Maui’s newest resort, The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas, will introduce its signature restaurant, Mauka Makai on Friday, May 12, at 5:30 p.m.

Pork and Ahi from Mauka Makai. Photo Courtesy

Mauka Makai honors the farming and fishing cultures of ancient Hawai‘i with contemporary flair. The grand opening will showcase local produce and products and will feature chef action stations, specialty cocktails, local beer and live music.

Tickets are still available for $65 which includes 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 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.

Mauka Makai is located poolside at The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas in North Kā‘anapali and is open daily for breakfast from 6:30 to 10:30 a.m. and dinner from 5:30 to 9:00 p.m.

To make a reservation or purchase tickets for the grand opening celebration, call 808-662-6400 or visit the hotels website.