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.

MALA Being Recognized For Romance

Mala Ocean Tavern has been receiving awards since 2004, but the excitement for each new recognition is ever present. In 2022 MALA earned accolades for the Best Oceanfront Dining, along with wine, service, and more in the Maui No Ka Oi Magazine ‘Aipono Awards. Mahalos to those who voted! We are honored that so many people support our little oceanfront eatery.

America’s most beloved restaurants

Because of the support and the outstanding reviews that those have taken the time to share, MALA is earning more for 2022 and 2023. At OpenTable, The Diners Reviews Are In: Top 100 of America’s Most Beloved Restaurants have been announced, and Mala Ocean Tavern made the list. Our ohana could not be more thrilled to be recognized alongside some spectacular restaurants across the country and the state of Hawaii. MALA is known for oceanfront dining, but it is the cuisine, cocktails, wine, and most especially the staff that bring people back time and time again. Whether it’s for a lovely brunch on the patio, to enjoy local music during happy hour, or it is to hear the ocean waves on the shore, while sipping on a culinary cocktail during dinner, there are many reasons to make Mala Ocean Tavern the place to stop when you are on Maui and in Lahaina.

Romantic oceanfront dining

Many visitors to Maui come for a romantic getaway, and we always hope that any celebration be had at MALA. Guests come for honeymoons, anniversaries, baby moons, birthday celebrations and more. When you are looking to wine and dine in a romantic setting, look no further than Mala Ocean Tavern. We are getting noticed for our above and beyond service to help create those romantic moments, and we are honored to get notice in the 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in America.

Best restaurant with a view

When traveling to Maui, most are looking for the ultimate tropical vacation. And while you are on your dream vacation in magical Hawaii, you imagine yourself sitting oceanfront and sipping on a tropical cocktails and a celebratory glass of champagne. Look no further for the perfect restaurant to unwind and discover what paradise feels like. Trips To Discover has named Mala Ocean Tavern one of the Best Maui Restaurants With A View. Whether you are dining with at Mala Ocean Tavern for Brunch, Happy Hour, or Dinner, it is the destination that will help you truly feel like you are on vacation.

We appreciate all that dine with us. Here is a review from The Collection by KCM.

Our gratitude for all of our guests is unmeasurable, and we hope that we see you at Mala Ocean Tavern soon. Reservations are encouraged, but also feel free to stop-by. Walk-ins are welcome! From the MALA Ohana, mahalo nui loa and a hui hou!

VOTE for the best on maui

It’s that time of year again on Maui! Voting has started for the Maui No Ka Oi Magazine ‘Aipono Awards! The restaurant award voting will go through January 31st, 2023. Support local businesses and vote for your favorites. We hope MALA is your favorite, but most importantly, we want you to vote! Either way, voting will help a local business. Vote now and show some love for your favorite Maui restaurants.

The Mala Ocean Tavern Team is proud of the awards that we won in 2022 and we have been working hard to continue to maintain our standards and excellence in serving our community and guests to the beautiful island of Maui. We hope for your support.

2022 - Maui No Ka Oi Magazine ‘Aipono Awards

Best Oceanfront Dining - Gold

Best Business Lunch - Gold

Most Maui-est - Silver

Best Late Night Dining - Silver

Best Service - Silver

Best Wine List - Silver

Our sister restaurants hope for your support too, check them out, Down The Hatch, Breakwall Shave Ice Co. and Duckine! It only takes a few minutes to vote for all of your favorite local restaurants on Maui. There are lots of categories and we’re vying for a few. See the categories that we’re going for on the images below & link straight to the voting. Mahalo nui loa for your continued encouragement and support, we wouldn’t be here without y’all!

WHERE HAWAII EATS VISITs MALA

Mala Ocean Tavern’s Executive Chef Kalei Ducheneau featured on Where Hawaii Eats! Anne Lee hosts special guests from the islands each week to learn about their experiences and get some insight into Hawaii’s extraordinary food scene and culture. Lee stopped by the Best Oceanfront Dining on Maui to talk with Chef Kalei and Mixologist Dennis Day to explore the cuisine and inspiration Maui’s favorite oceanfront eatery. Check out the episodes that aired January 2023.

Where Hawaii Eats presented by Dining Out airs on K5 Hawaii News Now. You can also subscribe to the Where Hawaii Eats YouTube Channel to find other exciting restaurants in the Hawaiian Islands.

Mala Ocean Tavern is excited to announce the appointment of Executive Chef Kalei Ducheneau and BOH ADMIN Kate Ducheneau

With predecessor, local Chef Alvin Savella leaving Mala Ocean Tavern  to start new sister restaurant Duckine, the MALA owners were able to turn to Sous Chef Kalei Ducheneau and Back of House Administrator Kate Ducheneau to maintain the quality and innovation that MALA has been known for.

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As the world continues to surprise us, MALA was able to find this husband and wife team to take one of Maui’s staple restaurants and kitchen to the next level. Now Executive Chef Kalei Ducheneau is accompanied by his wife and teammate Kate Ducheneau, creating a top notch team to maintain the qualities and standards of the classic oceanfront eatery in Lahaina. 

Executive Chef Kalei Ducheneau is Maui grown! Born in Wailuku, he attended Lahainaluna High School. At the early age of 16, Kalei was driven to work in the kitchen, pursuing culinary Chef as his career.  

Ducheneau's training sparked at home. He grew up with his Grandfather Solomon Pali, a cook at the Lahaina Broiler, and his mother, Lala Ducheneau cooking traditional Hawaiian dishes in their home. He started young, appreciating the local style and flavors in island cooking. Chef Kalei’s father, Michael Ducheneau, is trained in classical French cooking, and notes cooking with his father sparked a deeper appreciation for the finesse needed for beautiful execution of each dish.

With this combination of influences, Chef Kalei's passion for food and cooking spawned. Chef Kalei’s experience on the line comes from a host of popular Maui restaurants like Lahaina Fish Co, Pineapple Grill, Merriman's Kapalua, The Westin Maui, and most recently as Sous Chef to Chef Alvin Savella at Mala Ocean Tavern. Ducheaneau, a husband, and father of two small children (Roux, 4, and Suede, 5), is finding his stride to cultivate his own style. He is driven by love of the industry and simply… good food. Chef Kalei is inspired by the different cultures and cuisine on Maui, along with the influence of family to create a fusion of flavors that will surprise and delight the palate.

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Originally from Cocoa Beach, Florida, Kate Ducheneau moved to Maui with her brothers in 2015, met Kalei shortly there-after, they were married and started their family. Kate’s passion for the food mirrors her husbands. She came to the MALA Ohana last year helping with kitchen admin. When her partner moved into the role of Executive Chef, wife Kate was able to grow her role as well, becoming MALA Back of House Administrator, and assisting with the back of house operations. 

With a partner and teammate focused on kitchen admin, Chef Kalei has been able to soar with creativity and maintain a balanced, efficient kitchen. Kate is a strong inspiration for Chef Kalei, being the first to try some of his creations or motivating him to continue to learn and grow. MALA has a dream team in the duo. Many ask Chef Kalei if his wife cooks as well, and he says, “She can cook, we both cook, but she’s the better baker”.

Along with being driven to build their careers in the Maui Culinary scene, Chef Kalei and Kate want to use their influence to help raise awareness to a cause close to their hearts.  After the discovery of their son Suede’s hearing loss, followed by the same diagnosis for their daughter Roux, Kate has immersed herself in the Deaf/Hard of Hearing community in Hawaii, and both are advocates for hearing loss education. If you would like to learn more go to the Hawaii CSC - Comprehensive Service Center for People who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or Deaf-Blind.

Executive Chef Kalei Ducheneau’s drive and passion has been shining as he has been running the MALA Kitchen for recent months in the transition. When asked if he is ready for the role, he says, “I have learned so much at MALA, not only about the food and style of the cuisine, but how I want to be as a Chef.” He continued to speak about what is influencing him and inspiring him most right now. “Stepping into this role, I am focused on sourcing locally as much as possible, building relationships with the local fisherman and farmers, and maintaining the excellence that MALA has already achieved.” 

MALA General Manager Lisa Kerrick was asked about her fresh new team, “You can already see this in the dishes Chef Kalei is creating. He adds his perfected touches on classic MALA dishes, and is delivering thoughtful and creative features. We’re excited to see how Chef Kalei will enhance the MALA dining experience through bringing what he has to offer to the forefront.” 

Join us in congratulating Executive Chef Kalei Ducheneau and Back of House Administrator  Kate Ducheneau in their new roles at Mala Ocean Tavern.  

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Mala Photos by Jennica Lowell

Family Photo by Grace Oliver Photography