Sera

We are beyond honored to welcome Shelley Lindgren—renowned wine director, sommelier, author, and co-owner of San Francisco’s legendary A16—to Honolulu for a very special afternoon of Italian wine tasting and book signing. For over two decades, Shelley has been one of the country’s most passionate and influential voices for Italy’s wine traditions—especially the soulful, lesser-known grapes and producers that form the backbone of the country’s regional identity. A16 is now celebrating its 21st year in business, a remarkable milestone in today’s restaurant world. Shelley’s work has reshaped how an entire generation of sommeliers and wine lovers experience Italian wine—earning her and A16 the James Beard Award for Outstanding Wine Program in 2015, and even recognition from the Italian government itself. In a rare and humbling honor, she was named a “Cavaliere dell’Ordine della Stella d’Italia,” a knighthood acknowledging her tireless efforts to uplift and preserve Italy’s native grapes and forgotten regions. Her advocacy hasn’t just changed wine lists—it’s created a ripple effect in culture, appreciation, and access. Shelley is also the author of Italian Wine, a beautifully written, deeply researched, and refreshingly approachable reference that bridges the gap between enthusiast and expert. At this event, she’ll be signing copies of her latest book while guiding guests through a tasting of four distinct and expressive Italian wines: – 2022 Penna-Currado ‘Bricco Lago’ (Dolcetto, Piedmont) – 2021 Monteleone Etna Rosso (Nerello Mascalese, Sicily) – 2022 Caravaglio Salina Bianco (Malvasia, Aeolian Islands) – 2020 Marisa Cuomo ‘Ravello’ Bianco (Costa d’Amalfi) Each wine brings its own personality, story, and terroir to the table—whether from dramatic coastal cliffs, high-elevation volcanic soils, or quiet alpine hillsides. This tasting is a celebration of regionality, authenticity, and the kind of soulful winemaking that Shelley has championed her entire career. We’re thrilled to be collaborating with Shelley and the A16 team, and to help bring a little of that magic to Hawaii. Come raise a glass with us—taste something new, ask questions, get a book signed, and celebrate the spirit of Italian wine, island-style.

Join us at 4:30pm or 8:00pm for an unforgettable evening as we celebrate the reintroduction of our restaurant under a new name — Sera — with a one-night-only collaboration alongside the acclaimed team from A16 in San Francisco. This dinner is more than a showcase — it’s a shared expression of passion, craft, and community. Chef Arnold (Sera) and Chef Yosuke (A16) took turns crafting each course, building a menu that moves between their styles, regions, and inspirations. On the wine side, Shelley (A16) and Kale (Sera) paired each dish with wines that speak to both tradition and discovery — creating a dialogue between cellar and kitchen. This is a true collaboration — designed not only for the enjoyment of our guests but also as an opportunity for our teams to learn from one another. It represents what we believe is possible when we come together: thoughtful hospitality, layered storytelling, and the joy of sharing something exceptional. Menu Preview: Amuse Bouche Short Rib Frittelle – Horseradish Gel, Chives Hawaiian Abalone – Liver Pesto, Avocado, Radish Wine: Berlucchi '61 Extra Brut Franciacorta NV First Course Roasted Asparagus Crema di Noci, Pecorino Tartufo Wine: 2020 Kante ‘Vitovska’ Venezia Giulia IGT Intermezzo Seasonal Melon Granita Pressed Melons, Limoncello Vinaigrette, Ricotta Salata Second Course Rigatoni with Local White Fish Puttanesca Sauce Wine: 2022 Terre Nere Etna Bianco DOC Entrée Course Oxtail Ossobuco – Gremolata, Marinated Cherry Tomatoes, Saffron Orzo Wine: 2017 Ar.Pe.Pe. Sassella ‘Stella Retica’ Valtellina Superiore DOCG Dessert Sera Apple Crostata – Olive Oil, Caramel, Fior di Latte Gelato This night is a preview of where we’re headed — a celebration of the power of collaboration, the possibilities of the table, and the next chapter of who we are becoming at Sera. Seating is limited. Reservations required.

How many people have truly shaped my wine journey? Bruce Neyers is unquestionably one of the foremost. I first met Bruce back in the late 1970s or early 1980s, when he was running Joseph Phelps Vineyards. It was under his leadership that Phelps released my very first taste of a commercial Syrah bottling. That same visionary team, guided by Bruce, also conceptualized and launched Insignia—a wine that would go on to change the game for California Cabernet wine blends. In 1992, Bruce left Phelps to join a then-fledgling importer: Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant. For the next 25 years, he led sales and marketing, helping to transform Kermit Lynch into one of the most iconic and respected wine importers in the world. That’s Bruce. My Wine Yoda—wise, humble, down-to-earth, and deeply insightful. His extraordinary career spans the early days of Napa Valley’s rise and extends into the revelatory world of artisanal, family-run vignerons in France and later Italy. His influence is profound and far-reaching. Bruce hasn’t been back to Hawai‘i in quite some time—and let’s be honest, none of us are getting any younger. So, this is a rare and personal opportunity. Featured Wines 2021 Carignan “Evangelho Vineyard" 100 plus year old, own rooted vines made into a homage to the world acclaimed Carignan based red wines of Maxime Magnon. 2021 (Cabernet Merlot) “Left Bank” A superbly elegant, wonderfully refined Cabernet/ Merlot blend—reminiscent of Bordeaux in style--from a parcel inundated with river stones near the creek that runs through their property. 2022 Pinot Noir “Placida" A very savory, masculine Pinot Noir made from a one acre parcel of Swan heritage vines. Stylistically it lies somewhere between the New & Old World. 2021 Chardonnay “Carneros" Crafted using the heritage “Wente clone”—stony in its core, with uplifting aromatics & Old World sensibility.. Hope to see you there.