Maui Bold
Romance is always in the air at Hotel Wailea — especially for those who have a love affair with food. This adults-only, Relais & Châteaux boutique hotel, perched above South Maui’s luxury resorts, is often celebrated as a honeymooner’s dream. But lately, it’s also earned acclaim among culinary travelers in search of something truly special. With sweeping views, a tranquil atmosphere, and a steadfast commitment to sourcing the best local ingredients, Hotel Wailea offers one of the most immersive dining journeys in the islands. And at the heart of it all is The Chef’s Table experience.
Tucked within the bustling epicenter of The Restaurant at Hotel Wailea, The Chef’s Table offers an intimate, behind-the-scenes seat to the magic. Available to only one seating per night, guests are seated “on the pass,” face-to-face with the chef team, where they enjoy a curated five-course tasting menu that highlights the freshest bounty of Maui’s land and sea.
Far more than a meal, this is a culinary performance. The first thought that came to mind was The Bear, sans the heavy doses of insanity — at least for that particular night. (Although I was half-jokingly told that Cruz and some members of his team refuse to watch the show — perhaps a few scenes might hit a little too close to home).
The dynamic menu is reflective of Executive Chef Ryan Cruz’s commitment to both innovation and local sourcing. Dishes might include Tortelloni with king crab, Parmesan and lemon; Opakapaka and lobster with shallot and miso; or an A5 Wagyu, beautifully balanced with a Bordelaise sauce and potato purée. The format allows guests to connect directly with the chefs, ask questions and learn the stories behind each dish’s ingredients.
Appointed Executive Chef in March 2023, Cruz has brought new energy and creativity to the restaurant’s already distinguished culinary program. A Southern California native with roots in the Philippines, Chef Ryan’s global career has spanned CUT Beverly Hills, Spago Istanbul and private chef work for clients like Oprah Winfrey. Since settling on Maui, he’s built close relationships with local farmers and fishers, ensuring his menus reflect both the island’s agricultural richness and its deep culinary soul.
“The Chef’s Table is more than just a table in the kitchen — it’s a window into our culinary world,” says Hotel Wailea founder Jon McManus. “It’s where technique meets intention, and guests can feel the heart behind what we do.”
That heart is palpable throughout the kitchen. As a Relais & Châteaux property, Hotel Wailea prioritizes not just culinary excellence but also culture and character. Their state-of-the-art kitchen — equipped with the latest from Hestan — is led by a team that values both professionalism and joy. Cruz, along with Director of Food & Beverage and Advanced Sommelier Derrin Abac, and Assistant Director Jonathan Adkisson, has fostered a respectful, inclusive work environment where collaboration thrives. It’s not unusual to see chefs smiling mid-service, exchanging stories with diners between courses.
Of course, no world-class meal is complete without an equally thoughtful wine pairing. That’s where Abac comes in. He has built one of Hawai‘i’s most extensive and intriguing wine programs. His list is curated with intention — balancing classics from Burgundy and Napa with lesser-known selections from Sicily, Bierzo and Champagne grower-producers. His ability to source rare bottles — often skipped by major coastal markets — is a testament to his deep relationships with importers and producers.
For those seeking an al fresco alternative, Hotel Wailea also offers The Chef’s Garden Table experience — a five-course dinner nestled in the property’s lush gardens with panoramic ocean views. But it’s The Chef’s Table that brings the guest closest to the action and the soul of the kitchen.
In a setting where nothing is an afterthought, and every dish is thoughtfully prepared and presented, The Chef’s Table is the ultimate culinary experience for those who crave more than just a meal; it’s that third place for those who seek connection, craft and the taste of something unforgettable.
Hotel Wailea
555 Kaukahi St, Wailea
(808) 874-0500
hotelwailea.com