Experience an Exclusive Penfolds Wine Dinner at Mala Ocean Tavern

Wine lovers and food enthusiasts are invited to an unforgettable evening at Mala Ocean Tavern as we welcome one of Australia's most celebrated wineries, Penfolds, for an intimate wine pairing dinner on Thursday, September 24, at 7:30 pm.

Set in our beautiful Lanai & Ocean Room, this communal dining experience brings together exceptional cuisine, world-class wines, and the warm hospitality that has made Mala a favorite among Maui locals and visitors alike. Guests will enjoy a thoughtfully crafted four-course menu created by Executive Chef Mitch Atwell, with each course expertly paired to showcase the depth and character of Penfolds' renowned wines.

Throughout the evening, Brooke Barnett, Penfolds Brand Ambassador, will guide guests through each wine, sharing the stories, craftsmanship, and nearly two centuries of winemaking heritage that have established Penfolds as a global leader in fine wine. Founded in 1844, Penfolds is recognized for producing wines of remarkable quality, longevity, and balance, making this dinner a rare opportunity to experience some of the winery's most iconic selections in an intimate setting.

Featured wines for the evening include:

• Penfolds Bin 51 Riesling 2022

• Penfolds Bin 311 Chardonnay 2022

• Penfolds Bin 28 Shiraz 2021

• Penfolds Bin 389 Cabernet Shiraz 2022

• Penfolds Port

Each pairing has been carefully selected to complement Chef Mitch's seasonal menu, creating a dining experience that highlights the flavors of both the food and the wine. Please note that menu and wine selections are subject to slight changes based on availability.

The Penfolds Wine Dinner is $200 per guest or $175 for Kamaʻaina. Payment will be collected at the restaurant on the evening of the event, allowing Kamaʻaina pricing to be applied where applicable while also including gratuity with the final check. Reservations require a credit card to secure your seat. A 24-hour cancellation policy applies, and cancellations or no-shows within 24 hours of the event will incur the full $200 per person charge. This event is open to guests 21 years and older.

Whether you're a longtime Penfolds enthusiast or looking to explore one of Australia's most prestigious wine portfolios for the first time, this exclusive evening promises exceptional wines, outstanding cuisine, and memorable conversation in one of Maui's most scenic oceanfront settings. Seats are limited for this one-night-only event. Reserve your place today and join us for an extraordinary celebration of food, wine, and hospitality at Mala Ocean Tavern.

Caleb Hopkins Honored with Two Prestigious 2026 Hawaiʻi Leadership Awards

At Mala Ocean Tavern, hospitality has always been about more than exceptional food and oceanfront dining. It's about building meaningful relationships, supporting the community, and leading with aloha. Those values are at the heart of Mala’s owners vision. And this year, co-owner Caleb Hopkins has been recognized for two of Hawaiʻi's restaurant honors.

This year, Caleb has been named both a 2026 Hawaii Restaurant Association Hall of Fame Inductee in the Active Restaurateur category and one of Pacific Business News' Hawaiʻi's Most Admired Leaders.

Mala Ocean Tavern co-owner and Aloha Hospitality Lahaina founder Caleb Hopkins

On September 28th, 2026, Caleb will be inducted into the Hawaii Restaurant Association Hall of Fame during the organization's 18th Annual Hall of Fame Gala at the Sheraton Waikiki. The Hall of Fame recognizes individuals whose leadership, innovation, mentorship, and community service have made a lasting impact on Hawaiʻi's restaurant industry.

As founder of Aloha Hospitality Lahaina, Caleb has contributed to a family of restaurants that includes Mala Ocean Tavern, Coco Deck Kitchen + Bar Lahaina, Pizza Paradiso, and Pineapple Robot. His approach, along with his partners, has always focused on creating exceptional guest experiences while investing in employees, mentoring future hospitality leaders, and giving back to the Maui community.

Caleb was also selected as one of Pacific Business News' 2026 Hawaiʻi's Most Admired Leaders, recognizing business and community leaders who demonstrate integrity, vision, and meaningful impact across the state. He will be honored at the Hawaiʻi's Most Admired Leaders Gala on September 17th at Halekulani Hotel and featured in the September 18th issue of Pacific Business News.

While these awards celebrate Caleb's leadership, they also reflect the incredible teams across every Hana Hou Hospitality restaurant. At Mala Ocean Tavern, every memorable dining experience is made possible by dedicated team members who share a commitment to genuine hospitality and the spirit of aloha.

These recognitions come during an important chapter in Lahaina's continued recovery, highlighting the collaborations that define Maui's hospitality community. Everyone at Mala Ocean Tavern is proud to celebrate Caleb's achievements and looks forward to continuing the mission of sharing exceptional cuisine, heartfelt service, and aloha with every guest.

Mala Ocean Tavern Named One of West Maui's Best Breakfast Destinations

There's nothing quite like starting your morning with breakfast just steps from the Pacific Ocean, and we're honored that Mala Ocean Tavern has been recognized by Maui Resort Rentals in their recent feature, Top 10 Best Breakfasts in West Maui.

The article highlights what our guests have loved for years - a brunch experience where incredible food, breathtaking oceanfront views, and genuine aloha come together. Whether you're watching the waves roll in from our lanai or enjoying a morning with family and friends, breakfast at Mala is designed to be one of the most memorable parts of your Maui vacation.

Among the menu favorites mentioned are our fluffy Lemon Ricotta Buttermilk Pancakes, classic Eggs Benedict, and our fresh Avocado Toast topped with locally sourced arugula, Parmesan, and lemon balsamic dressing. The feature also gives a special nod to our delicious malasadas and refreshing hibiscus drinks, perfect for an island morning.

Since opening our doors in 2004, we've been committed to showcasing the very best of Maui through fresh ingredients, warm hospitality, and a dining experience that celebrates our oceanfront location.

We're dedicated to creating a morning experience that brings locals and visitors back time and time again. We're incredibly grateful to Maui Resort Rentals for including us in their list and, even more importantly, to our loyal guests and local community for making Mala Ocean Tavern a West Maui favorite.

Join us for breakfast / brunch from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. daily, and discover why so many consider MALA the perfect place to begin a day in paradise. We look forward to welcoming you soon!

Celebrate the 4th of July at mala ocean tavern

Join us at Mala Ocean Tavern this Independence Day for a special holiday feature inspired by classic barbecue favorites and local island flavors. Available on July 4th, 2026, our Slow Smoked BBQ Plate features Slow Smoked Beef Ribs, Hawaiian BBQ Pulled Pork, and Salt Crusted Pork Belly, served alongside Lilikoi Mac Salad, Furikake Rice, Green Papaya Slaw, Sweet & Sour Carolina BBQ Sauce, house-made Corn Bread, and Pickled Pohole.

Created by Executive Chef Mitch Atwell and the Mala culinary team, this limited-time plate brings together the bold flavors of a traditional Fourth of July barbecue with the fresh, island-inspired touches that have become a signature of the Mala dining experience.

Located oceanfront in Lahaina, Mala Ocean Tavern offers the perfect setting to celebrate the holiday with family and friends. Enjoy incredible food, stunning views, and a relaxed atmosphere just steps from the Pacific Ocean.

Reservations are encouraged for the holiday weekend, though walk-ins are always welcome based on availability.

Make your 4th of July plans with us and enjoy a memorable holiday meal at one of Maui's favorite oceanfront restaurants.

Mala Ocean Tavern Partners with Kahakukahi Ocean Academy Through Q3 2026 Round-Up Program

At Mala Ocean Tavern, caring for Maui's ocean and community has always been at the heart of what we do. That's why we're proud to announce that our Round-Up Program beneficiary for the third quarter of 2026 is the nonprofit organization Kahakukahi Ocean Academy (K.O.A.). All Hana Hou Hospitality restaurants are participating, and you can round-up at our sister restaurants Coco Deck Lahaina, Pizza Paradiso, and Pineapple Robot.

Throughout the next three months (July 1 - September 30), guests dining at Hana Hou Hospitality restaurants will have the opportunity to round up their check to the nearest dollar, with 100% of those contributions supporting Kahakukahi's mission of empowering Maui's youth through ocean education, environmental stewardship, and cultural connection.

Founded by world champion waterman Zane Kekoa Schweitzer, KOA provides free and accessible ocean-based programs that help keiki build confidence, resilience, water safety skills, and a deeper connection to Hawaiʻi's natural environment. Through hands-on experiences in the ocean and on the land, participants learn the importance of malama ʻaina and malama kai while developing lifelong skills that benefit both themselves and their communities.

Since the Lahaina wildfires, the organization has expanded its efforts to support the mental well-being of West Maui keiki through mentorship, ocean immersion, environmental education, and community programs. Kahakukahi also partners with local schools and community organizations to provide opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach for many families.

As an oceanfront restaurant, Mala Ocean Tavern understands the importance of preserving the environment that makes Maui so special. Supporting organizations like KOA allows us to invest in the next generation of ocean stewards while helping strengthen our community.

A few cents can make a meaningful difference. The next time you visit Mala Ocean Tavern for brunch, happy hour, or dinner, consider rounding up your bill and joining us in supporting the incredible work being done by Kahakukahi Ocean Academy.

Together, we can help inspire future generations to protect, respect, and care for Maui's oceans for years to come.