Mahi-Mah's goes smoke-free; who -- if anyone - should follow suit?

Press release from Gold Key/PHR Hotels & Resorts

Mahi Mah’s Seafood Restaurant and Sushi Saloon, a long-time oceanfront dining establishment, has gone smoke-free for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The restaurant, a part of a larger parent company, Gold Key/PHR Hotels & Resorts, is the first in the portfolio to prohibit smoking. Management at Mahi Mah’s is hoping to make it a company-wide trend.

Food and Beverage Manager Eric Emerson is excited about implementing the change. “Our guests are already commenting positively about the change. Not only is this great for the paying customers, but also for the associates. Our staff members are the most affected by the second-hand smoke, day in and day out. We want to provide them with the best working environment possible.”

They are, however, taking it easy. Chuck Sass, Vice President of Food & Beverage, believes that being cautious in this soft economic climate will not be detrimental. “We’re allowing smoking at the bar after dinner to see how things go. If we continue to receive positive response, we will move forward and become 100% smoke-free.”

Gold Key/PHR Hotels & Resorts, as a whole, has supported the charge for a state-mandated smoking ban for restaurants to encourage fair competition amongst establishments at the oceanfront. Director of Corporate Communications, Emily Morton, has spent time with media, government figures, and other local restaurant owners, asking for help pushing the ban. “All we really want is an environment that is safe for our guests and associates. Mandating a state-wide ban can only improve working conditions, guest satisfaction and equitable competition between Virginia Beach businesses. If becoming smoke-free remains voluntary, business owners will be reluctant to take the step, fearing a loss of business, especially in this sensitive economic environment.”

Mahi Mah’s hopes that, by stepping forward, other establishments will be encouraged to follow suit.

Mahi Mah’s Seafood Saloon has been attracting the ideal balance of year-round residents and tourists since it opened in 1993. Mah’s was just recognized this year as one of Hampton Roads’ Top 25 Restaurants by Portfolio Weekly and has received Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence throughout the years. Known for its fresh local seafood, fresh sushi, lively raw bar and nightly entertainment at 7th Street Stage throughout the summer, this is the place where everyone knows everyone at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront.