Your Local Travel Specialist On: Delectable Dining - Hawaii's Farm Fresh Table Temptation

By Maureen Jones (Star Patcher)

The islands of Hawaii have been experiencing a slowdown in business due to the high costs of air travel. For a family to go visit one of the islands it is not an inexpensive holiday, and food prices are high once you get there. Many of our clients ask for a condo, prepare mainly breakfast and lunch, then go out to dinner.

Each island has its own uniquely fresh flavor. You will find it in the roots of Kauai’s historical farms abundant with taro and Oahu’s crisp Kahuku corn, artfully garnishing a fresh salad. It’s the sweet Maui onion used in gourmet cuisine and local snacks alike and the floral aroma of Hawaii Island’s honey. For a distinct taste of local culture, we trace a few of this island state’s key ingredients back to the farm then foster your culinary appreciation even further, pointing you to the place where these delights beautifully appear on your plate. I always like to go to a pineapple farm, and pick my own two large pineapple.

The Mai Tai tastes so much better when you have your own slice of pineapple in it.

Kauai
The truest immersion in nature is yours to experience on the Island of Kauai, from the film worthy Opeka’s Falls cascading into a hidden pool on the east side, to the iconic majesty of the Napali Coast to the north. Equally impressive as these natural phenomena are the island’s epicurean highlights such as succulent tomatoes, fresh picked from Kilauea and the island’s famed grass fed beef raised in the lush North Shore Mountains. Perk your palate with bold roasts from Kauai Coffee. Take a fascinating tour through the white coffee blossoms scenting the 3,100 acre estate growing this glorious bean and gain an in-depth understanding of the fruit harvesting process in late autumn. In the soft glow of torchlight, savor a rich terrine infused with dark chocolate and Kauai Coffee at Oasis on the Beach. This open air Hawaii style fine dining experience delights with unparalleled sunset views of Waipouli Beach fringing the peaceful resort town of Kapaa.

Hawaii Island
Home to moonscape lava fields and two active volcanoes, the island inspires culinary creativity like Volcano Winery’s blend of local guava and traditional wine grapes. Sample exquisite Hamakua Gray Oyster mushrooms and smoked sea salt. My favorite is the macadamia filled chocolates which are made at the Mauna Loa Visitor Center. You can watch expert demonstrations on husking these delicious nuts and carefully drying them to exact moisture specifications.
The high tide will splash just feet below your terraced table while you enjoy eating at popular beachside eatery, Huggo’s. A great dish, linguine topped with macadamia nut pesto.

Oahu
Downtown Honolulu has vibrant nightlife, cultural sites and wonderful restaurants. Mingle with chefs and farmers at lively markets like KCC Farmers Market near iconic Leahi (Diamond Head). Try unique island hybrids like strawberry-papaya and apple-bananas. Sip papaya drinks on the Smoothie Tour as an authentic wagon escorts you past North Shore Mountains at Kahuku Farms. Fields of rich vanilla, rows of watermelon and trees dotted with tangy passion fruit, and mango. You will learn a lot about a family owned farm. Hawaiian Vanilla Ice Cream is a must have. Eat at Chef Mavro near Waikiki, one of the most noted chefs.

Maui
The most popular island, has a lot to offer. In the quaint town of Lahina, try a salad of eggplant and kale. Sip island coffee brews from the Kaanapali coffee farm and the farmers market in Honokowai is teeming with mounds of fresh seafood. On the slopes of Haleakala, pick strawberries and pumpkins in season at four generation Kula County Farms, or visit their year round produce stand flaunting a colorful display of Maui sweet onion, corn, jams and boxed produce you can mail home. A great restaurant is Alan Wong’s Amasia within the Grand Wailea resort. We love the Mahi Mahi with Kula Corn Vinaigrette followed by Kula Strawberry Cheesecake.

We have some great packages on several islands which give you free nights, free airport transfers, free breakfast, free hotel tax, and possible upgrade. I’ve even seen packages which give you a free car, and a credit towards your airfare.

Experience the best that Hawaii has to offer.

Maureen Jones

Maureen Jones is president of All Horizons Travel at 160 Main Street, Los Altos. Members of her staff are experts in business travel, cruises, and all types of leisure.

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Previous columns from Maureen:

Your travel specialist on: Themed River Cruises

Islay, A whisky lover’s delight!

Your Local Travel Expert On: Different Perspectives of Australia

Your Travel Expert On: Exotic Cruises

The Kimberley, Cruising the Australian Outback

South Bay Travel Expert Recommends: Latin Luxury

Photo courtesy of gohawaii