Bakersfield.com

If it were true that, “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas.” I would have to keep praise for the Kona Grill to myself. That, however would be to deny you the dream of experiencing what I can say without hesitation, was one of the most delightful meals of my life.

The occasion... the annual birthday weekend spent with friends who live amidst the glitz and glam of Nevada's desert. As always, the husbands strove to top the previous year's celebration. They couldn't have made a better choice.

The Kona Grill, located at 750 S. Rampart Blvd., is tucked into the eclectic Fashion Village at Boca Park. The tone on tone stone exterior is dramatic and impressive, but pales the moment you step inside. The richness of dark wood, granite and massive glass aquariums teeming with tropical fish, are softened by the graceful curves of the dining room. Reservations, a must for this popular spot, allowed us a wait free seating. Our elevated booth gave us a clear view of the dining room and the romantic lighting made for an intimate setting.

Service was prompt and professional, attentive without hovering and a visit from the manager as he walked the room brought extra points from this Customer Relations Manager. In preparation for our visit, we had perused the web site's menu http://www.konagrill.com and were ready to begin our much anticipated meal.

We started with a celebratory cocktail, Jade Tea, similar to Long Island Iced Tea, with the refreshing addition of melon liqueur. We chose two appetizers, Avocado Egg Rolls, served with a honey-cilantro sauce and Diablo Shrimp, jumbo prawns with a kick of fiery spices and a refreshing Bleu Cheese dip.

For our entrées, we selected the Baked Sea Bass and the Five-Spice Baby Back Ribs. The bass was prepared in a miso-sake marinade which gave the ample portion a wonderful, buttery flavor. Complimenting the fish were sides of shrimp-pork fried rice with little jewels of pineapple and tender Szechwan beans. The ribs, which overflowed the large oval plate, held up very well to the ample seasoning and were fork-tender, making them easy to share.

The only downside, was that they were out of Key Lime Pie, my first choice for dessert. At the recommendation of our server, we chose to indulge in the Passion Fruit Crème Bruelee. At first glance, it appeared to be a traditional bruelee, however it was infused with an amazing fruit flavor. The caramelized sugar crust was crunchy, without any hint of being over done and the tender berries used for garnish were a crowning touch.

Kona Grill is a treasure not to be found West of Nevada, so the next time you are planning a trip to Las Vegas, factor in this fine dining adventure. You won't be disappointed.

For more information, visit the Kona Grill web site at http://www.konagrill.com