Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection on Hawai’i Island, is excited to announce the 2nd annual Mauna Lani Culinary Classic, held in partnership with Blue Ribbon Restaurants and the nonprofit Māla`ai: The Culinary Garden of Waimea Middle School.
From August 29th to September 1st, 2024, this four-day festival will showcase Hawaii's top culinary talents alongside James Beard award-winning chefs, including new participant Nancy Silverton, California winemakers, and master mixologists. Guests will enjoy a variety of intimate events that celebrate Hawaii’s unique flavors and agricultural heritage.
Highlights include chef-led masterclasses, beachside tastings, and late-night parties across Mauna Lani’s luxurious oceanfront resort. Inspired by CanoeHouse, where the Hawai’i Regional Cuisine movement started over 30 years ago, the Culinary Classic features 11 gourmet events over 4 days. Attendees will have the chance to dine and interact with culinary luminaries such as:
Nancy Silverton: James Beard Award-winner, co-owner of the Mozza Restaurant Group, and author of the bestseller "The Cookie That Changed My Life".
Margarita Manzke: James Beard Award-winner and founder of République in Los Angeles.
Sarah Michelle Gellar: Actress and cookbook author.
Stephanie Izard: Executive Chef and owner of Girl & the Goat, and James Beard Award-winner.
Andrew Zimmern: Emmy-winning TV personality and chef.
Bruce & Eric Bromberg: Chefs and owners of Blue Ribbon Restaurants.
Jose Garces: Iron Chef and James Beard Award-winner.
Tiffany Derry: James Beard Award finalist and founder of Tiffany Derry Concepts.
Jonathan Waxman: Chef and owner of Barbuto, and James Beard Award-winner.
Sheldon Simeon: Owner of Tiffany’s and Tin Roof Maui, and “Top Chef” winner.
Lee Anne Wong: Executive Chef and owner of Koko Head Café, and “Top Chef” semi-finalist.
Allen Hess: Executive Chef and restaurateur of FORC.
Vitaly Paley: Iron Chef and James Beard Award-winner.
Allan Nagun: Executive Chef at Mauna Lani.
Pauline Lam: Executive Pastry Chef at Mauna Lani.
Manny Hinojosa: Master Mixologist and Global Brand Ambassador for Tequila Cazadores.
Event Schedule:
Thursday, August 29: The festival begins with a tour of Māla‘ai at Waimea Middle School and the Pa’aina Mauna Lani Lu’au, including a silent auction. Chefs from Blue Ribbon Omakase will host intimate dinners at the Francis H. I’i Brown Suite.
Friday, August 30: Start with a public panel discussion “Off the Line” featuring chefs Lee Anne Wong and Bruce Bromberg. In the evening, join the “Chefs on the Beach” event at Mauna Lani Beach Club, featuring a community tasting and live entertainment.
Saturday, August 31: Celebrate women in food at the Ladies Power Luncheon, hosted by Kerry Bromberg. The evening culminates with the Culinary Classic Dinner, featuring a multicourse meal with wine pairings and an afterparty under the stars.
Sunday, September 1: The final day includes the Keiki Malasadas & Mocktails interactive demo for children.
Tickets range from $35 to $595, with special pricing for kama’aina. Tickets, special room packages, and event details are available at Mauna Lani Culinary Classic.
For reservations and ticket information, please contact: 877.276.0370. For media inquiries, contact Bacchus Agency at maunalani@bacchus.agency. Visit Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection for more details.
About CanoeHouse: Mauna Lani’s signature oceanfront restaurant, CanoeHouse, is known for its farm-to-table dishes and innovative twists on Hawaiian classics. The restaurant emphasizes locally sourced ingredients and Hawaii’s rich culinary heritage.
About Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection: Located along the Kohala Coast, Mauna Lani offers luxurious accommodations, oceanfront dining, and enriching experiences. Recognized among Travel + Leisure’s Top 500 Hotels in the World, Mauna Lani provides a unique blend of luxury and cultural authenticity. For more information, visit Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection.
About Auberge Resorts Collection: Auberge Resorts Collection features unique hotels, resorts, and residences known for their captivating design, exceptional cuisine, and gracious service. For more information, visit Auberge Resorts Collection.
About The Friedkin Group: The Friedkin Group encompasses a variety of companies in automotive, hospitality, entertainment, sports, and adventure industries. For more information, visit The Friedkin Group.
