Chef Morgan with Lu
Once upon a time, in the early years of our five-star Hualalai Resort, during the aughts, when the Residents’ Beach House served only lunch, a young chef appeared, named Morgan Starr. Morgan’s star rose as he created innovative dinners which became famous world-round. Because his dream, however, was to create a superior restaurant of his own, he left Hualalai with the support of many fans, in order to take a trip around the world to hone his sense of excellence.
Today, Morgan’s star has risen to new heights with MI’s Bistro, on Alii Drive. Morgan, the “M” in MI’s Waterfront Bistro, and his wife, Ingrid, the “I,” offer house made pasta with true Italian flavors, combined with local traditions and ingredients. Many Hualalai homeowners have savored the pastas, seafood, island beef, chicken, and flavorful sauces at the original location in Captain Cook, as well as from the Starrs’ unique take-home boutique near Costco. MI’s serves traditional Italian dishes with an island flair, along with a mom-and-pop friendliness and casual, yet sophisticated, atmosphere.
Welcoming and informed about ingredients, Morgan’s staff is well-trained and enthusiastic about innovative cocktails and premier wines. Lanai tables overlook Kona Bay (near Bubba Gump’s), and parking is available underneath the building. In addition to plein air dining for lunch and dinner, Morgan and Ingrid have emphasized, inside the bistro, the local character of the lively bistro with paintings of the Big Island.
Check out an enchanting photo of the Starr family on www.mIswaterfrontbistro.com, along with a entertaining biography of the talented young family, who deserve a magnitude of stars for their success in food and beverage, as well as in raising three young children. Also, ask around campus for everyone’s favorite MI’s dish. You’ll most probably hear “crab artichoke dip, fresh lasagna, and duck confit.”
Lanai at Mi’s Bistro
A thank you to Becky Holman for providing this review.
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