La Mer

This is the splurge restaurant of Hawaii, the oceanfront bastion of haute cuisine, where two of the state's finest chefs (George Mavrothalassitis and Philippe Padovani, each with his own eponymous restaurant now) quietly redefined fine dining in Hawaii. La Mer is romantic, elegant, and expensive; dress up not to be seen, but to match the ambience and food. It's the only AAA Five Diamond restaurant in the state, with a second-floor, open-sided room with views of Diamond Head and the sound of trade winds rustling the nearby coconut fronds. Michelin Award-winning chef Yves Garnier melds classical French influences with fresh Island ingredients. Winners include the signature crispy-skin filet of onaga with truffle jus, tomato confit, and fresh basil, and the delightful local fish baked in a rosemary-salt crust. The wine list, desserts, and service -- formal without being stiff -- complete the dining experience.

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