What started with much fanfare has now seemingly ended in flames. When restauranteur and chef Beverly Gannon announced her partnership with Chef Roger Stettler and Greg Shepherd of Island Restaurant Management earlier this year in January, I had dreamy expectations of a new restaurant trifecta on Maui. But as we all know, reality can bite. And today it bit hard, according to this press release that just popped in my email:
“Earlier this year Ms. Gannon entered into a business arrangement with Greg Shepherd and Chef Roger Stettler, of Island Restaurant Management, that provided them with full autonomy of the Wailea location and plans for a full buy-out in Fall 2015. Mr. Shepherd and Chef Stettler decided to re-concept the restaurant as Joe’s Nuevo Latino, featuring foods inspired by Latino communities around the world. The restaurant opened on May 6, 2015.
Unfortunately, after less than 4 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 Gannon’s determined that Joe’s Nuevo Latino must close effective immediately, they have terminated all business agreements with Mr. Shepherd and Chef Stettler, and resumed control of the restaurant space.”
The restaurant had been transformed from Joe’s Bar and Grill–a comfort food bistro–and rebranded into Joe’s Nuevo Latino, which celebrated Latin food fusion.
For now the restaurant is closed, but the Gannons are looking at options for reopening, including possibly retaining a “working relationship” with Chef Gary Johnson, the executive chef of Joe’s when it closed.
Bev Gannon continues to operate her restaurants Hali`imaile General Store, Gannon’s, A Pacific View Restaurant and her catering company Celebrations Catering & Events. Stettler and Shepherd continue to run their restaurant Cow Pig Bun in Kihei.
Greg Shepherd could not be reached for comment immediately. Will update post as more information is available.
Photo of Bev Gannon: Sean Hower
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