The Beginning
Hawaiian Brewing was born from a simple idea: to create beer that reflects the spirit of Hawaiʻi. We wanted to build more than a brewery—we wanted a gathering place where locals and travelers alike could share laughs, stories, and unforgettable moments, all with a cold pint in hand.
Brewed in Paradise
Our motto says it all: Brewed in Paradise. Every beer we make is inspired by the beauty and rhythm of the islands—the warmth of the sun, the power of the ocean, and the connection between land, water, and people.
Why Hawaiian Brewing
At the heart of Hawaiian Brewing is respect. Respect for the land we brew on, the water that sustains us, and the community we serve. Each batch is brewed small, with care and craftsmanship, balancing complexity with approachability. We make beers of character, brewed with personality and shared with aloha.
ʻOhana and Community
Hawaiian Brewing is built on the idea of ʻohana—family. From our team to our guests, we believe beer has the power to bring people together. That’s why we give back to the community, support local organizations, and host events that celebrate connection, music, and culture.
Brewed in Paradise. Shared with Aloha.
Meet The Team
Brian and Brian have been best friends since they were four years old. From the early days of bussing tables at Lokelanis at the Maui Marriott, to managing kitchens, they’ve worked in nearly every role the restaurant industry has to offer, gaining invaluable skills and insights along the way. Their combined experience in culinary arts and brewing is not just about making great food, drinks and beer; it's about creating memorable experiences that embody the aloha spirit—a genuine warmth and kindness that defines the Big Island of Hawaii.
Beyond the kitchen and brewery, Brian and Brian's dedication to the community is just as strong. They actively support local initiatives, whether it’s partnering with food banks, sponsoring events, or volunteering with organizations that improve the lives of residents. For them, business is more than just serving customers—it’s about giving back to the place that has given them so much.
Driven by their love for both hospitality and their hometown, Brian and Brian are committed to being a lasting presence in the vibrant Kailua-Kona community. Their vision is not just to build a business but to create a welcoming space where locals and visitors alike can feel at home, enjoying the tastes, stories, and traditions that make Hawaiian Brewing so special.
A Future Rooted in Tradition
As we grow, our commitment remains the same: to brew beers that honor Hawaiian culture, embrace sustainability, and create experiences that bring people closer. Hawaiian Brewing is not just about what’s in the glass—it’s about the stories, friendships, and memories that surround it.
Brian Sumner
Executive Chef
Chef Brian Sumner brings the flavors of the mainland to the islands with a laid-back, friendly approach. Originally from Menlo Park, CA, Brian’s culinary journey began 37 years ago in the Bay Area, where he honed his skills across various kitchens before making his way to the beautiful Lake Tahoe region in 1996.
Brian has cooked for iconic spots like The Lone Eagle Grille and Spindleshanks, and even led the banquet team at The Chateau in Incline Village, Nevada. Most recently, he served as the Executive Chef at Zephyr Lodge at Northstar California Resort, crafting hearty dishes that perfectly suited the high-altitude atmosphere.
When he’s not in the kitchen, Brian loves to explore the islands through scuba diving, fishing for fresh Kona coast catches, and volunteering to teach cooking skills to the local community. Of course, he’s also a fan of relaxing with a cold beer on the sand, embracing the true aloha spirit of Hawaii.
Brian Nelson
Brian comes from a family of brewers.
His Great-Grandparents, the Von Böegershausens, owned a small brewery in Germany for many decades. His Uncle, Martin Kelly, was the President & CEO of Pyramid Brewing Company & Vice President of Miller Brewing Company.
Brian's Great Uncle Robert C. Gadsby was Vice President of Anheuser-Busch, Inc. until his death in the late 1960s. He reported directly to August Anheuser "Gussie" Busch Jr. for over 29 years and started his career as an assistant brewer at Anheuser-Busch after receiving his brewing degree from Siebel Institute of Technology.
Moving forward, Brian hopes to make Hawaiian Brewing a success and serve his local community in Kailua-Kona and Hawaii.
