The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort, part of the prestigious Mauna Kea Resort on Hawai‘i Island, names Sotirios Kontos as Chef de Cuisine of Meridia. This role highlights our dedication to culinary excellence and innovation at the resort’s signature Mediterranean-inspired restaurant.
Executive Quote
“We are thrilled to welcome Chef Sotirios to our culinary team,” said Todd Oldham, Director of Food and Beverage for Mauna Kea Resort. “His extensive international experience, refined creativity, and deep respect for Mediterranean and Hawaiian ingredients align perfectly with Meridia’s vision. We look forward to the fresh perspectives he’ll bring to our guest dining experiences.”
Chef Kontos’s Background
Chef Kontos grew up in Athens, Greece, influenced by Italian and Turkish family traditions. Summers on his great-grandparents’ farm near Thermopylae sparked his love for seasonal cooking. At 13, a summer job on Paros Island confirmed his passion. He later trained at CHEF D’OEUVRE culinary school in Athens.
He refined his skills at Aigli restaurant and under mentors like Lefteris Lazarou, Nobu Matsuhisa, and Albert Roux. Signature dishes include Lamb Youvetsi with Truffle Orzo and Octopus Carpaccio with Citrus and Olive Dust. After moving to the U.S. in 2008, he worked at TriBeCa Grill and Trump National Golf Club before settling on Hawai‘i Island.
In 2008, Chef Kontos relocated to the United States, refining his craft at TriBeCa Grill and Trump National Golf Club before making Hawai‘i Island his home.
Role & Vision
In his role as Chef de Cuisine, Chef Kontos will lead Meridia’s kitchen team and shape the restaurant’s culinary direction. In addition, he will design menus that feature seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Moreover, he plans to introduce dishes that blend Mediterranean roots with Hawaiian bounty.
About The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort
Nestled along Hawai‘i’s renowned Kohala Coast, The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort offers 249 guest rooms and 17 suites with ocean views. Amenities include two ocean-facing pools, a state-of-the-art fitness studio, and a full-service spa. Guests enjoy dining options from Meridia’s Mediterranean-inspired menu to casual beachside fare at Naupaka Beach Grill.
About Mauna Kea Resort
Mauna Kea Resort spans 1,800 oceanfront acres on the Kohala Coast. Moreover, it includes the historic Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort, and exclusive vacation residences. Currently, a multi-million-dollar renovation is enhancing guest rooms and public spaces while preserving the resort’s classic charm.
