For an unpretentious ocean-side setting and sophisticated
tapas fare, check out MalaOcean Tavern. Their menu features local, organic ingredients,
try the Seared Tombo Bruschetta or Kobe
Burger while you sample a local microbrew beer, and take in the sunset.
...It’s easy to forget that Mark Ellman is one of the dozen (or so)founders of the Hawaii Regional Cuisine movement that sparked a flame under restaurants statewide nearly twenty years ago. He hangs with A-listers and rock stars like Alice Cooper and Clint Eastwood. He started a widely popular fast (yet healthy, according to Ellman) food eatery called Maui Tacos, which has outlets from Kihei to Windward Oahu, California to Fifth Avenue, New York City...
Seated
on the lanai at Mala Ocean Tavern, we relaxed into the view of the
sunset, sailboats, and bobbing heads of sea turtles. I sipped a
blueberry martini while my friend enjoyed the spicy bite of her ginger
martini.
We first sampled the Ceviche, a refreshing blend of mahi-mahi, lime,
cilantro, tomatoes, and red onions — light and cooling after a
scorching day at the beach. Next, we chose the heartier Spicy Lamb
Pita, tender bites of lamb served with warmed pita wedges and yogurt
raita. But my favorite dish of the evening was the Seared Tombo
Bruschetta. Atop flax toast, Mala layers edamame purée, seared tuna,
ripe tomato slices, and basil, with a healthy drizzle of olive oil and
aged balsamic.
For an entrée, we chose the Avalon Seared Sashimi. Thick slices of
seared ahi tuna were served atop a surprisingly rich shiitake mushroom
ginger sauce; we were glad to be sharing.
From Mala’s impressive wine list we selected glasses of Au Bon Climat
chardonnay and Stephanie Starr pinot noir to go with the cheese plate
for dessert. The combination of Spanish Manchego sheep’s cheese, quince
spread, and fig-almond cake was my favorite, an intriguing balance of
sweet and salty.
Mala is unpretentious, polished, and fresh. Our server Ryan’s attentive
service made our evening a delight, along with the breathtaking
location and laid-back ambiance. Mala’s simple, yet sophisticated food
is a treat for all.
Average Visitor Rating: 4.49 (Out of 5)
Number of ratings: 4
Select your rating
Location
Address:
1307 Front St Lahaina
Telephone:
667-9394
Restaurant Owners:
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...It’s easy to forget that Mark Ellman is one of the dozen (or so)founders of the Hawaii Regional Cuisine movement that sparked a flame under restaurants statewide nearly twenty years ago. He hangs with A-listers and rock stars like Alice Cooper and Clint Eastwood. He started a widely popular fast (yet healthy, according to Ellman) food eatery called Maui Tacos, which has outlets from Kihei to Windward Oahu, California to Fifth Avenue, New York City...
