Chef KK is Sous Chef at Hula Grill Kā‘anapali, a landmark oceanfront restaurant known for its “chef-driven dining” featuring local, line-caught fresh fish, Maui grown produce, and all-natural meats.
An Orlando native, Chef KK grew up helping his parents prepare family recipes and fresh-caught seafood. Ongoing exposure to Southern, Creole and Caribbean cuisines inspired his culinary creativity and eventually led him to a Sous Chef position with Bubba Gump Shrimp Company.
He led Bubba Gump’s Lahaina team for six years as Executive Chef before moving to Hula Grill in 2012. Chef KK enjoys planning, creating and preparing seafood specialties using produce from the bounty of Maui farms (Hula Grill’s daily menu features ingredients from an average of 40 local farmers!).
Check out Chef Kris’ recipe for Local Sweet Corn Fritters with Local Lime Cumin Aioli HERE
Local corn shines in this recipe created by Chef Kris Kersmarki for the 2019 Grand Taste hosted by the Maui County Farm Bureau at Maui AgFest & 4-H Livestock Fair. Judges said Chef KK did a fantastic job showcasing local ingredients in a fun and easy recipe that’s perfect for island-style potluck gatherings. These crispy sweet corn fritters can be served either as a pupu or a side dish.