Tag: Hawaii Restaurant Association

Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe: An Evening in Bordeaux: Celebrating Hawai‘i’s Culinary Legacy at the 17th Annual Hall of Fame

On September 29, 2025, the Sheraton Waikiki Ballroom will be transformed into a glittering stage of culinary excellence and heartfelt aloha as the Hawai‘i Restaurant Association proudly presents its 17th Annual Hall of Fame Induction and “Chefs of Aloha” Dine Around. This highly anticipated celebration honors the visionaries and trailblazers whose passion, dedication, and leadership have helped shape Hawai‘i’s thriving foodservice industry.

Every year, the Hall of Fame recognizes outstanding individuals whose contributions elevate not only the quality and image of Hawai‘i’s restaurant scene but also the communities it serves. From pioneering restaurateurs and hospitality leaders to chefs and advocates who preserve local traditions, each honoree has left an indelible mark on Hawai‘i’s dining culture. The evening offers more than recognition—it is an opportunity for the entire restaurant ‘ohana to gather, celebrate, and reflect on the industry’s vibrant past while supporting its future.

Guests will enjoy a memorable evening that begins with warm aloha and continues with the Chefs of Aloha dine-around, showcasing Hawai‘i’s top culinary talent. The celebration will then spotlight the 2025 inductees, honoring their achievements and lifelong dedication to Hawai‘i’s foodservice industry. It is a night where culture, cuisine, and community come together in harmony.

Proceeds from the Hall of Fame are more than just event revenue—they are investments in Hawai‘i’s future. Through the Hawai‘i Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, these funds power initiatives that inspire, educate, and empower the next generation. ProStart programs offer high school students hands-on culinary and management training, scholarships and mentorships provide direct support for emerging leaders, and cultural preservation programs safeguard Hawai‘i’s heritage while strengthening local restaurants. By attending, sponsoring, or donating, supporters help ensure these programs thrive and keep Hawai‘i’s culinary traditions alive for generations to come.

The evening also features live and silent auctions, where attendees can bid on exclusive experiences and items. Donors receive meaningful exposure while helping advance the mission of HRA. Beyond the celebration, the event thrives thanks to enthusiastic volunteers who bring the Hall of Fame to life, from pre-event auction coordination to guest check-in and event energy.

The Hall of Fame is more than an awards ceremony—it is a movement that unites the restaurant industry and community in the spirit of excellence, recognition, and aloha. By joining this year’s Evening in Bordeaux, guests not only honor Hawai‘i’s culinary leaders but also help ensure the strength and sustainability of the industry’s future.

Reserve your seat, support the cause, and share the aloha.

Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe: Meet the Legends of Hawai‘i Dining: 2025 Hall of Fame Induction & “Chefs of Aloha” Dine-Around

The spirit of aloha will meet the flavors of Bordeaux this fall as Hawai‘i’s culinary world gathers for one of the most anticipated evenings of the year—the 17th Annual Hall of Fame Induction and “Chefs of Aloha” Dine-Around, hosted by the Hawai‘i Restaurant Association.

On Monday, September 29th, 2025, the Sheraton Waikiki Ballroom will open its doors to honor a new class of culinary legends—individuals who have shaped Hawai‘i’s food service landscape through dedication, innovation, and community spirit.

An Evening of Celebration and Connection

The night begins with a warm welcome and cocktail hour at 5:00 PM, offering guests the chance to mingle with industry leaders, award recipients, and some of Hawai‘i’s most celebrated chefs. At 6:00 PM, the “Chefs of Aloha” Dine-Around will present an exquisite tasting journey, with stations highlighting the creativity and passion that make Hawai‘i’s cuisine world-renowned.

By 6:45 PM, the spotlight turns to the Hall of Fame program—a celebration of the 2025 inductees and their remarkable contributions to the islands’ culinary heritage.

Honoring the Class of 2025

This year’s honorees are visionaries, champions, and pioneers whose careers reflect not only mastery of their craft but also deep commitment to the community:

  • Scott Dodd – Luana Hospitality Group – Pioneer
  • Robynne Maii – Fête and Mille Fête – Local Champion
  • Rick Nakashima – Ruby Tuesday Hawai‘i & Rainbow Drive-In Kalihi – Pioneer
  • Kelvin Ro – Diamond Head Market – Pioneer
  • Bobby Lou Yeackel – Buzz’s Original Steak House – Pioneer

Each inductee has played a pivotal role in enhancing the quality, reputation, and reach of Hawai‘i’s dining experience—mentoring young talent, innovating in the kitchen, and representing the islands’ unique blend of tradition and creativity to the world.

The Culinary Experience

The “Chefs of Aloha” portion of the evening is a gastronomic highlight in itself. Guests can expect a dazzling array of dishes from some of the islands’ top culinary talents, showcasing the diversity and richness of Hawai‘i’s food culture. From contemporary Pacific Rim creations to reimagined local favorites, every plate will tell a story of heritage, innovation, and the spirit of aloha.

A Night for the Industry, by the Industry

The Hall of Fame event is more than an awards ceremony—it is a gathering place for the entire hospitality and food service community to celebrate achievements, share inspiration, and reaffirm their commitment to excellence. It’s a night where culinary artistry meets camaraderie, and where guests leave with full hearts and inspired palates.

Reserve Your Seat at the Table

Space is limited for this extraordinary evening of recognition and fine dining. Guests are encouraged to secure their reservations early to be part of a celebration that honors not just individual achievements, but the entire legacy of Hawai‘i’s food service industry.

For more information and to reserve your place, visit the Hawai‘i Restaurant Association website.