Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
believed that the ruling Tahitian class put the lower, Marquesan class to work on
building the fishponds.
As Hawaiian society progressed and the centuries wore on, it's theorized that the
manahune
remained as lower-class citizens. Much of the evidence for this theory is
derived from a census which took place on the island of Kaua'i in 1820, where, in
a tantalizing fusion of history and lore, 65 citizens classified themselves as being
manahune.
So was Ko'ie'ie Fishpond built by magical little people or was it constructed by
a diminutive class of indentured workers? Since there was no written language at
the time of its construction (believed to be AD 1400-1500), all we are left with are
the legends, the stones . . . and the Menehune Shores condominium on the shoreline.
If late-night karaoke isn't your scene, head for the sushi and sashimi at the more intim-
ate
Koiso Sushi Bar
(2395 S. Kihei Rd., 808/875-8258, 6pm-10pm Mon.-Sat., $9-32), in-
side Dolphin Plaza in South Kihei. This corner restaurant has a solitary low-slung counter
that only accommodates 12, so reservations are highly recommended.
Indian
Downstairs in the Menehune Shores condominium,
Monsoon India
(760 S. Kihei Rd.,
808/875-6666,
www.monsoonindiamaui.com
,
11:30am-2:30pm, 5pm-9pm Tues.-Sun.,
5pm-9pm Mon., $15-23) is the only Indian restaurant in the world that looks out on an an-
cient Hawaiian fishpond. Tandoori breads, chana masala, and chicken tikka are served in a
dining room overlooking the ancient Ko'ie'ie Fishpond, which is gradually being restored
to its original splendor. The sunsets are magnificent.
Thai
The best Thai food in Kihei is found at
Thailand Cuisine
(1819 S. Kihei Rd., 808/
875-0839,
www.thailandcuisinemaui.net
,
11am-2:30pm, 5pm-10pm Mon.-Sat., $12) in-
side the Kukui Mall. Its sister restaurant in Kahului has been voted the best Thai food on
Maui numerous times.
Hawaiian Regional
Since most of Kihei's restaurants are in strip malls, there isn't an overabundance of fine
dining. The exception, however, is
M
Sarento's On The Beach
(2980 S. Kihei Rd., 808/
875-7555,
www.sarentosonthebeach.com
,
7am-11pm and 5:30pm-10pm daily, $28-49), on
