Preserving the Heart of Lahaina: The Work of the Lahaina Restoration Foundation

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 parent company Hana Hou Hospitality are 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 Q2 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.

Father’s day 2026 at mala ocean tavern

Celebrate Father’s Day in Maui at Mala Ocean Tavern with a full day of oceanfront dining, island-inspired cuisine, and unforgettable views in Lahaina. Join us from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM for quality time with family while enjoying one of Maui’s favorite waterfront restaurants.

This year’s Father’s Day feature is our Slow Smoked BBQ Plate, loaded with Slow Smoked Beef Ribs, Hawaiian BBQ Pulled Pork, and Salt Crusted Pork Belly served with Lilikoi Mac Salad, Furikake Rice, Green Papaya Slaw, Sweet & Sour Carolina BBQ Sauce, house made cornbread, and Bread & Butter Pickles. It’s the perfect hearty island-style meal for celebrating Dad.

Father’s Day at Mala Ocean Tavern is all about gathering together, slowing down, and enjoying great food in a relaxed island atmosphere. Whether you’re planning a casual brunch, sunset dinner, or happy hour, Mala offers the perfect setting for a memorable Father’s Day in Lahaina.

If you’re searching for the best Father’s Day restaurant in Maui or planning a Father’s Day dinner in Lahaina, join us at Mala Ocean Tavern for fresh island cuisine, tropical cocktails, and an unforgettable oceanfront dining experience. Book your table here.

ag fest is back for another celebration of maui agriculture

The 17th Annual Maui AgFest & 4-H Livestock Fair is back, once again putting the “people behind agriculture” front and center. More than just a celebration of farming, the event highlights the farmers, ranchers, chefs, and youth who make up Maui County’s diverse and deeply rooted agricultural community.

Adding to the excitement, this year’s AgFest will feature Coco Deck Owner and Executive Chef Alvin Savella, along with Mala Ocean Tavern Executive Chef Mitch Atwell. Both chefs will be competing in the “Grand Taste,” a culinary competition, during AgFest. Their participation brings a strong connection between Maui’s farms and its culinary scene, showing how local ingredients move from the field straight to the plate. It’s a reminder that agriculture doesn’t just feed the island, it shapes the way Maui cooks, eats, and gathers.

Mala Ocean Tavern Executive Chef Mitch Atwell. Photo by Kate Clark.

AgFest takes place on Saturday, May 30th, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the War Memorial Special Events Field in Wailuku. It is hosted by the Maui County Farm Bureau and the Maui 4-H Livestock Association, both of which have long supported agricultural education and hands-on learning across the island.

The event is designed to be a full day experience for the entire community. Visitors can walk through livestock exhibits, meet local producers, and learn more about the wide range of crops grown throughout Maui County. 

Over the years, AgFest has grown into one of Maui’s most anticipated community events. Last year, more than 7,500 people attended, with popular experiences like the Maui Legacy Farmers Pancake Breakfast, Grand Taste, and Taste Education sessions selling out quickly. That kind of turnout speaks to a growing curiosity and appreciation for where food comes from, and the people who make it possible.

As the event continues to grow, organizers encourage guests to plan ahead and buy tickets early so they don’t miss out on key experiences. Tickets are available online at MauiAgFest.org. Read more about AgFest on Maui Now here.

A Taste of Maui, Right on the Water at Mala Ocean Tavern

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.

Mother’s Day Brunch at Mala Ocean Tavern

Celebrate the incredible women in your life with a beautiful oceanfront brunch at Mala Ocean Tavern this Mother’s Day. Join us on Sunday, May 10, 2026, from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM for a relaxed and memorable morning in Lahaina, where thoughtful hospitality, fresh island flavors, and sparkling ocean views come together to create the perfect setting for honoring Mom.

Our full menu and special brunch features will be available throughout the morning, offering something for every appetite. From beloved Mala favorites to seasonal chef-inspired dishes, guests can enjoy a menu that celebrates Maui’s vibrant ingredients and coastal culinary traditions. Pair brunch with a craft cocktail, glass of champagne, or refreshing mimosa and raise a toast to the mothers, grandmothers, and mother figures who make life so meaningful.

Mother’s Day at Mala is about more than just a meal. It’s about slowing down, gathering together, and celebrating the people who nurture and support us every day. Whether you’re planning a family brunch, a special outing with Mom, or a long-overdue gathering with loved ones, our oceanfront setting offers a warm and welcoming space to connect and celebrate.

Tables for Mother’s Day tend to fill quickly, so we encourage guests to reserve early to secure their preferred time.

Make this Mother’s Day one to remember with delicious food, beautiful views, and heartfelt moments shared at Mala Ocean Tavern.