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Monettes Artisan Fish and Steak restaurant at Mauna Kea Beach Resort here on the Big Island announced a new series of monthly dinners showcasing Hawaii’s local artisan growers.

The series debuts Wednesday, June 8, featuring newly appointed Chef de Cuisine Michael Minshull and products from Big Island producers Adaptions Farms and Koa Coffee.

“Our goal is to elevate awareness worldwide of the outstanding products cultivated here in the islands, and particularly on Hawaii Island. Now with more than two years working with many of Hawaii’s most best producers, we know carefully cultivated local produce belongs on the plate alongside internationally acclaimed seasonal delicacies sourced from around the globe,” said Scott Monette, co-owner and founder of Monettes.

The second Wednesday of each month Minshull will create a special menu using homegrown products from selected growers.

Following the “kick-off’ dinner, the special menu will be available throughout the month, complementing the restaurant’s signature menu offerings, Monette said.

“With so many interesting and delicious products, and world-class producers to choose from on the Big Island and throughout the Hawaiian Islands, we have no doubt this will be a long-running program,” he added.

Minshull joined the Monettes team late last month and brings years of culinary and management expertise to the post. Most recently chef at The Mark restaurant at Hotel Grand Pacific in Victoria, British Columbia, Minshull has headed up kitchens in some of the most respected, critically-acclaimed restaurants in North America.

A strong proponent of the farm to table concept, the European-trained chef carefully selects only the very best local ingredients to create his menus.

A certified sommelier, Minshull also will select wines to pair with each of the five-courses on the special menus. However, diners will have the opportunity to select a prix fixe menu with or without the wines included, Monette said.

And according to Monette, it’s a cellar Minshull will have complete access to in choosing the pairings for his menus. Monettes’ wine list was awarded the Wine Spectator “Best of Award of Excellence” award in 2010.

The premiere five-course Artisan Growers Dinner is set for 6:30 p.m. Saturday, June 8 and is priced at $55 per person ($85 with wine selections) plus tax and gratuity.

Space is limited and reservations are required. For reservations and menu details, call 443-2850.

— Find out more:
www.monetteshawaii.com