EUKIHAL Campaign Brings European Halloumi PDO and Kiwifruit to Miami
A packed house of food, hospitality, trade and media professionals gathered at Meraki Greek Bistro in Downtown Miami on Tuesday, September 15, for an exclusive B2B tasting and networking event hosted by the EU-financed EUKIHAL Campaign celebrating European Halloumi PDO from Cyprus and European Kiwifruit from Kavala, Greece.
Held during the Americas Food & Beverage Show 2026, the evening brought together U.S. importers, distributors, restaurateurs, hospitality professionals, media, food industry stakeholders, and Hellenic community influencers with representatives from the participant organizations. From the start, the atmosphere was casual and conversational, with guests mingling over Spicy Virgin Kiwi Margarita mocktails and passed bites including Marinated Halloumi Skewers, Halloumi Fries, Grilled Shrimp and Meatballs, while connecting with producers and fellow industry professionals.
Brief welcome remarks were shared by Mr. Anastasios Yiapanis, General Secretary of the Panagrotikos Farmers Union of Cyprus, and Mr. Stefanos Aloneftis, Export Manager of Charalambides Christis, who both offered insight into each of the product’s heritage, production and growing presence in international markets.
The evening continued with a live culinary demonstration led by Meraki Greek Bistro Executive Chef Peter Tsaglis, who showcased the versatility of the featured products through a “Halloumi, Kiwi & Watermelon Salad,” featuring grilled Halloumi cheese PDO, kiwi, watermelon, mint vinaigrette, frisée and toasted walnuts.
The chef presentation concluded with an interactive Q&A, giving guests the opportunity to ask questions about the products, preparation and culinary applications. The evening then returned to casual networking and one-on-one conversations with representatives from the participant organizations, continuing the exchange of ideas and potential business opportunities across the U.S. food, hospitality, retail and distribution industries.