Our Story
Chad and Diane finally made the move to Kona to pursue their longtime dream of owning a restaurant on an island as beautiful and friendly as the Big Island. As result of our desire to continue the amazing community involvement, excellent food, and outstanding service of Jackie Rey’s, we decided to expand the restaurant.
One of the most notable additions was the stunning custom bar crafted by local artist Seth Greene, making it a unique centerpiece that captures the essence of the community. The fresh new menu, which incorporates local favorites, reflects our commitment to providing quality dining experiences while celebrating the flavors of the Hawaii. Moreover, the expansion not only enhances the restaurant's aesthetic appeal but also offers guests an opportunity to immerse themselves in Kona's breathtaking ocean views and unforgettable sunsets.
As you step into our old-fashioned open-air restaurant, you'll be greeted by the welcoming atmosphere and the tantalizing aroma of freshly prepared dishes. Take a seat and let the conversation flow as you peruse our menu filled with a symphony of flavors.
Start your culinary journey with our appetizers to share, from crispy coconut shrimp to flavorful ahi tartare. Then, dive into our selection of fresh seafood, succulent steaks, and gourmet entrees, each carefully seasoned to perfection for a flavor explosion.
Raise a toast to friendship with our specially crafted cocktails or explore our curated wine list featuring selections from around the world. As you sip and savor, relish in the company of your friends and the warmth of Hawaiian hospitality.And of course, no gathering is complete without dessert. Indulge in our tempting sweets, from tropical fruit tarts to decadent chocolate treats, as you share stories and laughter late into the evening.
At Jackie Rey's, every meal is an opportunity to create cherished memories with friends. Come dine with us and experience the true essence of aloha in every bite.
Our Chefs
Executive Chef Jeric Genavia
Jeric has been our executive chef for 5 years after working his way through the kitchen line up from dishwasher to head chef! He has worked under many talented chefs as their sous, creating special dishes from farm (or hook!) to table. He fell in love with every new dynamic he experienced in each and every kitchen he worked in.
Jeric has a great love for food and connecting with people while combining his passion for creatively and the freedom to communicate without words… but through taste. When asked, he says what makes him a father and a leader is having self-love and love for those around him.
We suspect after a single conversation with Chef or taste of one of his dishes you will know his true love of food and people.
Sous Chef Jayson Genavia
Jay moved to Hawaii at age 17 and has been in the restaurant industry ever since. While being trained under 6 different chefs, he worked his way up the ladder to executive chef. He decided to support his brother (Jeric) as his sous chef while studying and continuing to further his career in the culinary arts.
Jayson’s hobbies are reading books, playing chess and barbecue’s by the beach or pool. As a father of 4 (3 kids, 1 doggo), he enjoys playing with his kids, watching movies, and just enjoying life.
Having the ‘ohana of Jeric and Jayson together behind the kitchen brings an energy we are sure you will feel as you dine with us. We are happy to have Jayson on our team.
Sous Chef Caleb Bunea
Caleb enjoys mentoring cooks, teaching them new skills, and seeing them learn from the ground up, as he did. Beginning at 14, Caleb began dishwashing and worked his way through the kitchen to become our most recent Sous Chef. He brings the value of team work to Jackie Rey’s and says one of the things he loves most is the high standards in food quality and preparation.
Caleb is inspired by the local ingredients and the opportunity to work with the freshest fish. He made the move to the Big Island to continue his career while truly embracing island life and taking advantage of the wonderful hiking here. We are grateful Caleb chose this island - and us -to share his abilities. Our team would not be the same without his kindness and leadership.
Pastry Chef Gina Torre
Gina brings a light and passion in sharing her beautiful desserts that taste as good as they look. What started as a passion for the meals her mom cooked turned into helping in the kitchen and eventually taking over, turning her mom into her first food fanatic.
Baking is a form of art that has become Gina’s comfort and her zen. As the pastry chef for Jackie Rey's, She extends her affinity for creating and curating to give you something equal in quality and soul. Besides baking and working in kitchens, Gina is an art teacher for students in schools that no longer fund art programs, a youth mentor, photographer, and graphic designer.