George Gomes Jr. has been appointed as Executive Chef at King Kamehameha Kona Beach Resort
King Kamehameha Kona Beach Resort proudly announces the appointment of George Gomes Jr. as Executive Chef. A native of Hawai'i with more than 37 years of culinary experience, Gomes brings an extraordinary depth of knowledge, leadership and island-rooted perspective to the culturally rich, beachfront resort.
Prior to joining King Kamehameha Kona Beach Resort, Gomes served as the Executive Chef at the Royal Kona Resort, bringing a wealth of culinary expertise to the Kona dining scene. His impressive career spans decades, including a pivotal role in the 1990s when he partnered with acclaimed Chef Jean-Marie Josselin to develop menus and service standards for restaurants across O'ahu, Maui, Kaua'i, and Las Vegas, serving as Corporate Chef and Partner.
Gomes has held esteemed roles across the Islands, including Executive Chef at Merriman's Restaurant Hawai'i in Kapalua, and Corporate Executive Chef for Tri-Star/Jas Restaurant Group, where he oversaw a portfolio of celebrated restaurants such as Sarento's at the Ilikai Hotel on O'ahu, Nick's Fishmarket at Fairmont Kea Lani Maui, Sarento's on the Beach in Maui, and Son'z at Swan Court at Hyatt Regency Maui. Gomes has also represented the spirit of Hawaiian cuisine internationally, with culinary experiences spanning New York City, Washington D.C., Las Vegas, Taipei, and Tokyo.
In his new role, Gomes will lead the resort's culinary operations, including its signature restaurants Honu's on the Beach and Billfish Poolside Bar & Grill, catering programs, and the Island Breeze Lūʻau—consistently ranked the best lūʻau on the island. With his appointment, the property continues to showcase a commitment to authentic, locally driven dining experiences that honor the stories and traditions of the land.