Karii! — Cheers! On Aug. 30, food enthusiasts enjoyed a food and awamori (Okinawan spirit beverage) pairing event. “Karii! An Awamori Experience,” was presented by the Hawaii United Okinawa Association in conjunction with the Okinawan Festival. Dishes were provided by 12 of Honolulu’s top restaurants. (Photo by Wayne Shinbara)The evening started with a dynamic eisa (Okinawan drumming) performance by Chinagu Eisa Hawaii members Devin Kawamura (left) and Todd Kobashigawa. (Photo by Jodie Ching)Chef Shaden Sato showing off Halekulani’s awamori-braised “tako salad” tostada with shiikwaasaa (Okinawan citrus) aioli and avocado mousse. (Photo by Wayne Shinbara)Chef Chai Chaowasaree plating his dish – shoyu and Kuba Awamori-braised pork belly in a steamed bun with cucumber namasu (Japanese pickles) and scallions. (Photo by Wayne Shinbara)Kahu Kaulana Yoshimoto blessing the event and guests with an oli (chant) and prayer. (Photo by Jodie Ching)Iroha Mochida (left) and Megan Martin dressed in Okinawan bingata kimono, with Frances Nakachi-Sensei. Iroha and Megan are members of Tamagusuku Ryu Senjukai Hawaii Frances Nakachi Ryubu Dojo. (Photo by Jodie Ching)
