Bestselling Author Frances Mayes Toasts Tuscany at Pulehu, an Italian Grill

On Sept. 23, Frances Mayes, author of the bestseller, “Under the Tuscan Sun,” was the guest of honor at “A Toast to Tuscany” at Pūlehu, an Italian Grill, the award-winning Italian restaurant at The Westin Kā‘anapali Ocean Resort Villas. Mayes greeted guests while they enjoyed a four-course dinner prepared by the restaurant’s chef de cuisine, Alvin Savella, and the resort’s executive sous chef Matt Skaletsky. The event menu was thoughtfully paired with Mayes’s wine label, Tuscan Sun Wines, which has been added to Pūlehu’s wine list.

 

“We completely enjoyed introducing Tuscan Sun Wines at The Westin Kā‘anapali! Everyone – staff, chefs, management – was just so friendly and enthusiastic, and we met many great people at the dinner,” Mayes said. “I will always remember early morning walks along the beach, the aqua-to-indigo water and the fresh scents of plumeria and salty air. Thanks for introducing me to this slice of paradise,” she continued.

Before each course, Mayes explained the story behind the wine that was selected for that pairing. Courses included: fresh monchong with fregola, fennel and poricini cream paired with Pensiero, a pinot grigio; venison Bolognese, fusilli pasta, fresh ricotta and micro basil paired with Auguri, a Sangiovese blend; pork belly with kabocha squash risotto, sage and pomegranate paired with Tondo Tondo, 100 percent Sangiovese; and hazelnut chocolate torte with orange zabaione and mint gelee. As they finished dessert, guests watched the movie “Under the Tuscan Sun,” which was based on Mayes’ book by the same name. The movie was played on a large screen located in the middle of the iconic koi pond directly outside the restaurant.

“We were thrilled to partner with Frances on ‘A Toast to Tuscany,’” said Brandon Maeda, the resort’s food and beverage director. “We aim to create unique dining experiences for our owners and guests and hope that this event is especially memorable for those that attended.”

For more information on Pūlehu, an Italian Grill and its upcoming events, to try Tuscan Sun Wines, which has been added to Pūlehu’s wine list or to make a dinner reservation, please visit pulehurestaurantmaui.com or call 808-667-3254.