Expect Big Splashes from ‘Rays on the Bay’

Kona, HI – Sept. 10, 2012 – Delicate vegetable summer rolls. Mouth-watering Chinese style ribs. Wake-up-the-taste-buds manapua with sweet chili sauce. And that is just for starters. Rays on the Bay has opened on Hawaii, the Big Island and while diners may think the main attraction is seeing manta rays that often gather offshore, the food is causing a splash of its own.

Executive Chef Viktor Schmidt scoured the islands for inspiration showcased in a menu that is a microcosm of Hawaii’s multi-ethnic population. From miso shrimp and chop chop chicken salads to artisan pizzas made from house-made dough then grilled quickly on kiawe wood fired grills, Rays on the Bay is a restaurant that diners will return to again and again. For a quick dinner, to linger over sunset, to toast a new beginning or a final night on the island, the menu is a delight of flavor combinations and diversity with innovative offerings that also include burgers, sliders, fresh fish tacos, tender Rib Eye steaks and island fresh catch prepared one of five different ways.

Evenings at Rays on the Bay begin with colorful tropical sunsets that transform the skies into moonlit nights. Panoramic ocean views from Rays on the Bay are maximized for diners and lounge-goers via three terraced levels with seating for 216. Preferred seating are those tables  directly above the ocean’s edge where giant manta ray gather to feed most evenings. But every seat in the house, including comfortable cozy lounge coves and raised bar seating, enjoy endless bay and coastline views.

Rays on the Bay’s Rum Bar has seating for 22 where “the coldest beer on the island” is dispensed from a special tap. Pineapple Lychee Pop, Guava Lemonade and Keauhou Punch are just some of the imaginative specialty cocktails, many featuring Hawaii-made rums. To see and be seen, friends gather to socialize around fire pits while enjoying nightly live island music that ramps up the fun level and adds even more to the festive atmosphere at Rays.

“Rays on the Bay has opened as the only restaurant and rum bar in the world perched on lava cliffs with excellent viewing of manta rays that gather offshore most evenings,” enthused Rays on the Bay general manager Jayden Callahan. “And while the mantas draw attention, we’ve worked hard todevelop a menu and a fun environment that will also be an attraction and draw diners back to our tables again and again.” Callahan added that the menu has something for everyone whether they have a few minutes or a few hours to spend. She describes the rum bar as “amazing.”

An extensive wine list with offerings by the glass or bottle complements Rays on the Bay’s creative fare.

Patrons arriving for dinner appreciate complimentary valet parking and everyone will applaud engaging aloha service from well-trained and personable Rays on the Bay staff.

Rays on the Bay is part of a now complete $16 million renewal at Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa. Dinner service is from 4:00pm until 10:00pm daily, Lounge service until 11:00am. Dinner reservations can be made at www.opentable.com or by calling Rays on the Bay direct at 808.930.4949. Visit RaysOnTheBay.com, follow us on Facebook and Twitter (@RaysOnTheBay) to learn more.

Visit www.SheratonKona.com.