For decades, The Whitney restaurant located in Detroit’s opulent David Whitney House has been known for its traditional upscale New American menu.
But now the restaurant is trying something a little different to help Detroiters beat the winter blues.
Starting Monday, the restaurant is launching a limit-run “A Hawaiian Ho’o Lau Le’a” menu, translated as “A Hawaiian Celebration.”
The menu is inspired by executive chef Kirk McKinney’s experience working in a number of Hawaiian restaurants and will be available to diners for the next month.
“The Hawaiian culture revolves around ‘respect,’” McKinney says in a statement. “Respect for people, for the land, and, of course, respect for food and for celebrations. I’m proud to bring Hawaii’s unique tastes and flavorful dishes to The Whitney, where we can share authentic cuisine in a celebratory and fun way.”
The menu includes appetizers like an Ahi Poké Tower, Hamachi Crudo, and Spam Musubi (after World War II, the canned meat became an essential part of Hawaii’s cuisine), as well as main courses like Misoyaki Black Cod, Macadamia Nut Crusted Mahi Mahi, Huli Huli Chicken, and American Wagyu New York Strip Steak. A dessert menu features items like Haupia Custard, Mango Crème Brulee, and Acai Sorbet.
“This is certainly the first time Spam has ever been on The Whitney’s menu!” owner Bud Liebler says. “But I’m excited to try it and all the other Hawaii specialties, and I think a lot of other Detroiters will be too. It’s a fun menu and a great mental escape from the doldrums of winter. Come in, warm yourself by The Whitney’s roaring fires and enjoy a taste of the islands!”
The Whitney’s traditional à la carte will still be available during the promotion.
Opened in 1986 in the refurbished mansion, The Whitney recently earned kudos as a “Top Pick” in the first-ever Michelin Green Guide for Detroit and was named one of “the best classic restaurants in every state” by Food & Wine Magazine.
