Ki Chung

Bar Maze - Honolulu, HI

Ki Chung, a native of Incheon, South Korea, found his culinary passion early on while growing up in the vibrant culinary landscape of the San Francisco Bay Area. His journey into the world of gastronomy began in his grandmother’s kitchen, where he absorbed the art of traditional Korean cooking. As the eldest sibling, Chung took on the responsibility of preparing meals for his family while his parents were at work, further honing his skills and deepening his love for the culinary craft.

A graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, Chung’s dedication to excellence led him to stage at several acclaimed Michelin-starred establishments across the United States. Immersing himself in the kitchens of culinary luminaries such as The French Laundry, Manresa, Benu, The Fat Duck, and Jean-Georges, Chung garnered invaluable experience and refined his culinary prowess.

His culinary journey reached new heights when he joined the team at Aubergine restaurant, nestled within the luxurious L’Auberge Carmel. Starting as garde manger, Chung’s exceptional talent and unwavering commitment propelled him to the position of Aubergine’s inaugural chef de cuisine. Under his leadership, Aubergine earned its coveted Michelin star, attained a prestigious Forbes five-star rating, and secured the impressive No. 14 spot in North America on the Opinionated About Dining (OAD) list.

With a profound respect for ingredients, an innovative approach to flavor, and a dedication to culinary excellence, Ki Chung continues to inspire and delight diners with his masterful creations.