Kōloa Landing Resort is making its final call for chefs to enter this year’s Kaua‘i Poke Fest, inviting culinary talent from across Hawaiʻi and beyond to compete in one of the state’s highest-profile food events.
The sixth annual festival is scheduled for June 20, with a limited number of spots still open. Organizers say both professional and amateur chefs are encouraged to apply for a chance to showcase their poke creations in front of celebrity judges, media and hundreds of attendees.
“This is not your typical food event,” Aaron Bambling, general manager of Kōloa Landing Resort, told Kaua’i Now. “It’s a rare opportunity to put your craft in front of some of the most respected chefs in Hawaiʻi.”
Recently named one of USA Today’s Top 10 specialty food festivals, the event blends competition with entertainment, highlighting bold flavors, technique, and creativity.
The festival is hosted by James Beard Award-winning chef Sam Choy, and will feature a judging panel that includes Ronnie Rainwater, Sheldon Simeon, and national and local food media and industry leaders.
Returning to defend his title is 2025 champion Mark Oyama, as competitors vie for more than $10,000 in prizes, including the festival’s signature Crystal Poke Bowl.
Top prizes include a $2,000 gift card, a two-night villa stay at the resort and an appearance on Choy’s cooking show for the first-place winner. Second- and third-place finishers will also receive cash prizes and resort stays.
Kōloa Landing Resort organizers said chefs will compete using more than 1,000 pounds of locally sourced ahi tuna, along with ingredients from Kaua‘i Fresh Fish, Kaua‘i Shrimp and Creekstone Farms.
Each participant will receive 25 pounds of fresh ahi, two general admission tickets and a VIP swag bag valued at more than $200, along with exposure to Hawaiʻi’s culinary community.
“The level of talent continues to grow each year, and being a part of the competition is something chefs take pride in,” Bambling said.
“It’s an experience that challenges you, pushes your creativity, and puts your work in front of an audience that truly understands and appreciates it.”
The festival weekend begins June 19 with the Poke Masters’ Table Dinner, featuring Choy, Rainwater and Simeon. The main event follows on June 20, with live Hawaiian entertainment, local vendors and a hosted bar.
There is no specific date for the final call, but only a few spots remain for competitors. Both professional and amateur chefs are encouraged to apply by clicking here.
Proceeds from the event will benefit the Alzheimer’s Association, Hawai‘i Chapter.
