A Culinary Retreat and Feast For the Senses

In the midst of coconut trees, sea-cliffs and winding roads lays a little oasis called Kalani Oceanside Retreat.

Beginning last Saturday and running to Nov. 11, Puna becomes the place to be for culinary workshops, demonstrations, market tours and more.

On Monday, take a cooking class that teaches gluten-free cooking, tour the native and non-native gardens at Kalani, and later enjoy a farm-to-fork dinner with Chef Dana Butler.

Tuesday brings lauhala weaving know-how, an experimental farm tour and dinner with Chef Mark Ceranski. Wednesday will be the day for market tours at the Hilo Farmers Market and Coffee Mill, as well as a special nighttime perusal of the market in Kalapana.

Turnoff to Kalani Oceanside Retreat, photo by Kristin Hashimoto

On Thursday play with unusual produce, tour Dragon’s Eye Farm and dine with Chef Mariana Bergtold.

Friday goes raw with fermented food and raw smoothies, the La`akea Farm tour and the Taste of Pahoa from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

For more detailed information, tickets and weekend event info visit www.kalani.com, or call 1-800-800-6886. The main office line is 808-965-0468.

This non-profit culinary festival is free or “pay what you can.” Kama`aina rates are available. Prices range from $20 to $25 per person for each event, $150 for a half-week pass, or $250 for a full week of foodie delight with all access to workshops, tours and dinners.

The Kalani Oceanside Retreat is located at 12-6860 Kalapana-Kapoho Beach Road in Pahoa.