New Chef Ray Dikilato (a former sous chef here for years) has taken over this wonderful Italian bistro and kept the atmosphere and yummy cuisine the same in this free-standing wood-and-stone building in Poipu. At night the fairy lights, high ceilings, beveled glass, and a generous open deck make dining among palms and heliotropes very romantic. (There's live classical music Sat evenings 6:30-9:30pm on the baby grand piano.) It's worth seeking out: It's the third left turn past Brennecke's Beach, not more than 2 minutes from Poipu Beach Park, in an enclave of condos and vacation rentals.
The memorable Italian food has strong Mediterranean and cross-cultural influences. You'll find organic greens from Kilauea, several risotto choices (quattro formaggio and Thai beef are outstanding), black tiger prawns in orange saffron lobster sauce, and surprises, such as Thai lobster bisque and pork loin saltimbocca. Among the nearly two dozen pasta selections is a classic fettuccine Alfredo for which Casa di Amici is deservedly famous. The set menu is Italian, but the specials showcase international influences, such as soy-sauce reductions, furikake (seaweed sprinkle), and assertive touches of jalapeño tequila aioli on salmon and grilled tiger prawns. This is flamboyant, joyful Italian fare. Plus you can order either light- or regular-size entrees, a policy I love.
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