- When I was in high school we were required to volunteer for 100 hours before graduation. I spent many hours volunteering for the Honolulu International Film Festival (HIFF for short).
- One of the perks of being my father’s daughter is that I am allowed to tag along sometimes to fun, exclusive events.
How do these two random personal anecdotes relate? This Fall, Kiyo and I were able to attend the HIFF opening night party at Halekulani.
What was the highlight of this event? The food, of course! We got to hang out with our friend Chef Vikram (you can see his chef’s coat in the picture above) and try all of his delicious creations, such as this creamy saffron risotto.
While everyone else mingled, Kiyo and I spent most of our time moving table to table, sampling the delightful appetizer offerings, such as this amazing beef skewer (Kiyo had the shrimp).
More options: edamame and poke bowls with white rice…
Fresh lettuce wraps…
But the highlight was the dessert table, and I’m a more savory-inclined kind of gal, so that’s saying a lot.
On the left is a gorgeous mochi / cake creation and on the right is some sort of amazing chocolate mousse / bar / thing. I can’t remember but I do remember Kiyo dragging me away from the table as I attempted to take thirds seconds.
Lastly, a jasmine tea pudding. It was heavenly. Obviously I am biased, but Halekulani consistently provides the best food on the island. It is simple yet creative, light yet satisfying, and beautiful, always.
Tagged: appetizer, beef, chocolate, dessert, edamame, event, film, Halekulani, Hawaii, Hawaii International Film Festival, HIFF, Honolulu, hotel, jasmine, Kiyo Egashira, meat, mochi, poke, pudding, rice, risotto, sauce, seafood, shrimp, skewers, tea, vegetables, Vikram Garg, Waikiki
