Island-Hopping for Foodies: The Best of Hawaii Food & Wine Festival 2025
Aloha, flavor seekers! The Fifteenth Annual Hawaii Food & Wine Festival (HFWF) is ready to turn up the heat this fall with a sensational island-hopping culinary extravaganza. From October 17 to November 2, 2025, this multi-island celebration will bring together over 150 of the world’s most talented chefs, winemakers, and mixologists to honor Hawai‘i’s vibrant food culture. Think three epic weekends, three stunning islands — the Island of Hawai‘i, Maui, and O‘ahu — and countless unforgettable tastes and experiences. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler with an appetite for the extraordinary, this year’s HFWF promises a delicious adventure infused with the spirit of aloha.
More than just a feast, the 2025 festival is centered around a powerful theme: FEAST — Food, Education, Agriculture, Sustainability, and Tourism. That means every bite you savor supports a deeper mission of culinary connection, cultural celebration, and community impact. Expect beachfront tastings, exclusive wine-pairing dinners, chef-led cooking demos, and the debut of a game-changing FEAST Summit. From beachside barbecues to high-end gourmet galas, HFWF 2025 is your golden ticket to Hawai‘i’s tastiest gathering yet. So come hungry, come curious, and get ready to eat, sip, and celebrate like never before — island style.
From Waikīkī to the World: 15 Years of Culinary Aloha
What began as a modest three-day culinary event in Waikīkī has blossomed into a statewide sensation. Founded in 2011 by two of Hawai‘i’s most celebrated chefs, Roy Yamaguchi and Alan Wong, the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival was born out of a shared vision: to elevate Hawai‘i’s culinary scene and spotlight the islands as a world-class food destination. In just 15 years, that vision has become reality. Today, HFWF is the largest food and wine festival in the state, with a reach that stretches across three islands and draws global attention from culinary enthusiasts, media, and top-tier talent.
At its heart, HFWF is a nonprofit with a purpose far greater than indulgence. It has raised more than $5 million for local organizations supporting culinary education, sustainable agriculture, and cultural preservation. Through its events, the festival nurtures Hawai‘i’s next generation of chefs and food producers, creating meaningful connections between local farms and internationally acclaimed kitchens.
The theme for 2025 — FEAST — beautifully encapsulates this mission. It's a reminder that behind every dish is a story: of education, agriculture, sustainability, and the vibrant tourism industry that helps share Hawai‘i’s food culture with the world. The festival’s 15-year journey is not just a celebration of cuisine, but of community, culture, and legacy.
Island of Hawai‘i (October 17–18, 2025): Golf, Gourmet & Island Grown Goodness
The Fifteenth Annual Hawaii Food & Wine Festival launches in unforgettable style on the Island of Hawai‘i — affectionately known as the Big Island. For two delicious days, October 17–18, the Mauna Kea Resort area transforms into a foodie’s paradise where culinary creativity meets island luxury.
Day One: Cuisines of the Sun® Golf Classic – October 17
Tee off the festival with the inaugural Cuisines of the Sun® Golf Classic at the iconic Mauna Kea Golf Course, hosted by HFWF co-founder and culinary legend, Chef Alan Wong. This isn’t your typical golf tournament — it’s a moving feast on the fairways. As players navigate the lush oceanfront course, they’ll discover gourmet tasting stations at multiple holes, featuring elevated island fare from top Big Island chefs. Expect fresh, locally sourced bites paired with ice-cold craft brews and tropical cocktails — all with panoramic ocean views.
After 18 holes of flavor and fun, the celebration continues at the 19th Hole Awards Dinner in the clubhouse. The menu? A tribute to Alan Wong’s “Cuisines of the Sun” legacy, curated by Chef Peter Abarcar Jr. alongside fellow Hawai‘i Island culinary stars Colin Hazama and Allen Hess. These chefs, all mentored by Wong, bring bold, sun-soaked flavors to the table in one unforgettable night. (Pro tip: This exclusive event is wildly popular — and it will sell out.)
Day Two: Cucina – From Mauka to Makai – October 18
The next evening, head to the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel for “Cucina: From Mauka to Makai” — a grand tasting event with an Italian-Hawaiian soul. Inspired by the warmth and abundance of the Italian kitchen, this beachfront experience weaves together local ingredients from mountain (“mauka”) to sea (“makai”) with the essence of la dolce vita. Savor elegant dishes from internationally acclaimed chefs — including Italian culinary masters — as they infuse island flavors into Italian classics using fresh seafood, Big Island produce, and more.
Raise a glass with premium Italian wines and handcrafted aperitivo-style cocktails as you stroll the stunning oceanfront grounds. Even more exciting? This tasting will feature the first harvest from the HFWF & Oʻuli Farms Chef’s Garden in Kamuela. Five top Big Island chefs — including Roy Yamaguchi, Brian Hirata, and Jayson Kanekoa — have been cultivating special crops just for this event. Talk about farm-to-fork first tastes!
From sun-soaked golf courses to moonlit tastings by the sea, the Big Island kickoff weekend promises two days of flavor, community, and culinary artistry. And if you're looking to stay close to the action, the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is offering special HFWF rates starting around $399/night — making this the ultimate foodie escape.
Kā‘anapali, Maui (October 24–26, 2025): Golf, Wagyu, and Southern Comfort by the Sea
The second weekend of the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival 2025 unfolds on the sun-kissed shores of West Maui’s Kā‘anapali coast, serving up three days of epic flavors, beachside vibes, and culinary camaraderie. From gourmet greens to golden-hour grilling, this Maui lineup is bursting with flavor and fun — all with the signature aloha twist.
Day One: Roy Yamaguchi Golf Classic – October 24
Chef Roy Yamaguchi, HFWF co-founder and Hawai‘i’s culinary icon, brings his beloved First Hawaiian Bank Presents the 27th Annual Roy Yamaguchi Golf Classic to the Kā‘anapali Golf Course. A true festival tradition, this event blends friendly competition with gourmet indulgence. As players make their way across the rolling fairways, they’ll discover tasting stations featuring dishes and drinks from Roy and his chef friends — a playful way to preview Maui’s top culinary talent. Not a golfer? No problem. You can still join the post-round reception for delicious bites from Roy’s restaurants and raise a glass to support local culinary charities.
Day Two: World of Wagyu, Wine & Whiskey – October 25
The culinary bar is raised (and grilled) at World of Wagyu, Wine & Whiskey, held oceanside at the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa. This meat-lover’s paradise showcases the richness of Wagyu beef in all its forms — think buttery A5 Japanese cuts, innovative American-style sliders, and more — prepared by an elite team of international and local chefs. The food is paired with bold reds, elegant whites, and rare whiskey pours, curated by top sommeliers and mixologists. As the stars come out, a futuristic drone light show lights up the Maui sky in dazzling patterns, turning the event into a feast for all the senses. VIP guests can indulge earlier with exclusive Wagyu dishes and a private bar.
Day Three: Southern Seafood Sunday Brunch – October 26
Wrap up the weekend on a soulful (and satisfying) note with Southern Seafood Sunday Brunch, hosted by the always-energetic Chef Aarón Sánchez at the Royal Lahaina Resort. Inspired by Lowcountry cuisine and Maui’s abundant seafood, this beachfront brunch is all about comfort and creativity. Picture local shrimp and grits, smoky island-style BBQ, and tropical takes on Southern classics — all with Aarón’s signature Latin twist. Live music, breezy cocktails, and that laid-back Maui vibe make this a perfect closing event.
O‘ahu (October 30 – November 2, 2025): A Grand Finale of Culinary Legends, Innovation & Island Style
The Hawaii Food & Wine Festival returns to where it all began — O‘ahu — for a spectacular four-day finale in Honolulu, October 30 through November 2. This final stretch is a feast of flavors, feelings, and forward-thinking, featuring powerful tributes, thought-provoking talks, and truly unforgettable tastings. Buckle up, food lovers — O‘ahu is going out with a bang!
Opening Night: Slanted & Phan-tastic – October 30
The festival’s O‘ahu chapter kicks off with a heartfelt tribute: Slanted & Phan-tastic: A Celebration of Charles Phan. Held at the ‘Alohilani Resort Waikīkī Beach, this event honors the late Vietnamese-American culinary icon and founder of The Slanted Door, who passed unexpectedly in early 2025. This flavorful walk-around event celebrates Phan’s lasting legacy with modern Vietnamese dishes reimagined by some of his peers and protégés — including Honolulu’s own Chef Andrew Le of The Pig & The Lady. Expect spice, soul, and fusion in every bite, paired with vibrant cocktails and stories that honor a true pioneer.
FEAST Summit – October 31
On Halloween, the vibe shifts from flavors to food for thought at the debut FEAST Summit at Sheraton Waikīkī. This all-day conference (open to the public!) dives into the pillars of HFWF’s mission: Food, Education, Agriculture, Sustainability, and Tourism. Chefs, farmers, educators, and hospitality leaders gather to discuss the future of Hawai‘i’s culinary and agricultural industries. Keynotes and panels will touch on everything from regenerative farming to indigenous cooking practices to the evolution of farm-to-table dining. A highlight: a special lunch honoring the original Hawai‘i Regional Cuisine chefs and spotlighting the rising stars they’ve inspired. If you’ve ever wondered about the deeper story behind your favorite dishes, this summit serves it up — with aloha.
Decanted – November 1
Wine lovers, rejoice! Hawaiian Airlines Presents Decanted is your paradise. Held at the Hawai‘i Convention Center, this grand wine tasting brings together 17 top chefs and over 20 wine professionals from around the globe. Wander through a sea of tasting stations where each dish is perfectly paired with a curated pour — from bold Napa reds to delicate Italian whites and crisp New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs. And yes, there’s Champagne. Expect live music, good vibes, and possibly a dance or two. VIP guests get early access and lounge perks, but general admission still includes unlimited tastings. Just pace yourself — the flavors (and pours) are endless.
MatCHA Chai Brunch – November 2 (Morning)
Start your final festival day with a dose of zen at MatCHA Chai Brunch, held poolside at the Hyatt Regency Waikīkī. This fresh concept blends Eastern tea traditions with Western brunch comforts. Sip on matcha mimosas, chai cocktails, or mamaki mocktails while sampling matcha pancakes, tea-spiced pastries, and savory brunch creations with a global twist. It's chill, it’s flavorful, and it's a calm moment of caffeinated clarity before the grand finale.
Washoku to the World Gala – November 2 (Evening)
The curtain falls in elegance at Washoku to the World, a gala dinner at the iconic Halekulani Hotel. This black-tie-optional event celebrates the beauty and precision of Washoku — traditional Japanese cuisine — and its influence on modern fine dining. Expect a refined, multi-course menu crafted by globally renowned chefs (including whispers of Iron Chef Morimoto and n/naka’s Niki Nakayama making appearances). From pristine sashimi to artful kaiseki-style plates using Hawaiian ingredients, each dish is a cultural tribute. Add in elegant performances and a celebratory toast to 15 years of HFWF, and you’ve got a truly unforgettable close to the festival.
Ticket Information: Prices, Packages & Where to Buy
Tickets for HFWF 2025 are officially on sale at hawaiifoodandwinefestival.com. Each event is ticketed individually, so you can curate your ideal itinerary — from casual walk-around tastings to luxe gala dinners.
Prices vary depending on the event type. Walk-around tastings like “World of Wagyu” or “Decanted” start around $275 for General Admission, which includes unlimited food and beverage sampling. VIP or Priority Access tickets ($350–$400) typically grant early entry, access to exclusive bites or lounges, and a more elevated experience. Premium VIP tables (like the $5,000 VIP Wagyu table) cater to small groups seeking the ultimate private experience.
Seated events like Washoku to the World Gala or Southern Seafood Sunday Brunch have fixed prices, often $100–$300+ per person, depending on format and inclusions.
Pro Tip: Book early! Some events (especially VIP and golf tournaments) sell out fast. All guests must be 21+, and ticket sales are final — no refunds or exchanges.
First Hawaiian Bank cardholders may enjoy pre-sales or special pricing — check the website for available perks.
Family-Friendly Considerations
While Hawai‘i is famously family-friendly, HFWF events are strictly 21+, including brunches. But that doesn’t mean families can’t enjoy the trip!
- Book a resort with a kids’ club (like Sheraton or Hyatt) and enjoy date-night events while the keiki are entertained.
- Spend your daytime exploring Hawaii as a family — beaches, snorkeling, volcanoes, zoos, or hiking — and attend evening events while kids unwind.
- Traveling with a partner? Trade off event nights so everyone gets to indulge.
- Have a teen into food? Take them to celebrity chef restaurants or farmers' markets outside the festival.
With a little planning, the festival can be part of a larger, memory-making ohana getaway.
Culture and Sustainability: More Than Just Great Food
Beyond the gourmet glitz, HFWF is deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture, community, and sustainability. As a nonprofit, all proceeds support local initiatives — from culinary school scholarships to sustainable farming and cultural preservation projects.
Events often begin with Hawaiian blessings by a local kahu, honoring the land (‘āina) and those who work it. Many chefs showcase 100% locally sourced ingredients, and you’ll see farm-to-table collaborations like the Chef’s Garden at O‘uli Farms, where chefs literally planted the ingredients you'll taste.
Expect to experience Hawaiian music, hula, and traditional dishes woven into the festival — it’s a beautiful celebration of the islands’ cultural and culinary heritage.
Eco-conscious practices are also integrated: compostable serveware, recycling, and food waste reduction help keep the festival’s environmental impact low.
And when disaster strikes — like the 2023 Maui fires — HFWF steps up with relief efforts, including funding for affected hospitality workers. So when you join the festival, you’re not just indulging — you’re investing in Hawai‘i’s future.
Savor the Journey
In summary, the 15th Annual Hawaii Food & Wine Festival is shaping up to be a sensory journey across three islands, packed with bold bites, meaningful stories, and moments that feed both belly and soul. Whether you're drawn to chef-packed gala dinners, cultural tastings, or wine-soaked beachfront feasts, there’s no better way to experience the islands than through their flavors.
Picture this: You’re raising a glass of Napa Cab on a warm Waikīkī night, listening to slack-key guitar as the surf rolls in. Or sampling fresh poke at a chef’s garden you just toured. Or shaking hands with the chef who inspired your last favorite meal on TV.
This fall, Hawai‘i is calling you to the table. Whether you're flying in from afar or a local celebrating homegrown talent, this 15th anniversary festival is set to be a milestone event for food lovers everywhere.
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