Congratulations to Chef Edgar Ortiz from Kapalua’s own Taverna Restaurant for taking home “Best of the Fest” honors for 2026 with his amazing Ahi Katsu. The judges – Celebrity Chefs Antonia Lofaso & Maneet Chauhan along with Master Sommelier Steve Poe and Sponsor Kelly Knox of Southwest Airlines – all raved about this dish giving it outstanding marks!
And how about Chef Justin Purpura with the back to back win on “Fan Favorite” with his Kahuku Sweet Corn Agnolotti. Our guests could not get enough of this one.
Thank you to all of our participating chefs and restaurants. Maui culinary is truly No Ka Oi!
BEST OF THE FEST – Judges Choice
First Place: Chef Edgar Ortiz/Taverna
Ahi Katsu – Furikake Panko Crusted Ahi | Unagi Glaze | Wasabi Soy Beurre Blanc
Second Place: Chef Allan Alquisalas / Ka’ana Kitchen
Pho Braised Beef Cheek Tostada – Asian Gremolata | Pickled Kula Root Vegetables | Chili Crisp Crème
Third Place: Chef Craig Omori/University of Hawai‘i Maui College Culinary Arts Program
“Beefsteak” Tartare – Haiku Beefsteak Tomato Confit | Charred Hamakua Mushroom | Thai Basil Creme Fraiche
FAN FAVORITE
First Place: Chef Justin Purpura/
The Restaurant at Kapalua Bay
Kahuku Sweet Corn Agnolotti – Aleppo Pepper | Summer Truffle
Second Place: Chef Ryan Ferguson/‘Umalu
Braised Beef Short Rib – Hearts of Palm Puree | Bordelaise | Poha Berry Chutney
Third Place: Chef Ryan Ferguson/‘Umalu
Ahi Ag uachili – Sea Asparagus Dust | Avocado | Pickled Fresno Chili | Shaved Red Onion | Mango-Calamansi Jus
