Isana has been a cherished dining destination in Kihei for 29 years, first under Japanese and Korean ownership, and now lovingly managed by Christine and John Arabatzis, who have been frequent patrons for over 19 years. Their journey with Isana began when they celebrated John’s 16th birthday at the original Japanese restaurant/sushi bar. John, who grew up in the restaurant business, was amazed by the use of excessive salt to spell out "Happy Birthday" on the teppanyaki grill—an impressive display for him, given his father’s emphasis on not wasting ingredients. Christine fondly recalls, “There was always something special about this place— from the stunning ocean views and delicious food to the cherished friendship with Cindy and Andy.”
After Isana closed its doors in 2018, the Arabatzis couple saw a golden opportunity to revitalize and modernize this nostalgic gem in North Kihei. The restaurant reopened under their new ownership in February 2019.
Now, Isana maintains the beloved sushi bar from its 29-year history but has introduced a fresh kitchen concept. While the yakiniku tables and extensive Korean menu are no longer available, diners can now enjoy fresh local fish, sushi, and island-style cuisine, including local favorites like oxtail soup and kalbi ribs. The newly renovated interior offers a modern, clean, and inviting atmosphere, featuring a full bar with specialty craft cocktails, draft beers, wine, and a variety of sake. The ambiance highlights a fish market-style display with whole fresh fish, and the use of warm woods, bamboo, and stone reinforces the sea-to-table concept. A traditional Japanese art piece, 'The Great Wave off Kanagawa,' hangs behind the sushi bar, symbolizing the daily bravery of fishermen who risk their lives to bring fresh fish to the table. This connects beautifully with Isana's name, which translates to "Brave Fish."
For travelers seeking a unique and memorable dining experience in Kihei, Isana offers a blend of tradition and modernity, making it a must-visit destination.
