Joe’s Nuevo Latino Shuts Down as Gannons Regain Control

By Maui Now Staff

Joe’s Nuevo Latino in Wailea has closed its doors, effective immediately. Those doors had just been reopened on May 6, after the restaurant underwent a major, multi-month renovation. It was transformed from Joe’s Bar and Grill, known for upscale American fare and comfort food, to Joe’s Nuevo Latino, a hip mix of Latin food from across the globe.

Renowned Maui chef Beverly Gannon has resumed control of Joe’s Nuevo Latino. Earlier this year, Gannon entered into a business arrangement with Greg Shepherd and Chef Roger Stettler, of Island Restaurant Management, that gave them full autonomy of the Wailea location, with plans for a full buy-out this Fall. Shepherd and Stettler decided to re-concept the restaurant as Joe’s Nuevo Latino, featuring foods inspired by Latino communities around the world.

Joe’s Nuevo Latino logo. Photo by Kiaora Bohlool.

Joe’s Nuevo Latino, overlooking tennis courts on Wailea Ike Place. Photo by Kiaora Bohlool.

Chef Gary Johnson at Joe’s Nuevo Latino. Photo by Kiaora Bohlool.

Chef Gary Johnson cooks at Joe’s Nuevo Latino. Photo by Kiaora Bohlool

Decor at Joe’s Nuevo Latino. Photo by Kiaora Bohlool.

Seared Ahi Special at Joe’s Nuevo Latino. Photo by Kiaora Bohlool.

Plaintain Chips and Salsa at Joe’s Nuevo Latino. Photo by Kiaora Bohlool.

Menus at Joe’s Nuevo Latino. Photo by Kiaora Bohlool.

View from Joe’s Nuevo Latino. Photo by Kiaora Bohlool.

According to an announcement released today, after fewer than four months, the concept and management proved unsuccessful and the new team was unable to meet the financial obligations of the restaurant. As leaseholders of the Wailea location, Bev and Joe Gannon were obligated to step in and assess the situation. After careful review, the Gannons determined that Joe’s Nuevo Latino must close, effective immediately. They have terminated all business agreements with Shepherd and Stettler, and regained control of the restaurant space.

The Gannons are currently evaluating several options for the future of the site, which overlooks the tennis courts at 131 Wailea Ike Place.

Gannon spoke highly of Joe’s leading chef, saying she’s seriously interested in maintaining a working relationship with Chef Gary Johnson, whom she considers a rising star and the creative force behind the food at Joe’s Nuevo Latino. She adds Chef Johnson has a unique talent for understanding Latin flavors and combining them with the freshest ingredients sourced in Hawaiʻi.

Gannon also owns Haliʻimaile General Store and Gannon’s, A Pacific View Restaurant, as well as Maui’s longest-running catering company, Celebrations Catering & Events. She also served as Corporate Chef for Hawaiian Airlines between 1999 and 2010.