Mixed Reaction Precedes Rock & Brews Public Meeting

Rock & Brews meeting, 8/12/13. Photo courtesy: Kevin John Olson.

By Wendy Osher

A public informational meeting to discuss plans for the proposed Rock & Brews restaurant on Maui was held at the Pāʻia Community Center last night.

Those in attendance say the meeting drew an estimated crowd of about 130 with individuals voicing both support and opposition to the project.

Some concerns expressed in advance of the meeting included preserving the character of Pāʻia town, issues surrounding permit requirements, and potential impacts on the surrounding community.

Also in advance of the meeting, supporters of the project took to social media saying the restaurant would add diversity to the area, contribute to the town’s economy, and provide options for customers.

The company website for Rock & Brews says the establishment, “celebrates great Rock & Roll, beers, burgers, pizza and more,” in a,  “backstage beergarden.” According to the site, veteran rock promoter Dave Furano teamed with restaurateur Michael Zislis to collaborate on the idea of creating the “ultimate backstage experience,” when the two opened the El Segundo location in California.

An email request for information about the Maui plans, submitted via the company website was not returned.

Rock & Brews community meeting, 8/12/13. Photo courtesy: Kevin John Olson.

Rock & Brews community meeting, 8/12/13. Photo courtesy: Kevin John Olson.