CHEF PHILIP ""IPPY"" AIONA was born and raised on the Big Island of Hawai'i. He grew up working at both his parents' restaurants, before attending the California Culinary Academy, Le Cordon Bleu. He's made Forbes' ""30 under 30 Food and Wine"" list twice, been a finalist on Food Network Star, and currently owns Ippy's Hawaiian BBQ in his hometown of Waimea.
"""To understand Hawaiian cuisine, you need to have an appreciation for community and family. It's never about the food, but the people and the conversation. Ippy has brought together food, culture, and nostalgia in a way that leaves you feeling as if your grandmother just gave you a cuddle."" --Chef Jason Roberts"