Volcano Garden Arts and Cafe Ono

By Karyn Chambers

Photos by Karyn Chambers and Lauri Canencia

Are you looking for a magical adventure along with an organic vegetarian meal? Check out the lovely Volcano Garden Arts and Cafe Ono adjacent to Volcano State Park: 19-3834 Old Volcano HI, 96785, open Thursdays-Sunday 11-2 pm. This three acre pristine forested property with exquisite redwood trees and mystical garden provides not only healthy organic food but a peaceful, relaxing opportunity to connect with nature. It was originally part of the 1908 Hopper Estate. The farmhouse, converted into an art gallery, was made of redwood, shipped to Hawaii, and brought to Volcano by a horse drawn wagon. The secret garden walking trail is available admission free. What strikes me first are all of the incredible statues of the Buddha sprinkled through the parklike setting creating a sacred, meditative quality to the entire experience.  The estate is home to four businesses: Cafe Ono, The Artist Studio/Gallery, Guest Cottage, and Weddings on Volcano. 

Ira Ono

I had the blessing of spending time with the owner, Ira Ono, who gave me a grand tour, sharing his history with this exquisite  property.  Ira, a New Yorker, moved to Maui in 1968 and moved to the Big Island in 1980. He discovered low cost property in Volcano and rented the land with its buildings to provide a studio for artists to create, himself included. As time went on, the owners decided to sell the property, but wanted a trustworthy caretaker, so they sold it to Ira, who has kept his word to keep the historic property as a sanctuary and nurturing place for artists and guests alike. Ira is a devoted gardener as well as performer and teacher. The beauty of the gardens and peaceful energy are a delight to experience. Ira shared he has Jewish ancestry from birth but has spent numerous years studying Zen and Tibetan Buddhism; the evidence can be seen throughout the property. He proudly beamed as he shared his story of opening his art studio,  establishing this marvelous space for artists to work and highlight/display their creations.  

Volcano Garden Arts

Ira opened his gallery eighteen years ago to showcase contemporary Hawaiian art–ceramics, masks, paintings, outdoor garden sculptures, jewelry, and handmade gift items. His collection features over 80 regional artists, Ira included. His studio allows artists an area for every stage of the creative process, along with ongoing classes and of course, the gallery to exhibit and sell these magnificent art pieces for purchase. Ira creates a variety of striking masks, sculptures, paintings, collages, and other creations.

Cafe Ono

Ira has been a vegetarian for 40 years, so he wanted to create a restaurant to experience delicious organic dishes. The cafe is the perfect place to enjoy gluten-free, vegan options. Homemade soups, organic salads, sandwiches, hearty entrees, and gourmet desserts. Meals can be enjoyed inside or out in the exquisite garden area. I had lentil taco salad with tortilla chips and fresh salsa, miso shiitake mushroom soup and a complimentary glass of California white wine.  A brownie for dessert. Savory vegetarian meal!  My friend Lauri, an excellent photographer, had vegetarian lasagna with garlic toast, a lovely fresh salad, and homemade soup.  We shared our meals to enjoy the variety. The lasagna had a perfect blend of Italian spices and mozzarella cheese. As a vegetarian myself for 15 years, I felt so blessed to enjoy these plant-based healthy entrees.  

Take out is also available. Catering is another opportunity to serve organic vegan food for a party or meeting.  Amazingly, all recipes are created by Ira.

The Gallery/Gift Shop

While waiting for my meal, I browsed through the splendid gift shop with handmade sculptures, paintings, masks, jewelry, and other beautiful items, admiring the uniqueness and beauty of the creations. This is a great place to bring visitors before or after hiking to Kilauea. Postcards and Hawaiian handmade art are excellent souvenirs to bring back to the mainland. So many lovely creations to delight the eye and take home. Several rooms showcase the exquisite pieces, definitely a place one can get lost in. It’s a great place to find an extraordinary gift for a special loved one.

The Secret Garden and Tree Sanctuary

As I stroll through the property, I’m struck by the secret garden and the colorful teapot/tea cup collection delightfully displayed in the ground underneath a tree. The serene tree sanctuary captivated me for its peaceful meditative Zen-like energy. I just wanted to sit quietly to absorb the vibe. Another wonderful offering available is weddings in the tree sanctuary. A beautiful place to make sacred vows.  

Volcano Artist Cottage

In addition, a one-bedroom artist cottage is available for a romantic getaway or time in solitude. As I peaked in, I experienced the delightful decor and cozy space, perfect for an artist or writer to enjoy the quiet forest-like surroundings, complete with a little rustic wood stove heater and beautiful walk-in shower. 

Volcano Writer’s Support Group

Besides the artist activity at Volcano Garden Arts, The Volcano Writer’s Group meets on Sundays 2-3:30 pm free of charge for writers to read their work and give each other feedback on their drafts. I’ve attended several times and was impressed by the different  genres presented and the welcoming energy of all who attended. 

As my lovely visit comes to an end, I am moved by the entire experience: the exotic grounds and gardens, the Artist Studio and Gallery, my vegetarian entree and wine, the Tree Sanctuary & Secret Garden, and most of all, my time with Ira. Next time you’re thinking about going on an adventure or seeking a delightful experience to share with visitors or loved ones, consider going to Volcano Garden Arts and enjoy a healthy meal at Cafe Ono. I’m certainly looking forward to my next visit.