Olena Heu
- Social Media Manager, Freelance
- Creator, Curator, Producer, Editor and Host, Da Best Hawaii
Honolulu
Multi-Award-Winning Journalist, Emmy® Nominated Food/Travel/Beauty/Wellness Writer, TV Host, Voice Over Actor and Creator @dabesthawaii
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Articles by Olena Heu
Good (For You) Eats!
When you walk into Rise Cafe in Kaimukī, you’re stepping into more than a neighborhood coffee shop, you’re entering the philosophy of someone who has spent nearly three decades helping Hawai‘i heal from the inside out. For the last 29 years, Dr. Jodi Nishida Matsumoto has seen firsthand how diet affects metabolic health, especially in a state with some of the highest rates of pre-diabetes and diabetes in the nation.
Keeping Up with the Craft
In tribute to his memory and legacy, Arancino introduced the Pizza Maestro Antonino, a signature creation that honors their beloved maestro. The pie highlights his recipe, showcasing vine-ripened local tomatoes accented by stracciatella cheese, fresh basil, mozzarella and a vibrant, tart tomato sauce. The dedication coincided with the unveiling of an inspired new menu shaped by an immersive culinary journey through Italy.
Flair for the Dramatic
The menu flows from starters and salads to pastas, seafood and premium steaks. This is a welcome blend of Mediterranean and European inspiration, executed with precision. “We like to showcase different cook- ing techniques, including Italian, French and Mediterranean,” Corpuz shares. “This makes the food more versatile than traditional American cuisine. Guests can appreciate the food more because of those cultural influences.” Each dish is artfully presented, robust, and balanced in flavor.
Infinite Feast | HILUXURY
Waikiki is often regarded as the flourishing nucleus of Hawai‘i’s visitor industry, with its inviting golden beaches, idyllic oceanfront location and bustling atmosphere. Hidden within the rhythmic rolling waves and sea breezes is a luxurious oasis — ESPACIO the Jewel of Waikiki. Driving along Kalakaua Avenue, just past the Duke Kahanamoku statue, if you blink... you’ll miss the corridor taking you to the multi-suite resort.
Club Med. | HILUXURY
The Odyssey is a poetic tale that depicts Odysseus on a ten-year journey home. The epic poem written by Homer in 700 BCE serves as a key descriptor when encapsulating the theme of MARA. “I always refer to it like The Odyssey, if Odysseus passed through the Strait of Gibraltar and ended up in Hawai‘i... What would he cook?” says Chef Michael Ocampo, Director of Culinary.
"I Decided to Have a Preventative Mastectomy and Go Flat — Here's Why" Original
Courtesy of Olena HeuCourtesy of Olena Heu In 2019, when I was 38 years old, I decided to get a preventative mastectomy. I didn't come to my decision overnight, though. My family history played a huge part. My mother had passed away at age 68 after a three-year battle with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer exactly a year prior. Her youngest sister died from breast cancer in her early 30s. And my maternal grandmother had it as well, though she did not die from it.
Scentsual Healing
Ever notice a certain scent or aroma can spark a distant memory, nurture fond emotions or put your mind at ease? The sweet fragrance of plumeria reminds me of special occasions in Hawai‘i, or the chance to recall the music and moments from Lei Day celebrations as a child; the sea breeze and ocean scent calms me, and that notable lingering perfume mom would wear seemed everlastingly full of love after an embrace.
Luxury Transformation
New luxury tower, new signature restaurant with a new executive chef, new aquatic experiences and brand-new dining options—it all adds up to a luxurious new experience awaiting guests at West Maui. Historically, Kā‘anapali, the northwest region on Maui, was a famed retreat for Hawaiian royalty ...
Kaanapali Welcomes New Dining Options
Westin Kaanapali Olena Heu April 1, 2021 Featured Story, Food, Uncategorized Kaanapali has four new dining spots coming up for guests to enjoy. Located at the recently reopened Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Kaʻanapali, guests will notice Hale Moʻolelo, Mahele Market, Hale ʻA and beachfront and brand new waicoco (yes, waicoco is not capitalized) have been added to the options.
Could It Be the Next Superfood? Read Here
What is Breadfruit? Over the years superfoods like kale, acai, avocado and matcha have taken the world by storm… Now it’s time to make way for a new superfood kid on the block – Artocarpus altilis, better known as Breadfruit, is a member of the mulberry family of trees and also looks much like a jackfruit but the potato-like fruit itself is very unique. The large green cylindrical fruits bear rough and slightly spiny skin, which the meat when ripe is soft and breadlike to the touch.
Could It Be the Next Superfood? Read Here
Home » Healthy Living » Superfoods: Health Benefits, Uses, and Risks by Olena Heu Fact Checked Found in regions with tropical climates you’ll find Breadfruit… A nutritious, starchy fruit with prickly green skin that is packed with vitamins and health benefits. By Olena Heu Mar 31, 2021 Breadfruit - Superfood - (Image Credit: Shutterstock); Author picture - (Image Credit: Author) What is Breadfruit?
What is moringa and why it is good for you?
What is Moringa Known as a healing plant for many centuries and popular in Asia, native to India and also found in South America, and Africa… Moringa is a tree with delicate vibrant green leaves sometimes known as “The Miracle Tree,” the “Drumstick Tree” or referred to affectionately as the “Tree of Life.” People of all walks of life say there are many health and beauty benefits from moringa and enjoy utilizing the leaf extracts and consuming the pod or flower.
What is Moringa & Why It is Good for You? | Health Web Magazine
What is Moringa Known as a healing plant for many centuries and popular in Asia, native to India and also found in South America, and Africa… Moringa is a tree with delicate vibrant green leaves sometimes known as “The Miracle Tree,” the “Drumstick Tree” or referred to affectionately as the “Tree of Life.” People of all walks of life say there are many health and beauty benefits from moringa and enjoy utilizing the leaf extracts and consuming the pod or flower.
Chef Lee Anne Wong’s New Maui Restaurant - MAUIWatch
With a rich history that dates back to the early 1900’s Pioneer Inn is a part of the culture and deep memories of old Lahaina and Hawaii. Lee Anne Wong has always been drawn to farm fresh ingredients and nurturing the local farmers and growers of these islands. It was a perfect fit for her and her family to nestledown where the soil is full of nutrients, the produce is premium and the historic Pioneer Inn could use a fresh, progressive woman’s touch to take the restaurant to the next level.
TV Star Chef Now Calls Maui Home
Chef Lee Anne Wong and her family on Maui. Olena Heu March 5, 2021 Featured Story, Food Acclaimed and sought-after celebrity chef and TV personality Lee Anne Wong quietly moved to the Valley Isle last year and now comfortably calls Maui home. Many island tummies are celebrating with delight now that the culinary gem is at the helm in the kitchen at newly restored and historic Pioneer Inn in Lahaina.
Say Aloha to Havens
Who would open a new business in the middle of a pandemic? And who would have the faith to open an eatery just a few months after several government lockdowns? An experienced Maui chef with a dream… Say hello to Zach Sato. A homegrown Maui chef with experience at the helm in luxury kitchens, boutique hotels and fine-dining, who opted to throw in the towel just weeks before the pandemic hit the islands with the goal of opening his own restaurant.
The Call of the Kitchen
feat-spot-pic1 Picture 1 of 1 Princess Abigail Kawananakoa, seen here in a 1978 photo riding in an Aloha Festivals pa?u unit, is a lifelong horse rider and has always cared deeply for her horses. Janet Van Bebber of the American Quarter Horse Association, says that Kawananakoa will be remembered for how she treated her horses—ensuring they were rested and providing them with the best pastures. “She raised the bar.” (photo by Honolulu Star-Advertiser).
Maui’s own Joseph Soul from The Voice - MAUIWatch
Courtesy: NBC Olena Heu October 22, 2020 Entertainment, Featured Story, News Meet Valley Isle native, Joseph Soul who wowed the judges and viewers during the blind auditions of NBC’s The Voice Season 19.
How Does The At-Home COVID Test Work?
Olena Heu October 19, 2020 News Now that travel to the Hawaiian Islands has reopened, thousands of visitors have made their way to our shores since it’s launch last week Thursday. State officials released this list of trusted testing partners that permit visitors to avoid quarantine, if they can provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of departure.
Maui Hotels Add Enhanced Sanitation
Montage Kapalua Bay Olena Heu October 12, 2020 News Maui hotels are ramping-up for the return of guests and visitors now that trans-pacific travel is slated to reopen on October 15th, with verified testing and health restrictions/requirements. As you can imagine many improvements have been put in place to ensure the wellbeing of both visitors and resort associates welcoming guests to their home away from home.
Maui Hotels Prepare to Reopen
Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa Olena Heu October 7, 2020 News With the restart of trans-pacific travel slated to commence on October 15th, Maui resorts, employees and families are eagerly awaiting heading back to work. While a few properties are already open, some resorts are positioning to officially open again on October 15th, meanwhile others are aiming for the following month and even standing by until December.
Restaurants Adapt To A New Way Of Doing Business
For some they were forced to shutter their doors, for others they remained steadfast and chose to brave the empty seats, the dining room closure and the coronavirus. These unprecedented times have led to record unemployment filings, insurmountable jobless claims and numerous losses. While lack of revenue, loss of sales and a struggle to put meals on the table at home has impacted us here in Hawaii and around the globe, there is a sense of hope, unity and aloha that can be felt.
MAUIWatch Restaurant Guide
Stay healthy, stay nurtured, together we will all get through this as a community. (List will be updated daily) 808 Deli 2511 South Kihei Road, Kihei 96753 Open daily 9am-5pm www.808deli.com Alive & Well + Broth Cafe Open Mon-Sat 9-5pm – Kupuna Hours Mon, Wed, Sat 8-9am & 5-6pm Curbside pickup, immunity support, health supplements available.
Good Eats: Piko Cafe
Haupia Ube Chia Olena Heu February 6, 2020 Food A true hidden gem, nestled in the heart of Kihei is a locally owned and operated brunch spot with outstanding flavors. Piko Cafe opened 3 years ago and is located in Kihei Shopping Center near Long’s. Blink and you could miss it, this corner cafe is a delightful, friendly spot with local comfort foods, excellent ingredients and superb standout dishes.
Mochi for Breakfast? Here are 5 Spots You Must Try
Craving something sweet, light, fluffy yet chewy and perhaps a texture that you’ve never encountered before? Enter delightfully delicious mochi pancakes and mochi waffles, artfully created using rice flour. This iconic Japanese treat, which originally dates back to just before the 800’s, is setting a new trend. Here’s a look at five of the most innovative and mouthwatering mochi pancakes and mochi waffles you must try on Oahu.
Oahu's Best New Restaurants for Winter 2019-2020
A blend of casual treats and fine dining highlight our best new restaurants this winter. You’ll find luxurious nuances like truffle and caviar, while on the flip side tasty sandwiches, robust sweet treats and boba teas will satiate your hunger. Here’s a look at the best new restaurants on Oahu this winter. Japanese-French cuisine cannot even begin to describe the innovative menu at Mugen Waikiki (pronounced moog-in). The experience is world class and the ingredients are exquisite.
New eatery at Alive & Well serves uplifting dishes
If soup is good for the soul, you’ll be righteously uplifted by broth, which opened over the summer in the family-owned Alive & Well health food store in Kahului. Broth — with a lower-case “b” — is the latest collaboration between owner Darren Jones and chef Noah Schuster, who blends his experiences as a former horticulturalist, wholesaler and practitioner of fine and rustic culinary arts.
Good Eats: Isana Restaurant
Olena Heu October 5, 2019 Featured Story, Food, Uncategorized Serving the “freshest fish” on Maui, Isana is a sushi, seafood and local favorites restaurant and bar specializing in island caught fish. Fisherman owned and complete with late night karaoke, specialty sushi bar and comfortable seating located on the outskirts of Kihei, Isana is a welcome addition to the dining options on Maui.
HILUXURY - Hawaii Luxury Magazine " Luxury Living In HawaiiTaste and Sea
savor_ts_pic1 Picture 1 of 4 53 by the Sea showcases its own spin on contemporary local fare by incorporating global flavors. The rolling tides fronting 53 By The Sea have welcomed many… From those who have ventured from afar, to locals who gather along the water’s edge. This magnificent location is positioned on the oceanfront, offering breathtaking views of the pacific, while majestic Diamond Head monument beckons in the distance.
Check out these new Oahu restaurants for fall 2019
It’s all about comfort food this fall and that means lobster rolls, soft serve and ono-licious plate lunches. Familiar favorites and delicious delicacies are topping our list of best new restaurants to try on Oahu this fall. A casual food hall hidden in Honolulu’s Chinatown district, Jolene’s Market pairs East and West in an approachable setting with attractive prices.
Perpetuating the family Lineage
Olena Heu September 14, 2019 Featured Story, Food, Uncategorized Fan favorite and homegrown Hawaii Chef Sheldon Simeon has had international, national and local acclaim. Since winning the hearts of the public after appearing on the popular Bravo series Top Chef several times, the Hilo native and Maui resident has broadened his horizons with two addicting eateries on the Valley Isle (one of them being Tin Roof in Kahului).
5 New Oahu Restaurants to Try in Summer 2019
Variety is the name of the game this summer when it comes to new restaurants on Oahu. You’ll find everything from tapas, toast, pasta and plate lunches to appease your appetite. A blend of Spanish tapas with an elegant Italian twist, Rigo Hawaii takes contemporary cooking and pairs it with inspired comfort foods.
Good Eats: Bistro Molokini
Olena Heu June 22, 2019 Featured Story, Food, Uncategorized With breathtaking views of the pacific ocean and Molokini Crater far off in the distance, Bistro Molokini is a welcome oasis nestled within the grounds of the Grand Wailea. Boasting a new Chef and some delightful new menu items, this eatery for lunch, dinner and happy hour is a majestic yet casual respite from the more formal options in the surrounding area.
Good Eats: Sugar Beach Bake Shop
Olena Heu April 14, 2019 Food Just like a visit to grandma’s house… Sugar Beach Bake Shop is truly a hidden gem nestled along the outskirts of sunny Kihei. Thoughts of visiting my grandmother in the summer mean’t delicious baked goods, freshly made cream pies and delicately crafted savory sandwiches.
6 New Oahu Restaurants to Visit in Spring 2019
With blustery weather, diners have been seeking dishes that warm the mind, body and soul. This season’s specially created comfort foods have emerged from new Oahu eateries that boast hot pot, noodles, curry and craft eats. Here’s a look at the best new restaurants on Oahu just in time for spring. Hidden along the King Street end of Kalakaua Avenue, about a mile before you enter Waikiki, is a true mouthwatering hole in the wall.
Good Eats: 808 On Main
Olena Heu March 22, 2019 Food, Uncategorized In the heart of Wailuku town sits a rustic eatery showcasing delectable sandwiches, hearty salads and classic piping hot paninis. Known for their world-famous sandos in Kihei, this sister restaurant to 808 Deli is a tad more formal, serves cocktails, wine and beer along with a well known burger bar for hungry eaters. 808 On Main (Street) is a casual spot for a frothy beverage, delightful pupus and a great place to relax.
A Molokini Crater Snorkeling Adventure
Olena Heu February 2, 2019 Featured Story, Opinion, Uncategorized It’s been on my bucket list, and I can’t say I have any regrets about finally catching a vessel out to Molokini Crater for a day of snorkeling, sun and good times. As kama’aina, we often don’t get to take the time to do the popular visitor attractions, but this one has been on my list for decades. To be completely honest, I have battled motion sickness my whole life and I am apprehensive about getting aboard boats.
Honolulu's 5 Best New Restaurants to Visit This Winter
Global experiences abound this season as a bounty of new restaurants have hit the Oahu food scene, here’s our pick for the best new restaurant this winter. Contemporary French fine dining has been resurrected in the heart of Waikiki. Carefully crafted techniques from Paris and abroad are elevated with seasonal, local Hawaii ingredients.
Good Eats: Home Maid Bakery
K nown for their famous manju Home Maid Bakery also creates other lesser-known delectable treats, that are just as good as their mainstay.
Reasons to love the Lanai Cat Sanctuary
Nestled within the pineapple plantation island of Lanai sits an animal refuge for furry, four-legged friends. The origin of this feline rescue began when state officials started to notice the feral cat population continuing to grow, while the native and endangered birds began to decline. “Protected birds and cats can co-exist through intervention, collaboration, and management.
Good Eats: Roy’s Kaanapali Breakfast - MAUIWatch
Craving a delicious and hearty breakfast? It may surprise you to hear that Roy’s Kaanapali, located overlooking the 18th Hole of the Kaanapali Golf Course, serves an impressive yet tranquil breakfast. Typically, when you think of Roy Yamaguchi’s classic cuisine memories of dinner items including Miso Butterfish, Baby Back Ribs and Hibachi Salmon come to mind… But with all those delights making my mouth water the secret is about to be out about their delicious and decadent breakfast menu too.
Maui Grown Gluten-Free Fruit Flour
Brought to the Hawaiian Islands by canoe the stunning vibrant green breadfruit (ulu) is also a great source of nutrition, vitamins and energy. Grown on a tree, the breadfruit is a complex carbohydrate that is rich in fiber, minerals, amino acids and is gluten free. Luckily for Maui farmer Hokuao Pellegrino, this tree grew and flourished on his 2 acre kuleana Noho’ana Farm in Waikapu.
Maui’s Best Brunch Buffet?! - MAUIWatch
For some when you think of Kaanapali you think of ocean-front hotels, visitors galore and an abundance of dining options. Thankfully there’s a hidden gem (well it’s not that hidden) that features endless favorites for locals, a price point that is accessible and an over abundance of options to satiate any appetite. Go through the hotel lobby of the Kaanapali Beach Hotel and head straight to the tiki sculptures because this place is so lively you don’t want to wait too long for a table.
Good Eats: Poi By The Pound
What’s your favorite Hawaiian food dish? For me it’s a combination Alan Wong once dubbed the ‘poi bowl,’ in it is poi, kalua pig and lomi salmon. With that you get all the freshness of the lomi salmon with a bit of acid from the lomi, then the richness and meatiness of the kalua pig and the creaminess of the poi. When I am on Maui, I love the Poke & Poi Bowl from Poi By The Pound . Expertly made, authentic Hawaiian poke combined with super fresh poi and my heart begins to race with excitement.
Good Eats: Minit Stop
More than just a gas station and better than your average convenience store… Minit Stop Maui (for close to four decades) has brought the community together with fresh food & drinks, convenient fueling at the pump and lots of accessibility. Known for their home cooked treats, crispy savory fried chicken and addicting potato wedges, the island favorite has earned a name in the history books.
Project Kokua for Kauai & Hawaii Island
While the recovery process continues for the Garden Isle and Hawaii Island residents aim to stay grounded, amongst constant earthquakes and devastation caused by fissures/lava, local Maui residents are banding together to support the recovery effort. On the heels of disaster proclaimations and hundreds of millions of dollars sought for aid, 21 of Maui’s finest chefs will gather Sunday, July 8th at 5:30pm in support of fundraising and relief efforts.
Good Eats: Kula Bistro
Like something straight out of Tuscany, Kula Bistro is perched along the idyllic slopes of Haleakala in upcountry Maui. Authentic, homestyle, Italian food is prepared lovingly in a charming eatery that reminds me of a visit to grandma’s house. Initially, upon entry you are enticed by the display of freshly baked sweets and treats, then ushered over to a table and instantly greeted. With a selection of Italian classics, pasta, pizza and pastries I prepare to pace myself.
Brand New: Rocksalt Maui
There’s a new restaurant in town and if you love robust flavors, unique ingredients and worldly-inspired delicacies then Rocksalt could be your new favorite. Located at the Sheraton Maui in Kaanapali, at the former Black Rock Kitchen location, Rocksalt pays homage to a menagerie of ethnicities, influences and diverse cooking styles. Doors to this new concept kitchen officially opened June 1st, but the planning, strategy, menu development and conceptualization began nearly a year ago.
Turf Meets Surf in Kaanapali
It may come as no surprise that Canadians love visiting the clear waters and warm sun of Hawaii. In fact, HTA numbers for Maui County show a record number of expenditures from our happy friends from the north, beating out all other islands. Continuing to foster this relationship a cultural chef exchange, next weekend, will welcome some of Canada’s best chefs and most sought-after media to engage in a special culinary experience.
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