscent of the sun cascading through Maui's misty rain. Fire elements pay homage to the sugarcane burning during harvest and are incorporated through odorless torches and glowing acrylic sconces. The restaurant also offers new rounded seating banquettes, accommodating both large parties and family-style dining, as it once was in Maui's plantation days.

The large circular bar sits at the entry of the restaurant and features bar and lounge-height seating, as well as tall cocktail tables. With an extensive new wine list and fresh signature cocktails, Kō bar now offers daily pau hana (happy hour) and live island-style music each night.

“Kō bar will offer guests a sophisticated, dynamic and energized atmosphere” says Charles Head, General Manager of The Fairmont Kea Lani, “the new hotspot will be just what Wailea visitors have been seeking.”

The Fairmont Kea Lani will also continue to offer the popular Twilight Dinner, a romantic three-course dining experience that includes a bottle of wine and personalized keepsake menus. Situated on the serene adult pool deck, the intimate Kō dinner is served in an private cabana under the soft glow of hanging lanterns.

Kō is located at the luxurious Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui in Wailea. This iconic resort encompasses 22 acres of tropical landscape and features 413 spacious one-bedroom suites and 37 private villas. The oceanfront resort also offers two lagoon-style pools, an adult pool, multiple dining options, exclusive retail shopping, Keiki Lani for children, spectacular event space, exclusive retail shopping and the full-service Spa Kea Lani. Providing the perfect combination of warm, personal service with authentic Hawaiian cultural activities, The Fairmont Kea Lani offers travelers luxury accommodations with a true sense of aloha.

With romantic cabana seating, fine dining in a new dynamic space and live entertainment in the bar, Kō provides a unique experience for every type of visitor. Kō is now open daily for lunch, pau hana (happy hour), and dinner. With advance scheduling, the restaurant is also available for private functions and events. To learn more, watch the short Kō video or visit www.korestaurant.com.

Hotel Profile, more photos: The Fairmont Kea Lani