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

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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.

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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!* 🎟️

Mala Ocean Tavern: A Beacon of Resilience on Maui's Front Street

Nestled along the shores of Maui's Lahaina, Mala Ocean Tavern stands as a symbol of resilience, community spirit, and the unwavering strength after the Lahaina Fires. This oceanfront restaurant has not only captured the hearts of locals but has also made waves across the nation, during their reopening at the first restaurant to open their doors on Front Street.

Mala Ocean Tavern holds a unique distinction in the vibrant history of Lahaina, being a staple of the Lahaina community since 2004. After the devastating Lahaina Fires, the town is left with many scars with residents losing everything from their homes to their businesses.

The story of Mala Ocean Tavern is not just one of culinary excellence but also a testament to the indomitable spirit of Lahaina's community. The founders, Mark and Judy Ellman, envisioned a haven by the sea where locals and visitors alike could come together to savor fresh, locally sourced cuisine while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Pacific. Under new ownership since 2018 this vision continued through covid and now through the fires, and has became even more significant as Mala Ocean Tavern reopened its doors to the community on February 1, 2024, providing a symbol of hope and renewal for Lahaina.

The restaurant's commitment to sustainability is evident in its menu, which showcases a fusion of local flavors. With an emphasis on using locally sourced ingredients, Mala Ocean Tavern not only delivers a delightful culinary experience but also supports the island's farmers and fishermen. From mouthwatering seafood dishes to flavorful vegetarian options, the menu caters to diverse palates, ensuring there's something for everyone.

Mala Ocean Tavern's post-fire reopening has not gone unnoticed, drawing attention from renowned publications that celebrate its resilience and the revitalization of Lahaina. Hawaii Magazine has lauded the restaurant for its dedication to preserving the spirit of the town, while Travel Weekly has praised its unwavering commitment to the aloha spirit. The coverage from various CBS and ABC affiliates has brought the story of Mala Ocean Tavern to living rooms across the nation, casting a spotlight on this beacon of hope in Lahaina. And special thanks to Conde Nast Traveler for telling the story of Lahaina and making mention of our tiny little tavern. Hear owner Javier Barberi speak with Hawaii Public Radio about the reopening of Maui’s favorite tavern. Island News totes Mala Ocean Tavern helping to reboot West Maui local business. And in other news, the BBC discussed taxing visitors to Hawaii, and Javier Barberi speaks to using the funds to support the local community. Taiwan SET TV visited Lahaina in April 2024 to cover recovery on Maui, and Barberi was interviewed. Link to the video and Javier at 8:53.

What sets Mala Ocean Tavern apart is not just its delectable dishes or stunning ocean views but the community-centric ethos that permeates every aspect of its operation. The restaurant has become a gathering place where stories are shared, friendships are forged, and the Lahaina community comes, once again, together to celebrate life's simple pleasures.

As you plan your visit to Maui, consider making Mala Ocean Tavern a must-visit destination. Experience the warmth of hospitality, indulge in exquisite cuisine, and witness the resilience of a community. Mala Ocean Tavern invites you to be a part of its story – a story of renewal, triumph, and the enduring spirit of Lahaina. Come, dine by the sea, and immerse yourself in the tale of this little tavern that has captured many hearts for the last 20 years.