The annual conference of Les Dames d'Escoffier International, a philanthropic society, which begins tomorrow at the Halekulani and Waikiki Parc, is expecting a record 150 attendees. "Tradewinds of Change" focuses on Hawai'i's food and culture. Most events are sold out; tickets are still available for Saturday's M.F.K. Fisher awards reception and dinner at 6 p.m. at the Halekulani; $150. Information: Joan Namkoong, 808-769-0696 or foodie@hawaii.rr.com.

— Advertiser staff

REGIONAL CUISINE

'FOOD OF PARADISE' WRITER ON TAP

Former Isle resident/food historian Rachel Laudan discusses "Six Essential Steps to Creating a Regional Cuisine" 10 a.m. Monday at 'Ohia 118, Kapi'olani Community College. Her 1996 "The Food of Paradise: Exploring Hawaii's Culinary Heritage" was published when she was a professor here. She's been studying how cuisines develop in various countries and creating regional cuisines with the cooks, chefs, tour guides and tourist board in Mexico where she now resides. Seating is limited for the free lecture; 941-9088.

— Advertiser staff

FINAL WORD

"Anyone in the 18th century would look down on the chocolate we eat today."

Jim Gay , Colonial Williamsburg foodways interpreter and one of the world's foremost authorities on the historic chocolate of 18th-century North America.