Maui chef Zach Sato, co-owner and executive chef of the recently opened Havens Harborside Fish and Chophouse, has been named Best Chef on Maui by his peers. The award, voted on by head chefs across the island, was announced at the ʻAipono Awards, hosted by Maui Nō Ka ʻOi Magazine.

Havens Harborside, which opened six months ago in Māʻalaea Harbor, also received the Gold Award for Best New Restaurant on Maui at the same event. The restaurant offers a menu focused on locally sourced seafood, produce, and bone-in meats in a casual yet upscale setting with ocean views.

Sato is a Maui native with deep roots in the island’s culinary scene. He previously established Havens in December 2020 with business partner Tavis Mann. That eatery is known for local-style dishes such as fried noodles, oxtail soup and smash burgers.

Beyond his restaurants, Sato was actively involved in preparing and distributing meals to displaced residents and first responders to the August 2023 Lahaina wildfires in Lahaina.

“I know so many people lost so much and showed such resilience during these times,” Sato said in his acceptance speech. “I’m just really humbled and grateful for this award.”

The Havens brand, named after Sato’s daughter, has previously received national attention in publications such as Forbes and Esquire.