The South Shore tour with Catherine was great. We were a little late, but Catherine and the tour owners were able to accommodate our group. It was much appreciated!
The food: delicious! Make sure to go on the tour towards the beginning of your trip so you don't eat at a tour stop before the food tour. All stops are very accessible on your own and in the main tourist areas. Kickshaws food truck was particularly amazing! Also included were Kauai Juice Co, Monkeypod Jam, Papalani Gelato, Makai Sushi, Anakes Juice Bar.
The price: food monetary value if you bought on your own is about half of the price of the tour. The added value of the history of local businesses, food facts & science, and perfect timing of the tour is great if you are a foodie, history buff, and are in need of a nice afternoon. The chefs and owners really take the time to speak to the group and answer all questions. Kickshaws and Anakes were particularly interesting and gave great insight into local business challenges and culture on the island.
Note: if the Culinary Market is on the tour stop, Monkeypod Jam sells the larger size slightly cheaper at the market (3 for 30) vs the 10% offered on the tour. Definitely a let down to see that at the end of the tour after buying so many jams, curds, and jellies at Monkeypod Jam. However, they do offer free shipping on a carton of 12 at the store location.
Don't worry, you will be full by the end of the tour. The kombucha shots will definitely help you get a second wind to continue eating at the Culinary Market (which also has amazing eats).
Would have loved to see a local farm, especially since all the chefs and owners were talking about all the local ingredients they use in their product. I would recommend booking one of their tours that might include a farm stop.