We welcomed a whole bunch of happy customers on July 19, marking our one-year birthday with a 30% discount all day long.  But the celebration was made even sweeter by a special group that gathered for lunch.  We wanted to share our gratitude, and produced this video to express our heartfelt thanks to all of them.

They came in support of us, but more so, in support of Maui and our hard-working agricultural industry.  Whether they grow the amazing produce on their farms, use those fresh ingredients in their restaurants or tell the stories of those who do, members of this group share not just an interest, but a passion for sustaining local farmers, producers and suppliers.  All of these people are BUSY, and yet they made time to sit down at our tables and share a meal together at our eatery.  Some were longtime friends, others forged new friendships after meeting for the first time at Fork & Salad.

The luncheon included dedicated media advocates like Dania Katz and Shelly Ronen with edible Hawaiian Islands Magazine, Becky Speere with Maui Nō Ka Oi Magazine and Kiaora Bohlool with MauiNow.com.

We were also stoked to see friends and respected chefs, including Sangrita Grill + Cantina owner/chef Paris Nabavi, Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort executive chef Isaac Bancaco, Hāna Ranch Hospitality executive chef Gary Johnson, Maui Fresh Streatery chef/owner Kyle Kawakami and University of Hawai‘i Maui College Culinary Arts Program chef instructor Jake Belmonte.

Maui County leaders like Lois Whitney, who represented the Mayor’s office, and Business Development Specialist Tokie Ogawa also took the time to join us.  We welcomed other friends like Kumu Farms sales and marketing director Manu Vinciguerra, Grow Some Good director Kathy Becklin, and public relations expert Charlene Ka‘uhane.

In the last year, it’s been an honor to be recognized by the community with awards like the Friend of Agriculture and Best New Restaurant.  We’re also stoked on grass-roots movements like this luncheon, which bolster Maui’s farm-to-table awareness in direct, personal ways, one individual at a time.  Our commitment to local agriculture will undoubtedly continue, and it means a lot to know we are on the same team with such a powerful, incredible bunch of advocates!  Here’s to even more consciousness, collaboration and support in Year Two and beyond!  #EatLocalEatHealthy