Hilo’s Jason Johnson Named Volcano House Chef

The Rim Restaurant at Volcano House, Hawaii’s oldest hotel, has named Hilo chef Jason Johnson its manager of culinary activities.

Johnson has honed his culinary skills at Uncle Billy’s Hilo, Roy’s Waikoloa, Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and operating his own Hilo restaurant.

“I’ve always enjoyed using fresh ingredients so I’m extremely happy to be working with many great island farmers to create the awesome menu we have at The Rim restaurant,” said Johnson, the recipient of several ‘Taste of Hilo’ awards.

Rudy Fao, Volcano House general manager, said Johnson “provides leadership to the kitchen team.”

The dining room at Volcano House offers a sweeping view of Halemaumau Crater. Courtesy photo.

Fao said a new room-and-dining package, including a $50 food and beverage credit for guests staying two nights, makes it a good time for kamaaina and visitors to experience Johnson’s talents at the newly restored property.

The hotel and 150-seat restaurant, which have been receiving guests on the rim of Halemaumau Crater in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park since 1877, was reopened on June 1 after undergoing renovations and change of ownership that took three years to complete.

Hawaii Volcanoes Lodge Company, a partnership of Ortega National Parks and Aqua Hospitality, was selected in a competitive process to manage the property.