Daisuke Hamamoto

Arancino at The Kahala - Honolulu, HI

Born and raised on the small island of Kagawa, Japan, Daisuke Hamamoto has been immersed in the culinary world since childhood. His father, a lead cook in a local restaurant, would place Hamamoto’s baby crib next to him in the kitchen while he worked.

Hamamoto honed his skills at renowned Italian restaurants in Japan, including Ristorante Lo Stemma and Ristorante II Vecchio Morino.

During a vacation in Hawaii, Hamamoto experienced the culinary delights of Arancino on Beachwalk, sparking a deep admiration for the cuisine. This led him to join the Arancino team, starting as a line cook and ascending to the role of Executive Chef within the Arancino Restaurant Group.

With over two decades of culinary expertise, Daisuke Hamamoto stands as one of Hawaii’s foremost chefs, blending Italian fine dining with modern Japanese influences. His contributions were pivotal in Arancino being recognized as the Best Italian restaurant in Hawaii.