‘Tis the season for holiday cheer at Halekulani! With a busy calendar of festivities now through the end of the year, Special Events Chef Shaden Sato and his team work diligently and brilliantly to make all the magic of our events come to life.
After two decades at Halekulani under his belt, Chef Sato has mastered not only the culinary arts, but also the art of delivering gracious service the hotel is known for. He has created menus for various special events at Halekulani, most recently for two major events this November.
Earlier this month, Halekulani hosted two annual events, which it also proudly sponsors – the Hawaii International Film Festival (HIFF42) Opening Gala and the Hawaii Food and Wine Festival (HFWF) Gala.
For the HIFF42 Opening Gala, Chef Sato and his team showcased several signature dishes – Braised Pork Belly with Warabi and Kabocha Puree, Kalua Duck Confit with Luau Sauce and Taro Gnocchi, Fish & Poi – Nariage Ceviche with Smoked Poi and Chili Pepper Water Gel on an Asian Tostada, and Taro Samosa with Indian Spice, Tamarind, and Pineapple and Mint Chutney.
For the HFWF Gala, Chef Sato and his team oversaw all the visiting chefs and assisted with the set menu of Coconut Ice Cream and Caviar, Foie Gras de Canards au Sturgeon Fume, Big Island Abalone Rice Congee, Snake River Farm’s Eye of Ribeye, and a Macadamia Miso Banana Tres Leches Cake.
In addition to these events, the Catering and Banquet team is gearing up for the various private holiday parties scheduled in December.
How does Chef Sato juggle it all during one of most hectic times of year? It’s simple – patience and teamwork. He says he takes it one day at a time and collaborates with his experienced team of eight employees.
To keep things exciting, he challenges himself and his team to think outside of the box. He’s noticed several trends recently, including an increased consciousness of the environment and a greater use of local products. Chef Sato is excited to see how Hawaii themes are helping to tell a modernized story while still preserving the authenticity of its identity.
Learn more about Halekulani’s special events here and share your experiences by tagging us @halekulanihotel.
