A dinner that feels made for the moment.
Fresh island ingredients, a local style, and the kind of attention that makes the evening feel personal from the first course to the last bite. Private dining in Kona and across the Big Island.
For the Nights That Deserve More Than a Reservation
Some dinners are just dinner. This isn't that.
Chef Justin Gambling creates private dining experiences across Kona and the Big Island, building each menu around what’s in season and preparing every course from scratch in your space. The food is bold, layered, and plated with intention, combining refined technique with local ingredients.
People book Justin when they want the meal to feel like part of the reason everyone came together. Whether it’s a private chef dinner for two, a small group gathering, or a larger in-home dining experience, the evening feels personal, relaxed, and made for the people at the table. The pace adjusts naturally, every detail is handled, and the night unfolds without feeling rushed.
How the Evening Comes Together
Step 1: Reach Out
Share your date, guest count, and any dietary needs for your private dining experience. Justin will follow up with next steps and a few menu ideas.
Step 2: Build the Menu
The menu is shaped around your group, what's in season, and the kind of dinner you want to have. Before anything is confirmed, you'll have clear pricing and a menu to review.
Step 3: Settle In
Justin and his team arrive, cook, serve, and take care of cleanup. You get to enjoy the evening with your guests while everything else is handled.
Most private dinners run about 4 hours total, though timing can vary depending on the menu and the pace of the night.
Everything You Need for the Night
Your private dining experience includes the team, setup, service, and full cleanup after the meal. The goal is simple: a beautiful evening in your space, without leaving you with anything to manage after.
Ingredients are sourced fresh and built into the per guest price, so there's no shopping list, no extra stops, and no piecing things together on your end.
Cocktail service is also available for private dinners, with made to order drinks as an optional add on. Ask about it when you reach out.
Pricing
Private dining starts at $185 per guest.
Rates may vary during peak seasons. Gratuity is not included.
A Taste of What the Night Could Look Like
Pupus
Tahitian Coconut Ahi Ceviche
red onion, coconut milk, lime, sweet potato and taro chips
Fresh Local Kampachi Crudo
pickled red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, citrus
Salad
Roasted Beet Salad
cucumber, cherry tomato, candied macadamia nuts, goat cheese, citrus miso vinaigrette
Main
Kona Coffee Rubbed Rib Eye
roasted garlic butter compound
Side
Molokai Sweet Potato Mash
coconut milk, butter
Dessert
Crispy Banana Lumpia
cinnamon sugar, vanilla ice cream, macerated fruits
Really one of the best private chef experiences we've had in a long time. The crusted mahi, beet salad, saimin salad, and banana lumpia were all highlights.
Leah T., Los Angeles
But everything was truly outstanding. Highly recommended if you are looking for an elevated but warm and friendly dinner experience!
Leah T., Los Angeles
Start Planning Your Dinner
Tell Justin about your group, your date, and your space. He'll follow up with a custom quote and a menu that fits the night.