Kui Wright Is Doing It Right

A hardworking Kapahulu man is the 2013 Outstanding Lodging Employee of the Year — for the kind of service that helps everyone else unwind and relax. Robert “Kui” Wright is head bartender at The Royal Hawaiian’s Mai Tai Bar, and his approach to the job has been noticed.

Robert ‘Kui’ Wright with his 2013 Lodging Employee of the Year award. Photo from Anthology Group.

“It’s hard to imagine the Mai Tai Bar without Kui,” wrote Valerie Okawa, the resort’s human resources manager who nominated him. “His presence behind the bar is a welcome sight for many of its return guests. Through his talents as a superb mixologist and his open and friendly demeanor, Kui personally enhances each and every guest’s experience in Hawaii.”

Wright received the Na Poe Paahana (hard-working people) award, one of the top non-management honors in the hospitality industry, at the Hawaii Lodging & Tourism Association lunch Jan. 10, in addition to a koa box, money and proclamation from the governor.