Four Seasons Resort Hualalai Opens 'ULU Ocean Grill & Sushi Lounge

KONA, Hawaii, Nov. 14, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Four Seasons Resort Hualālai at Historic Ka'ūpūlehu, the first and only Forbes Five-Star resort on Hawai'i Island, introduces 'ULU Ocean Grill & Sushi Lounge, a breathtaking new oceanfront fish and seafood restaurant, the latest enhancement to the Resort's dining experiences.

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The culinary team presents Executive Chef James Babian's acclaimed "R.S.A. - Regional, Seasonal and Artisanal" cuisine to Hawaii's most beautiful setting, alongside the surf and under the stars. Working with over 160 farmers and fishermen on the Island, Chef Babian and his team are leaders in sustainable dining. 'ULU, as with the entire Resort, features cuisine that is 75% from Hawaii Island.

The name 'ULU means "breadfruit", the staple food brought to Hawaii by the Polynesian voyagers to sustain life through their journey, which links the aina (land) and the kai (water) of the Island. The original name of Ka'ūpūlehu was Ka'ūlupūlehu, paying tribute to the breadfruit, its importance to the people of Hawaii Island and as a reminder to always act with aloha.

The restaurant showcases a stylish blend of Hawaiian architecture and modern flair - a lively, informal setting where guests are inspired, surprised and delighted by Hawaii's natural beauty and the flavors of the Pacific. Casual, friendly and knowledgeable servers guide guests through a social dining experience, highlighting an innovative ocean-to-table menu with playful tableside presentation. Cuisine is prepared oven roasted, flame grilled and wok fired, and signature dishes include: Oven Roasted Whole Fish, Lobster Wonton Soup, Table-side Ahi Poke and Lilikoi Malasadas. An extensive wine list, with a special selection of boutique wines is presented via iPad, complete with tasting notes and ratings to make the selection process more interactive and informative. The Wine Table displays wines, decanters and glassware, where 'ULU's wine expert will interact with guests. 

Designed by Jennifer Johanson of EDG Interior Architecture & Design, 'ULU offers three distinct private dining terraces are ideal for larger parties and special events: Makai Lanai for tableside dining and beach receptions, Kohala Room on the north end of the restaurant with the adjacent buffet area and Moana Terrace, offering the most privacy and clear oceanfront setting.

The modern sushi lounge and 10-seat ocean view bar feature the Island's freshest sushi, as well as craft cocktails, sake and Japanese beers. Signature dishes include: Fire & Ice Crab Roll, Crunchy Shrimp Roll and Kampachi Sashimi; while signature craft cocktails include the Kona Kaffir, a cocktail made entirely from ingredients harvested within 100 miles of the Resort. After-dinner drinks are enjoyed in a social setting around the fire pit on the beachside terrace.

A weekly Saturday night Farm-to-Table signature event will be hosted by Chef Babian, celebrating the bounty of the Island. Following a beachside reception, guests on Makai Lanai enjoy a prix-fixe menu showcasing the best of Hawaii Island's offerings.

By day, 'ULU presents an extensive a la carte and buffet breakfast, with delectable action stations as well as bespoke juices and a selection of Kona's finest estate coffees. The Hawaiian Coffee House is a themed lounge within the restaurant, offering a barista bar, tableside brewed coffee, signature breakfast sandwiches, acai bowls and fresh pastry - perfect for guests looking for a lighter start to the day. 'ULU seats 195 in the dining room and 32 in the sushi lounge and bar, and is open for breakfast and dinner daily.

"'ULU pays tribute to the beauty, bounty and spirit of Hawai'i Island," says Robert Whitfield, regional vice president and general manager of Four Seasons Resort Hualālai. "This new and stylish dining experience offers a number of ways to enjoy a meal – be it loungy and social, or quiet and romantic – all following our commitment to keeping it 'regional, seasonal, artisanal'."

Guests are invited to book the Experience Hualālai package, which includes a $500 resort credit. This five-night package includes luxurious accommodations, and the resort credit is applicable to incidental charges, including dining, Spa and Resort activities.

For more information and reservations, please call toll-free (888) 340-5662, contact your travel professional (chain code FS) or visit the Resort online at www.fourseasons.com/hualalai.

SOURCE Four Seasons Resort Hualalai