As a seasoned hospitality executive with over 15 years of experience, John Hearns has an extensive background in food and beverage management, luxury hotels and resorts, and restaurants.

KAPALUA — Taverna Restaurant, home of Urban Drinks + Italian Eats, last week announced the appointment of John Hearns as managing director/general manager for the newly reopened restaurant.

He will round out the management team to spearhead new initiatives and business operations.

Hearns grew up in a hospitality family and has lived in many states across the Mainland.

He has spent most of his years on the coast or in beach communities and has an affinity and respect for the island lifestyle.

A graduate of Auburn University with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, Hearns has combined his analytical skills and management experience to optimize the restaurant space.

He moved to Maui to lead the Operational Excellence team at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua. Prior to moving to Maui, he worked for the Mandarin Oriental in Miami.

At Taverna, he will oversee the newly created Dolces by Taverna Coffee Bar & Bakery and day-to-day operations of the award-winning restaurant.

Hearns is passionate about guest service and will bring his dedication to brand quality, experiential dining and customer engagement to the restaurant.

“I’m excited to become a larger part of the Kapalua community and position Taverna as one of Maui’s ‘must try’ dining venues,” Hearns said.

“Along with team leaders longtime Maui restaurateur Chris Kaiwi and classically trained Italian Chef Roger Stettler, we want to welcome back our Maui friends as well as our island visitors to enjoy our gracious hospitality, phenomenal cuisine and comfortable vibe. We’re a great spot to meet new friends and old.”

One of his biggest endeavors will be the construction of an outdoor lanai area that will include wood-fired pizza oven, rotisserie grill and large covered patio with sweeping views of the West Maui Mountains.

Slated as an outdoor and group event venue, this will also allow the restaurant to expand its seating capability.

The new Dolces by Taverna Coffee Bar & Bakery is open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 7 to 11 a.m. (starting May 9, Mondays through Sundays) and features baked items created by Pastry Chef Courtney Galarita.

Featuring a variety of specialty coffee drinks, smoothies, freshly baked breads and pastries will be available.

Weekend brunch runs Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. with entertainment (times to be announced), Lobster Benedict, Brunch Pizza, Fried Chicken & Waffles, Custard French Toast and many more brunch favorites crafted with an Italian twist by Chef Roger.

The restaurant is located in the heart of Kapalua Resort at 2000 Village Road in the Bay Course Clubhouse.

Hours of operation are lunch service Tuesdays through Sundays from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. (opens Mondays starting May 9), Happy Hour from 2:30 to 5 p.m, weekend brunch Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and dinner service from 5 to 9 p.m.

For reservations, call (808) 667-CIAO (2426) or visit www.tavernamaui.com.