Hanalei is known for its laid back, relaxing atmosphere. And Tahiti Nui brings that same vibe to the table with its world-famous Mai Tai. In Tahitian “maitai” means good, and Tahiti Nui’s world famous Mai Tai is a family secret
Hanalei is known for its laid back, relaxing atmosphere. And Tahiti Nui brings that same vibe to the table with its world-famous Mai Tai.
In Tahitian “maitai” means good, and Tahiti Nui’s world famous Mai Tai is a family secret that’s refreshing and dangerously delicious.
Nanaea Marston, general manager of Tahiti Nui, said Tahiti Nui’s variation of the mai tai is mostly rum.
“Our mai tai has a little bit more alcohol than most mai tais,” she said. “It’s a blend of different fruit juices, some other liqueurs, light rum and topped with a dark rum float. It’s $8.”
The mai tai is garnished with lime, pineapple and a cherry — the pineapple and cherry are perfect to nibble on, while sipping on this delectable cocktail. I don’t know what they put in the mai tai, but it goes down smoothly and it should be consumed responsibly — if you have two or three of the famous mai tais, make sure to sit your okole down.
Happy hour at Tahiti Nui runs from 3 to 5 p.m., daily. All beers and mai tais are $1 off. Draft beers include Hawaii Nui Gold, Fire Rock Pale Ale, Blue Moon, Pacifico and Negra Modelo. Bottled beers include Hinano (16 ounces), Heineken, Corona, Corona Light and more.
In the mood for wine? Check out Tahiti Iti: Tahiti Nui’s wine bar. Marston said Tahiti Iti hosts art openings on the first of the month.
“We change all the art on the wall and artists come and we do a wine tasting,” she said. “The wine bar, Tahiti Iti, is open every night until midnight and serves food until 10 p.m.”
