Posted on: Friday, July 16, 2004

'Ilima dining awards recognize reader favorites

Advertiser Staff

The Advertiser's annual 'Ilima Awards honor the state's best restaurants in a rotating menu of categories, from best overall to regional and ethnic awards.

Each year, the winning restaurants are recognized with their own chapter in our annual guide, "Hawai'i's Best Restaurants," which this year will be published Oct. 6. The free guide covers the world of Hawai'i dining, including on the Neighbor Islands.

The awards are given out at a gala event benefiting Diamond Head Theatre: On Oct. 11, representatives of the restaurants will receive their awards and appear on stage during a laugh-filled Broadway review-style show put on by Diamond Head Theatre staff, the Shooting Stars youth group and guest artists; a tasting event follows, featuring the winning restaurants, and wine and spirits courtesy of five local distributors, all capped off with dancing to Kit Samson's Sound Advice. For tickets, which always sell out, call 733-0277, ext. 305.

You can cast your vote by by e-mail by following the link below. Eligible ballots — take note of the rules so your ballot isn't disqualified — are being tallied by the accounting firm of Nishihama & Kishida.

Your ballot is your entry form for a drawing to take place in September for three prizes: a trip for two to Las Vegas courtesy of Vacations Hawaii; a dinner-theater package including a $150 gift certificate to the 2004 'Ilima Award winner of your choice; and a dinner-theater package including a $100 gift certificate to the 2004 'Ilima Award winner of your choice. Winners will be informed by telephone.