outrigger-coffee dinner

Outrigger is site for culinary invitational

More than a dozen restaurants and food companies will be a part of the “java buzz” at the fifth annual Kona Coffee Culinary Invitational, including new presenting sponsor Royal Kona, the largest purchaser of 100 percent Kona coffee.

The gala dining event from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday serves up an innovative sampling of appetizers, entrees, desserts and beverages all made with 100 percent Kona coffee.

Among the featured libations at this year’s event will be Pipeline Porter, a new limited release beer from Kona Brewing Co. made with 100 percent Kona coffee grown on the Big Island.

This year’s invitational will also include java-themed creations and beer and wine samplings from the Kailua Candy Co., Royal Kona Resort, Big Jake’s Island BBQ and Catering, Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort and Spa, Hilton Hawaiian Village, Rio’s Seafood Grill and Bar, Daniel Thiebaut Restaurant, Café Pesto, Chef Paul’s Catering, Hard Rock Café, Cocoa Outlet, Better Brands, Southern Wine and Spirits and Outrigger Keauhou Beach Resort.

The event is a part of the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival. Tickets for the Invitational are $40 in advance and $45 at the door. Tables of 10 may be purchased for $350. Tickets are available at the Outrigger Keauhou Beach Resort; call 324-2554.