Poipu Food & Wine Festival starts today

POIPU — Chef Orly Yadao, the sugar master on the winning team of Food Network’s Halloween Wars, will be among the judges today when the Poipu Food and Wine Festival launches its 2018 offering at the Kauai Culinary Market at The Shops at Kukuiula.

Yadao, a previous Food Network winner six years ago on the “Sugar Dome: Dangers of the Deep,” will be joined by Chef Shaden Sato of the Halekulani Hotel, and Chef Ben Takahashi of The Club at Kukui‘ula in judging the creation of Market to Menu pieces in a Food Network “Chopped” format.

Chef Esteban Alicea of Merriman’s Fish House, and Chef Fetulele Taala of the Dolphin Restaurant &Fish Market will create utilizing beef from Rancher’s Daughter’s Reserve, fresh produce, and mystery ingredients from The Kauai Culinary Market.

The fun, emceed by Chef Celeste Rogers, a winner of the Food Network’s Chopped competition, starts at 4 p.m.

Thursday will be “In the Kitchen” when participants can get hands-on cooking classes with some of the island’s top chefs, including Chef Bobby Hennigsen of Tortilla Republic Grill &Cantina, Chef Clinton Nyuda of Eating House 1849, Chef Mark Ruiz of Keawe Roots, Chef Sato of Halekulani, and Celebrity Chef Rogers. There is an admission fee.

Falling Down Romance lights up Saturday evening with music as guests to the Flavors of Poipu enjoy local delicacies served street food style along with an outdoor beer and wine garden at The Shops at Kukuiula.

The pau hana party starts with the Kauai Community College Culinary Arts Program students preparing a special culinary demonstration utilizing Kauai Grown ingredients while showcasing their skills. The demonstration starts a 5:45 p.m. and is free with plates available for purchase. Proceeds benefits the Kauai Community College Culinary Arts Program.