Ki Chung

Coming Up

Before Bar Maze, the line and pace were shaped at The Culinary Institute of America, then sharpened in the Head Chef role at Aubergine at L’Auberge Carmel, California. In Ki Chung’s case, those stops read less like milestones than evidence of a style built on exacting technique and control.

Where They Are Now

At Bar Maze in Honolulu, the kitchen is organized around a monthly tasting menu, so the work depends on constant reset rather than repetition. Ki Chung’s current role is Head Chef in an omakase format where food and drink are constructed as one sequence, not handled as separate courses and pairings.

Career - Head Chef — Bar Maze, Honolulu, Hawaii - Head Chef — Aubergine at L’Auberge Carmel, California Education: The Culinary Institute of America

FAQ What is Ki Chung's current role? As of 2026, Ki Chung is Head Chef. Where did Ki Chung train or study? Ki Chung trained at The Culinary Institute of America. What recognition has Ki Chung received? James Beard Foundation Emerging Chef semifinalist.