Fairmont Kea Lani Welcomes Executive Chef Michael Lofaro
Wailea, (Maui) Hawai’i – August 11, 2022 – It is with tremendous pride that Fairmont Kea Lani welcomes the newest member of their ‘ohana, Michael Lofaro, to continue upon the resort’s culinary legacy as Executive Chef. Known throughout the islands for his innovative artistry that captures sense of place, Lofaro brings a diverse array of talents to the resort’s storied culinary team.
“It is a privilege to welcome Chef Michael Lofaro into our celebrated resort” shared Michael Pye, Regional Vice President, Hawai‘i and General Manager, Fairmont Kea Lani. “His drive to honor and build upon the culinary expertise of those who preceded him, while supporting and uplifting the talent around him, makes him the perfect fit for us at Fairmont Kea Lani.”
Drawing inspiration through his family and community, connection to the ocean and land, and perpetuation of Hawaiian culture, Lofaro’s culinary ingenuity spans far beyond the kitchen. A passionate waterman and fisherman, his journey into Hawaiian culture began through paddling canoe and fishing, but quickly evolved when he was granted the opportunity to work with the Polynesian Voyaging Society on the transoceanic sailing vessel, Hōkūle‘a, sailing in a leg of the Mālama Honua Worldwide Voyage. A diligent haumāna of ‘ōlelo Hawai‘i, he continues to expand and apply his knowledge, often executing experiential culinary concepts rooted in ancient traditions of Kaulana Mahina.
“I am honored to embark on this incredible journey and to accept the deep kuleana of carrying out the timeless values and legacy of this resort” expressed Lofaro. “I have a profound recognition for those who came before, who paved the way for all of us here now, to honor Hawaiian and Hawai’i culture and food in the way only Fairmont Kea Lani can.”
A graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, Lofaro started his culinary leadership journey in 1998 as Roundsman/Sous Chef under Chef Michael Mina at AQUA, San Francisco. Alongside Chef Mina, he got his first taste of Maui while working on a new culinary venture, then later moved on to Sauté Cook & Roundsman for Chef Tom Valenti at Quest NYC. In 2002, Lofaro returned to Maui when he worked at Capische Restaurant as Sous Chef, and later earned the opportunity to take the helm of The Mills Tavern in Providence, Rhode Island where as Executive Chef, his team was bestowed the prestigious Mobil 4 Star Award in 2005. Following this great achievement, he realized that his experiences on Maui were far more than just chapters in his culinary career but, in fact, the place that he and his family wanted to permanently call home. As such, Lofaro returned to the islands as Chef De Cuisine of Humuhumunukunukuāpua‘a in 2006 and was subsequently promoted to his most recent role as Executive Sous Chef, Grand Wailea in 2014, where he flourished for almost 17 years. Throughout his career, Lofaro has been repeatedly recognized for his unwavering commitment to supporting local agriculture, fishing, talent development and community organizations, culminating in his being named “Chef of the Year” at the 2016 ‘Aipono Awards and receiving an Emmy for his co-starring role in SEARCH Hawai’i: Where Food Meets Culture.
About Fairmont Kea Lani
Located on the coveted south shore of Maui in Wailea, Fairmont Kea Lani is Hawaiʻi’s only all-suite and villa luxury oceanfront resort. This distinctive property is located on idyllic Polo Beach amongst 22 acres of tropical landscape and offers authentic Hawaiian cultural experiences with genuine personal service which embody the spirit of Aloha. Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui is known for distinctive dining venues, bars and a gourmet market, 3 swimming pools including an adults-only tranquility pool, a comprehensive spa and wellness program, authentic Hawa’ian cultural activities, as well as unrivaled access to the best adventures across the island.
Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui has been repeatedly recognized as one of Hawai‘i’s top luxury resorts and is included in the iconic Travel + Leisure’s 500 Best Hotels in the World list for 2021 as well as received numerous Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards and Trip Advisor Travelers’ Choice Awards. For reservations or more information, call 866-540-4456 or visit fairmont-kea-lani.com. Join the resort’s online communities at facebook.com, instagram.com, and youtube.com. The resort is located at 4100 Wailea Alanui, Wailea, Maui, Hawai’i, 96753.
About Fairmont
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is where occasions are celebrated and history is made. Landmark hotels with unrivalled presence, authentic experiences and unforgettable moments have attracted visitors to Fairmont and its destinations since 1907. The Plaza in New York City, The Savoy in London, Fairmont San Francisco, Fairmont Banff Springs and Fairmont Peace Hotel in Shanghai are but a few of these iconic luxury hotels, forever linked to the special places where they reside. Famous for its engaging service, grand public spaces, locally inspired cuisine and celebrated bars and lounges, Fairmont promises the grandest of moments that will be remembered long after any visit. With a worldwide portfolio of more than 80 hotels, Fairmont also takes great pride in its deep community roots and leadership in sustainability. Fairmont is part of Accor, a world leading hospitality group consisting of more than 5,100 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries.
