DINING AT HOTEL WAILEA

Aiming to inspire curiosity wherever he goes, Chef Ryan Cruz creates an interactive culinary experience by not only mentoring his team of cooks, but connecting with guests to ensure each dish captures the bounty of Maui to their liking.

Born in the Philippines and adopted at the age of three, Chef Ryan’s love for cooking began as a child growing up in Southern California, where he assisted his father and grandmother in cooking for family gatherings. After graduating from Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Los Angeles, he joined CUT by Wolfgang Puck in Beverly Hills where he spent four years, starting as a prep cook and working his way up to lead line cook. Chef Ryan spent the next 10 years honing his culinary skills in fine dining establishments across the globe, spanning Hotel Bel-Air in Los Angeles, CUT at 45 Park Lane in London, CUT New York City and Spago in both Istanbul and Maui. He later transitioned to working as a private chef under his mentor Chef Raymond Weber, bringing bespoke dinners and events to celebrity clients such as Oprah Winfrey. Now a full-time resident of Maui, Chef Ryan enjoys building relationships with local farmers and fishers to utilize the island’s unique and abundant ingredients in his culinary creations. He draws inspiration from his love of Japanese art and elaborate floral arrangements, using vibrantly colored elements to replicate a bountiful garden on each plate.

In his free time, Chef Ryan enjoys ocean activities such as paddle boarding, spearfishing and kayaking, as well as dining at restaurants across the island with his wife, who is also a chef. A natural grill master, he feels most at home when cooking over an open flame, channeling his earlier years working under Wolfgang Puck. Chef Ryan’s favorite part of working at Hotel Wailea is collaborating with both guests and his kitchen counterparts, bringing a holistic strategy to property-wide dining experiences.

“The most exclusive private dining in the intimate beauty of Maui.”

Dine within a canopy of mangoes as the setting sun ignites the Pacific Ocean, in our hand-crafted ocean view Treehouse.

This ultra-private chef dinner is one of the most sought-after experiences on the island and is revered by notable personalities for its privacy. Your personal chef will lead you through seven exquisite courses, curated to your preferences and prepared tableside, while you learn about the varied flora and fauna of Hawai’i.

The evening also provides access to our private wine cellar with expert pairings for each course. Perfect for secret romantic evenings, proposals, and private parties, this is a unique culinary experience you will never forget.

Advanced reservations are required.

For a relaxed Aloha feel, guests are invited to refresh at The Cabanas, a casual poolside spot perfect for light al fresco meals and drinks. Signature cocktails are prepared with the our made-from-scratch sodas and simple syrups. Fresh pressed juices and frozen smoothies are also available – including special rejuvenation tonics to help guests recover after their flight or a long day exploring the island.

Bar service daily from 10:00am – 5:00pm
Lunch service daily from 11:00am – 5:00pm