I missed the sunset at Merriman’s but grinning patrons suggested a whale must have breached at the exact moment the sun skinny-dipped into the distant sea. Everything from the drive down toward the entrance and the complimentary valet parking, to walking in and being greeted by a full wine room and two nice hostesses, was music in the making …

Find the best restaurant deals in Kapalua, Maui, HI.

- by Charles Racine

There’s no better place for getting out of dodge and falling into love in Kaanapali than Basil Tomatoes.

Maui times awarded the Mai Tai Lounge purveyors of the Best Mai Tai two years running. That, coupled with the only rooftop dining in Maui, makes this restaurant a must see for visitors, and a “must frequent” for those who live here.

Plantation House a great place to take your friends and family as a reward for traveling all this way to enjoy your company and the glories of the tropical paradise we are fortunate to experience every day.

Because we live on an island, everything you do or say is heard through the coconut wireless (a term I dislike almost as much as the saying, “When you break up with someone, you don’t lose your girl, you just lose your turn.”)

There’s something about walking into a bar or restaurant, whether you’re with someone special or a good friend, that makes you feel significant when you are acknowledged as you pull up a stool and hear a, “How’s it been Kale? Welcome back,” followed by a warm handshake.

As anticipation built once again for the bursting flavor of tacos loaded with carne asada, cilantro, and my favorite salsa, I was whisked away to a familiar place. Home.

Since everything old is new again, it’s not surprising that many purportedly new food trends are things that have been de rigeur in Maui all along.

Deals galore for the Food, Wine and Spa lovers on your holiday gift list! Exclusive opportunities for What’s Cooking Maui readers!

All I want for Christmas is a Duke’s in Maui, Mala Wine Dinner, A Gastro Pub, Brunch at Hali`imaile, Paradise Found, a New Tapas Joint, a Seat at Tropica’s Chef Table, Super Dining Deals. Yes to all?! It must be Christmas!