One Part Milan.
Sale Pepe Pizzeria e Cucina is more than a restaurant—it is a love story, a journey, and a testament to resilience.
As with many of life’s best stories, this one begins with food. Michele and Qiana’s paths first crossed in a Brooklyn restaurant—one of Michele’s own. He, a chef from Rozzano, Milan, by way of southern Italy, and she, a Brooklyn native from Red Hook, came from vastly different worlds. Yet, they quickly connected over a shared love of cuisine, family, and travel.
One of those travels brought them to Maui. Enchanted by the island’s magic, they married on a whim and found themselves returning again and again—until they knew they had to stay. They sold their Brooklyn restaurant and put down roots in Lahaina, eager to bring their passion for Italian food and culture to the community.
For nearly a decade, Sale Pepe thrived as a gathering place where locals and visitors alike could experience the warmth of an authentic Italian kitchen. But in August 2023, the Lahaina wildfire devastated the town, their home, and their restaurant. Like so many in the community, they faced an unthinkable loss—both personally and professionally. Yet, through the heartbreak, one truth remained clear: Lahaina was home, and they were determined to return.
Sale Pepe is the first restaurant lost in the Lahaina fire to rebuild and reopen in Lahainatown. This is not just a reopening; it is a renewal. Being part of the movement to revitalize their beloved community has fueled their every decision. The support, love, and resilience of the people of Lahaina have inspired them every step of the way, and they are honored to play a role in bringing life back to their town.
Today, Sale Pepe once again welcomes guests to experience true Italian cuisine. Handmade pastas and artisanal pizzas—crafted by Maui’s only certified pizzaiolo—celebrate the tradition, quality, and authenticity of Italian cooking. Fresh, locally sourced ingredients meet time-honored techniques to create dishes that are both classic and innovative. Paired with a lively, social wine bar atmosphere, and an attentive and engaging staff, the Sale Pepe experience is one of warmth, connection, and culinary excellence—one that cannot be found anywhere else on Maui.
This is more than just a return—it is a homecoming. For Michele and Qiana, reopening Sale Pepe is a deeply personal milestone, a testament to resilience, and a celebration of the community that has supported them. They are honored to welcome guests back to their table and to be part of Lahaina’s renewal.
Phone
Location
Emerald Plaza
157 Kupuohi Street
Suite J1
Lahaina, HI 96761
Dinner Hours
Monday - Saturday, 5pm - 9pm
Closed Sunday
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