Wailea, Maui (August 1, 2022) – Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort is delighted to announce the appointment of Ritchard Cariaga as Executive Chef. Cariaga will be responsible for overseeing the menus and staff for all food and beverage programming at Andaz Maui including Ka’ana Kitchen, Bumbye Beach Bar, and Lehua Lounge, in addition to banquet operations, in-room dining, and overseeing the operations for The Feast at Mokapu Luau.
Cariaga comes to Andaz Maui with over 16 years of progressive hospitality leadership experience. Cariaga began his Hyatt career at the Grand Hyatt Kauai in 2008, where he completed the CMT program in Culinary and went on to become Chef De Cuisine at the property’s Asian fusion restaurant, Yum Cha. In 2013 Cariaga joined the opening team at the Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort as Banquet Chef and was quickly promoted to Chef de Cuisine of Ka’ana Kitchen. During his time at Andaz Maui, Cariaga traveled to Mexico City to represent the property at the ‘Good Taste Series’ and to New York City to headline a sold-out dinner at the legendary James Beard House as part of ‘The Great Chef Exchange.’ Most recently, Cariaga worked as Executive Chef and Director of Food and Beverage at Miraval Arizona Resort and Spa as well as Director of Culinary and Food and Beverage Operations at Carmel Valley Ranch.
“It is an honor to welcome Chef Ritchard back to Andaz Maui,” said Dena Roady, Area Vice President and General Manager of Andaz Maui. “His creative flare and unparalleled experience will continue Andaz Maui’s mission to provide guests with unforgettable rich island flavors of Maui and a culinary experience that reflects the rich heritage of Hawaii.”
Cariaga grew up in Kauai and is thrilled to return to Hawaii with his family. In his spare time, he enjoys biking, hiking, cooking, and enjoying his favorite cuisine, Filipino food.
