MAUI’S NEWEST OCEANFRONT RESORT INTRODUCES SIGNATURE RESTAURANT
The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas will unveil Mauka Makai at May 12 grand opening celebration
Kā‘anapali, Hawai‘i – On Friday, May 12, The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas, the new resort situated on North Kā‘anapali Beach, will introduce its signature restaurant, Mauka Makai, which honors the farming and fishing cultures of ancient Hawai‘i with contemporary flair. The grand opening celebration will showcase local produce and products and will feature chef action stations, specialty cocktails, local beer and live music. It begins at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $65 inclusive of all food and beverage tastings.
“Mauka Makai is all about sharing local food with visitors and kama‘āina alike,” said Ricky Hamasaki, the resort’s assistant director of food and beverage. “As a resort, we aim to deliver a culturally rich, authentic experience. Taste is one of the strongest senses, which gives us the opportunity to use our cuisine to create a connection to Maui for our guests. For the locals, Mauka Makai will be a spot to enjoy familiar favorites presented with Chef’s distinct approach.”
Inspired by the ancient Hawaiian way of life in the ahupua‘a, executive Chef Ikaika Manaku’s regular menu at Mauka Makai was thoughtfully designed with fresh, local ingredients sourced from mountain to sea. The restaurant’s featured dishes include Pork and ‘Ahi with Maui onion jam, Yamasa caramel and Sriracha honey; Smoked Tako with Pohole fern sprouts, Kula tomatoes, Maui onion and blue ginger; and a Pōhaku Natural Prime Ribeye, served on a hot stone that guests finish cooking at the table. Handcrafted cocktails infused with spirits made on the island include unique components, such as house-made hibiscus syrup and smoky flavors of local kiawe wood. Beer enthusiasts will enjoy crisp Maui-made brews.
Mauka Makai, which is located poolside with stunning ocean views at The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas, is open daily for breakfast from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and dinner from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. To make a reservation or purchase tickets for the grand opening celebration, call 808-662-6400 or visit westinnanea.com/maukamakai.
