Mealani’s Taste of the Hawaiian Range on Friday, Sept. 26, will expand to offer three hours of tasting from 5-8 p.m.
Mealani’s Taste of the Hawaiian Range on Friday, Sept. 26, will expand to offer three hours of tasting from 5-8 p.m.
The 19th annual agricultural festival — showcasing the use of pasture-raised, local beef — will sprawl inside and out at the Hilton Waikoloa Village.
“We want our guests to be able to enjoy a more leisurely experience and so we added an extra hour,” said Jeri Moniz, event chairperson. “The additional time will also give attendees more time to talk story with our local food producers and enjoy the exhibits.”
Tickets are $45 through Sept. 25 and $60 at the door on the day of the event. They will be available online and at a dozen islandwide locations starting July 1.
Thirty of the state’s top chefs already confirmed their participation to prepare delectable dishes using pasture-raised beef, pork, lamb, goat, mutton and wild boar — plus a cornucopia of fresh island fruit, veggies, honey, spices and beverages.
Culinary adventure seekers can taste and enjoy all the cuts of pasture-raised beef — everything from tongue to tail — prepared expertly by Hawaii chefs. Enjoy familiar cuts such as sirloin tip and ribs, plus beef cheek and Rocky Mountain Oysters.
While “tasting,” attendees can meet Hawaii’s food producers at booths and talk story with the ranchers and farmers who make a living growing our food. They also can enjoy exhibits presenting topics related to local agriculture and healthy foods, including the University of Hawaii’s Mealani Research Station.
Watch for ticket giveaways on Facebook at Taste of the Hawaiian Range and Twitter #TasteHI. For general event information, call 969-8228.
Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication or a modification of policies and procedures to participate in this event should contact Moniz at 960-8411 no later than Aug. 26.
Mealani’s Taste of the Hawaiian Range and Agriculture Festival provides a venue for sustainable agricultural education, encouragement and support of locally produced ag products. The premier ag-tourism event is a partnership between CTAHR, Hawaii Cattlemen’s Association, Hawaii Cattlemen’s Council, Kulana Foods, UH-Hilo CAFNRM, county Department of Environmental Management and community volunteers.
Sponsorship also includes the Hawaii Tourism Authority, the Hawaii County Research and Development, Hawaii Community College Food Service &Culinary Program and KTA SuperStores.