Mala Ocean Tavern Blog
Celebrate Lei Day in Lahaina with us at Mala Ocean Tavern! 🌺
Join us Friday, May 1st from 3–7 PM at Mala Ocean Tavern for the Lolo Blossom Lei Stand pop-up and celebrate Lei Day the Lahaina way.
On Friday, May 1st from 3–7 PM, we’re welcoming the beautiful Lolo Blossom Lei Stand to MALA for a special pop-up in honor of Hawai‘i’s beloved Lei Day. Stop by and pick up a handcrafted lei before dinner, during happy hour, or as you stroll along Front Street’s restaurant row.
Lei Day is a cherished Hawai‘i tradition that celebrates the artistry, culture, and spirit of aloha represented through lei making. Each lei tells a story and carries meaning; whether it’s given to honor someone special, celebrate an occasion, or simply share a moment of connection. We’re, once again, thrilled to partner with Lolo Blossom, known for their vibrant, thoughtfully crafted floral leis, to bring this experience to our MALA community.
From 3–7 PM, guests can browse and purchase fresh floral leis right outside the restaurant, making it the perfect stop before settling in for an afternoon by the ocean. Pair your visit with Mala’s daily happy hour from 2–4 PM, or come and enjoy dinner overlooking the ocean as the evening sets in. It’s a wonderful way to ease into the evening while taking in the energy of Lahaina and celebrating one of Hawai‘i’s most beautiful traditions.
Whether you’re treating yourself, surprising someone special, or simply embracing the spirit of the day, a lei is the perfect way to mark the occasion. Grab a lei, take a sunset stroll down Front Street, and let the evening lead you right back to MALA for dinner, drinks, and oceanfront views.
This pop-up is open to both diners and anyone passing through Lahaina, so feel free to stop by, say aloha, and support a local maker while celebrating Lei Day with us.
Join us Friday, May 1st from 3–7 PM at Mala Ocean Tavern for the Lolo Blossom Lei Stand pop-up and celebrate Lei Day the Lahaina way.
Reserve your table for Dinner or swing by during Live Music Happy Hour and make it a Front Street evening. 🌺
A Celebration of Community, Cuisine, and Connection
The Lahaina Food & Wine Festival returns Feb 18–22, 2026 with five days of dinners, tastings, and community events across Lahaina, including experiences at Māla Ocean Tavern. Tickets available now.
We’re thrilled to share that the Lahaina Food & Wine Festival is returning February 18–22, 2026, and Mala Ocean Tavern is honored to be one of the festival’s host venues. This festival is all about uplifting Lahaina’s culinary community, strengthening local connections, and celebrating the flavors that make our home so special. See below for the official press release from the LahainaTown Action Committee and all the details!
Lahaina Food & Wine Festival Returns February 18–22, 2026
Five-Day Celebration of Culinary Excellence, Community, and Connection in West Maui
Lahaina, HI – The Lahaina Food & Wine Festival returns February 18–22, 2026, welcoming guests back for its second annual celebration of food, wine, and the people who make Lahaina a world-class dining destination. Spanning five days, the festival brings together acclaimed chefs, sommeliers, winemakers, and local culinary leaders for a thoughtfully curated lineup of dinners, tastings, and community-focused events across Lahaina.
Hosted at iconic venues including Mala Ocean Tavern, Coco Deck, Sale Pepe, and the Lahaina Jodo Mission, the 2026 festival highlights both elevated dining experiences and accessible community gatherings, reflecting Lahaina’s enduring hospitality and vibrant food culture in the heart of West Maui.
“This festival was created to celebrate the people behind Lahaina’s food and wine scene and to bring the community together in a meaningful way,” said Caleb Hopkins, event organizer, sommelier, and owner of Mala Ocean Tavern. “In our second year, we’re excited to expand the experience while staying true to what makes Lahaina special - connection, quality, and a deep respect for our local chefs, farmers, fishermen, and hospitality professionals.”
2026 Lahaina Food & Wine Festival Events Include:
Champagne & Caviar Kick-Off Party at Coco Deck
Wednesday, February 18, 3:00–5:00 PM, Coco Deck. Featuring Champagne Collet, caviar-inspired pupus by Executive Chef Owner Alvin Savella, and celebratory pours to officially open the festival.
Tre Tavolate d’Italia: A Journey Through Italy by Sale Pepe
A three-night dining experience celebrating the regional flavors of Italy.
Thursday, February 19, 5:00–8:30 PM, Sale Pepe
Sicily: Cucina della Terra Vulcanica e del Mare, celebrating the cuisine of Sicily’s volcanic land and abundant seas.Friday, February 20, 5:00–8:30 PM, Sale Pepe
Southern Italy: Cucina di Famiglia, honoring the legacy of cucina povera and the cooking of home.Saturday, February 21, 5:00–8:30 PM, Sale Pepe
Tuscany: Cucina del Focolare, celebrating Tuscany’s bounty of hearth and home.
Kaena Winery Tasting Dinner at Mala
Friday, February 20, 7:30 PM, Māla Ocean Tavern. A seated, multi-course tasting dinner celebrating Kaena Wines and its Grenache-focused portfolio, paired with a custom menu by Executive Chef Mitch Atwell.
Thursday, February 19, 5:30 PM, West Maui Gardens, Launiupoko, Lahaina. Set against panoramic ocean views, this immersive farm-to-table evening showcases thoughtfully prepared dishes cooked over kiawe wood, paired with exceptional wines in the natural beauty of West Maui. A portion of proceeds from this event will benefit the Maui Pono Foundation, supporting programs that strengthen West Maui’s community and future.
Saturday, February 21, 11:00 AM, Coco Deck Lahaina. A complimentary, hands-on cooking experience for keiki ages 5–10, designed to inspire creativity and curiosity in the kitchen. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Saturday, February 21, 5:30–8:30 PM, Lahaina Jodo Mission. Bringing together top chefs, wine professionals, and culinary partners for a walk-around tasting experience. Proceeds from this event will benefit Lahaina Jodo Mission and the LahainaTown Action Committee.
Bubbles, Beats & Brunch at Coco Deck
Sunday, February 22, 11:00–2:00 PM, Coco Deck. Featuring sparkling wine specials, brunch offerings by Executive Chef Owner Alvin Savella, and music by DJ Eliza to close out the festival weekend.
LahainaTown Action Committee continues to support the festival as part of its broader mission to strengthen Lahaina’s community and economy.
“The Lahaina Food & Wine Festival is about bringing people back together in Lahaina Town and supporting the small businesses, chefs, and hospitality professionals that make Lahaina such a special place,” said Sne Patel, Board President of the LahainaTown Action Committee. “Events like this help reinforce a sense of community while contributing to local economic vitality and inviting both residents and visitors to experience Lahaina in a meaningful way.”
Tickets & Information
Tickets for select events are available now, with kamaʻaina pricing offered for select dinners and events. Festival details, ticketing information, and access to the online auction supporting community partners can be found at lahainafoodandwine.com.
The Lahaina Food & Wine Festival celebrates the culinary talent, local partnerships, and shared experiences that continue to shape and reconnect Lahaina.
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Want to go a little deeper on the story behind Lahaina Food & Wine Festival? Listen to The Maui No Ka Oi Podcast presented by SilverShark Media featuring a conversation on the heart of the festival and what it means for our community. Catch the episode on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
Vote Mala Ocean Tavern for the ‘Aipono Awards 2026
Māla Ocean Tavern is honored to be nominated in Maui Magazine’s ‘Aipono Awards 2026. Vote for Māla by February 28 in categories including Restaurant of the Year, Best Service, Best Fish & Seafood, Best Breakfast, and more!
Maui Magazine’s ‘Aipono Awards 2026 voting is now open, and we’re honored to be nominated in multiple categories! If Mala has been part of your Lahaina tradition, a sunset dinner, or your favorite brunch, we’d be grateful for your support.
Voting is open now through February 28.
Mahalo for celebrating the moments with us, and for supporting our Mala ‘ohana, from front to back of house. Your vote means more than you know! 💙🧡
Kaena Winery Tasting Dinner at Mala - Lahaina Food & Wine Festival
An intimate Kaena Winery tasting dinner at Māla as part of Lahaina Food & Wine Festival. Enjoy guided wine pairings and a chef-crafted menu designed for one unforgettable evening.
Join us at Mala Ocean Tavern for an intimate, seated tasting dinner celebrating Kaena Wines presented as part of the Lahaina Food & Wine Festival. This multi-course, prix fixe experience highlights Kaena’s Grenache-forward portfolio, paired course-by-course with a custom menu from Executive Chef Mitch, blending refined technique with vibrant island influences. Expect guided pairings, stories behind the wines, and a special night designed for savoring.
Tasting Menu + Wine Pairings
I
Crispy Kauaʻi Prawn
Black Lime | Avocado
Paired with Kaena Winery Hapa Blanc 2021
II
Hokkaido Scallop Crudo
Mango Gelée | Espelette | Huamomona Farms Marigold & Watercress | Citrus Vinaigrette
Paired with Kaena Winery Grenache Rosé 2024
III
Ricotta & Parmesan Agnolotti
Braised Beef Short Rib | Blistered Tomato | Garlic Herb Mac Nut Crumble
Paired with Kaena Winery Grenache Tierra Alta 2022
IV
Wagyu NY Strip au Poivre
Fingerling Potato Purée | Pink Peppercorn Cream
Paired with Kaena Winery Hapa Red Blend 2019
V
Sticky Toffee Cake
Rum Ice Cream | Brûléed Apple Banana | Dark Rum Caramel
Menu is subject to slight changes based on seasonality and product availability.
About Kaena Wines
Kaena Wines is rooted in island influence and a deep respect for craft, with a story shaped by generations of care, patience, and hospitality. Throughout the evening, you’ll hear more about the winery’s philosophy and what inspires each bottle.
Reservations
This is a limited-seating experience. Reserve your table now and join us for one of the Lahaina Food & Wine Festival’s most intimate dinners of the week.
Want to go a little deeper on the story behind Lahaina Food & Wine Festival? Listen to The Maui No Ka Oi Podcast presented by SilverShark Media featuring a conversation on the heart of the festival and what it means for our community. Catch the episode on Apple Podcasts or Spotify
Mala Ocean Tavern Recognized in Best of Maui 2025
Mala Ocean Tavern is honored to be recognized across multiple categories in Best of Maui 2025. Mahalo to our community for the continued support and recognition.
We are grateful to share that Mala Ocean Tavern was recognized across multiple categories in the Best of Maui 2025 reader-voted lists. These mentions reflect not only the food and experience we strive to offer, but the continued support of our Maui community that has stood with us year after year.
This year, Mala was named among the best in the following categories:
Best Waterfront Dining
Recognized for the experience of dining oceanside in Lahaina, where thoughtful cuisine meets a setting shaped by Maui’s natural beauty, along with the occasional turtle sighting.Best Business Lunch
Recognized as a welcoming place to gather for midday meals, meetings, and meaningful conversations.Best Seafood Restaurant
Acknowledged for our commitment to fresh seafood prepared with care and inspired by island flavors.Best Steak
Honored for steak dishes that focus on quality ingredients and classic, well-executed preparation.Best Breakfast and Brunch
Celebrated for a brunch experience that has long been a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
To be recognized in multiple categories is an honor we hold with care, especially alongside so many other incredible Maui businesses we admire. Knowing these acknowledgments come from our community makes them especially meaningful to everyone who brings Mala to life each day.
Mahalo for continuing to support us and for choosing to gather at Mala for so many moments, big and small. We are grateful to share our table with you and look forward to welcoming you back again soon.
With love and Aloha,
The Mala ‘Ohana 💙🧡