When it opened in 1980, a trailblazing destination resort called Hyatt Maui turned heads with its extensive gardens, water playgrounds, wildlife and a notable art collection. Now, thanks to a $15 million renovation scheduled for completion this month, the hotel - known today as Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa - is keeping competitive by adding a new dining venue and updating its accommodations.
Called Japengo, a new Asian fusion restaurant takes the place of the hotel's former Cascades restaurant, but it looks completely different from its predecessor. Designed to resemble a modern interpretation of a Japanese fishing village, it features narrow alleyways and unusual level changes leading guests to indoor and outdoor dining areas. Colors and materials are evocative of the celestial elements of the sun, moon and earth.
In creating the Japengo menu, Hyatt Regency Maui's executive chef Matt Smith draws from local produce and island flavors, using authentic Asian preparations and cooking methods. In the Sushi Lounge, guests can watch as creative sushi rolls are made to order; in the Moon Bar they can sip colorful Asian-inspired cocktail specials. Outside, diners can enjoy views of the resort's 40-acre grounds, swimming pools, water features and the islands of Molokai and Lanai. The mood is intimate with flickering tiki torches, pin spot lighting and high-backed settees.
Hyatt Regency Maui's accommodations have been renovated with a sleek, contemporary Hawaiian design billed as "both comfortable and sophisticated." The new room decor draws directly from the natural beauty of the surrounding blue ocean, red clay soil, green plantations and the vivid yellows and oranges of the island sun. A new graphic carpet and white bedding on the plantation-style platform bed set off vibrantly-colored textiles. Custom-designed ottomans stand in for coffee tables inspiring guests to unwind and put their feet up. A new wall-covering, with a hint of vertical grain, is a sustainable product made from recycled materials. Guestroom lana's provide panoramic mountain and ocean views allowing clients to connect with the great outdoors.
With these changes, Hyatt Regency Maui hopes to once again break new ground among resorts as it encourages bookings in 2011 and beyond.
The Details
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spawww.maui.hyatt.com