This year, three of Hawai‘i Island’s top chefs will battle it out live, crafting three incredible courses right before our eyes! Attendees will have a front-row seat as these talented chefs bring their unique flavors, style, and creativity to life, celebrating the vibrant tastes of the Pacific and Asia.
Our judges will score the dishes, but guests will also have the power to help crown the winner by voting for their favorite chef!
2026 CHEF COMPETITORS
to be revealed
Check back to see who is competing this year!
Hawai'i Island's top mixologists battle it out to dethrone last year's winner, Phaedra Kammerer!
Sip on vibrant, creative cocktails as these talented bartenders shake up the competition for the title. Don’t miss the fun and flavor! Our VIP guests will choose this year's winner!
Competition & Tasting will happen during the VIP hour 11am-12pm
2025 MIXOLOGISTS
Magics Beach Grill
Phaedra is a bartender at Magics Beach Grill in Kailua-Kona, Hawai‘i, where she returns for her second year in a row, bringing her signature blend of creativity, warmth, and playful energy behind the bar. Originally from the hills and beaches of the north side of the Big Island, she has been part of the Magics story since its opening in late 2018.
An ocean soul at heart, Phaedra spends her time surfing, long-distance paddle boarding, fishing, and adventuring with her family. Her creativity extends beyond the water into lei making and plant propagation, keeping her deeply connected to both land and sea.
That connection shows up in her cocktails—thoughtfully crafted with fresh fruits, floral notes, and grounded elements from roots and earth. In 2025, she earned 1st place at Taste of the Pacific and also competed in the Waikoloa Mai Tai Competition.
Playful, kind, and creative, Phaedra brings an inviting energy to every drink she makes—turning simple moments into something memorable.
Hale-Kai Bar - Fairmont Orchid
Originally from Turkey, Berat Aydin brings a global perspective and passion for flavor to his craft as he represents Hale Kai Bar at the Fairmont Orchid.
Drawn to Hawaiʻi’s vibrant ingredients, Berat especially enjoys working with local favorites like lilikoi and coconut—infusing his creations with bright, tropical character.
Outside of the bar, he spends his time cooking, hiking, and playing volleyball, embracing an active lifestyle that reflects the energy he brings to his work.
Berat previously competed in the World Class competition in 2021, gaining valuable experience on an international stage. With a strong foundation and creative approach, he continues to refine his craft and share his unique blend of influences through every cocktail he creates.
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The Hidden Nene
With nearly a decade of experience in the industry, Tasha approaches bartending as a seamless fusion of art and movement—where every pour, stir, and garnish becomes part of a larger performance.
Currently refining her craft at The Hidden Nene in her hometown of Hilo, she blends a deep respect for the slow, intentional process of a perfectly crafted Old Fashioned with a passion for high-flair presentation.
For Tasha, bartending goes beyond the drink—it’s about creating an atmosphere. Her goal is to cultivate a safe, vibrant space where every guest feels welcomed, connected, and part of something special.
2026 JUDGES & HOST
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JUDGE
CHEF JUSTINE MA
Chef/Owner of Bougie Farmer Co
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JUDGE
CHEF FLORA KAMIMURA
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Chef George Gomes
King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Resort
Chef Jonas Ombao
Royal Kona Resort
Chef Jason Kanekoa
Pā'ina By Ocean
Chef Tracey Apoliona &
Chef Brightwell Youngstrom
Hawai'i Island Catering Co.
Chef Ash Danao
Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa
Chef Clayton Arakawa
Big Island Provisions
Chef Rosemary Vallente
Mayflo's Kitchen
Chef Leah
Sweet Indulgence Hawai'i
Aloha Bento Delivery Co.
Kalei Jury & Brandon Ventura
Hamakua Coast Premium
Chef Kili
SusHI
Chef Will Queja
Red Barn Food Truck
Tara Hing
Malama Coffee
2025
Chef Rhoda Magbitang
CanoeHouse
2024
Chef Chad Yamamoto
Walua Social Club
2023
Chef George Gomes
King Kamehameha Kona Beach Resort
2022
Chef Dayne Tanabe
DYNE
2021
Chef Tracey Apoliona & Brightwell Youngstrom
Hawaiʻi Island Catering Co.
2025 EVENT SPONSORS
