Get to know me better

Creative Chef with specialty in healthy vegetarian dishes and tasty comfort food.

I began working as a Private Chef and started Island Gourmet Catering and Events in 2007, after a long career in newspaper advertising. I finally followed my heart and listened to my family and friends who encouraged me to keep on cooking.

Hawaii paved the way for me to marry the colorful Asian culture and European influences in my cooking. My specialty is “Healthy Comfort Food with a Gourmet Flair”. I offer a marvelous variety of fresh, preservative-free, nutritious, and downright delicious foods.

More about me

For me, cooking is...

Cooking with nutrition in mind using the healthiest organic ingredients showcases the purest form of sustaining life.

I learned to cook at...

My grandma's kitchen

A cooking secret...

My kitchen secrets lies within my sense of smell, taste and passion to cook, please and satisfy the partakers of my food.

Chef Ilona's reviews

4.52

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19 services

I had never used Take a Chef or had a private chef before meeting Ilona and I was really impressed! She sent a sample menu ahead of time and easily navigated our multiple dietary restrictions and allergies. She arrived at our AirBnB before we did and began making our pūpūs while we settled in. Each dish was thoughtfully prepared and seasoned with fresh ingredients. My mom was surprised at how much she enjoyed all the dishes despite not typically liking some of the individual ingredients. I feel like that really speaks to Ilona's talent for bringing together delicious flavors and combinations. I highly recommend Ilona and can't wait to have her cook for us on our next visit to the Big Island.

Chef Ilona was absolutely incredible. During our family vacation in Hawaii, I had planned a proposal in advance. Chef Ilona was exceptionally kind and thoughtful throughout the process. She came up with the brilliant idea of hiding the ring in a fortune cookie for dessert, which perfectly complemented our Japanese-themed menu. The sushi she prepared was the best I've ever tasted. If we ever find ourselves in Hawaii again, we will undoubtedly book Chef Ilona once more. I am immensely grateful to her for making our proposal so unforgettable.

Ilona Obrien, was wonderful, excellent cook, very fun to have as a chef.

Great service

Fantastic experience - would absolutely recommend! Easy process, great communication, excellent service, and delicious menu!!