Traditionally, Native Hawaiians have drawn their sustenance - both physical and spiritual - from the land and sea around them. Taking on the true meaning of keiki o ka ‘āina, or children of the land. Seafood is the primary protein in the Hawaiian diet, along with such island staples as taro, sweet potato and breadfruit.

 

Mauka means “toward the mountains” and makai refers  to the vicinity of the ocean, and so the menu is based upon the ancient Hawaiian way of life in the ahupua‘a, or pie-shaped districts that ran from the top of the volcano all the way down to the plentiful sea, serving all of the needs of those living on them. Westin Nanea’s full-service restaurant, pays tribute to the farming and fishing cultures of ancient Hawai‘i. With an emphasis on farm-to-table, Mauka Makai utilizes indigenous plants and vegetables grown on-site and from local farms to complement popular local dishes. Voted “Best New Restaurant, 2018” at the ‘Aipono Awards, Mauka Makai is a culinary experience celebrating the farming and fishing culture of Ancient Hawai‘i.