Meet Jesse Keoni | Chef & Street Food Enthusiast

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jesse Keoni and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jesse, do you have some perspective or insight you can share with us on the question of when someone should give up versus when they should keep going?
As an entrepreneur startup business owner, the thought of giving up comes to mind often but I know that what I’m trying to create works and people out there appreciate what I bring to the table…literally. No pun intended. Seeing how happy my food gets people really lights up my soul and is a constant reminder of why I’m doing what I’m doing is my purpose. If I can encourage any other entrepreneurs, I’d say don’t give up and remember to acknowledge and appreciate your creativity and uniqueness, because that’s what people love about you and your vision.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I started Hawaiian Hippy, back in 2019 and once the pandemic hit i had to figure out a way to make more income since losing my regular job. It was a blessing in disguise as I was able to share my Hawaiian fusion food with people at breweries and events across Southern California.

It was definitely stressful and I had to really put myself out there and sell myself. After a few popups and obstacles to overcome I started to figure out how to make it all happen smoothly and productively.

I do all my own marketing, design and food menus. Although it’s lighter on the pockets and it having to pay anyone else to do it all for me, it does get overwhelming but I always find a way to push through it and once I make people smile with my food I remember why I love cooking.

My food menu was inspired by traditional Hawaiian dishes like Hawaiian BBQ, Kalua Pork, Loco Moco, Poke and of course Mac Salad. From that I always try to tweak or add my own touch to make it stand out from the traditional tastes and flavors. I treat my dishes like an art canvas using ingredients and flavors as colors to paint your palette for a delicious experience.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If you were coming to San Diego, id definitely start in my city Oceanside going down by the pier and soaking up some rays and good vibes. I’d then take them to Mission Ave Bar & Grill, this place has amazing drinks, food is awesome and the management and staff there are second to none. My favorite place to go for sure.

After some drinks and small plates there we’d go Little Italy San Diego and go to a couple places…one would be Coco Maya which has a Caribbean vibe to it with some good drinks and food also. Leave there and go to Kings and Queens Cantina for some delicious Margaritas and socializing.

From there I’d have to say we’d go to Hells Kitchen in the Harrahs hotel, it’s not Las Vegas but the food is still so so good and an experience you have to do at least once in your life. Sauté Chef Gordon Ramsey!

After dinner we’d go back downtown San Diego and enjoy the nightlife so many cool bars and lounges to choose from depending on how you’re feeling. Rooftops, tequila bars, or even places to dance. Gotta love San Diego!!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d absolutely like to give a shout-out to my family, from my #1 fan my Mom, to my kids who are always there to help me when I need it, and the love and support I get from all my Aunties, Uncles, Cousins and close friends all over. They definitely give me the inspiration needed to keep going and to continue believing in my vision. I’d also like to give a shout out to all the brewery’s that allow me to popup and sell my food. Without them I wouldn’t have the opportunity to share my passion for food.

Website: www.hawaiianhippy.com

Instagram: @hawaiian.hippy @streetchefjes

Twitter: @hippy_hawaiian

Facebook: www.facebook.com/thehawaiianhippy