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Superbowl Diets And Wailea Openings

by Jen Russo

February 03, 2011

The federal government released its new dietary guidelines just in time for the Superbowl. Their advice is being hailed as a breakthrough because it finally calls for Americans to reduce their intake of solid fats, sugars and sodium, and eat more vegetables, fruits, lean meats and fat-free milk. It still doesn’t come out and directly say “eat less meat,” a very politically charged statement in the U.S. of A. Furthermore, they only say eat fewer processed foods, addressing consumers rather than the food processors themselves, who pack sugar, sodium and added fats into our food.

How will the guidelines affect Superbowl Sunday? Probably not much. Potato chips, sodas, prepackaged wings and deep-fried grease traps will still fill America’s living rooms (and swell our waistlines). Of course, if you’re tired of these old standbys, there are alternatives. Homemade chips and guacamole are easy, as is making your own lowfat dip with Greek yogurt and herbs and serving it with fresh-cut vegetables.

Another idea is to pick up food from a solid local establishment (saves dishes and cleanup, too). For more on that, and a rundown of islandwide spots to watch the big game while eating and imbibing, see This Week’s Picks.

In other foodie news: Once you’ve nursed your Superbowl hangover, Wailea will be the place to dine next week. Gannon’s is offering a buy one, get one entree promotion if you bring in your movie ticket stub after seeing Just Go With It, which opens Friday, February 11. The film stars Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston and features several filmed-on-Maui scenes, including at Gannon’s, which was transformed into the fictional Club Oceano. (You may also remember MauiTime’s “Busted!” shoot with Adam.) The promo will last as long as the film is showing on Maui, and you can use it for lunch or dinner. For more details check gannonsrestaurant.com.

Also opening on February 11? The doors of Peter Merriman’s Monkeypod Restaurant. It’s being touted as a gourmet pub with an emphasis on local. “We’ll focus on a locally sourced menu, using only socially conscious ingredients such as range-fed Maui beef, sustainably caught fish and no bottled products, except for wine,” says Chef Merriman. “Think homemade pies made from scratch, freshly baked hamburger buns and hand-tossed pizzas from our kiawe wood-burning oven.”

Monkeypod will also feature Asian comfort food favorites like saimin, dry mien and adobo, plus nearly 40 craft beers on tap and a diverse wine list. Following the sustainable philosophy through to decor, the restaurant will feature work from local artists and craftsmen. Further, they plan to have communal tables and lots of family-friendly seating. “We will have all the social and comfort aspects longed for in a fun, welcoming environment,” promises CEO Bill Terry. “This paired with friendly service and Peter’s outstanding cuisine will be a wonderful new dining option in Wailea.”