RIO MICELI

Executive Chef, Fantasy Football Nerd, Travel Junkie

Born and raised in Kohala on the Big Island of Hawai'i. Growing up on his family's sprout farm, he learned at an early age the importance of sustainable farming and cooking with local fresh ingredients. After attending the New England Culinary Institute, Rio spent time traveling the world while learning new culinary skills from St. Thomas to San Francisco. Upon returning to the Big Island, Rio opened and co-owned the renowned "Sushi Rock" in Hawi where he gained a reputation as being considered one of the best sushi chefs on the Big Island. After running his own catering company for private chef services, he spent 5 years at world-class Mauna Kea Beach Hotel as the Executive Chef, overseeing Manta Restaurant, Copper Bar, and the banquet department.

When the pandemic hit in 2020, Rio decided to revive his catering company and return to private cheffing full-time. Now with clients from Kukio, Puako, and the Mauna Kea areas, Rio has established himself back into his passion for creating memorable dining experiences in the homes of 'Ohana.

Contact

SAMANTHA MICELI

Server, Classic Rock Specialist, Pilates Princess

Wife to Chef Rio and also a Big Island native, Samantha comes ready to share her suggestions for the best beaches, restaurants, and local spots for a true Hawai'i experience.

Samantha has worked in Corporate and Leisure Sales, as well as Food and Beverage Marketing for luxury resorts on the Kohala Coast. It was then she grew a taste for the culinary world and fine dining experiences.

In her spare time, Samantha is a wedding and portrait photographer and luxury travel planner.

CHANTEL

Lead Server, Sommlier, House of Ravenclaw

Having worked in tandem with several private chefs across the country, Chantel enjoys working with clients while at home on the Big Island.

Although born and raised in Hawai'i, exploring the world is a true passion of hers. Chantel appreciates the finer details that accompany select culinary service and as sommelier is always happy to discuss the intricacies and nuance of wine pairing.

When not working to please others, you will find Chantel chasing the surf or running down the next good book on her list.

JOSH

Sous Chef, Ultimate Frisbee Captain

Josh believes the key to all things is manifesting and enjoying creativity, quality, and beauty.

A 25 year Big Island resident, Josh is experienced in a variety of skills and passions but began in restaurants and food service earlier in his life. When you don't see him in the kitchen, you'll find him in his shop and studio space shared with Gary Ackerman's gallery in Kohala, where he engineers and co-creates sculptural events with Gary himself.

Carpenter and artist by day, and chef by night, Josh is a lover of excellent food and is thrilled to work with longtime friend and brother from another mother, Chef Rio Miceli, helping him bring creativity, quality, and beauty to life!

Josh gets The Hobbit and Harry Potter stories mixed up so, he thought he was in the Gandolf house until he was promptly corrected.

OLI

Quality Assurance Manager, Party Starter

Available by request, Oli joined the Chef Rio team in 2021. When a family of clients learned of Oli through Rio and Samantha, they requested her to be brought to the next dinner. Lo and behold, a star was born. Wonderful with kids, other pets, and all animal lovers alike, Oli brings fun and joy to your private dinner experience with snuggles and tricks.