When a group rents a house on Maui and hires a private chef, the first thing we want to know is who is at the table. Some guests are gluten-free, some are vegetarian, and some have allergies serious enough that the whole kitchen needs a plan. Here is how we handle it.
We ask early
We always ask about allergies, restrictions and preferences before we plan the menu. It changes what we shop for, what we prep and how we set up the kitchen, so we would rather know on day one than at the stove.
The Hawaiian menu is the easiest place to start
Our Hawaiian menu is our most allergy-friendly menu, and our most kid-friendly one. Almost everything on it is naturally gluten-free: ahi poke, kālua pig, Hawaiian corn on the cob, grilled pineapple, a fresh fruit platter. Where a dish usually has gluten we use a swap, like gluten-free soy sauce or gluten-free buns.
Kids do well with it too. Fish that looks a lot like chicken nuggets gets eaten, and parents are often surprised at how many vegetables their kids finish.
Vegetarian does not mean a side dish
On the Hawaiian menu, Huli Huli tofu takes the place of Huli Huli chicken, so vegetarian guests get the same grilled, glazed main as everyone else. We also make stuffed zucchini and stuffed mushrooms.
Severe allergies and strict kosher
We can accommodate a wide variety of needs, and we want to be clear about what that does and does not mean. Cross-contamination is possible on every menu, and it matters most when we cook in a vacation rental, because we do not know the kitchen or the history of its utensils.
If a guest has a severe allergy, the kitchen has to be part of the plan. Something as small as peanut residue in a blender can be a problem. Sometimes the answer is new or dedicated utensils and equipment. Strict kosher is similar: we use new utensils, plates and cookware.
The guest needs to be careful too, so please tell us what the kitchen needs before the day.
Honest over reassuring
We would rather be completely honest than promise something that is not realistic.
More people are paying attention to how food affects their bodies, and we are glad to cook with that in mind. We enjoy making meals that fit your needs and are still delicious for the whole family.
Planning a dinner on Maui? Tell us about allergies and dietary needs when you get in touch.