Yes, they use a tablecloth for dinner. I returned at lunch to take this photo of Holuakoa Gardens and Cafe.
If you’re a baby boomer traveling to the Big Island of Hawaii, don’t miss the locals. Food that is. From your resort room on the Kona Coast, drive up into the hills above Kailua-Kona to Holualoa Town for a meal at Holuakoa Gardens & Café. Your taste buds will thank you.
During a visit to the Big Island, Alan and I enjoyed a meal in Holuakoa’s garden setting. But first we walked the town of Holualoa, stopping in the shops and galleries that line Mamalahoa Highway. Located in the middle of coffee country, Holualoa Town has become a haven for local artisans. Have you visited a ukulele gallery? Holualoa has one.
But let’s get back to the food. Holuakoa Gardens & Café takes the slow food concept to the highest level. Most of the food products served at the restaurant come from within a 5-mile radius. The menu is changed often to reflect local availability and freshness of ingredients. Alan and I think organic never tasted so good.
My “Grilled Local Ahi Tuna” was served over lemon risotto, accompanied by the sweetest oven-dried tomatoes. Alan sampled the “Red Wine Braised Local Beef Shortribs” with red bliss potatoes, rainbow carrots and heirloom turnips. Even the wine was organic. Our dinner at Holuakoa Gardends & Café reminded me about the tasty benefits of eating local. I plan to put it into practice at home.
Have you visited Holualoa Town? Did you eat at Holuakoa Gardnes & Café? Post a comment to share your experience. Just thinking about our meal makes me hungry.
