Feast at Lele – Luau Review | Condé Nast Traveler

"What were your first impressions when you arrived? Don't come to the Feast at Lele expecting plastic leis, screaming children, and a sad buffet line; rather, this is a quintessential Maui luau without the cheesiness. On arrival, you're greeted with a fresh flower lei and a Mai Tai. Then you're ushered to your private table—a rarity in the luau world—before the show begins. Tell us all about the event. The five-course dinner pairs live performances with cuisine from four different Pacific island regions: first Hawaii, then Aotearoa (New Zealand), Tahiti , Samoa, and finally dessert. The food is great; standouts include a five-hour braised beef with kiwi jus from New Zealand. Come hungry—the portions are large and you won't want to miss out on the final note: a vanilla-coconut-lime mousse-cake with caramelized pineapple. How are the seats? The venue holds about 300 guests—on the smaller side for Maui luau venues—meaning that each table has a direct sightline to the performance area. Good for kids? The show and setting is appropriate for everyone from honeymooning couples to large families. Since every party has a reserved table and there's no buffet line, you won't find yourself tripping over someone's unattended toddler. Anything in particular that makes this place special? The fire dancers give a thrilling performance, one that blends tradition and theatrics. What—and who—do you think this is best for? The Feast at Lele is an essential luau experience for every visitor on Maui." - Todd Plummer