Lemongrass Chen's - Asian, Maui, Hawaii

1378 Kahoma St
Lahaina, Maui, HI
(808) 667-6888
Parking: limited spaces in parking lot

Last Visited: July 6, 2003

Food: 4 stars
Atmosphere: 3 stars
Service: 4 stars
Price: $$ to $$$

Lemongrass is located behind the large shopping center parking lot in Lahaina. Look for Hilo Hattie’s, and the parking lot exit is across the street from Lemongrass. Formerly Lemongrass on Main Street, the restaurant size has scaled down, but the food is still high quality. There is a large window which during summer, is left open which gives a feeling of eating outside as the gentle breeze comes into the restaurant.

- Spring rolls – At this point in our visit, we were yearning some vegetables, and these spring rolls hit the spot. The spring rolls are crispy and just the perfect texture. They are served with a fish sauce based dipping sauce and fresh green leaf lettuce and carrots. The presentation is clean, and you roll the spring rolls into the lettuce leaves yourself. Excellent all around.

- Curry chicken – Chicken is cooked in a flavorful and aromatic curry and coconut blend with vegetables including carrots and potatoes. The sauce is great over steamed rice and the chicken is not overcooked, but tender and juicy. Another winner.

- Pad Thai – The pad thai was okay. It wasn’t the best or worst, but sits average amongst the bunch. Good flavor, but not as spectacular as the other dishes tried.
Our overall impression was that the place was small, but the food has a big flavor, and it’s definitely worth a visit. It’s also a good change of pace from the typical mixed plate lunches. Definitely try the spring rolls. You won’t be disappointed.