Mauna Lani Culinary Classic

A Taste of Island Flavors and Traditions

The Mauna Lani Culinary Classic is a beacon of gastronomy on the Island of Hawai’i, shining a spotlight on the culinary prowess of renowned chefs and mixologists. Held at Mauna Lani, a luxury resort known for its picturesque surroundings and top-tier accommodations, this event is a symphony of flavors and hospitality. It draws a crowd that appreciates fine dining and innovative cooking, blending the tastes of Hawai’i with global culinary trends. The festival not only provides a platform for chefs to showcase their skills but also serves as a gathering to foster community and celebrate the art of food.

Enthusiasts attending the Culinary Classic are treated to an array of dishes and drinks curated by James Beard Award-winning chefs, capturing the essence of creativity and craftsmanship. This multi-day extravaganza offers a schedule filled with tastings, demonstrations, and unique eating experiences, making it an epicurean’s delight. Through partnerships with local organizations, such as the non-profit Māla`ai: The Culinary Garden of Waimea Middle School, the event underscores a commitment to community engagement and education.

The collaboration between Mauna Lani and various stakeholders ensures that the Culinary Classic goes beyond a mere food festival—it's an opportunity for learning and cultural exchange set against the luxurious backdrop of the Auberge Resorts Collection. Each session is meticulously planned to deliver enjoyment and knowledge to foodies and professionals alike, making it a valuable addition to Hawai’i's rich culinary landscape.

Event Overview

The Mauna Lani Culinary Classic is an esteemed gastronomic celebration presented by Mauna Lani, part of the Auberge Resorts Collection. This culinary event is a spectacle of taste and talent, set against the picturesque backdrop of Hawai’i’s Island.

Spanning over Labor Day weekend, the event promises a three-day journey through world-class cuisine, engaging attendees with a plethora of sensory experiences. Attendees can enjoy the expertise of James Beard Award-winning chefs, acclaimed sommeliers, and innovative mixologists, making the Classic a vibrant showcase of culinary mastery.

Tickets for the event grant access to a series of festivities including themed dinners (What wine goes well with dinner?), tasting sessions, and interactive cooking demonstrations. The ticket purchase procedure and event-specific details are outlined on their Culinary Classic Tickets page.

The Culinary Classic offers varying room rates for guests seeking accommodation during the event. Mauna Lani extends preferential rates for attendees, with the potential for special benefits for those who book their stay together with event participation.

Throughout the event, experiences transcend typical culinary fare, intertwining the island's culture and Mauna Lani's exceptional service ethos. They design these experiences not just to satiate the palate but also to cultivate connections among like-minded individuals passionate about food and culture.

Culinary Highlights

The Mauna Lani Culinary Classic shines as a beacon for food connoisseurs, with unique dining experiences and an assembly of culinary geniuses. This event is a celebration of gastronomical excellence set against the stunning backdrop of Hawai’i Island.

The CanoeHouse Experience

At the CanoeHouse guests indulge in a beachside dinner that ties together local ingredients with astonishing culinary creativity. Notable for its stunning views of the sunset and volcanic landscapes, this dining experience allows the James Beard Award-winning chefs such as Jonathan Waxman to showcase their talent in an intimate, oceanfront setting.

Signature Events

Chefs on the Beach and The Culinary Classic Dinner are flagship gatherings within the festival. Both events bring together top chefs and local culinary personalities such as Sheldon Simeon and Stephanie Izard to offer an exquisite menu full of innovative dishes.

Chefs and Personalities

Culinary masters including Tiffany Derry, Andrew Zimmern, Jose Garces, and Lee Anne Wong grace the Mauna Lani Culinary Classic with their presence. These chefs, renowned for their national acclaim and James Beard Awards, share their passion for cuisine and impart unique flavors at each meal.

Sommelier and Mixology Sessions

Wine aficionados and cocktail enthusiasts rejoice as expert sommeliers and mixologists lead sessions on fine wine and aged spirits. Mai Tai and award-winning rum stand out in the mixology class, highlighting the best of sugarcane spirits.

Gourmet Dining

The event's gourmet dining extends beyond the ordinary with Omakase offerings from Koko Head Café's Lee Anne Wong and the Iron Chef experience. Mark Libunao, the executive chef of Mauna Lani, orchestrates a surf shack-styled dinner encapsulating the essence of island cooking.

Interactive Culinary Experiences

At the Mauna Lani Culinary Classic on Hawai’i Island, attendees are invited to engage in a variety of interactive culinary experiences. These hands-on activities are designed to deepen the appreciation for local cuisine and its preparation.

Master Classes

Master classes, such as the highly anticipated Sushi (What wine goes well with sushi?) Master Class, are a cornerstone of the Culinary Classic. Led by experts from Blue Ribbon Sushi, participants can learn the delicate art of making maki under the tutelage of a seasoned sushi chef.

Garden and Farm Tours

The Garden and Farm Tours take visitors through the lush culinary garden at Waimea Middle School, showcasing the partnership with Māla‘ai. This immersive experience connects guests with local farmers, allowing them to witness the farm-to-table process firsthand.

Educational Programs

Educational programs are woven throughout the event, providing insights into the local culinary scene. Through these programs, students from Waimea Middle School gain invaluable education on culinary practices and sustainability efforts within their community.

Tasting Sessions

The Culinary Classic also features curated tasting sessions with renowned sommeliers like Vitaly Paley, a master sommelier, who guides participants through a journey of exquisite wine flavors. This provides a unique platform for both education and enjoyment.

Culinary Demonstrations

Culinary demonstrations are held by national and local chefs, highlighting the versatility of Hawai’i Island's culinary offerings. Chefs from establishments such as Portland's renowned kitchens collaborate with Mauna Lani to showcase their skills and cooking techniques.

Cultural and Recreational Activities

Mauna Lani provides visitors with a myriad of cultural and recreational activities that showcase the beauty and traditions of Hawai’i Island. From engaging in dynamic ocean sports to exploring historical sites, guests can immerse themselves in experiences that echo the spirit of the Big Island's diverse climate zones and rich history.

Kainalu Ocean Sports

Kainalu Ocean Sports offers a chance to embrace the warm waters of the Kona-Kohala Coast. Guests can participate in canoeing and paddleboarding sessions, navigating the clear, blue waters that border the resort's black sand beaches. Expert instructors, deeply familiar with these legendary shores, guide enthusiasts of all skill levels.

Auberge Spa Experiences

At the Auberge Spa, visitors find tranquility modeled after the island's various climate zones. Unique treatments, such as the Hālani therapy, incorporate local traditions and natural materials, ensuring a rejuvenating experience. The spa's offerings are designed to harmonize with the serenity of the island’s active volcanoes and flora.

Historical Expeditions

Mauna Lani is steeped in history, with expeditions led by knowledgeable guides like Danny Akaka, who shares tales of King Kamehameha and the area's storied past during the “talk story” sessions. Guests can explore Kalama Kai, the site of ancient fishponds and petroglyphs, and feel the deep connection between the Big Island's people and their land.

Wildlife Encounters

The diverse ecosystems of Hawai’i Island ensure that wildlife encounters remain a highlight. Aboard Paradise Helicopters, adventurers can soar above the island, spotting humpback whales during their seasonal migration. Mauna Lani's position on the Big Island's coast provides visitors with unparalleled opportunities to witness marine life in their natural habitat.

Accommodations

For attendees of the Mauna Lani Culinary Classic, the Mauna Lani offers an array of luxurious accommodations along the legendary Kohala Coast. Guests can bask in beachside serenity, experience resort living with a gastronomic flair, and take advantage of special packages available exclusively for the event.

Lodging Options

Auberge Resorts Collection at Mauna Lani provides guests with several lodging tiers tailored to a range of preferences and budgets. Options include:

• Standard Rooms: Cozy yet elegant rooms with all the essential amenities for a comfortable stay.

• Suites: Spacious and luxurious, offering additional living space and enhanced comfort.

• Residences: For those seeking a home-away-from-home experience, complete with multiple bedrooms and full kitchens.

• Cabanas: For a unique, outdoor-focused living experience, cabanas afford both privacy and proximity to the beach.

All accommodations assure guests a slice of paradise, with many rooms boasting views of the stunning Hawaiian coastline.

Special Packages

Throughout the Culinary Classic event, the resort offers:

• Exclusive Room Rates: Reduced prices on accommodations for event attendees who inquire directly with the resort.

• Culinary Classic Package: Includes tickets to the event and may feature other bonuses like meals or a complimentary cabana rental (subject to availability).

The resort suggests booking accommodations in advance, especially if planning to attend over peak periods like Labor Day weekend, to ensure the best selection and rates.

For Attendees

When planning to attend the Mauna Lani Culinary Classic, prospective guests are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance due to the popularity of the event and limited availability. Advanced reservations ensure attendees will experience the vibrant culinary scene featuring James Beard Award-winning chefs and an array of food-related festivities.

Upon arrival, attendees must present their tickets along with a valid photo ID. For residents of Hawai'i, proof of residency is necessary for entry. It is important for guests to note that the event has a clear bag policy, and all carried items are subject to search. Moreover, to maintain the integrity of the festival's offerings, outside food and drinks are not permitted.

Those seeking additional information or with specific needs should inquire with event organizers ahead of time. This can include inquiries regarding accessibility, dietary restrictions, or other accommodations. Communication with the event staff can be made through the provided contact details on the Mauna Lani Culinary Classic's official website.

• ✓ Ticket and Photo ID

• ✓ Check for Hawai'i residency (if applicable)

• ✓ Note the bag policy

• ✓ Prohibited items: outside food/drink

The Mauna Lani Culinary Classic is a revered three-day event. Attendees can look forward to connecting with chefs, sommeliers, mixologists, and fellow culinary enthusiasts in an extraordinary celebration of the culinary arts amidst the beautiful landscape of Hawai'i.