by Karen Rose

Nothing brings people together like good food and wine, and this year’s Uncorked Food & Wine Festival did just that as over 200 people convened at the beautiful Shops at Mauna Lani on the Koahala Coast to eat, drink, and raise money for a good cause.

Wine was flowing and food was bountiful as thirteen of the island’s top chefs fed an enthusiastic crowd who lingered under colorfully lit palm trees.

Wine Table

The evening was a benefit fundraiser for the Visitor Aloha Society of Hawaii Island, a non-profit organization that provides assistance to visitors affected by adversities such as crime victimization, medical emergencies or the death of a loved one while visiting the island. Last year VASH provided support and shared aloha to over 1200 visitors.

“VASH provides such an important service here on the island,” said Michael Oh, manager at the Shops at Mauna Lani. “We are happy to have this event to support the work they do and the services they provide.”

Music was provided by the father-son duo Meleʻuhane, who entertained guests with a mix of original Hawaiian music and easy listening cover tunes. Everyone went home full, happy and looking forward to next year’s Uncorked Food & Wine Festival!

Meleuʻhane

Roasted Tenderloin and Mashed Potato – Ruth Chris Steakhouse

Chocolate Torte with Raspberry Almond Bat – Daylight Mind Coffee Company

Thai Peanut Ramen Noodles – Under the Bodhi Tree

Caramelia Chocolate Mousse – Brownʻs Beach House

Slow Roasted Pork Tacos – Tommy Bahama Restaurant and Bar

Beef Tataki – Royʻs

Alii Mushroom Bread Pudding with White Truffle Oil, Passion Fruit, Bacon and White Chocolate Sauce – Chef Fenton Lee Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

Shrimp tempura and spicy tuna roll with local avocado, kochujang sauce and spice – Monstera