Peter Merriman — Big Island Pioneer
HRC First Generation
Peter Merriman was the first HRC chef to commit to 100% locally sourced menus on the Big Island. Before the term “farm-to-table” existed, Merriman was building direct relationships with Waimea ranchers, Hamakua mushroom growers, and Kona fishermen. His signature: wok-charred ʻahi and the original Merrimanʻs salad (organic greens from local farms). He proved that Hawaiian food could be sourced entirely within the islands — no mainland imports needed.