Meet the Team

Chef Alvin Savella, affectionately known as “The Kitchen Assassin,” is Born and raised in Lahaina, Chef Alvin’s deep ties to our community and his remarkable culinary talents have made him an icon of resilience, leadership, and aloha.

Chef Alvin’s culinary journey began in his early years, learning from his father the traditional art of butchering cows, hogs, lamb, and goat, a hands-on experience that instilled in him a respect for ingredients and the craftsmanship of cooking

His professional trajectory includes notable tenures at some of Maui’s most prestigious resorts, including the Westin, the Ritz-Carlton, and the Grand Wailea. These experiences honed his skills and solidified his reputation as a world-class chef with an eye for innovation. 

Chef Alvin has since parlayed these skills into a thriving restaurant career as the chef/owner of Coco Deck Lahaina, formerly known as Duckine. His decision to rebrand and reimagine the restaurant into a vibrant, family-friendly sports bar reflects his ability to adapt and evolve while staying true to his roots.

Even though Chef Alvin had his own restaurant to nativate after the fires, he played a pivotal role in helping his partners reopen Māla Ocean Tavern. His leadership and determination not only inspired his staff and those around him, but it set an example for others in the industry. Chef Alvin’s unwavering commitment to revitalizing the local dining scene has brought hope and momentum to a community working hard to recover.

Chef Alvin’s culinary prowess extends beyond the kitchen. His social media presence has garnered a significant following, with thousands of fans drawn to his creative cooking techniques and "internet-breaking" presentations. His dedication to the craft has earned him prestigious accolades, including the Maui ʻAipono Award for Best New Restaurant and Most Innovative Menu. As a young chef-owner, he inspires the local entrepreneurial community, proving that passion and hard work can lead to extraordinary achievements.

When Lahaina faced one of its darkest moments during the devastating fires, Chef Alvin rose to the occasion. Partnering with organizations like World Central Kitchen, he worked tirelessly to prepare and deliver meals to displaced residents, while also helping distribute essential supplies like generators. His efforts went beyond providing sustenance; they symbolized hope and community during a time of immense need.

Today, Chef Alvin continues to shape the culinary landscape of Lahaina, blending tradition with innovation. Through his leadership at Coco Deck and his dedication to uplifting others, he exemplifies the spirit of aloha and serves as an inspiration for the next generation.