We had the fantastic opportunity to support Hawaii's local manufacturers and businesses at this years HFMA Taste Awards! Taste was held at the Hilton Waikiki Beach on Kuhio and boasted the theme "Buy Local, It Matters". We were honored to have been able to showcase our ivory linens, royal purple runners and gold charger plates in support of Taste's theme and colors.
The Taste Awards began with a Battle of the Chefs competition featuring Chef Shaymus Alwin of Azure, Chef Lee Anne Wong of Koko Head Cafe and Chef Wade Ueoka of MW Restaurant. This was a fantastic way to start any meal!
Guests also had the amazing opportunity to taste specially prepared liquor drinks featuring Kohana Rum, Koloa Rum, and Pau Vodka!
Following the competition, Chef James Aptakin prepared a custom three course meal featuring ingredients created and made right here in Hawaii. Ten companies won coveted awards recognizing their outstanding manufacturing achievements in Hawaii. Aloha Shoyu was named this year's Governor's Lifetime Achievement Award winner!
We had a great time planning and coordinating HFMA's Taste Awards! A special thanks to Susan Morita of Menehune Mac for being such an awesome chairperson, Susan Hanes of Dana Labels for the awesome design of the programs and invitations, and Dave Minamoto & Co. for the wonderful photos!