Māla Tavern
$$$ • Mediterranean Restaurant
Most Recent Reviews
A really lovely restaurant with incredible Oceanside seats where you can watch turtles swim by and pop up their heads. Lots of gluten free options/modifications that are listed on the menu and yummy cocktails too. They have lots of local produce on the menu which I liked to see. Our server was knowledgeable and told me what I would have to change to make it safe for me. I ordered the ceviche and the sweet potato chips it came with were made in a shared frier so they offered me cucumber slices or gluten free toast instead but the server did mention it was a shared toaster too so I went with cucumber. I’m sure you could have asked them to crisp the bread in a pan or not cook it at all if you had wanted that. Felt totally fine afterwards and would recommend to anyone in the area.
Ignore their website hours since apparently they’re not accurate.
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Our server Lucas was very reassuring, marked gluten free on device. Gluten-free items were marked GF and stuff that has a gluten free option are marked GFO. I ordered the catch of the day which comes with the most greatest mashed potatoes you'll ever have. 😋 writing this 4 minutes after eating, I will update if I experience any symptoms.
Amazing anniversary dinner! The staff treated us with a champagne toast on arrival and our server was absolutely wonderful. We had the ahi (GF) bruschetta, pork shank, and stir fry—all SO delicious. The cocktails were fabulous, too. Also, the server was knowledgeable about both gluten and dairy allergies and made sure the chef modified accordingly. Beautiful sunset view with sea turtles swimming. So happy we dined here, thanks to the reviews on here! Incredible experience.
Visited for an early dinner. They were knowledgeable about celiac and took notes. Had the daily special which was fish with a pumpkin type puree sauce and vegetables. Also had the flourless chocolate torte with be gelato which was amazing. Didn’t feel great later but I think more due to the richness of the food and maybe too much dairy. Would definitely try again though!
Great dinner with a great view of the sunset! Plenty of GF options and I noted an allergy when I put my order in. Had the scallops and risotto and it was amazing! I also got the flourless chocolate cake for dessert. It was super rich but good in combo with the ube gelato!
I chose this spot to celebrate our 20th anniversary with my wife and it did not disappoint. Made a reservation requesting an oceanfront seat and we were seated out on an enclosed patio. It was such a neat experience with the waves crashing against the patio just a few feet from us. Saw a turtle swimming. Server brought us champagne on the house. Food was wonderful. I got the pork shank and celiac wife got the ribeye. Delicious and good portions. Also had the chocolate flourless cake which was so good. Glad to be able to support a restaurant and server in Lahaina.
10/10. Amazing location, attentive and funny server, delicious food. They understood celiac and have a red allergen card they place in the kitchen for your food. We saw turtles swimming in the water from our table!
Our favorite restaurant of the trip! Most of the mains were GF and there were modifications available for starters. The drinks were also great. The staff was super knowledgeable about allergies and what could or could not be modified. We came back a second time because we loved it so much! Also had fabulous view and was more affordable for what you got than any of the hotel restaurants.
Great experience! We had the filet and it was incredible. The staff was very knowledgeable and the chef brought us our meal mentioning he made it GF. Highly recommend, but definitely get a reservation.
GF options are noted on the menu. The food was really good! We had the stir fry with chicken and the filet mignon. The waiter asked if I had celiac when we asked for gf and he marked it down on the order. Expensive but a really nice dinner with an amazing view!
GF items are marked. I had the Catch of the Day with squash puree and veggies. It was delicious.
**Mala Ocean Tavern: Gluten-Free Options in Lahaina**
Mala Ocean Tavern in Lahaina offers an impressive selection of gluten-free options, making it a top choice for those with dietary restrictions. The restaurant seamlessly integrates gluten-free dishes into their menu, ensuring that guests don't feel like they're missing out.
**Taste and Quality**
The gluten-free dishes at Mala Ocean Tavern are crafted with care, featuring fresh, high-quality ingredients. Standout options include the gluten-free versions of their famous Ahi Bruschetta and the delicious Seared Ahi with Molokai sweet potato mash. The flavors are vibrant, and the dishes are prepared to perfection.
**Variety**
Mala Ocean Tavern provides a diverse range of gluten-free choices, from appetizers to main courses. This variety ensures that guests have plenty of options, whether they are looking for seafood, meat, or vegetarian dishes. The menu is clearly marked, making it easy to identify gluten-free items.
**Customer Service**
The staff at Mala Ocean Tavern are well-informed about gluten-free diets and are attentive to guests' needs. They are happy to make recommendations and ensure that meals are prepared safely to avoid cross-contamination.
**Ambiance**
With its stunning oceanfront views and relaxed, upscale atmosphere, Mala Ocean Tavern offers a dining experience that is both enjoyable and accommodating for those following a gluten-free diet.
**Overall Impression**
Mala Ocean Tavern in Lahaina excels in providing delicious, thoughtfully prepared gluten-free options. It's a must-visit for anyone seeking a gluten-free dining experience without sacrificing flavor or variety.
We had dinner. Food was good. Server was knowledgeable. Lots of items on the menu were marked gf.
We had brunch there and it was amazing. There is a lot of gluten free option and the gluten free bread are actually good not like in many other restaurant. 100% recommend and you get to eat with a stunning view
Went here for brunch, I got the eggs Benedict, the toppings were fine but they used like a gluten free pizza crust instead of bread so that was a little weird. Expensive for the quality of food.
Had a wonderful lunch after our whale tour!! A fish platter with grilled fish, rice and vegetables. I also must be dairy and soy free along with gluten free. Success and a beautiful location on the water. The sugar cane lemonade was delicious too
Fantastic food and a lot of options for celiac kiddo and adult
Best meal we had in Maui. Server was very knowledgeable about the menu and took the allergy very serious. Many gluten free and dairy free options. Helps menu is marked also.
This was the best meal I had on Maui. Eating out is difficult due to Celiac but also because I really like vegetables. Many restaurants don’t serve vegetable rich dishes. If you are anything like me then Mala is a must visit. I got the catch of the day which was served with a squash purée and kale, carrots, and turnip melody with a hibiscus sauce. The flavors were amazing!
I added “gluten allergy” to my reservation and the server brought it up and showed me a red ticket that she was going to give the kitchen. This would let the kitchen know that everything being sent to my seat needed special attention.
I also got the ube gelato, because I didn’t want the experience to end. So good!
Food was fantastic and lots of GF options. Server was very aware of cross contamination issues and made the necessary modifications to some of our orders. Request outdoor seating and views are insane.
Gluten free Wasabi Ahi Tuna Eggs Benedict for Brunch. It was one the best meals I’ve had in Maui. We didn’t make it here for dinner, but I’m hoping to make it back.
We were excited to try this based on the many gluten free options on their online menu. However, we were disappointed when we arrived and their menu had way less GF options. They said it depends on what they have in stock, which makes sense, but seems easy enough to update their online menu to reflect what they have.
Overall the food was okay, the view was amazing. I would recommend coming here for Happy Hour (2 pm - 4 pm), when the pricing is better and enjoying the view.
Our celiac kid had the avocado toast and was happy with it.
Very knowledgeable staff. All engaged from the moment we said celiac. Good options at breakfast and dinner. Gluten free bread and pitas available
This is one of the best meals my husband and I have had in a long time, and by far the nicest we have taken our teen kids too. Family member with celiac had the Bloody Mala oyster shooter and ribeye, with substitutions on the listed sides. We noted one celiac on the reservation and our waitress knew that when we were seated. She was very good at explaining both the naturally gluten free options and ways they could adapt dishes. She also asked when others at the table ordered apps if we wanted it to be adapted to be GF. That was really nice. There is plenty of outside seating with water views. Yes, it is expensive, but it is a fantastically executed menu with top ingredients.
Wanted the flatbread but they were out of the GF option. Had the GF avocado toast with egg - bread was delicious!
Excellent service and wonderful meals! We tried to go to Honu Seafood and Pizza next door (skip it!! They don’t have celiac safe pizza). After that debacle, we ended up here.
The waitress asked about allergies first thing. I would have needed some slight modifications to the Huli Chicken, so my husband had it instead. I ended up with the pork shank, which was heavenly! And already GF.
I felt very safe, satisfied and cared for at this restaurant. It’s expensive, but worth a splurge.
Had breakfast here, several gluten free option, some items not marked just ask the server. Knowledgeable staff and said they would notify the chef I had celiac so they took extra precautions. I’m not super sensitive to cross contamination but those who are might need to make some considerations to some foods.
The staff was super knowledgeable about cross-contamination. The fries weren’t gluten-free but they had yummy flatbread and other options on their meal!
So yummy! Everything was delicious. Our waiter was knowledgeable but I do have to remind him about my allergy, so just make sure to speak up for yourself
Server was celiac-aware and eager to help us navigate menu and find best option for our picky 15-yr old son. Lots of fish and rice options, also tasty build-your-own gluten free pizza as app or entree. Well spaced COVID safe outdoor seating overlooking Lahaina harbor, and high quality food and drinks for whole family. Have overlooked this spot in the past due to unassuming exterior, will definitely return.
This restaurant is amazing! All types of bread that they have are available gluten free. Staff very knowledgable. Great food!
GF menu. Waiter very knowledgeable. Lots of options. Excellent dinner.
GF aware but weren’t willing to alter any meals that could easily be gluten free (eg not putting in the croutons). They have a gluten free menu but was very ‘soup, salad and fruit’ typical. Food was tasty, just annoying there weren’t more options.
We ate at Mala Ocean Tavern once. They do have a gf menu but the waitress didn't have any idea what gluten/celiac is. We asked if the fries are made in a separate fryer and she said no but then brought them anyway. Our salad came with a piece of pita bread in it. We had to call a manager and ask her to make a new salad and a new burger(because it was on the same plate with the fries). They made everything right on the second try and apologized many times. If you go there ask for a manager right away.
Had extensive separate GF menu. Talked to manager and he and staff were well informed about celiac and made great effort to avoid cross contamination. Beautiful views
Delicious dinner here but didn't feel worth the cost--perhaps that was just my selections. The ceviche was the best part of the meal and can be served with lettuce leaves, in place of the tortilla chips that are cooked in a shared fryer. Location is beautiful and server was great though.
Great selection on the menu, plus the food was amazing. The roasted fresh fruit with macadamia nuts was incredible. I have been here several times and will be back.
AMAZING! Staff knowledgeable gf/celiac/cross contamination. Flatbread pizza, pita, hamburger bread (all the same), freshly made by sister restaurant (Honu) next door- so good!!! Chocolate beet cake for dessert.
We usually end up eating at Mala at least once when we are in the area. Staff is knowledgeable about gluten and the food is excellent with many gluten free options. The view is wonderful and you will probably see some sea turtles while enjoying your meal.
Delicious. Staff were friendly, attentive and accommodating. Wait staff were GF/Celiac knowledgeable and were even able to come up with unique substitution options (i.e., the seafood "pasta" dish, served over brown rice instead of pasta). GF flatbread available, and offered as a potential substitute for numerous dishes. Ceviche was AMAZING. Seafood "pasta (rice)" delicious. Salad (greek) very good. Complementary edamame hummus and salsa were unique and tasty. Ordered way too much! Would go back again; a great location for sunset (right on the water). Park at Safeway, if you don't want to deal with valet.
Not a Lot of GF choices the night we went.
No GF pizza or flat bread , and we are early.
We enjoyed the Caprese with buratta. We shared the mahi sandwich ex bun. The fish was excellent and the same size as the entree portion, but half the price.
Great GF flatbreads, my server offered to alter any entree on the menu to fit my needs. Great food and great view.
Delicious food, incredible view, great staff. Pricey but worth it!
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