Spring-2023

KONA BRINGS HAWAIIAN AND ASIAN DISHES TO MONTEREY In the space that used to house P.F. Chang’s restaurant, local restaurateurs Bill andTeresa Lee have put their many years of experience to use in creating a new dining establishment. In a very deliberate editing process, the former owners of Billy Quon’s, Bahama Billy’s,Volcano Grill, Bixby’s Martini Bistro and Sur restaurants redesigned the space at the Del Monte Shopping Center in Monterey to turn it into the Hawaiian-themed Kona Steak & Seafood. “Some of the staff, like Chef Mario Luevano, are investment partners, and we have such a great relationship with them,” Bill shares. At the entrance, a gift gallery sells Hawaiian inspired artwork and island-style pieces, like mai tai kits, spices and cookbooks. A shave ice shack offers to-go treats or can be the inspiration for a dry ice desert presentation. Crab Rangoon, island duck tacos, Maui onion soup, loaded baked potatoes, fish and chips, salads, steaks, fried rice bowls, ribs and more truly ensure there is something for everyone. The restaurant will be open all day, to accom- modate kids who are hungry after sports and those looking for some nightlife after work. “A lot of places are not open between the hours of 3-5pm,”Teresa notes. Bar seating, a patio area for nice weather, and various comfortable dining arrangements that can seat up to 200 people create a sense of fun and variety for diners. “So many people love the feeling of Hawaii, and we are trying to bring that here,” Bill adds. With generations of families passing through the Lees’ many restaurants over the past few decades, the two are excited to open a new venture. “We are looking forward to seeing everyone again,”Teresa says. Kona Steak & Seafood is opening at the Del Monte Shopping Center in Monterey this spring. 138 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • S P R I N G 2 0 2 3 Beloved local restaurateurs Teresa and Bill Lee are excited to announce their newest venture, Kona Steak & Seafood, which is set to open this spring in the former P.F. Chang’s space at Del Monte Shopping Center in Monterey. Photo: Kelli Uldall food for thought Kona Steak & Seafood Comes to Del Monte Center ; Foray Br ings Seasonal Fare to Carmel ; and Ad Astra Bread Expands Operat ions B Y B Y B R E T T WI L BUR

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