Between living on Maui and many, many trips to the island, I’ve eaten at a LOT of places.

Where to Eat on Maui

In no particular order, here are the places I tend to go back to and recommend YOU try out:

Tin Roof // Kahului

Top Chef finalist Sheldon Simeon’s Tin Roof is an updated take on the traditional Hawaiian lunch counter serving up Hawaiian comfort food with a little more culinary flair than usual.

Just minutes from the airport, make this your first stop on Maui. I highly recommend the chopped steak with garlic noodles, but you really can’t go wrong with anything and I’m still working my way through the menu.

Place your order online and it’ll be ready to pick up when you arrive. There’s no seating here so either grab it on your way to check in or inhale it in the car like I do ; ) Or if you’re not coming or going from the airport, take it to eat at nearby Kanaha Beach Park.

Momona Bakery // Kahului

This is my favorite new spot on Maui. This decadent bakery moved into an old bank in Kahului and they’ve absolutely perfected their croissants any way you’d like them (savory, sweet, BOTH).

This is a popular local spot, and it gets crowded to go early if you want to snag a table. I like to pair this with a visit to Iao Valley or hiking the Waihe’e Ridge Trail.

Aloha Mix Plate // Lahaina

This is my go to spot for a laid back meal of good, local style food, at a reasonable price WITH A VIEW.

After the fires in Lahaina, a smattering of restaurants have started to reopen in spaces that survived the fire, and they very much want and need business.

Aloha Mix Plate has reopened in its original location on Front Street (next to the Old Lahaina Luau) and it’s a gem.

The food is so good and reasonably priced for the atmosphere.

Try the Aloha Mix Plate (teriyaki beef, shoyu chicken, and fish) with mac salad and a lilikoi soda. But seriously…EVERYTHING is good here.

Grandma’s Coffee House // Keokea

My favorite place to go post Haleakala sunrise (or before a day spent upcountry) is Grandma’s in Keokea. It’s popular with the locals, right around the corner from Oprah’s house, and has THE BEST FOOD.

Their kalua pork eggs benedict is INCREDIBLE. Seriously, like one of my favorite meals anywhere. They use corn waffles instead of English muffins and it’s just…sigh.

Also anything in the pastry/bakery case is 100% worth the calories.

It gets a little chilly up here, especially in the morning so dress warm. Pair breakfast here with a trip to the Ali’i Lavender Farm, Maui Wine, or a drive/hike up Thompson Road across the street.

Merriman’s // Kapalua

When you’re looking for a “special” place to eat on Maui, Mama’s Fish House may be the first place people recommend but Merrimans is always the second. 

Chef Peter Merriman is pretty famous on the Hawaii food scene. He’s one of a handful of chefs that pioneered “Hawaii regional cuisine” and his restaurants (Monkeypod is the most popular these days!) are known for mixing local flavors with ingredients grown and raised right on the island. 

There’s a Merrimans on each of the main Hawaiian Islands now, but the one on Maui hands down has the best setting. 

Perched overlooking Kapalua Bay in West Maui, this place has seriously impressive sunset views and while the setting could certainly be described as “romantic,” the vibe is a little more “lively” than Mama’s. There’s live music and the atmosphere is more chatty and social. 

The menu changes a bit seasonally, and everything is delicious but after eating at Merriman’s (and Monkeypod) so many times I personally always find myself leaning a bit more towards the appetizers (pupus) and starters than the mains. Something good to know here – if there’s a particular appetizer that sounds good, they can often do it as a dinner portion. 

You don’t need to book reservations quite as far in advance here as you do at Mama’s, but you definitely need reservations. The only thing I don’t love about Merriman’s (at this location) is that they have a $50/person reservation fee. They tell you that they’ll charge your card when you make the reservation, but in my personal experience they actually only do it if you miss your reservation. 

Merriman’s also has complimentary valet parking which you’ll probably want to take advantage of because there’s not much parking in the area, but if you’re staying in Kapalua you can also take the resort shuttle. 

Also, if you can’t get a reservation (or don’t want to commit), you can eat out on “The Point” first come first serve and they have most of the menu there. 

Kitoko // Kihei

Permanently located in South Maui Gardens in Kihei, Kitoko is one of Maui’s best food trucks. Think bento boxes, but elevated with options like Kauai shrimp, braised beef, or swordfish.

But my favorite time to go is Wednesday nights for the Hula Show when they do a special menu.

You’ll need to buy a ticket to the Hula Show (an amazing alternative to a full blown resort luau), but it’s 100% worth it to try the crispy pork belly with okinawan sweet potato gnocchi.

**The Wednesday night Hula Show is currently on pause, but 100% still go to Kitoko!

Akamai Coffee // Wailea, Kihei & Kahului

Arguably Maui’s best coffee spot, Akamai has a few locations now. I like to try a different signature drink or special every day ; )

The Wailea location is also a great spot for a full breakfast.

Spoon & Key Market // Wailea

Spoon & Key Market in Wailea is the perfect spot for a quick breakfast or lunch or to grab a picnic lunch for the beach. When I’m staying in Wailea, I love stopping at Spoon & Key Market for lunch on my arrival day.

Their ahi melt is spectacular.

They also do a special sunset menu on Wednesdays and Thursdays plus an amazing looking pre-fix menu on Fridays and Saturdays that changes weekly.

Tikehau Lounge // Wailea

There are far fewer “tiki bars” in Hawaii than most people would expect, but this craft cocktail lounge in Wailea fills a major void on the island.

Their drinks here are FAR superior to the often “ho hum” drinks you’ll find poolside at the resorts in and touristy oriented restaurants and at a much better price.

Go for their happy hour for before dinner drinks, but their food is actually really good too. Their kalua pork sliders are amazing.

Waikomo Shave Ice

Great shave ice spot in Paia with local toppings and 100% natural flavors (with no artificial flavors and colorings).

Monkeypod // Wailea & Kaanapali

If I only get ONE place to go on Maui, I’m usually going to pick the Monkeypod. When I lived on Maui, we would stop at the Monkeypod in Wailea for happy hour all the time after a beach day so it feels a bit like tradition. And I still don’t really feel like I’m on Maui until I’ve had a mai tai.

They’re famous for their mai tais which have a lilikoi foam on top and they do a really good happy hour. Check the recent hours but there’s usually an early one from 3ish to 5ish and a later one after 8 or 9. Besides pretty good deals on drinks, most of their appetizers and pizzas are half off.

The original Monkeypod is in Wailea, but the one at Whalers Village in Kaanapali has ocean views.

I especially love their lobster deviled eggs, kalua pork & pineapple pizza, seafood pasta, and of course, the mahi mahi.

WowWow Lemonade // Kihei

An old favorite of mine! They’ve retired their blackberry Kula  lavender lemonade (insert tears here), but I always manage to find something good. Their glass jars are one of my favorite souvenirs too. 

And don’t sleep on their acai bowls!I think they make the best ones on the island. They’re made fresh (so nice if you have food allergies!) with each order and they have good acai and pitaya options.

Nalu South Shore Grill // Kihei

A popular spot in Kihei for breakfast, but honestly it’s great any time of day (live music in the evenings). You order at the counter so it usually moves pretty fast. They’re famous for their loco moco and chicken and waffles. I think they have a great lobster roll!

Gazebo // Napili

The Gazebo is probably Maui’s most famous breakfast spot with a VIEW. People drive from all over the island for the experience of having breakfast here.

It’s just a tiny little dive, and they don’t take reservations so you just have to stand in line. But it’s worth it for the ambience.

With views of Napili Bay, and those famous macadamia nut pancakes…it’s a breakfast experience that’s pretty unique to Maui.

Logistics: Parking is a little tricky around Napili (there isn’t much of it). The restaurant is located in the Napili Shores complex and there is some reserved parking just for the restaurant otherwise you’ll have to vie for limited street parking or try for a spot in the Kapalua Beach lot and walk back. If you’re staying in the Kapalua resort area, the shuttle will drop you off right at the restaurant.

The restaurant is open from 7:30AM to 2PM. Show up before they open if you don’t want to wait or otherwise just be prepared to hang out for a while.

Sea House // Napili

The Gazebo gets all of the glory on the West Side, but I’m partial to the Sea House. Just on the other side of Napili Bay, the Sea House actually has a better view (you can see the entire beach from the restaurant) and it’s usually much easier to walk in.

Don’t miss the Haleakala Pancake!

The Sea House is located in the Napili Kai Resort and they also have a popular happy hour.

Aunty Sandy’s // Hana

The most popular spot for banana bread on Maui’s famous Road to Hana. 

Located on the gorgeous Keanae Peninsula (you’ll have to drive down there from the main road), it’s closed on Sunday.

Kihei Caffe // Kihei

If you’re staying in South Maui and you like a hearty breakfast, Kihei Caffe is a must do. It’s hearty, big portions, and GOOD local style food. Be prepared to wait in line if you go mid morning (but it moves fast).

 

It’s right across from Kalama Beach park and it just feels like where you want to be when you’re on vacation in Hawaii.

Ululani’s // Kihei

They have a few locations around the island, but the one in North Kihei is great because you can browse the farmers market next door. 

The shave ice is light and fluffy, they have great syrups and local toppings, but for me the standout is their homemade mochi. They had blueberry mochi last time I was here that was AMAZING. 

Kai Cafe // Kapalua

This spot doesn’t necessarily make my list based on the food alone, but it’s more of a “situation” spot.

Kai Cafe is the coffee/breakfast/snack spot in the lobby of the Ritz Carlton Kapalua and what I LOVE about this place are all of the seating areas in the cafe and around the lobby that have amazing views out over the resort and surrounding areas.

If you’re doing the Kapalua Coastal Trail (which you should!), start at Kapalua Beach and walk all the way up to the Ritz Carlton (the turning back point on the trail) and stop in at Kai Cafe a bit before you resume your hike back.

I really like their acai bowls.

Humuhumunukunukuapua’a // Wailea

The setting alone here is reason for a visit! 

Located on the water at the Grand Wailea, this dreamy spot has overwater thatched huts, waterfalls, and a showstopping aquarium bar. 

I’ll be honest, for the price, this isn’t where I’d come for a full blown fancy dinner (Mama’s Fish House, Merrimans, and the Restaurant at Hotel Wailea are my go tos), but I love coming here right when they open for drinks at the aquarium bar. 

I do recommend getting here early though because people line up before the restaurant opens and after the initial seating, spots at the bar probably won’t open up until after sunset (unless it’s in the summer when the sun sets later). 

Ka’ana Kitchen // Wailea

Nothing says “living resort life” like a lavish breakfast buffet. I’ve tried out most of them, and  Ka’ana Kitchen at the Andaz Maui is my favorite breakfast buffet in Wailea (which makes it the best on Maui).

It’s about $50/person (the going price), but I think they have the best offerings, best quality, and best service. The restaurant also has a great view and even on a non-weekend/brunch day it’s probably the place that feels the most like a special experience (even for $50/person some resorts just feel like they’re shuttling a herd of guests through the buffet before they leave for their daily adventures).

One thing I really like here is that omelet and made-to-order egg requests are handled through your server and brought to your table so you don’t have to stand in line and wait for them to make it.

The whole concept of the restaurant is that you’re actually in the kitchen (even at dinner) so a LOT of the food for the buffet is actually being made right next to the serving stations. Which means that you can usually grab extremely fresh waffles, pancakes, etc. They’re also really good about swapping out dishes and bringing out fresh food so you never feel like you’re getting the stale, crusty ends that are left in the pan.

They have everything you could possibly want here but I especially loved the desserts. A lot of them were unique and not the typical things that you see at a breakfast buffet. Example: Nutella brioche buns and homemade fruit cobbler.

If you’re just coming for oatmeal, yogurt, eggs, etc. the price is pretty excessive, but if you’re ready to really eat and enjoy it, you won’t be disappointed.

Paia Fish Market // Paia

This used to be a sleepy little fish joint that catered to locals and surfers, but the secret got out that you’ll find seriously good (and so fresh!) fish at a reasonable price and now it’s hopping. 

If you’re coming to Paia to shop and tool around for the day, make this your lunch spot (but come early or later because it gets busy).

South Maui Fish Co // Kihei

After hearing from multiple sources that these are the best fish tacos on Maui, I had to check it out myself. And…they’re the best fish tacos on Maui. The fish (caught that morning) is grilled on a grill right outside the truck. 

It’s tucked in the inner courtyard of a shopping center so it can be a little tricky to find the first time. 

Maui Matcha // Wailea

I’ll confess I’m not a matcha lover, but I felt like I’d never had “good” matcha so I had to try this place out just to be sure.

It’s not my thing, but it was fun to watch the girl make it and she was so friendly and helped me order what she thought I’d like best!

BUT if you do love matcha, I have it on good authority that this is a place worth trying. It’s a cart on the lower level of Shops at Wailea. 

Parlay // Wailuku

This is a super cute hangout spot in Wailuku (a local town just west of Kahului). If you’re looking for something off the beaten (tourist) path, it’s a great spot. 

I wouldn’t necessarily drive all the way over here from south or west Maui though (there are other places in Wailuku that I definitely would), but if you’re in the area it’s a fun place. 

It feels like a lowkey neighborhood spot, which is fun to find in a place that seems to mostly cater to tourists. 

Esters Fair Prospect // Wailuku

People are always surprised to find out that tiki bars aren’t a huge deal in Hawaii, but there really aren’t that many. 

This one is all you need though! Tucked into a local neighborhood in Wailuku, it really does feel like a hideaway. It’s sooooo cute inside and their drink menu is very inventive. 

If you like tiki bars (or high end/creative drink experiences), it’s worth driving out here from South or West Maui. 

Shikeda Patisserie // Wailuku

This little spot has only been open a few years, but it’s made major waves on the Maui food scenes. Famous for their bento boxes (order them online in advance because they sell out FAST) and pastries that are almost too cute to eat (almost!), this is getting to be one of my favorite foodie spots on Maui. 

It’s inside a little food court area, but they have a sign out front so you know you’re in the right place. 

Kraken // Wailea & Kihei

They have a coffee truck in Kihei and just opened a shop in Wailea (in the same shopping center as Monkeypod). I’ll grab coffee at the one in Wailea if I’m in a hurry and the line at Akamai is too long. 

Sixty Two Marcket // Wailuku

This place gets majorly overshadowed by places like the Gazebo and Kihei Caffe, but I think this is the best breakfast spot on the island. 

The farm to table brunch spot (closed on Saturdays) is my go to after hiking the Waihe’e Ridge Trail. 

Star Noodle // Lahaina

This popular Maui noodle spot is back in its original oceanfront location on Front Street in Lahaina (yes, in a little pocket at the end that didn’t burn down) and it definitely deserves a spot in your dinner line up…especially if you’re staying on the west side. 

Don’t miss the garlic noodles and pork belly bao buns. 

Komoda Store & Bakery // Makawao

A long time institution on Maui (this year marks their 110 year anniversary!), grabbing morning donuts and pastries here is a right of passage. Stop by after sunrise at Haleakala for your best chance of getting their famous stick donuts before they sell out. 

A quintessential Maui experience in the cutest little town in Hawaii. 

Espresso Mafia // Makawao

My favorite place to get coffee in Makawao. It has a cozy, eclectic vibe and a nice patio out back. The honey cream latte is my favorite but the lavender vanilla latte is a close second.

Restaurant at Hotel Wailea // Wailea

The Hotel Wailea is quickly becoming one of Wailea’s swankiest spots (and that’s saying something!). The hotel and the restaurant have been racking up all kinds of accolades lately so on my last trip to Maui it was time to finally check it out. 

First things first, the Hotel Wailea is TOTALLY DREAMY and unlike the big beachfront resorts in Wailea that you can kind of stroll through even if you’re not staying there, this place is pretty exclusive. Part of it’s the location. It sits up on the slopes of Haleakala above Wailea so it’s not right on the beach, but it’s got GREAT views. It’s also adults only and just has a very lowkey (but sophisticated) hideout vibe. 

If you want the full blown experience, stop for drinks at the Birdcage first. Otherwise, plan your dinner reservation about 30 minutes before sunset. 

The setting of the restaurant is definitely romantic and enchanting and it almost has more of a European vibe than Hawaiian. 

 

The menu is really elevated, but still accessible. If you’re an adventurous foodie, or more of a plain jane…you’re going to eat well here. 

Here’s how it works: the menu is a set $125/person for a first course, a main course, and a dessert.

And these aren’t tiny little portions where you’re going to leave wanting more. One of the things we like about this place the most was how much food we felt like we got to try. With three people, we felt like we were able to try a LOT of the menu and nobody went home hungry. 

For first courses we had beet salad, risotto, and pork ribs. 

For mains, we had the scallops, the wagyu ribeye, and the fettuccine with braised wagyu. 

And for dessert, the chocolate mousse, tiramisu, and yuzu tapioca. 

There wasn’t anything that we didn’t like. I would just base your choices on what you’re most drawn to. 

Belle Surf Cafe // Paia

My favorite coffee shop in Paia, it’s hidden behind the shops on the main road so it feels like a little hideaway. They also do food all day and have a bar in the afternoons/evenings. 

Baked on Maui // Haiku

I frequented this place a lot when I lived on Maui. I can’t even make recommendations because their baked goods change seasonally (and day by day) and I’ve never had anything that wasn’t amazing here. They do a full breakfast too. 

It’s off the beaten path in an old cannery in Haiku. 

Jaws Country Store // Haiku

This is a great first stop on the Road to Hana if you want to bypass Paia and get on down the road a bit. 

Stock up on drinks and snacks in the market plus I love their acai bowls. 

Halfway to Hana // Hana

This spot and Aunty Sandy’s are the two big banana bread stops on the Road to Hana and unfortunately (or fortunately maybe ; ) they’re really close to each other. 

This spot is on the main road so it gets a little more traffic. And they have a more expanded menu besides just banana bread. 

I say get a loaf at both and do a taste test!

Hana Farms // Hana

This has become my go to lunch spot when I’m driving the Road to Hana. They do brick oven pizzas and they’re SO GOOD. Plus they have huge salads that are great for splitting. 

But it’s also a bit of a roadside attraction. Their stand is a top tier gift shop with so many made on Maui products. 

Plus it couldn’t be any more picturesque. 

Coconut Glen’s // Hana

Famous plant based ice cream spot on the Road to Hana (almost all the way to Hana). 

Thai Food by Pranee // Hana

If you like Thai food, definitely make this your lunch stop on the Road to Hana. It’s on the same street as the trailhead for the red sand beach so if you’re planning to hike that you could do both at the same time. 

Orale Tacos // Hana

This was closed the last time I was in Hana so it’s still on my list, but so cute!

Hana Ranch Restaurant // Hana

If you want a sit down restaurant, this is about all you’ll find in Hana. I wouldn’t recommend it if you’re just passing through for the day because you’ll be pressed for time, but if you’re spending the night it’s a good spot for drinks and dinner. 

Da Mean Bean // Hana

Yummy coffee truck in Hana. When I stayed a few days in Hana I hit this spot every morning. My favorite is the Kula lavender latte. 

Maile Tea Company // Kula

Specialty tea based drinks (plus matcha, coffee and smoothies) served out of a truck at Kula Country Farms. I love the sparkling honey lemon ginger elixir. 

Leoda’s // Olowalu

A great spot for a casual lunch if you’re coming or going from West Maui, but they’re really famous for their PIES. 

They’re individually sized so I like to grab several when I’m passing through and put them in the fridge for later. The chocolate macadamia nut is their best seller but my favorite is the no bake strawberry cheesecake. 

Hula Grill // Ka’anapali

With a prime beachfront location at Whalers Village on Kaanapali Beach, Hula Grill is a popular place. There’s two sides to the restaurant: 1) the more casual Barefoot Bar – a literal feet in the sand spot with drinks and lowkey food like burgers, fish tacos, fish and chips, and apps. It’s first come, first serve. 2) the main restaurant that serves more elevated dishes like fish, steak and lobster. You’ll need reservations here. 

While the main restaurant is good, I think the prices start to approach some of Maui’s more high end restaurants, but it’s not quite in that league (you’re paying for location). 

I’d stick to the Barefoot Bar side. 

Island Vintage // Ka’anapali & Wailea

A great spot to grab coffee in the mornings if you’re staying on Kaanapali Beach. I love their island latte and their acai bowls are super yummy too.

Choice Health Bar // Ka’anapali & Wailea

Good acai bowls and smoothies at Whalers Village on Kaanapali Beach. 

Leilani’s // Ka’anapali

Similar to Hula Grill, Leilani’s has a more upscale fish and steak restaurant upstairs and a more casual beach bar on the lower level. 

I like Leilani’s on the Beach for drinks, a casual lunch or dinner, and a slice of Hula Pie. 

Mala Ocean Tavern // Lahaina

This tiny waterfront restaurant in Lahaina feels like you’re dining in somebody’s home, and it’s soooo good. 

They’re famous for the ahi bruschetta.

They seat the restaurant front to back so if you want a table outside on the lanai with a view of the water, make reservations as soon as it opens. 

They also do a brunch that’s on my list to try out. 

Ulu Kitchen // Ka’anapali

Insider’s tip: When the wait at the Monkeypod at Whalers Village gets too long, just go next door to Ulu Kitchen at the Westin. It’s also one of Chef Peter Merriman’s restaurants so it’s a similar menu, they have the same famous mai tais, plus it’s a bigger restaurant and actually right on the water. 

Honu Oceanside // Wailea

Right on the water on Front Street in Lahaina (in a little pocket that didn’t burn down), Honu Oceanside has a similar menu to Mala Ocean Tavern next door (they used to be sister restaurants), but it’s a little brighter and more modern feeling. 

I love their lavender Bees Knees, ahi bruschetta and crab mac and cheese. Plus their fish special is usually fantastic. 

Four Seasons Lobby Lounge // Wailea

One of my favorite spots on Maui for a drink…you just can’t beat the atmosphere here. 

They have a collection of mai tais, but the Talisman is served in custom glassware. Also, they fly in dim sum from Chinatown in Honolulu and it’s so good!

Lineage // Wailea

This is my favorite restaurant in Wailea. It may not have ocean views like some of the fancier spots in the resorts (it’s located in the Shops at Wailea), but it’s sooooo good. This family style restaurant specializes in local style Asian American cuisine.

The Cantonese lobster noodles and Korean fried chicken are their standout dishes.

La Provence // Kula

You wouldn’t expect to find an authentic French bistro and bakery on Maui, but people from all over the world are attracted to Maui and they bring their culture and food with them. Open for breakfast and lunch, the menu is a bit limited (mostly crepes, quiche, and eggs benedict) but there is a lovely assortment of pastries at the bakery inside (the éclairs are out of this world and not to be missed!)

Kula Bistro // Kula

The Kula Bistro serves up truly awesome breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but its real draw is its stellar dessert case. Even if you’re not dining there, you can stop in and grab something to go – cakes, pies, tarts, cookies, brownies, and pastries.

Café Des Amis // Paia

Head to Paia on the north shore for “crepes and curry.” Their outdoor patio is the place to be for breakfast and early/late evenings. This place wins for best “hippy vibe” on Maui.