Mala Ocean Tavern Blog
Preserving the Heart of Lahaina: The Work of the Lahaina Restoration Foundation
Māla Ocean Tavern proudly supports the Lahaina Restoration Foundation through the Lahaina Round Up program, helping preserve Lahaina’s history, culture, and historic landmarks as rebuilding efforts continue after the 2023 wildfires.
For more than 60 years, the Lahaina Restoration Foundation has played an important role in preserving the history, culture, and spirit of Lahaina. Founded in 1962 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, LRF’s mission is to protect and share Lahaina’s historic and cultural heritage for future generations.
Before the devastating 2023 wildfires, the foundation operated six museums throughout Lahaina, including the Baldwin Home Museum, Wo Hing Museum, Lahaina Heritage Museum, Cell Block Museum, Printing Museum at Hale Paʻi, and the Plantation Museum at the Lahaina Cannery Mall. The organization also restored and maintained historic buildings and landmarks that helped preserve Lahaina’s unique sense of place for both residents and visitors.
Beyond historic preservation, LRF was deeply involved in the community through cultural events and educational programs. Popular traditions included candlelit tours at the Baldwin Home Museum, Chinese New Year and Moon Festival celebrations at Wo Hing Museum, Hawaiian cultural classes, outdoor movie nights, and the longtime Hawaiian Music Series held in Lahaina.
The 2023 fires brought unimaginable loss to Lahaina and heavily damaged or destroyed nearly all of the historic structures under LRF’s care. Despite these challenges, the organization remains committed to rebuilding and preserving Lahaina’s history for future generations. Today, the foundation is actively working on restoration plans for eight historic buildings while continuing community programming and fundraising efforts to support recovery.
Community support continues to play a major role in these efforts through initiatives like the Lahaina Round Up program. Participating local businesses invite guests to round up their purchases or donate directly, with proceeds helping support organizations dedicated to Lahaina’s recovery and preservation efforts, including the Lahaina Restoration Foundation.
Mala Ocean Tavern and our it’s parent company Hana Hou Hospitality is proud to have a ‘Round Up Program’ at all the restaurants, giving guests a simple way to support Lahaina’s rebuilding efforts while dining at the restaurant. Hana Hou Hospitality will support the Lahaina Restoration Foundation during Q4 of 2026. By rounding up their bill, guests can directly contribute to organizations working to preserve Lahaina’s culture, history, and community. Even small donations help support ongoing restoration efforts across Lahaina.
Those looking to further support the Lahaina Restoration Foundation can donate directly to help rebuild historic sites, restore artifacts, and continue educational and cultural programming. Community members can also support local fundraising events and businesses participating in the Round Up program.
Even after immense loss, the Lahaina Restoration Foundation continues to move forward with hope and purpose. Their ongoing work stands as a powerful reminder of Lahaina’s resilience and the importance of preserving its history and cultural identity for generations to come.
Learn more about the Lahaina Restoration Foundation and donate here.
A Taste of Maui, Right on the Water at Mala Ocean Tavern
At Māla Ocean Tavern, every meal is inspired by the flavors and beauty of Maui. Our locally sourced, island-inspired dishes are thoughtfully crafted to create a dining experience that feels both elevated and welcoming. From brunch to dinner by the ocean, every visit is meant to be savored.
There’s something special about dining at Mala Ocean Tavern. Maybe it’s the way the ocean feels just within reach, or how every dish seems to capture the spirit of Maui in a single bite. Whether you’re joining us for a slow brunch, a relaxed happy hour, or an unforgettable dinner, Mala offers an experience that goes beyond the plate.
Our menu is rooted in fresh, locally sourced ingredients and inspired by the flavors of the island. From vibrant seafood dishes to thoughtfully prepared classics, every item is crafted with care by our culinary team. It’s food that feels both elevated and approachable, designed to be shared, savored, and remembered.
Brunch at Mala is a guest favorite, with ocean views, laid-back energy, and just the right amount of indulgence. Pair your meal with one of our signature $7 mimosas, available Monday through Saturday, and ease into the day the Maui way.
As the afternoon rolls in, happy hour brings a shift in pace. Live music, handcrafted cocktails, and a front-row seat to the changing colors of the ocean create the perfect setting to unwind. It’s a daily ritual for locals and visitors alike.
Dinner at Mala is where everything comes together. The atmosphere turns golden, the service becomes even more intentional, and the menu shines with a balance of fresh seafood, bold flavors, and seasonal inspiration. It’s the kind of place where conversations linger and every detail feels just right.
Behind it all is a commitment to hospitality. From our kitchen to our service team, every part of the Mala experience is built around making guests feel welcome, taken care of, and eager to return.
Whether it’s your first visit or your favorite go-to, Mala Ocean Tavern invites you to settle in, take in the view, and enjoy everything Maui has to offer.
Reservations are recommended. Join us and experience it for yourself.
Spirits by the Sea: An Addams Family Halloween at MALA Ocean Tavern
Celebrate Halloween oceanfront at Māla Ocean Tavern in Lahaina with Spirits by the Sea: An Addams Family Halloween. Join us Friday, October 31st from 10PM–1AM for a spooky-chic night featuring DJ Sarah Haywood, craft cocktails, and eerie Addams-inspired vibes. Tickets are $10 pre-sale or $20 at the door. Costumes encouraged!
This Halloween, Lahaina’s oceanfront icon transforms into something delightfully spooky. Māla Ocean Tavern invites you to celebrate the night in true Addams Family style with Spirits by the Sea: An Addams Family Halloween on Friday, October 31st from 10PM–1AM.
Step inside our seaside tavern and expect eerie ambiance, dark glamour, and plenty of “spirits” in every sense of the word. Our team has conjured up an evening that blends the mysterious charm of the Addams Family with Māla’s signature style.
🎶 Music by DJ Sarah Haywood
DJ Sarah Haywood will be spinning beats that carry you from witching hour to last call.
🍴Culinary Delights by Chef Mitch
Chef Mitch will be crafting special Halloween-inspired dishes and tavern favorites, served fresh until midnight.
🍸 Cocktails & Oceanfront Vibes
Sip on craft cocktails while the waves crash just outside. Whether you’re channeling Morticia’s elegance or Uncle Fester’s chaos, our bar will keep your spirit alive with every pour.
👻 Costumes Encouraged
This is your chance to get spooky. Dress up, lean in, and let the Addams Family spirit inspire your look - whether you’re a Gomez, a Wednesday, or your own eerie creation.
📍 Event Details
Doors open: 10:00 PM sharp
Food service: Until midnight
Party continues: Until 1:00 AM
Limited EARLYBIRD tickets: $10 (save $10)
Door admission: $20
Join us for a night where the ocean meets the macabre, and the Addams Family spirit takes over Lahaina. It’s going to be creepy, kooky, mysterious, spooky, and most importantly, unforgettable.
Bottle Shock: An Interactive Blind Wine Tasting Competition Benefiting Hua Momona Foundation
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. Limited seating, get your tickets now!
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.
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
Late Night Comedy at Mala Ocean Tavern. Hosted by Angee The Diva, featuring Lahaina resident Corky Gardner, Rhonda Lee Kitts, and Shane Nelson. Late night menu and drinks available. Doors at 10pm, show starts at 10:30pm. Pre-sale tickets available now!
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!* 🎟️
