"It's going to be crazy this weekend," said Chaowasaree, a member of Hawaii Island Chefs, an elite group that was formed to support the state's culinary programs through scholarships. "On Dec. 9, I've got a function for 300 people at Chanel and then on the following day, I've got to cook for 600 people during the annual Kamaaina Christmas."

And it doesn't stop there. Company parties and Christmas Day reservations are quickly filling up the books.

"Since we now have our outdoor sate bar, we can accommodate more private parties," Chaowasaree said. "They can still enjoy the music, but it's a little more private."

Those opting for this route can choose from a heavy pupu menu that starts at $20 per person. Or, anther option is a four-course, prix-fixe menu for $45 per person.

"It shows more of what I can do given my background," said executive chef Jason Takemura, referring to his December holiday menu. "It's still a little Pacific Rim, but it also has elements of California and French."

And this is apparent in the first course, which consists of a salad that's garnished with slightly tart caramelized pear slices then surrounded by pancetta-wrapped prawns, all drizzled with a warm Stilton bleu cheese dressing.

The evening's soup will offer a creamy broth dressed with fire roasted chestnut.

"It's perfect for this time of the year," Chaowasaree said. "Roasted chestnuts are the classic holiday fare."

For the main entree, guests will be served almond-crusted veal loin, accompanied by grilled asparagus and chanterelle mushrooms. A truffle madeira sauce is used to enhance the subtle flavor of the veal loin.

"We usually do this with lamb chops," Takemura said. "But we just had that as last month's special, so we wanted to offer something different."

For dessert, a fluffy cappuccino mousse cake with fresh berries will end the evening on a sweet note ... well, kind of.

Since opening seven years ago, Chai's Island Bistro has been a frequent venue for some of Hawaii's top entertainers.

Jason Takemura decided to offer veal loin during the holiday season.

This includes such award-winning artists as the Brothers Cazimero, Amy Hanaialii Gilliom, Sista Robi Kahakalau, Maunalua, Azure McCall and Olomana's Jerry Santos, all of whom will take the stage here some time during the month of December. (Call for specific days and times.)

"The concept of the bistro hasn't changed over the years," Chaowasaree said. "It has always been about music and food. We're more grounded now and well-rounded, too."