Ali’i Kula Lavender Chef Profile:

Chef Rob Mason

“When you’re working back of the house (kitchen) its really impossible to capture those special moments as they’re happening. So now I get to see it first hand and feel like a part of the family. From wedding to birthdays and family reunions, each event and gathering is special and unique in it’s own way!”

Personal Chef Robert Mason and Local Maui resident whips up featured recipes for our culinary delight using Alii Kula Lavender’s Pure Culinary Lavender and Gourmet Lavender Seasoning.

Most of us picture chefs as an elusive magician, creating culinary magic behind the scenes of our favorite eatery. Our only interaction with them is the flavors of divine meals placed before us at our table. We enjoy and celebrate with those sitting with us and then we go home, full and satisfied. AKL Maui is excited to feature a local Chef who has breached the gap between kitchen and customer, providing private chef services to residents and visitors of Maui.

After Chef Rob Mason classically trained at The Art Institute of Philadelphia, he worked his way up through almost every position in the kitchen, an experience he says was humbling and helped him to become a well organized and focused chef. He has served as a lead banquet chef at the prestigious Grand Wailea Resort and Montage, Kapalua.

In addition to receiving two feature recipes using AKL Maui products, Chef Mason shared with us some of his experiences in the culinary scene and inspiration that Maui has to offer.

To find our more about Chef Mason and his services, check out his website and social links below.

Connect with Chef Rob Mason:

Website: www.rjgourmet.com

Facebook: @rjgourmetmaui

Instagram: @chefrobmaui

Twitter: @mauimace

Two Featured Recipes by Chef Rob Mason

Lavender Smoked Pork Tenderloin

w/ Ali’i Kula Lavender Gourmet Lavender Seasoning

Chef Robert Mason brings out the savory, satisfying side of of our favorite AKL Maui Gourmet Lavender Seasoning with this featured Lavender Smoked Pork Tenderloin recipe. Take your time with preparing and enjoying this smoked pork tenderloin. Sure to be a favorite of family and friends.

Earl Grey Lavender Creme Brûlée

with Ali’i Kula Lavender Culinary Lavender

Earl Grey tea brings its bold bergamot flavor, and AKL Maui Culinary Lavender brings the herbal notes in this sweet, creamy and satisfying dessert. Perfect with an afternoon Kula Calm tea or as an evening treat. Enjoy this custom carmelized custard, a special feature recipe curated by Chef Robert Mason.

Five Questions about Chef Rob Mason

Tell us a little about when and how you became inspired by and drawn to culinary arts?

Culinary arts for me was always about taking care of family and friends through my food! I was always the guy at the BBQ making sure everyone ate and that there was plenty of food! I would always want to be the last to eat so everyone got to enjoy their favorites.

Perfect Egg and Zucchini with Asparagus by Chef Rob Mason

Can you share a little about your path through culinary experience here, like any training, schools, or restaurants that helped curate your abilities and passions?

Working my way up in restaurants was definitely a humbling experience which helped me to become a well organized and focused chef. My last position as banquet chef at Montage Kapalua in 2015 inspired me to go off on my own to start my own business. There, I was fortunate enough to be the in-room dining chef. I had the honor of personally cooking for families one-on-one in their luxury villa. I felt comfortable with these families and got to enjoy their special moments while on vacation.

What are some differences between restaurant cooking and private chef cooking?

When you’re working back of the house (kitchen) its really impossible to capture those special moments as they’re happening. So now I get to see it first hand and feel like part of the family. From wedding to birthdays or just a family reunion they are all special and unique in their own way!

Mahimahi and Molokai Sweet Potato by Chef Rob Mason

What is your favorite comfort food to make in your home or for your clients?

I really enjoy preparing seafood along with fresh pastas or gnocchi. I love working with the fisherman in Lahaina and running down to the harbor to pick up the main fish for this evenings dinner! I get to work with some of the best quality ingredients in the world from the sea and land!

What is the best part of serving Maui as a personal chef?

I am definitely blessed for the last six years with my clients along with the returning tourism to our islands! I get a chance to meet my guests from all over the world and introduce them to the best ingredients Maui has to offer.