Aulani Resort Welcomes Amanda Porcuna as Pastry Chef
Seasoned pastry chef with over 17 years of experience will elevate guest culinary experiences
KO OLINA, Hawai‘i — Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, has announced Amanda Porcuna as its new pastry chef. With more than 17 years of culinary experience, including extensive work in pastry making, and a passion for serving the community, Porcuna brings a wealth of expertise and creativity to Aulani’s culinary team.
“Joining the Aulani Resort culinary team is a dream come true. Disney has been a place where I’ve grown both personally and professionally, with opportunities to learn, lead and innovate,” said Porcuna. “The company’s investment in my development has been invaluable, and I’m excited to bring my passion for pastry arts to Aulani Resort, creating memorable experiences for our guests.”
In her new role, Porcuna is responsible for overseeing the resort’s bakery operations, leading the talented team and creating innovative dessert menus for Aulani Resort’s dining venues. Porcuna began her career with Disney in 2011 at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. Over the past 13 years, she has worked at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Contemporary Resort, where she has advanced through various roles.
Porcuna discovered her passion for the culinary arts at a young age. By age 17, she had earned her first culinary certificate from the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts’ inaugural culinary program, sponsored by Johnson & Wales University. Her talent led her to compete in culinary competitions nationwide, eventually earning a scholarship to Le Cordon Bleu, where she obtained an associate degree in patisserie and baking.
.jpg "Chocolate Orange Cake. Courtesy of Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa.")
In the short time that Porcuna has been at Aulani Resort, she has already sweetened the daily offerings with three new mouthwatering treats at Aulani Resort’s Ulu Cafe, including a tropical fruit tart, mango pineapple cream puff and a gluten-free and dairy-free chocolate orange cake.
“Chef Amanda is an extraordinary culinary artist whose passion for flavor and innovation is truly unmatched. We are delighted that she has chosen to share her expertise with our guests,” said Kimberly Agas, general manager at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa. “At Aulani Resort, we strive to create a workplace that supports our Cast Members’ evolving ambitions. We are excited to see her culinary creations throughout our resort.”
Outside of the kitchen, Porcuna enjoys traveling and cooking with her son. She is passionate about teaching and mentoring others in the pastry arts and consistently strives for excellence.
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About Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa
Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa is perfectly positioned on 21 beautiful oceanfront acres of Ko Olina on the leeward coast of O‘ahu. Just 17 miles from Honolulu International Airport and approximately 30 minutes from Waikīkī, Aulani Resort features 351 rooms, including 16 suites, and 481 two-bedroom equivalent villas, including 20 grand villas. Guests are invited to experience its world-class spa, restaurants and lounges, pools, kids’ club, and more—all uniquely designed for families to discover the culture, history and traditions of Hawai‘i. For more information and reservations, visit www.disneyaulani.com or call (866) 44-DISNEY.
Megan Uyeno