Gabe Balenzuela

Sheraton Kauai Resort, Po'ipū Beach's oceanfront playground, proudly announces the promotion of Gabe Balenzuela from sous chef to executive chef. Balenzuela will oversee all culinary operations for the 20-acre oceanfront resort, including the signature RumFire Poipu Beach restaurant, Lava's on Poipu Beach, the 'Auli'i Lū'au, the Link@Sheraton Café and the resort's banquet and catering offerings.

Balenzuela received his degree in culinary arts at Johnson and Wales University in Denver, Colorado. His culinary career spans more than 20 years, including positions at the award-winning Adega Restaurant and Wine Bar, Mirepoix Restaurant in Cherry Creek, The Oceanaire Seafood Room, and the Madeline Hotel & Residences Telluride. He joined the Sheraton Kauai 'ohana in 2015.

Balenzuela's love of food began in his mother's kitchen in Washington, D.C., which inspired his culinary career. His mission is to create dishes from his fondest food memories from past meals with family and his travels around the world.