What’s on da menu? New Restaurant in Lahaina serving Dim Sum & lots of Duck
Executive Chef and Owner Alvin Savella, "The Kitchen Assassin '', has no boundaries at his new restaurant on Maui, Duckine. Located at 1312 Front Street, Duckine focuses on Chinese, Hawaiian and Local Flavors. Chef Savella taps into Asian Fusion in a whole new way. He draws inspiration from family, remembering while he was growing up his family made everything from scratch. Savella takes that foundation, and inspiration from his travels, to combine flavors for his variety of embolden dishes on a very Duck-centric and Dim Sum menu. The Duckine Menu from “Small Kine” like Pressed Duck Bao and Puffed Shrimp, to a share plates “Ohana Kine” featuring Duck Fat Fried Rice and Crispy Egg Noodles, to the “Big Kine” with “The Kitchen Assassin” Fried Chicken and Szechuan Peppercorn Ribeye. There are so many items to make your mouth water.
Chef Savella started Duckine after stepping down as Executive Chef of Mala Ocean Tavern, located across the street, and the sister restaurant, to his new venture. Partnering with Rob Farrell, Javier Barberi, Ashley Davis, and Caleb Hopkins, the new restaurant is already getting big buzz on the westside and on Maui. Chef Alvin’s desire for family style dining was a driving force behind the restaurant and influenced many of the dim sum dishes, with the focus on sharing and enjoying when it is ready... and, of course, always ordering more! Chef Savella has led many kitchen teams and Duckine is finally his own kitchen to explore the cuisine, flavor profiles, and tastes that intrigue and excite him the most. Duck is in the name, and many of the featured items involve or can have duck added to the dish. Sourcing farm-raised ducks to create a variety of dishes on the menu, yet also having a large variety for vegetarians and folks looking for gluten free options.
The bar program at Duckine is an elevated, creative craft cocktail experience with Chinese and local fusion. Mixologist Hailey Cook was inspired by Chinese apothecary ideals, using lots of teas and healing herbs combined with Tiki vibes from the islands. Hailey has crafted a menu to take people out of their comfort zone and explore a heightened culinary cocktail experience on Maui's West side. With over fifteen years of experience in the service industry behind the bar, Hailey is dedicated to creating a cocktail program to write home about. Hailey has a passion for creating fun, delicious and locally sustainable cocktail creations while honoring the classics that have helped to create the cocktail culture we all know and love. Hailey has curated a unique Chinese-Hawaiian inspired beverage program that is both creative and approachable for visitors and locals alike. With drinks named “Fu Lin Chu”, “Rice Rice Baby”, and “What the Duck?” the fun has already begun, but wait until you taste them! With ingredients like oolong, duck fat, yuzu, or umami tincture, you’re in for a treat to see how these cocktails not only elevate the incredible food from Chef Alvin Savella, but also your experience.
GM and Owner Rob Farrell also has transitioned from across the street, as former GM of Mala Ocean Tavern, Rob was known for bringing the oceanfront eatery back to life and getting through the pandemic. His passion for cuisine, wine and mixology are unparalleled and he is known for leading the way for outstanding service and execution. Raising the standards in the restaurant scene on Maui, Rob has worked closely to develop the Duckine Brand through the cuisine, cocktail program, and atmosphere. Every detail of Duckine is influenced by the creative genius of Farrell’s style, flair, pallet, and passion.
Others bringing their experience and expertise are Sous Chef BJ Pagdilao-Bala, a le Cordon Bleu graduate and Maui local, and Assistant General Manager Tyler Brown, a restaurant industry veteran. Both here to guide and steer the new team being developed.
Duckine is open daily from 11am to 10p, and starting the day with Happy Hour from 11a - 3p. Offering 20% Off restaurant wide to Kama’aina. No reservations are needed and you can get on the waitlist ahead of time by going to www.duckine.com. While you wait you can hang out in the Duckine Lounge, a sleek and comfortable area to kick back and relax if you're interested in just having a drink or waiting for your ToGo Food. Duckine has a large indoor dining room, sexy bar, and outdoor patio seating, with a view of the ocean as well. There’s a reason this new gem in Lahaina is moving through coconut wireless like wildfire. Food, drinks, atmosphere and all from a young team of passionate restaurateurs.
To Chef Alvin Savella, bringing in the community that has supported his culinary journey, and showing appreciation for the local businesses on the island are on the forefront of the experience. Chef Savella’s style is unique, playful, and always flavorful. Let "The Kitchen Assassin" surprise you! Duckine is now open at 1312 Front Street in Lahaina, HI. Join us at Duckine Friday, December 2, 2022 for the GRAND OPENING Celebration!