Hawaii is the theme at this year's Bali Ha'i Party

The 18th Annaul Bali Ha'i Party is Sunday, April 1 at The Kampong (4013 S. Douglas Road). This is South Florida's favorite garden party/food and wine event, which features exquisite wines, champagnes and exotic libations along with tempting culinary samplings from 30 top South Florida restaurants including 1500 Restaurant, shown above.

Luxurious auction items will be available for bidding, as well. The event is a collaborative effort between The Kampong of the National Tropical Botanical Garden and the South Florida Chapter of The American Institute of Wine and Food, along with many sponsors, all in an effort to maintain and expand The Kampong's tropical botanical collection. Bali Ha’i also raises funds to further the goals of the American Institute of Wine & Food, providing educational and nutrition-based programs (Days of Taste) and scholarships to some of the finest culinary institutes in South Florida. Regarded as one of the most important food and wine events on the Miami social calendar, Bali Ha’i at The Kampong has sold out each of its seventeen years with over 500 upscale gourmets in attendance.

This year's theme is "Hawaiian Style," which will permiate the grounds with live music from the islands to serve as the background of authentic Hawaiian crafts and lei making along with special tropical drinks. At left are Conch Sliders by Chef Cindy Hutson of Ortanique restaurant.

VIP entrance ($250.00 per person) includes a special hula performance and Hawaiian inspired choices from two outstanding chefs,last year’s “People’s Choice” award winners Hakkasan at Fontainebleau Miami Beach and River Seafood & Oyster Bar. Joining them will be The Dutch at W South Beach and, in true Lu’au style, two caja chinas roasting pigs. This exclusive preview to the main event provides champagne views across the Bay to Key Biscayne at the Lu`au Party at the Point. The VIP party is from 4 to 5 pm.

Limited to fifty guests, the all-new VIP Platinum entrance includes the main event, Lu`au Party at the Point, and the Tiki Lounge Party at the Point at 8 pm for VIP Platinum-only cuisine, select champagne and libations. VIP guests are hosted by Event Co-Chair Tina Carlo, Dan Carlo, and Tara and Steve McNamara.

Guests can make an added difference in the fundraising efforts by purchasing a VIP Parking Space! Three very special parking spaces are being offered with easy access to The Kampong for $500 per space. You’ll be transported by golf cart to the event and taken by golf cart to your car when you are ready to depart Please call 305.442.7169 for more info.

The main party is from 5 to 8 pm. VIP Platinum Tickets for $300.00 include the Main Event and Lu`au Party at the Point plus the Tiki Lounge Party at the Point at 8 pm. Main Event tickets, $150.00 per person ($175.00 per person the day of the event), include main event from 5 to 8 p.m. Bali Ha’i organizers believe there is no other event like this in Miami where you can sample such amazing food, drink wonderful wines and beverages, enjoy the splendid garden and bid on a remarkable array of auction items.

VIP ticket sales - limited to 250 guests - and VIP Platinum ticket sales - limited to 50 guests - are not available the day of the event. 70% of the cost of tickets is a tax deductible contribution. Complimentary parking with shuttle service for event guests will be provided at Plymouth Congregational Church, 3400 Devon Road, Coconut Grove. Bali Ha’i is an all-weather outdoor event.

Should inclement weather be in the forecast all Bali Ha'i venues will be under tent. For more information, please visit the event web site – www.balihaiparty.com


Chef Cindy Hutson (in green) of Ortanique restaurant, with her team.