Talented duo teams up; Sam Choy wine dinner

If it’s true that two heads are better than one, then the hottest restaurant spot in the city is destined to be over at 1341 Kapiolani Blvd., at the site of the former L’Uraku restaurant. Out are the painted umbrellas (thank goodness), and in are European-style furnishings, lots of local ingredients and two of Honolulu’s most talented chefs.

Philippe Padovani and Donato Loperfido have teamed up to open ‘Elua Restaurant and Wine Bar. They hope to open May 4 with a fundraiser for Kalihi Palama Health Center.

“We are very good friends,” Loperfido says of his relationship with Padovani. “We’ve worked together at Chef Series events, and during them we realized that we work well in the kitchen.”

Loperfido, known for his passion, fiery temper and unbridled love for Italian food and wine, and the equally passionate Padovani, a founding member of the Hawaii Regional Cuisine movement, will both instruct staff and then take separate evenings in the kitchen.

“We will work certain nights, alone,” says Loperfido, “but the staff will know exactly how each of us wants things done.”

I don’t doubt that. The food will combine their vast culinary talents, and each chef will be drawing on his own extensive background.

Loperfido, born in Puglia, one of Italy’s best known food regions, is dedicated to bringing “the greatest Italian food to Hawaii.”

French-born Padovani, who spent much of his early career in three-star Michelin restaurants in Europe, will bring his undisputed talent, painstaking attention to detail, and a respect for local ingredients.

‘Elua is the Hawaiian word for “two,” and numerology may have played a part in the destiny of this partnership. Two chefs, two brothers (Philippe will bring his pastry chef brother, Pierre, to ‘Elua), two styles of cooking and certainly two distinct personalities.

I have long been a supporter of both these chefs, and consider them among the most talented in Hawaii. How they will fare together in the kitchen remains to be seen, but talent, passion and style they have in plenty. Loperfido and Padovani are excited and enthused about their partnership.

“The only thing we ever fight about is when France and Italy play football,” says Loperfido.

And while ‘Elua is probably the most exciting culinary news to hit our shores in a long while, both chefs are keeping busy with other projects, too. Loperfido is opening Pasta e Basta (“pasta - that’s it”) in Restaurant Row at the end of this month. The quick service restaurant will offer sandwiches, pasta and pizza. Padovani opens his second gourmet chocolate store this month at the Hyatt Regency, Waikiki. The original Padovani’s Chocolates is located on Merchant Street.

Caymus Wine Dinner at Sam Choy’s Diamond Head

There’s no doubt that Sam Choy’s Diamond Head offers diners great value. And under enthusiastic chef Aaron Fukuda,

there’s a monthly menu that changes and features special deals for kamaaina. In March, for example, you can enjoy a four-course dinner for just $25.95 per person if you order by 6:30 p.m. It’s a great way to sample fine dining in a friendly environment - without spending a fortune. But Sam Choy’s also does an incredibly good

job hosting wine dinners. The dinners are informal, held in the private dining room where Sam records his popular TV cooking shows, and offer an opportunity for novice and experienced wine drinkers to learn more about featured wineries. Next week, world-renowned Caymus wines will be featured alongside a five-course dinner that includes Hamachi Tartare, Ginger Cilantro Butterfish Dumplings, Lamb Loin, Bacon Wrapped Kobe Tenderloin, Kurobuta Pork and dessert, all paired with wines (including Caymus Conundrum 20005). Cost is $95 per person.

Sam Choy’s Diamond Head
445 Kapahulu Ave.
732-8645

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