The beloved Cool Cat Cafe Lahaina, a West Maui fixture at the Wharf Cinema Center Shops, is set to make a triumphant return after the devastating August wildfire. While the Lahaina location was tragically destroyed, the spirit of Cool Cat Cafe remains strong, and it’s poised to reopen in early 2024 for lunch and dinner at the Kukui Mall in Kihei.
Cool Cat Cafe Sign at Lahaina Location
Image: The iconic sign of Cool Cat Cafe Lahaina, a landmark before the August 2023 wildfires.
The new Cool Cat Cafe will be located in the Kukui Mall, taking over the space formerly occupied by Sansei Restaurant & Sushi Bar. Sansei will consolidate its Maui operations to its existing Kapalua location, paving the way for Cool Cat Cafe’s resurgence. This strategic relocation not only marks a significant comeback for a cherished community establishment but also enhances the dining options at Kukui Mall, introducing an affordable and casual lunch and dinner spot.
The Lahaina wildfires deeply impacted the Cool Cat Cafe family, displacing over half of its staff. Heartbreakingly, the release also reported the loss of one team member. Despite the immense challenges, the Cool Cat Cafe team demonstrated incredible resilience, immediately focusing on supporting and feeding the community in the fire’s aftermath.
“The heart of our institution has always been our people and the community we serve. Though the fires disrupted our physical space, it never dampened our spirit,” stated Sean Corpuel, founder of Cool Cat Cafe. This sentiment underscores the deep connection the cafe has with its community and its unwavering commitment to Maui.
The collaboration between Cool Cat Cafe and Sansei Restaurant & Sushi Bar exemplifies the spirit of Maui’s business community. This partnership aims to strengthen the local economy by providing increased employment opportunities for residents and continuing to serve both locals and visitors. This synergy highlights the resilience and collective determination within Maui’s business sector.
Coldwell Banker Commercial played a crucial role in brokering the deal for Cool Cat Cafe’s new Kihei location at Kukui Mall. Chris Millen, principal broker for Coldwell Banker Commercial, emphasized the significance of this reopening beyond business. “The return of Cool Cat Cafe is not just about business. It’s about reviving a community’s heart, ensuring that its pulse remains strong,” Millen stated, highlighting the cafe’s importance to the community’s emotional and social fabric.
As the healing process continues, the team at Cool Cat Cafe expresses deep gratitude for the community’s overwhelming support. Fueled by this support, the owners and staff are eager to rebuild, recreate their beloved menu, and continue serving the Maui community from their new location in Kihei. The reopening of Cool Cat Cafe Lahaina in Kihei is a symbol of hope and resilience for Maui, demonstrating the community’s ability to recover and rebuild even after immense loss.
