Ira is a generous and welcoming host. We went two days in a row. There was so much to see. The gardens are exquisite, peaceful, friendly and easy to walk around as it is flat and filled with both plants and art.
Inside the gallery is a treasure trove of jewelry, handblown glass, prints, small treasures of every description. The prices are very reasonable so I purchased some prints one day and delightful earrings the next.
We had lunch today in the garden and everything was fresh well seasoned and ample. The soup was split pea and vegetables served with a salad fresh toasted home made garlic bread and a generous slice of watermelon. Yum. My husband had the artichoke, pesto and tomato sandwich with mozzarella on open faced bread served with salad and extra toast and watermelon.
Kids are welcome there and can visit a big lop eared bunny. There are big balls out on the grassy area just waiting to be kicked around.
Finally there is a cottage that can be rented located in the beautiful gardens. Next time we come we will definitely stay there.
Last but not least, it is very close to the Volcano National Park with all its resources. A...
Read moreSurprisingly Delicious Vegetarian Fare at Café Ono!
I recently had the pleasure of celebrating a birthday lunch at Café Ono & Catering in Volcano Village on the Big Island of Hawaii with a group of six. Admittedly, I’ve never been a fan of vegetarian food—usually dismissing it as "rabbit food" and often wondering why rabbits aren’t more vicious because of it. However, Café Ono completely changed my perspective!
Their menu is entirely vegetarian, which initially had me skeptical, but I have to say, I was genuinely impressed. I ordered the lasagna, and it was absolutely delicious—rich, flavorful, and satisfying in a way I didn’t think vegetarian food could be. Every dish at the table was met with praise, and no one left hungry or disappointed.
The atmosphere was charming and peaceful, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a meal with friends. The staff was friendly and attentive, adding to the overall fantastic experience. If you’re hesitant about vegetarian cuisine like I was, Café Ono might just convert you. Highly recommend giving this...
Read moreI have a gluten allergy and this was the worst experiences I have ever had at a supposedly gluten free restaurant. I ordered off the section of the menu that was labeled as gluten free. They brought my meal out and it had bread. I asked if the bread was gluten free and they said no. They did not replace the salad that the bread was touching until we asked. An employee (not our waitress) then yelled at me for not letting them know I had an allergy. I responded that I had ordered off the gluten free section of the menu to which I was told I should have read the entire menu ( the non gluten free section) and known that everything comes with bread. She then proceeded to tell me that I was wasting food. I have never in my life had an experience that I would describe as truly terrible service until now. After the entire exchange I no longer felt welcomed or safe eating the food listed on their "gluten free" menu so we left without even eating. You couldn't pay...
Read more