A Lahaina restaurateur has been named a semifinalist for one of the culinary world’s most prestigious honors, marking a bright spot for the West Maui dining scene as it recovers from the 2023 wildfires.

Chef Michele Di Bari, owner of Sale Pepe Pizzeria e Cucina in Lahaina and Via! by Sale Pepe in Kāʻanapali, was announced Thursday as a semifinalist for the 2026 James Beard Awards.

In honor and remembrance of the second anniversary of the 2023 Lahaina wildfires, Sale Pepe Pizzeria e Cucina is donating all proceeds from its Margherita Pizza throughout August to the Maui Pono Foundation.

Via! by Sale Pepe, a fresh new concept to Maui’s culinary scene has arrived at Whalers Village in Kāʻanapali. Husband-and-wife restaurateurs Michele and Qiana Di Bari bring a fast casual twist to the Italian flavors that made their Lahaina favorite, Sale Pepe Pizzeria e Cucina, a beloved dining destination.

Maui Land & Pineapple Company, Inc. announced that Sale Pepe Pizzeria e Cucina will soon open their second location at Kapalua Resort after the 2023 wildfires claimed its original Front Street location.