RESTAURANTS
There are so many amazing restaurants on Maui! Here's a very long list of our favorite spots that we continue to indulge. Those with an * are our absolute favorites!
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BEST FOR TAKE-OUT
* Coconuts Fish Cafe (Azeka Place) $
The BEST fish tacos on Maui! I bet you eat here more than once. We recommend you don't stray from the fish tacos. walking distance |
* Eskimo Candy (Kihei) $
This little fish market makes the best fresh fish & chips. We like to get take-out and enjoy it on the Lanai at the house. Their homemade poke is great also. Try the poke bowl or grilled fish if you want to skip the fried food. 5 minute drive |
Da Kitchen (Kihei) $
If you want Hawaiian Plate Lunch, this is your spot. We love the Kalua pork. They also make great fish & chips. 10 minute drive |
Nutcharee's Thai (Azeka Place) $$
A great option for take-out dinner. Fresh local ingredients with an island touch. Around the corner at Azeka Place. walking distance |
CASUAL DINE-IN
* Nalu's (Azeka Place) $$
Just around the corner from the house, this neighborhood farm-to-table restaurant has yummy food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You can't go wrong! They also have live music most nights, and one of our favorite local musicians, Ah Tim, is a regular on Thursday nights (please check the schedule, as it periodically changes). walking distance |
* Kihei Caffe (Kihei) $
This is Kihei's go-to for a Hawaiian breakfast. Across from Kalama Park with outdoor seating. Try the eggs & fried rice or the banana macadamia nut french toast. We love the papaya & muesli with yogurt. Large portions! 5 minute drive |
ExMaui Brewing Company (Kihei) $$ A fun spot to taste locally made beer. Take a scheduled tour, do a tasting or dine in at their restaurant that's managed by the same group that owns Monkeypod. A quick drive up Lipoa and across the highway. Excellent Happy Hour from 3:30-5:30pm! 5 minute drive |
Sansei Seafood & Sushi (Kihei) $$
Outstanding sushi in Kihei. This place will not draw you in with their ho-hum looking restaurant, but trust us, once you're inside it's nice and the sushi is well worth it. Go for their famous Happy Hour - just make sure you get there early, as a line usually forms. 5 minute drive |
Three's Bar & Grill (Kihei) $$
Three chefs, and three Asian cuisines. Voted the best Happy Hour in Kihei. Each dish is beautiful and equally delicious. You can't go wrong! Try the Kahlua Pork quesadilla - it's mouthwatering good. Reservations recommended. Child friendly. Note, the three chefs who run this place also own Fork & Salad in Azeka Place. 5 minute drive |
Paia Fishmarket (Paia or Kihei) $$
Always on the list of top restaurants on Maui, this casual cafe serves fresh fish and burgers. We prefer the original location in Paia, but there's also a Paia Fishmarket in Kihei. 25-30 minute drive |
* Flatbread Company (Paia) $$
This is our daughter and her family's favorite restaurant on Maui. It's a chain from back east, but they only use locally grown organic food. Wood-fired pizza and fresh salads. Check out the weekly specials. 25-30 minute drive |
Polli's Mexican Restaurant (Makawao) $
If you want authentic mexican food with an island twist, visit Polli's in Makawao. 35 minute drive |
Cheeseburger In Paradise (Lahaina) $$
Super trendy but still fun! This open-air restaurant is a great spot to enjoy the stunning blue water, a warm breeze, and a darn good burger. 45 minute drive |
Hana Ranch Restaurant (Hana) $$
When you're in Hana, there aren't a lot of great food options. After a long card ride and a good hike, nothing hits the spot like a burger at Hana Ranch Restaurant. It's a bit pricey, but the quality of food is good. 3 hour drive to Hana |
FINE DINING
* Grand Wailea Brunch (Wailea) $$$
The daily breakfast buffet at the Grand Wailea is amazing, and the view is lovely. Great for kids (5 and under are free!). 15 minute drive |
* Monkeypod Kitchen (Wailea) $$$
We love the cocktails and food at Monkeypod. It's usually packed, so make reservations if you want dinner. Otherwise, grab a seat at the long bar. Try their Mai Tai - it's the house specialty and not nearly as sweet as the usual. This is a great spot if you want a nice restaurant that's kid friendly. 15 minute drive |
Ka’ana Kitchen (Wailea) $$$
Family-style Hawaiian fare inspired by local produce, served in contemporary surrounds. Every dish is beautifully prepared. 12 minute drive |
Sarentos (Kihei) $$$
If you want a romantic restaurant with a beautiful sunset view, this is your spot. Not recommended for children. 10 minute drive |
Hali'imaile General Store (Between Paia & Makawao) $$$$
Owned by the island's well-known chef, Bev Gannon, this is a tried-and-true restaurant. Make reservations; not suitable for children. 30 minute drive |
Mama's Fish House (Paia) $$$$
Probably the most famous restaurant on the island, this old-school establishment continues to make amazing food. We like to go in the afternoon when it's not as busy or price-y. Make reservations; not suitable for children. 30 minute drive |
SNACKS & TREATS
Home Maid Cafe (Azeka Place) $
If you like donuts, you must try the malasadas (Portuguese donuts). They open early and typically sell out, so get there by 7:30am. walking distance |
* Ululani's Hawaiian Shave Ice (Kihei) $
By far, the best shaved ice! Head north on South Kihei Rd until you reach the end, just before the highway. Located next to the Sugar Beach Bakery, another favorite spot for sweet treats and mini pies. 5 minute drive |
Wow Wow Lemonade (Azeka Place) $
A cute little juice shop with fresh fruit bowls, smoothies, and all kinds of delicious lemonades. walking distance |
Java Cafe (Azeka Place) $
Need a pick-me-up? This local coffee shop has great coffee, smoothies, and paninis. Try the Banana Mocha Cooler. walking distance |