Vacationers and residents on the Big Island’s Kohala Gold Coast now have a new local culinary option with the debut of Puako Provisions and Catering at the landmark Puako General Store located in the popular beachside community.
Puako Provisions and Catering will offer a variety of grab-and-go “beach-friendly” food options, including salads, sandwiches on freshly-baked breads and poké bowls made with locally-sourced fish.
Shoppers can also choose from pre-packaged menu items as well as catered food, picnic baskets and special order meals for pickup or delivery to their rental or home.
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Along with its grab-and-go and other food offerings, Puako Provisions will feature weekly specials available from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., including handmade pizza, and on Friday, “make-your-own” poké bowls.
Whenever possible, the chef uses seasonal, organic products sourced locally from land and sea, yet they are priced to be affordable.
The new operation is directed by Noah Hester, former executive chef and manager of the Blue Dragon Restaurant in nearby Kawaihae, which closed earlier this year.
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Though just 34 years old, Hester has already received accolades while at the Blue Dragon, including “Best Chef America 2014-2015” and “Best Chef North Hawai‘i 2012-2015.”
He has also been featured prominently in Edible Hawaii Islands Magazine.
Hester grew up in Puako and has fond childhood memories of visiting the Puako General Store—now owned by his mother, Mary Fox.
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The store is an iconic destination that sells groceries, many locally made gifts and souvenirs, including T-shirts, handmade jewelry and much more.
Tables are available on the store’s front porch for casual dining, while compostable carryout containers are used for all food items.
The store, located at 69-1649 Puako Beach Drive, is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
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