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Chefs in paradise
The Big Island's agricultural renaissance is the result of a creative collaboration between growers and innovative Hawaiian chefs
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Big Island bounty
On the island of Hawaii, a unique collection of farmers are following their dreams ― and growing some of the best food in the world
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For information, contact the Big Island Visitors Bureau (808/961-5797).
FARMS
Hawaii AgVentures. The Big Island Farm Bureau program arranges tours covering individual farms, including Volcano Island Honey Co. and Wailea Agricultural Group. From $65; reservations required. www.hawaiiagventures.com or 800/660-6011.
Hawaiian Vanilla Company. Vanilla tastings (Mon-Tue; $10) as well as five-course luncheons (Wed-Thu; $39). Reservations required. Gallery and gift shop 1-5 Mon-Fri. 43-2007 Pa'auilo Mauka Rd., Pa'auilo; www.hawaiianvanilla.com or 808/776-1771.
Hilo Farmers Market. The most diverse of the island's many farmers' markets. Wed and Sat "from dawn 'til it's gone." Mamo St. at Kamehameha Ave., Hilo; www.hilofarmersmarket.com or 808/933-1000.
Merriman's Farm Visits & Dinner. Stops typically include outings to Waimea's Honopua Farms, which grows organic greens and flowers for leis. Visits conclude with a four-course dinner at Merriman's. 1:15 Tue; $125. 65-1227 Opelo Rd., in Opelo Plaza, State 19/Mamalahoa Hwy. and Opelo Rd., Waimea; www.merrimanshawaii.com or 808/885-6822.
The Original Hawaiian Chocolate Factory. Tours of the South Kona factory, which uses Hawaii-grown cocoa beans. $5, reservations required. 78-6772 Makenawai St., Kailua-Kona; www.originalhawaiianchocolatefactory.com or 808/322-2626.
Volcano Island Honey Co. Tours and tasting $10, reservations required. 46-4013 Pu'aono Rd., Honoka'a; www.volcanoislandhoney.com or 808/775-1000.
Wailea Agricultural Group. See Hawaii AgVentures, above, for tours. Buy hearts of palm online or at Honomu farm stand (call for directions). www.waileaag.com or 808/937-7591.
