John Neff – Executive Chef

Chef John Neff has been a creative member of the Top of Waikiki staff since June 2006 and, was promoted to Executive Chef in November 2009. Chef Neff has over 15 years of experience in the food service industry, serving in various restaurants in Boise, Seattle, and Las Vegas before returning to the Islands. His creativity and enthusiasm has been honed through associations with Chef Roy Yamaguchi (Roy’s at the Westin, Seattle), Chef Michael Mina (Nob Hill, MGM Grand, Las Vegas), Chef Anthony Amoroso (Fiamma, MGM Grand, Las Vegas), and Chef Chai Chaowasaree (Chai’s Island Bistro).

After graduating at the top of his class with a degree in Culinary Arts for The Art Institute of Seattle in 2001, Chef Neff moved to Las Vegas to be part of the grand opening staff at Nob Hill. The restaurant promptly won numerous awards, with none more prestigious than James Beard’s nomination as best new restaurant in the nation. Three years later Chef Neff was hired to the staff of the New York based award winning restaurant Fiamma, which opened in the MGM Grand in 2004, providing an opportunity to work at another award winning restaurant and gaining exposure to exquisite Italian cuisine. Fiamma became an instant success, winning many awards while gaining high regard from food critics.

Upon returning to Honolulu, he became the Executive Sous Chef at Chai’s Island Bistro, bringing his fine dining experience in Las Vegas back to the Islands. Since joining the Top Of Waikiki, he has continued to rely on his culinary knowledge and experiences to perfect the latest in culinary trends and experiences. His talented crew enjoys the challenge of creating memorable dining experiences that visitors can take home, while providing Oahu’s Kama’aina a reason to return to Waikiki.

Chef Neff is the son of Chris and Pat Neff, and has one younger sister, Katie. John graduated from Mililani High School in 1995 where he played soccer, basketball and worked part time in the food industry. He lives in Miliani with his beautiful girlfriend, Angela and his son, Tyler. In his spare time he likes to golf, watch MMA, dine out, and loves spending time with his family and friends.