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The Japanese Chamber of Commerce &Industry of Hawaii invites the community to gather for a celebration of flavor and local talent at the 27th Annual “A Taste of Hilo,” taking place on Sunday at Sangha Hall.

This year’s event begins with the Fuji Experience, an intimate, one-hour culinary showcase at 12 p.m. featuring head Chef Keoni Regidor of Napua and Lehua Restaurant.

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Guests will enjoy a curated menu centered around locally-raised pork from Kaunamano Farm in Honokaa. Hosted by restaurateur and farmer Brandon Lee, the Fuji Experience sets the stage for an afternoon that blends food, culture and connection.

“The Fuji Experience is really about connection — connecting our guests to the land, to the farmers, and to the stories behind each ingredient,” Brandon Lee, co-owner of Lehua and Napua restaurants, and Kaunamano Farms, said in a news release. “When people sit down to enjoy a meal that’s rooted in this island, they’re not just tasting food — they’re tasting Hawaii.”

Following the Fuji Experience, the main “A Taste of Hilo” event opens from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., transforming Sangha Hall into East Hawaii’s premier tasting room.

More than 20 local chefs, restaurants, and beverage producers will offer bite-sized creations and drink pairings that celebrate the island’s culinary diversity — from contemporary local cuisine to traditional favorites.

Participating vendors at this year’s event include Café Pesto, Ellie Girl Poke, Ka Likhikai Restaurant (Grand Naniloa Hotel), Ma‘ona Lunch Counter, Millie’s Deli and Snack Shop, Short n Sweet, Sweet Cane Café, Tenkatori, Tetsumen Hawaii, Island Sake Brewery Hawaii, Volcano Winery, Waiakea Volcanic Water and so much more!

“‘A Taste of Hilo’ is more than a tasting event — it’s a gathering that reflects who we are as a community and the aloha that connects us,” event co-chair Jan Abundo said in the release. “The energy in that room — chefs, students, guests, and partners — shows what happens when collaboration and generosity come together to move our island forward.”

“A Taste of Hilo” supports Hawaii Community College as well as JCCIH and the local food and beverage industry.

Online Auction

The event’s popular online silent auction runs through Sunday featuring experiences and gifts from across Hawaii Island — from restaurant packages and adventure tours to hotel stays and handcrafted items. Winning bidders can pick up their prizes at Sangha Hall during the event. Visit www.tasteofhilo.org.

Tickets for “A Taste of Hilo” are:

— General admission (1 p.m. to 3 p.m.), $75;

— Fuji Experience plus general admissio, $195.

Get tickets at at www.tasteofhilo.org.