Featured Restaurant: Island Hopper Tap Room
The Big Island is slowly seeing businesses recover and re-open since the pandemic has subsided. One of the places that was hit fairly hard was the Shops at Mauna Lani. Tommy Bahama’s has survived nicely and the Foodland Farms had a rough time but pulled through. We lost Pele’s Wok and Ruth Chris Steak House and nothing has returned to the Ruth Chris location, although I heard that another Steak House was in the plans for that space. Pele’s walk went under and this month’s featured restaurant has filled the void left by the Chinese restaurant. Island Hopper Tap Room, which has a Hilo location has now opened in the Shops at Mauna Lani in place of Pele’s Wok. We went there yesterday for lunch and the environment is quite inviting and new. There is a patio area with several large TV’s and it would be great for live music. Their primary draw is the immense number of craft beers that they offer from the islands as well as around the world. The offering is quite impressive and the food good as well. The staff seemed to be working out the kinks since they only opened a couple days prior but once everyone gets into a groove, I think this will be a fun place to visit.
Featured Activity: Mauna Kea Stargazing Adventures
This is the story of M. Pat Wright, founder and owner of Mauna Kea Star Gazing Adventures:
Since starting this outfit in 83’ with an ancient Land Cruiser and a basket full of dusty sweaters, my guides and I have had the enviable job of guiding inquisitive folks, like you, to the beauty of Mauna Kea. For us, guiding Mauna Kea isn’t a sideline, or the greatest new Instagram spot. For us, it’s our passion, our responsibility, and our pleasure. We invite you to experience what is quite possibly the most dramatic and stimulating scenery to be found anywhere. Journey with us to the top of this spectacular mountain in our 4X4 vans, enjoy a hearty meal, watch the breathtaking sunset and stargaze at the heavens.
What the Trip Includes:
• Extremely informative narration from our highly trained guides. Learn all about the cultural and natural aspects of the island.
• Convenient central pick-up points in Kailua Kona, Waikoloa Beach, Waikoloa Village or at the Gilbert Kahele Recreation Park
• Custom built, 4X4, Mercedes Sprinter vans – the best option available for safe transport to the summit, and panoramic views
• Superb scenery and photo opportunities with Sunset on the summit. Our guides can advise on getting the best images
• Arctic style hooded parkas and (one time use) gloves
• Hearty, 3 cheese, lasagna supper served at the Visitors Center about 1.5 hours before sunset
• 11″ Celestron CPC 1100 fully computerized telescopes with premium oculars operated by our expert guides
• A complete Stargazing program with visual and telescopic observations hosted by our expert guides (conditions permitting)
• Gourmet hot cocoa, coffee or tea accompanied with biscotti to ward off the chill while stargazing
