Summer on the Sun Deck

Feast your eyes on delicious dishes coming to Splash and Sunset Bistro when they open this month.

By Jake Ten Pas

Photos by Brandon Davis

Smash burgers? Check. Sushi? Check. Smoothies, canned beer and cocktails? Check, check, and check!

This summer, a new foodservice window on the Sun Deck opens to unleash a bevy of refreshing beverages and infinitely snackable bites. From smash burgers and tots to salads and Ruby Jewel ice cream sandwiches, if a treat tastes better by a pool or in the sunshine, chances are the new and improved Splash has it.

Love food carts, ice cream trucks, or poolside cabana bars? That’s the vibe of this new foodservice window, and large digital screens lay out the potentially overwhelming menu of snacks, drinks, and meals so members might not even have to leave their lounge chairs to contemplate their next nosh.

It all starts Wednesday, June 14, just in time for the summer heat and the universal human drive to spend it next to a pool. MAC’s Facilities and Culinary teams are hard at work getting ready for the big unveil, but in the meantime, members can enjoy mouthwatering photos of just a few of the menu items coming their way.

Now, just remember to wait a half hour after eating to hit the Sun Deck Pool. Unless that’s just another adage in need of debunking. Feel free to ask the lifeguard, and happy maxing and relaxing regardless.

Splash opens for the season on Wednesday, June 14. Hours: Noon-7 p.m. daily

Quinoa Salad

Broccoli Walnut Salad

Smash Burgers and Tots

Sunset Bistro

Summer Picnic Plate, Wagyu Trip Tip, and Yukon Potato Gnocchi

In yet another instance of expectation defying, 1891 isn’t closing for the summer this year but is staying open Friday and Saturday for members ages 21 and older, even as Sunset Bistro gets ready to make its annual debut. Mark your calendars for Monday, June 12, since as every member knows, the season doesn’t really start until they’re seated at the bistro.

MAC’s rooftop oasis returns, offering shady nooks and tables perfect for socializing between workouts or at the end of a long day. The bars and high-top tables remain 21-and-older spaces, but the rest of the bistro accommodates all ages, and there are dishes for palates in all stages of development.

Bay Shrimp Salad

Northwest Oysters, Carpaccio, Alaskan Halibut Confit, and Strawberry Shortcake

Adult tastebuds might feel the pull of grilled Spanish octopus or oysters on the halfshell with sauce mignonette, while sauteed Yukon potato gnocchi, summer watermelon salad, and burgers are sure to appeal to everyone. Dessert is always a strong move, too, especially when strawberry shortcake and other creations by Pastry Chef Shelby Page-Wilson are up for grabs.

Blackberry Galette

Oregon Berry Trifle

Summer Cocktails

Cherry Blossom, The Shock, and San Cristobal

MAC’s consummate cocktail professional, Roni Pervizi, mans the open-air bar, beckoning the thirsty throngs with a new lineup of custom creations. Nothing says fresh like his Cherry Blossom, bringing together Mezcal Union with Wild Roots Cherry Vodka, Italian blood orange liqueur, egg white, tajin spice, and a cherry on top. This is summer dining as it’s meant to be experienced, and its only available to MAC members and their guests. Make a reservation through Open Table via themac.com, or just stop by to find your place in — or out of — the sun.