Mala Featured During the Maui Invitational on ESPN!

We are excited to announce that Mala was recently spotlighted on ESPN during the Maui Invitational, one of the most prestigious college basketball tournaments in the nation! This incredible feature highlights Mala’s dedication to embracing the spirit of Hawai‘i through culinary artistry, cultural connection, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Nestled along the picturesque shores of Lahaina, Mala has long been a treasured gem in the Maui dining scene. Known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and vibrant flavors, Mala offers a dining experience that celebrates both the heritage and the natural beauty of Hawai‘i. From our thoughtfully crafted dishes to the breathtaking oceanfront views, every aspect of Mala is designed to capture the essence of aloha.

The Maui Invitational provided the perfect stage to showcase what makes Mala special. With college basketball fans across the country tuning in, this feature not only introduced Mala to a national audience but also served as a reminder of the strength and resilience of our Maui ‘ohana. In the wake of challenges, moments like these allow us to come together, share our story, and shine a spotlight on the beauty of our community.

We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to share Mala’s journey with viewers on ESPN. A heartfelt mahalo to the entire Maui Invitational team, ESPN, and everyone who made this possible.

Watch the full feature here: View the Video

Join us as we continue to celebrate the flavors and spirit of Hawai‘i—one plate, one moment, and one story at a time.

Mala Brunch With Rockstar Eater

YouTuber Rockstar Eater recently took his followers on a culinary journey to one of Maui's iconic dining spots: Mala Ocean Tavern. Known for his passion for uncovering the best food experiences, Rockstar Eater was beyond excited to dive into the brunch offerings at this oceanfront gem.

Mala Ocean Tavern, nestled right on the water in Lahaina, has built a reputation for its stunning views and elevated takes on island-inspired cuisine. The setting immediately set the tone for the meal, with the shimmering Pacific Ocean just steps away and a relaxed, breezy vibe that perfectly captured the essence of Maui dining.

Rockstar Eater’s excitement was palpable as he explored the brunch menu, which artfully blends fresh, local ingredients with bold flavors. From the moment the first dish hit the table, he knew he was in for something special. The Eggs Benedict had him raving about the balance of richness and freshness. The Ube Pancakes, topped with coconut syrup and local fruits, were another standout, offering a sweet yet light option perfect for a leisurely brunch.

But it wasn’t just the food that stole the show – it was the unbeatable oceanfront dining experience. As he filmed the waves gently lapping against the shore, Rockstar Eater couldn’t help but marvel at the serene beauty of Mala Ocean Tavern’s location. He emphasized how dining here is more than just a meal; it’s an immersion into Maui’s natural splendor.

In the end, Rockstar Eater called Mala Ocean Tavern’s brunch a must-try for anyone visiting Maui, praising both the dishes and the unforgettable ocean views. This is one brunch spot that will leave you dreaming of your next visit.

Pride of Maui Spotlights Mala

After months of hard work, Mala Ocean Tavern is now open and welcoming guests again. The reopening has been met with immense support from the local community, as they have come together to celebrate Mala’s resilience and continued presence. Business has been steadily picking up as word spreads that Mala is back, and visitors are encouraged to check out this iconic dining spot. Read More…

Bottle Shock: An Interactive Blind Wine Tasting Competition Benefiting Hua Momona Foundation

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

Indulge your senses and support a great cause at Bottle Shock, an exhilarating interactive blind wine tasting competition benefiting the Hua Momona Foundation. Join us on Thursday, June 6th, at the Duckine Building on 1312 Front Street, where the excitement begins as doors open at 7:00 pm, with the event commencing around 7:30 pm.

Ticketed Event: Tickets are priced at $115 per person (Gratuity included), ensuring a delightful evening of wine, food, and fun!

🥂 **What's Included**:

Kick off the evening with a bubbly start. You will be a part of the experience getting to taste alongside professional sommeliers. Master Sommelier Patrick Okubo will be co-hosting and giving the entire audience a wine tasting tutorial. Followed by professional sommeliers displaying their skills and competing during this interactive Blind Tasting. You will be provided with all Blind Tasting Wines, and you will have the opportunity to swirl, smell, taste, and determine the wine you are tasting. Each wine will be revealed. We will provide your tasting cards, along with six 3 oz Pours of Testable Wine Examples for Wine Tasting.: Engage your palate with a variety of wines, perfect for both novice tasters and seasoned enthusiasts.

Enjoy delectable bites to complement your wine tasting experience, with an extensive charcuterie to sample. A portion of the proceeds from the event will directly benefit the Hua Momona Foundation, supporting its mission to empower communities through sustainable agriculture.

🍇 **Interactive Blind Tasting**: Prepare for a captivating journey through deductive tasting as our knowledgeable hosts guide you through the nuances of each wine. Then, brace yourself for an epic battle as our esteemed Sommeliers go into competition! Special mahalos to Brian Clancy with RNDC for secretly selecting the wines.

🎉 **Silent Auction**: Bid on exclusive items and experiences in our silent auction, with all proceeds contributing to the Hua Momona Foundation's impactful initiatives.

🍷 **Meet the Competitors**:

- Caleb Hopkins - CS Mala Ocean Tavern

- Richard Olson - Hua Momona Farms/Cane and Canoe

- Solomon Olea - Merriman's Kapalua

- Aaron Wood-Snyderman - Four Seasons Maui

- Sergio Baltazaar - Longhis

- Jeff Groh - TikeHau Lounge

- Lynn Zhang- Hotel Wailea 

Don't miss this unique opportunity to sip, savor, and support a worthy cause at Bottle Shock! Secure your tickets now for an unforgettable evening of wine and philanthropy.

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

Pictured above left to right; Chef Zach Laidlaw of Huamonona Farms with Mala Chef, Huamomona Farms rainbow, Master Sommelier Patrick Okubo.

May 18 Late Night Comedy at Mala

Get ready for a night of uproarious laughter at Mala Ocean Tavern's Late Night Comedy! Join us on Saturday, May 18th, as we bring back the laughter with a stellar lineup of comedians guaranteed to keep you entertained. Doors open at 10:00 pm, with the show kicking off at 10:30 pm. Tickets are available for pre-sale at $25 or $30 at the door. Don't miss out on our late-night menu and drinks available from 10 pm to 12 am to keep you fueled throughout the night!

📅 **Save the Date**: Saturday, May 18th

🕙 **Time**: Doors Open @ 10:00 pm, Show Starts @ 10:30 pm

💰 **Tickets**: Pre-sale $25 | Door $30

🌐 *Purchase online at MalaTavern.com/shop*

🍽️ **Late Night Menu & Drinks**: Indulge in our delectable late-night offerings from 10pm to 12am!

🎤 **Comedy Night Hosted by Angee the Diva**: Get ready for an uproarious night of laughter, hosted by the one and only Angee the Diva! With her raunchy yet relatable comedic stories, this multi-talented entertainer will have you rolling in the aisles! Xpressions Productions

🌟 **Featuring Stellar Performances By**:

- **Ronda Lee Kitts**: Hailing from rural Oregon, Ronda brings her unassuming charm and tongue-in-cheek style to the stage, leaving audiences in stitches!

- **Shane Nelson**: Maui's very own comedic gem, Shane is renowned for his quick wit and engaging stage presence. Get ready for laughs aplenty!

- **Headliner Corky Gardner**: As Maui's reigning comedy champion, Lahaina’s own Corky's quirky and quick-witted style promises an unforgettable performance!

🍸 Don't miss out on our specially curated late-night menu and drinks to keep you fueled and refreshed throughout the show!

🎟️ *Limited Seating Available - Secure your spot now!* 🎟️