Maui’s top chefs compete for the gold.Enjoy an evening of bold and delicious delights as some of Maui’s top chefs engage in some friendly competition at the 16th Annual Maui Chef Presents on Friday, Sept. 5, at the Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua Aloha Pavilion, from 6:30 to 10 p.m. The theme of this year’s event is, “Culinary Olympics: The Road to the Ritz,” and will feature an impressive lineup of culinary “competitors,” including Executive Chefs Ryan Luckey of Pineapple Grill, James McDonald of Pacific‘O and I‘o, Scott McGill of Hula Grill and Tom Muromoto of the Ka‘anapali Beach Hotel. In addition, Craig Erickson of Napili Kai’s Sea House Restaurant, Peter Slaventinsky of Longboards, Alex Stanislaw of Plantation House, Cindy Dellefave of The Melting Pot, Ivan Pahk of Sansei’s and Maui Culinary Academy Chef Ben Marquez will also be on hand to slice and dice some mouth-watering treats.
And holding onto the home field advantage this year is Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua Banyan Tree Chef Ryan Urig and Tadashi Yoshino of Kai.
In the spirit of the “real” Olympics, participating chefs and their teams will prepare two dishes representing a designated state, country or Olympic event. And spectators will reap the benefits, as these Olympians will fill exhibition booths containing nearly 700 portions of each culinary creation. Ka‘anapali Beach Hotel Chef Muromoto and his team will be representing the State of Hawai‘i by preparing some tasty treats with an island twist. “Guests and chefs alike love this event because everyone enjoys tasting all the delicious offerings,” said Muromoto.
As a five-time winner of the Taste of Lahaina, Muromoto thought it would be great to bring part of his victorious menu to this year’s Chef Presents. He plans to present his “Steroids-Free” Seafood Lawalu and a decadent dessert called the “Gold Medal” Banana Caramel Eruption.
“It’s a chance to get the chefs out for a fun night, since we spend a majority of our time in our own kitchens, and taste each other’s food,” said Muromoto. “It’s wonderful to see the camaraderie among your employees and other chefs, as well as members of the community.”
Napili Kai Sea House Restaurant Chef Erickson said he is excited to participate in his first Chef Presents. “I think the move to the spacious Aloha Pavilion is awesome for guests and chefs to hold an event of this magnitude,” he said. “It’s practically in our backyard, which allows my food appeal to guests who are willing to travel up here to dine.”
Erickson will be hosting a “Track and Field” themed table. In honor of the Beijing Olympics, his team will prepare steamed Asian buns, Baos filled with Peking duck and spicy ginger plum sauce. And as a tribute to Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps, Erickson created a “Phelps Freestyle Focaccia,” grilled macadamia nut focaccia bread with Kapalua tomatoes, pesto and fresh mozzarella.
“This is a great opportunity for Maui’s talented chefs to show what they can as well have some fun with their peers,” he said. “It’s also great for culinary students to retain information and get inspired.”
Grammy Award Nominee Raiatea Helm will perform a versatile collection of Hawaiian music and jazz during the event. And later in the evening, diners are encouraged to burn off the day’s calories by dancing to the tunes of the illustrious Jimmy Mac and the Kool Cats.
In addition, members of Soroptimist International of West Maui will be on hand with a silent auction. More than 600 diners are anticipated to attend and this premier event has been known to sell out. Tickets are available for $150, which includes all the food, wine, beer and entertainment you desire. Groups of 10 can reserve a table with a personal usher. Portions of the proceeds will benefit the Maui Community College Culinary Arts Scholarship Program.
For tickets, call the LahainaTown Action Committee at (808) 667-9175.