Hapuna’s Peter Abarcar Voted Chef of the Year

The American Culinary Federation Kona-Kohala Chefs Association recently voted Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel Executive Chef Peter Abarcar Jr. as “Chef of the Year.”

Abarcar’s passion for the craft, creative use of island products and produce, as well as his continuous involvement and commitment to the local ACF Association, was recognized at the chapter’s annual President’s Ball help in December.

“It is an honor to be recognized by my fellow peers with such a great award,” Abarcar said. “I am grateful to be a part of the Kona-Kohala Chefs Association that not only plays an important role in advancing the standards of culinary profession, but also supports aspiring chefs in the West Hawai’i community.”

A Big Island native, Abarcar was born and raised in Honoka’a. He began his culinary journey at Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel as a lead cook in 1997 and moved up as sous chef and eventually executive chef. Along his culinary journey, Abarcar also worked at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel from 2008-2010 and returned to the Hapuna Beach Price Hotel in 2010.

The ACF was founded in 1929 and is comprised of 24,000 culinarians, food professionals, purveyors, and culinary enthusiasts. The West Hawai’i chapter is one of ACF’s 230 chapters and is committed to culinary sustainability and fostering farmer-chef relationships. In addition to efforts in sustainable practices, the chapter puts focus on offering scholarships and support for members and local student culinarians, with annual community events including the Q’uisine of Hearts brunch and Christmas with the Chefs.