Lasagne at Taverna in Kapalua. Courtesy photo.

Chris Kaiwi, principal partner/operator of Taverna, announced that the Kapalua restaurant will cease lunch service effective Sunday, July 31, in order to focus on its successful dinnertime operations.

Taverna has enjoyed thriving dinner and cocktail business since its grand opening four months ago, but lunch hours have proven to be unprofitable, contributing only a small percentage of the total daily revenue.

“We appreciate all the support from the Kapalua community to make us your neighborhood restaurant, and we are thrilled that dinner has been so stellar,” Kaiwi says. “We’ve given lunch our best effort, but we recognize the competition we face from Maui’s great outdoors in daylight hours! The call to lay off our excellent lunch staff was a hard one to make, but we are doing everything we can to help these team members find new, fulfilling positions.”

“My partners and I feel this decision best supports our overall business plan, allowing us to focus on what we’re already known for: superb Italian cuisine, outstanding cocktails and wines, impeccable service and Hawaiian hospitality,” adds Kaiwi.

Going forward, Taverna’s spacious venue will be available during daytime hours for special events, weddings and private business functions.  Go to Taverna’s website to learn more.