Zanzabar Nightclub in Waikiki is still one of Hawaii’s best hot spots, once the sun sets over the deep, blue Pacific Ocean.

Zanzabar is located in the middle of Waikiki, inside the Waikiki Trade Center – at the corner of Seaside and Kuhio Avenues.

Even though Zanzabar Nightclub may no longer be as popular today compared to several years ago, the nightclub is still the most famous nightclub in all of Waikiki.

Zanzabar offers patrons state of the art equipment that creates the perfect playground for their very talented DJs to spin sounds that keep the hottest eye candy on the floor all night long.

If you are looking for some privacy, then VIP members can enjoy a sound-proof room and specialized entertainment for non-stop uninterrupted fun.

Popular Zanzabar Nightclub is known internationally, and it’s where both visitors and kama’aina (locals) play together until dawn.

Courtesy of:  Zanzabar Nightclub (VIP Room)

Featuring cutting-edge style, atmosphere, terrific music, clientele, and class, Zanzabar Nightclub is definitely the place to be to dance the night away.

Zanzabar can accommodate up to nearly 1,000 people, so plan to get their early for your best spot.
The nightclub welcomes people 21 and over or even 18 and over on certain nights. You can find parking available in the same building for $3 with validation.

Zanzabar Nightclub
2255 Kuhio Avenue
Honolulu, HI 96826
Phone: 808-924-3939

The Halekulani is one of the world’s finest and most acclaimed luxury resorts, and has just announced “The Art of The Cocktail” weekend. Since its inception in 1984, Halekulani has received more than five hundred accolades, awards and honoraria.

This wonderful event will take place starting on Friday, Sept. 17th through Sunday, Sept. 19th 2010.

Throughout the weekend, the “The Art of The Cocktail” summit will provide guests the opportunity to interact with some of the world’s most celebrated mixologists including – Dale DeGroff, Julie Reiner and Tony Abou-Ganim.

The Halekulani Living luxury and lifestyle series is designed to provide guests with immersive, authentic and memorable experiences by celebrating three distinct elements, Halekulani Connoisseur, Halekulani Wellness and Halekulani Masterworks. These programs aim to enrich lifestyles with everyday luxury, health and wellness, culinary escapes and masterful works of art.

Advance reservations are required for all “The Art of the Cocktail” events. A 5-seminar package is available for $160. Alternatively, guests can select their activities on an a-la-carte basis with rates ranging from $40 to $125 per person.

There is a full schedule of events planned at the Halekulani,  and include intimate gatherings, hands-on seminars, as well as numerous informative discussions. Below is a sample of what guests can enjoy:

Friday, September 17
Kick Off Cocktail Party Rub elbows with many of the world’s finest mixologists while sampling their spirited creations and enjoying delicious appetizers, accompanied by live jazz music.

Saturday, September 18
Spend the day in lively seminars, discussions and classes hosted by our who’s who of mixology.

* The Evolution of the Cocktail

Mixologists Julie Reiner, Dale DeGroff, Tony Abou-Ganim and Simon Ford engage in a panel discussion on where the industry was, where it is today and what we can look forward to in the future.

* Gin: The Noblest Spirit of All?

Simon Ford presents a historical overview of gin while Julie Reiner creates Classical and Contemporary cocktail creations.

* Tequila: The Treasured Agave Distillate

Dale DeGroff and Tony Abou-Ganim walk through a brief history and tasting of tequila while creating awe-inspiring cocktails, sharing insight on how to make the perfect margarita.

* Island to Island

Julie Reiner and Simon Ford prepare the most innovative cocktails while utilizing island influences from England to Hawaii.

* Stocking and Tending Your Home Bar

Tony Abou-Ganim, the “Modern Mixologist,” highlights the secrets of creating cocktails at home, explaining what should be stocked in a bar, tools of the trade, and how to use them.

Experience an evening of scintillating conversation at the Cocktail Palooza while guest mixologists shake and stir their signature specialties.

Sunday, September 19:
Wrap up the weekend at the Bloody Mary Brunch featuring the opportunity to create a signature bloody mary while enjoying a delectable 3-course brunch.

Ocean View room accommodations are available during the event at a special rate of $460 per night including daily breakfast for two (plus applicable taxes).

For information and reservations, please call (808) 931-5040.

Do yourselves a favor, — the next time you want a restaurant meal served to perfection, make a reservation at BLT Steak – (Bistro Laurent Tourondel), located at the Trump Waikiki, 223 Saratoga Rd., Honolulu, HI, 96815

OK, I never thought I’d say this, but move over, Ruth’s Chris, Hy’s, and Wolfgang’s, –there’s a new kid in town, and he has a knack for doing things right.

My friend and I had heard some good things about BLT, so we thought we would try it out ourselves and see what all the positive commotion was all about.

BLT is a medium sized restaurant and very tastefully decorated. We were seated at a corner booth located at the rear of the restaurant, which was unusually comfortable.

Starting things off, we chose a dozen fresh oysters on the half-shell ($34.00/doz.), but we first had to make a choice of which of 4 different species of oyster we desired. Now, that’s a first for me!

We made our selection after a brief course in “oysterology” from our server, and our selection was superb, –very mild tasting and very fresh, and served with lemon wedges and a horseradish seafood sauce.

An ice-cold Heineken went well with the little critters as we waited for our entree.

We chose a main course consisting of a Porterhouse for two ($72.00), cooked on the rare side of medium-rare, which was prepared with a red wine reduction and served with horseradish on the side.

I’m not a big Porterhouse aficionado, but this steak was to die for — most excellent!

A baked potato accompanied the steak for me, and my partner had roasted tomatoes. Both were prepared excellently and were quite enjoyable.

Both were priced ala carte at $8.00 each. We skipped the pre-entree salad, which I’m sure my dearly departed mother would be so upset about.

We chose an Arrowood Chardonnay, ($72.00), which was very enjoyable, but probably more suitable for the oysters than for the Porterhouse.

Dinner was capped off with a shared dessert consisting of a peanut butter chocolate mousse ($10.00), and a cappuccino. — This dessert was absolutely superb!

Our server, a young lady named Peris, was like a server from heaven. She was always attentive, very knowledgeable about everything on the menu, (including the oysters – now that was impressive!), and very professional.

I recommend BLT Steak wholeheartedly and trust that your experience will be as marvelous as ours. Please enjoy!

BLT Steak
Trump International Hotel Waikiki Beach Walk
223 Saratoga Road
Honolulu, HI 96815
Telephone: 808-683-7440

Author: Val Patacchi is a freelance writer and avid traveler.

Located on picturesque and legendary Waikiki Beach on Oahu, the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa now offers its guests a unique opportunity to combine insight into Hawaii’s rich culture of song and dance with a great exercise regimen – Hula-cise.

You can try Hula-cise at he hotel’s own Na Ho’ola Spa, several mornings a week. Taught by instructor Samantha Tom, both men and women can learn the basic movements of Hula, as well as engage their bodies in a low impact aerobic hula-exercise.

Samantha Tom is a native of Oahu and has over 18 years of dancing experience with an island hula halau (hula school).

Tom leads her guests in an hour-long session of hip movements, arm extensions and body motions that frame the culture of Hula, and conditions quads, gluts, core and lower back.

“Hula is a great morning exercise,” remarks Tom. “Paired with a spectacular view of the sun rising over Waikiki Beach’s Healing Stones, Hula-cise is the perfect way to begin the day.” While enjoying Na Ho’ola Spa’s two-story outlook on Waikiki Beach, guests will experience a stimulating work-out in true Polynesian style:

• A brief description of Hawaiian culture with traditional song selections that narrate the ancestry and art of Hawaii and the South Pacific Islands.
• Dance steps include four fundamental movements of Hula: Ka Holo, Ka‘o, Hela, and Ami.
  
• Classes are offered Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m.
• Cost is $25 per person and reservations are required.

For additional information about Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa, visit www.waikiki.hyatt.com.

I recently had a wonderful dinner at the Beachhouse at the Moana restaurant (formerly Banyan Veranda), at the Westin Moana Surfrider on Waikiki Beach.

The Beachhouse at the Moan restaurant’s back veranda surrounding the big banyan tree is truly one of the last vestiges of a bygone era. Too bad it is affected by too loud a pop music coming from the bar area by the pool / banyan tree.

Granted, the music was very good and was performed by a top notch one-man band, but it was not the kind of music that was conducive to carrying on a nice conversation over dinner, especially at its decibel level.

I ordered a 10 oz rare fillet mignon ($47.00), that was cooked to perfection. Preceding that, I had a Maui onion soup gratinee ($8.00), which also was one of the best soups I have ever tasted.

A baked potato (ala carte) ($7.00), accompanied the fillet and was served at room temperature with an almost lukewarm center – disappointing.

My partner ordered the raw seafood plate appetizer for two. It was served as an entree ($42.00), and was quite good. It included Lobster, king crab, ahi, oysters, and shrimp.

One annoying aspect that presented itself, was that we were seated at a table by the white railing closer to the ocean side.

Now I know it’s hard to ever think that would be annoying, but the truly annoying aspect was that every 5 minutes or so, the railing would vibrate for several minutes due to some piece of equipment in the laundry room below us that intermittently turned on.

The food at the Beachhouse at the Moana restaurant was generally quite good, however I may not come back because of the noise and “bad vibes”.

The dinner plus 3 glasses of wine came to about $175.00 with tip. — That was a bit high, everything considered.  Aloha.

Author: Val Patacchi is a freelance writer and avid traveler.

Beachhouse at the Moana
2365 Kalakaua Avenue
Honolulu, HI 96815
(808) 922-3111

Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant is a small national micobrewery chain that is well known for their terrific food and beer.

Located in Waikiki, Oahu – Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant is Hawaii’s first micro brewery restaurant.

The restaurant is also very busy and people love to have a great time there. Gordon Biersch’s is one of Oahu’s top destinations for its flavorful beers.

Patrons can enjoy spectacular views of the harbor.

Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant features fine handcrafted beer that’s brewed fresh on location. They use only the highest quality ingredients.

There are two bars so there’s plenty of room to mingle and have a good time.  Not sure what beer you want, try a free taste.  Just ask the friendly bartenders for a sample.

So if you’re on Oahu and looking for a great place to taste great food, drink fresh beer and enjoy live nightly entertainment in fabulous waterfront atmosphere, then try Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant.

Gordon Biersch Brewery is located in Aloha Towers, on the Harbor side on Pier 9.

Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant
1 Aloha Tower Dr
Aloha Tower Marketplace
Honolulu, HI  96813
808-599-4877
www.gordonbiersch.com/restaurants/

Halekulani, on the Hawaiian Island of Oahu is one of the world’s most acclaimed hotels. Since its opening in 1984, Halekulani has proudly received more than five hundred accolades, awards and honoraria. This amazing hotel is consistently ranked among the world’s finest.

The luxury hotel has just unveiled Pure Renewal at SpaHalekulani.  Spa guests at SpaHalekulani can now enjoy the ultimate 3 ½ hour detoxification experience.

Pure Renewal restores optimal well-being to the mind, body and soul.  Guests will be pampered and receive invigorating treatments, combined with nourishing cuisine and Halekulani’s personalized service.

The Pure Renewal treatment provides proven purification results … both inward and outward.

SpaHalekulani was the first spa to fully explore the healing cultures of Asia, Hawaii and the South Pacific.

Guests of SpaHalekulani receive a welcome that consists of the spa’s signature Foot Pounding, which includes an exclusive ritual that stimulates circulation in the feet. During this time, spa therapists can get a better understanding of specific guest needs.

To begin with, Pure Renewal offers a tea service consisting of warm Cinnamon Orange Tea. The purification process as the Cinnamon’s therapeutic value starts to calm the mind and promotes lymphatic drainage.

Next, is a Foot Reflexology session, that opens up the body’s circulation channels. Completing the detox experience, is pampering, full body massage that relaxes the lymphatic system and ultimately release stress.

As the next phase of the treatment begins, guests will enjoy a healthy and tasty Farm Fresh Lunch on SpaHalekulani’s own serene ocean front terrace. The lunch is heart healthy, savory and locally-sourced and you will enjoy the beautiful Pacific Ocean views.

Your Pure Renewal journey will continue, and entails two rituals of Full Body Skin Brushing. This treatment stimulates the lymphatic system. Wet brushing stimulates hormonal and oil-producing glands, for a healthy and youthful glow. Dry brushing regenerates skin via the process of exfoliation.

Next is an Espresso Limon Body Wrap. Coffee has long been known for its detoxifying and firming effects. Coffee also visibly diminishes the appearance of cellulite and eliminates water retention. The Espresso Limon Body Wrap also contains essential oils of cinnamon and lemon to ensure that skin boasts a long-lasting luster.

The conclusion of your SpaHalekulani Pure Renewal treatment, is with the Detox Therapy Foot Soak. It’s a tranquil treatment focused on recharging the body through the elimination of congested toxins through the feet. The Detox Therapy Foot Soak is the ultimate in holistic cleansing.

The Pure Renewal at SpaHalekulani is now available for $495 per person. Learn more at http://www.halekulani.com/spa_halekulani/

For reservations and information, please contact a travel planner, call Halekulani at (800) 367-2343 / (808) 923-2311 or visit the Halekulani website (www.halekulani.com).

The Colony Restaurant is located at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa, near the Diamond Head Tower on the second floor.

Now the you can enjoy a culinary masterpiece at the Colony Restaurant, for half the price.

The new three-course signature menu includes a trio of starters, kiawe grilled entrée, a choice of dessert, accompaniments and a beverage.

Foodies will love the elegant yet casual atmosphere of Colony where Chef Wind and his team prepare the ultimate in epicurean delights near the Kiwae wood fire. The feast begins with the trio of starters – California Roll Sushi, Casserole of Prawns, and Tomato and Maui Onion Salad.

The Kiawe grilled entrée follows with a selection of New York Strip Steak; Filet Mignon; Rib Eye or Catch of the Day. Accompaniments include a fully loaded baked potato and steamed asparagus.

The meal is complete with a selection of Mango and Banana Tango – a refreshing mango sorbet, banana gelato, and assortment of berries – or, Cinnamon Citrus Infused Crème Caramel with seasonal fruits.

The dinner may also be paired with a bottle of Cakebread Cellars Chardonnay or Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon for an additional $49 per bottle – a $70 savings.

“Our hotel guests and the local community seeking great value caught on quick to the $49 menus at Colony and Ciao Mein. It’s our classic cuisine cleverly disguised as a special offer and it has been a true success that will continue into the New Year,” says Vincent Brunnetti, food and beverage director at Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa.

The Colony Restaurant is open daily from 6 to 10 pm; a special $7 martini menu features in The Colony Lounge from 5:30 to 10:00 p.m.

Parking is complimentary with a restaurant validation.

For more information, please visit www.waikiki.hyatt.com or call (808) 237-6140 for Colony Restaurant reservations.

You can find Malaekahana Bay on the northeastern coast of Oahu between Laie and Kahuku.

Malaekahana Beach is fairly secluded but offers visitors a long white-sand beach to enjoy.

Due to small crowds, Malaekahana Beach is perfect for beach walks, playing in the water, sports activities, and simply relaxing.

If you want to spend a quiet day away from the crowded beaches, this is the place to go.

Malaekahana Bay provides nice conditions for both bodyboarding and surfing. During Winter, the waves are big but can be dangerous if you are not experienced.

Malaekahana Beach does not offer lifeguards, so please be aware of the surf and tide conditions, as well the reefs on some parts of the beach.

Just offshore, you can view a small island called Mokuauia Island, or more commonly knows as Goat Island. For those able to get to Goat Island, it offers a white, sandy beach. If you look carefully, you can often see the endangered green sea turtles.

Overall, Malaekahana Beach is a great place to have fun in the sun and sand. If you enjoy the solitude and a relaxing day on a quiet beach, then Malaekahana Beach should be high on your list.

Chef Nobu Matsuhisa will be returning to his Hawaii flagship restaurant, Nobu Waikiki at Waikiki Parc Hotel (Oahu, HI – www.waikikiparc.com) next week for a series of exclusive events that will provide individuals with rare insight on how he became a master chef.

The incredibly talented Chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa, is known to the world simply as “Nobu”. Chef Nobu is the acclaimed and highly influential chef proprietor of Nobu, Matsuhisa and Ubon restaurants all over the globe.

During his visit he will be conducting an exclusive Art of Sushi & Sake Tasting Class on Thusday, February 11th. The class will provide participants a rare and unique glimpse into how Nobu creates his famed dishes. Students will be able to directly interact with Nobu in the kitchen for a truly memorable hands-on experience followed by lunch with the famous chef.

In addition, Nobu will also be hosting guests at the Lounge at Nobu Waikiki for Aperitivo!, his signature happy hour. Aperitivo! will feature a tasting trio of Nobu’s selections served with a signature cocktail.

Chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa has received numerous prestigious honors from the culinary community, including:
- America’s 10 Best New Chefs by Food and Wine Magazine
- Southern California’s Rising Stars by Los Angeles Times Magazine
- induction into Who’s Who of Food and Beverage in America by the James Beard Foundation
- as well as many nominations for Outstanding Chef by the James Beard Foundation.