Iti Wine bar is a hidden gem in Hanalei, which, once found, may become your favorite social haunt. Open since November 2009, Iti has enjoyed a growing following of regulars and visitors who love the intimate setting and extensive wine
Iti Wine bar is a hidden gem in Hanalei, which, once found, may become your favorite social haunt.
Open since November 2009, Iti has enjoyed a growing following of regulars and visitors who love the intimate setting and extensive wine list.
Sister to the Tahiti Nui, Iti is located right next door. Although both share the same ownership, the similarities stop there.
The chic interior of Iti is a welcome site and although petite, there is room for a small crowd to schmooze over wine and food with a line of two-seat tables, a long spacious bar, as well as some outdoor seating.
The top of the beautiful bar is decorated with flower motifs etched in glass, while the counter is black granite. A dimmed candle-lit setting and walls hung with framed paintings combine to make the setting both elegant and tranquil. Currently, the paintings of Patrice Pendvaris adorn the walls. They were created by the artist on site and feature various scenes of Tuscany. New local artists are regularly featured at Iti so it keeps the walls looking fresh and vibrant.
The food menu offers a selection of appetizers, small plates and desserts as well as the daily pasta special by Italian “Chef Mauro.” Local fish and produce star in the simple menu and wine pairing suggestions are listed under each item. Ahi Carpaccio and the Ono Roll are two of the most popular menu sellers and feature locally-caught fish.
The wine list is commodious to say the least. There are numerous wines by the glass to choose from and bottles from all over the world are on hand so there is sure to be something to suit every taste and budget. Iti also carries many specialty spirits including Fernet, for all you San Francisco folk, Hendricks and Koloa Rum, made right here on Kaua‘i. Not sure what to drink? Go ahead and ask the knowledgeable and friendly staff.
Manager Meredith Neff has a passion for wines of all kinds. She is even planning a five-week trip through France, Italy and Spain to visit numerous wineries and study more about the origins of wine!
Neff has recently begun offering a special wine tasting event on the second Monday of every month. Each tasting features several wines from a specific wine region and offers pupus that highlight the food of that region.
“It’s a nice way to socialize and learn a bit more about wine. “ said Neff.
The last wine tasting, on Jan. 10, featured the wines of Northern Italy. Neff, who provided guests with a map of the region as well as tasting notes, said she wants to make this an enlightening experience for people so that they can learn something they may not have known before about wine.
“The first tasting was very well received,” she said.
The next wine tasting will be from 5-7 p.m. on Feb. 14 (Valentine’s Day) and will feature the wines of Tuscany and pupus for pairing.
Iti Wine Bar, located at 5-5134 Kuhio Highway Hanalei, is open everyday from 6 p.m. to 12 midnight. Call 826-6277 for more information.
Iti Wine Bar is open daily from 6 p.m. to 12 midnight.
Located at 5-5134 Kuhio Highway, Hanalei right next to TahitiNui.
Cost: $$ (20-50 per person, with wine and food)
Green: 3 leaves
(Recycles, biodegradable
to-go, local ingredients.)
