Chef Geno oversees Nick’s Fishmarket Maui, Sarento’s on the Beach, Son’z at Swan Count and Manoli’s Pizza Company. Chef Sarmiento handpicks all of the restaurant’s chefs and is the mastermind behind the menus. Not only does Chef Sarmiento bring his culinary expertise and creativity to the restaurants, he also exudes compassion and sincerity. President and CEO Aaron Placourakis says “Geno’s knowledge, experience, professionalism and zest for life are key ingredients in our restaurants’ philosophies. He fits in perfectly with our family.”Chef Geno started with the company over twenty years ago in the pantry at Aaron’s atop the Ala Moana, formerly known as Nicholas Nickolas. Since then, he’s learned all aspects of the culinary field, not only cooking but managing the kitchen as well. He opened two of the Maui restaurants as Executive Chef: Sarento’s on the Beach and Son’z at Swan Court. While spearheading the culinary efforts at Son’z at Swan Court, they won numerous accolades: one of the “Top Ten New Restaurants in the United States” by Gayot Travel Guide, “Best New Maui Restaurant” by Honolulu Magazine and “Best New Restaurant” by Maui no ka oi Magazine. The latest venture of Chef Geno’s career is the opening of a family focused restaurant called Manoli’s Pizza Company. Manoli’s features organically grown produce, gluten free menu items and sustainable products. Chef Sarmiento’s philosophy is straight forward: support the small farmers and agriculture in the islands when creating exciting, innovative menu items for our guests. It can’t get any simpler than that.
