A tasteful toast

Although COVID has put a damper on most New Year’s Eve festivities, Mahina & Sun’s at Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club has crafted a mindful way to celebrate 2021 in a vibrant environment.

“It has been a challenging year with COVID-19 and our hope is that Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club, along with Mahina & Sun’s restaurant, can offer our guests and patrons a safe but fun atmosphere as we celebrate the end of 2020, and to have expectation of a bright 2021 for all of us,” says general manager Lynette Eastman.

Known for its laid-back style, Mahina & Sun’s is currently offering a limited lanai menu, packed with delicious casual American fare that always hits the spot. On Dec. 31, expect favorites like Town Ahi Tartar ($15), which mixes the flavors of risotto, fine herbs and balsamic, as well as pizzas like the Naked Pig (fromage blanc, sweet onion and bacon) and Veggie (tomatoes, onion and artichokes. Both are $17 and come with the option of additions like arugula, mushrooms and olives to add that extra burst of flavor. For lighter plates, try Kale Salad ($9) or Sassy Greens ($9).

Town Ahi Tartar ($15)

Typically open from noon to 8 p.m., there’s an exception for New Year’s Eve. Food will be served until 11 p.m. and alcohol will be on hand until 10 p.m., with last call at 9:15 to follow the city’s mandate.

Apple cider for midnight toast (call for cost)

That doesn’t mean the party won’t go on, though. A non-alcoholic apple cider toast will commence at midnight to welcome the New Year in all its glory. The event costs $30 and welcomes those over the age of 21. Local artist Trishalei will be playing tunes from 6 to 8 p.m., then 107.9FM DJ James Coles takes the stage to spin songs, old and new, until 12:30 a.m. To add to the merriment, party favors will be scattered about, as well as a photo/video booth to capture the moment.

Sample everything from pizza to salads at Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club to celebrate 2021.

“The hotel and restaurant also have an extensive experience program almost everyday with live local music and a dance party each week,” adds Eastman. “You will find an open-air large imprint of social distance seating — whether on the pool deck under the stars, in the cabanas, in Tutu’s Living Room, on the Mahina lanai or dining inside the restaurant — hotel guests and patrons can eat, drink and dance, enjoying the space, fresh air and conversation while wearing masks, social distancing, and five-or-less groups are very much enforced. The hotel does temperature checks and has patrons fill out tracer forms per safety and health guidelines.”

For more information or to view the whole menu, visit surfjack.com.