When it comes to dining experiences, Maui offers a rich and diverse culinary scene, making it a food lover’s paradise. I’ve had the pleasure of tasting my way through some of the most delectable dishes and unique flavors at various restaurants on this incredible island.
From exquisite oceanfront dining to hidden gems loved by locals, there’s something for everyone on Maui. Whether craving fresh seafood, authentic Hawaiian cuisine, or delicious international flavors, I’ve discovered that the best restaurants in Maui truly cater to every palate.
Best Restaurants on Maui
- Mama’s Fish House (Paia)
- Merriman’s Maui (Kapalua)
- Lahaina Grill (Lahaina)
- The Mill House (Waikapu)
- Fleetwood’s on Front St. (Lahaina)
- Humuhumunukunukuapua’a (Wailea)
- Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop (Lahaina)
- Hali’imaile General Store (Hali’imaile)
- Star Noodle (Lahaina)
- Kula Bistro (Kula)
- Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman (Wailea)
- Gannon’s (Wailea)
- Japengo (Lahaina)
- Kō Restaurant (Lahaina)
- Ka’ana Kitchen (Wailea)
- Maui Brewing Company (Kihei)
*Some of these restaurants have unfortunately been destroyed in the Lahaina fires. Hopefully, they will be rebuilt as soon as possible, as we love them all.
Luxury Dining Spots
One of the most elegant and romantic restaurants in Maui is Merriman’s. With vaulted ceilings, candlelit tables, and panoramic ocean views, this dining spot is perfect for those special occasions. The dishes here are creative and made with local ingredients, reflecting Maui’s culinary traditions.
Another luxurious dining destination to consider is Duke’s Beach House. Located in Honokowai, this restaurant boasts a beautiful Hawaiian atmosphere and stunning ocean views. Less expensive than most high-end establishments in the area, Duke’s Beach House offers a more accessible fine-dining experience without sacrificing quality.
If you’re staying in Kaanapali and prefer to dine on-site, I’d recommend Sonz, located within the Hyatt Regency hotel’s Swan Court. This opulent restaurant offers a luxurious dining experience, perfect for celebrating a special event or simply enjoying a night out with a loved one.
For an unforgettable dining experience, visit Mama’s Fish House, which ranks as the number one restaurant on Maui. The atmosphere encapsulates the essence of old Polynesia, while the creatively prepared fish dishes showcase the unique flavors of the island. The warm aloha spirit and exceptional service at Mama’s Fish House enhance the overall dining experience.
Local Seafood Favorites
During my time exploring Maui, I discovered some amazing local seafood restaurants that stood out for their fresh catch and delicious flavors. One of my favorites is South Maui Fish Company, which offers a laid-back atmosphere and incredible fish tacos that left me craving for more.
Another spot that caught my attention was Merriman’s Maui, which boasts stunning ocean views and a romantic setting, perfect for a special night out. Their Macadamia Nut Crusted Fresh Fish dish, while sometimes slightly overcooked, still delivers a satisfying meal and a true taste of the island.
When looking for a blend of seafood and local charm, I can’t leave out Leoda’s Kitchen & Pie Shop and Paia Fish Market. Leoda’s offers a casual environment with delicious seafood dishes, while Paia Fish Market provides a more relaxed ambiance in the heart of Paia Town, great for grabbing a fresh catch on the go.
I also appreciated the variety at Son’z Steakhouse, a place where you can find both mouth-watering steaks and succulent lobster tails. For those who prefer to keep it simple with classic seafood dishes, The Fish Market Maui is a reliable choice as well, serving up fresh fish prepared just right.
Traditional Hawaiian Cuisine
During my time in Maui, I had the opportunity to try various traditional Hawaiian dishes that truly showcased the unique flavors of the island. One of my favorites was at Nalu’s South Shore Grill, where their dishes not only tasted amazing but also celebrated the local culture.
Another incredible spot I discovered was Tin Roof Maui. Though a small and unassuming place, their take on Hawaiian comfort food blew me away, particularly their Tuna Poke Bowl with brown rice. It’s a must-try when you’re visiting the island.
I was also impressed by the authenticity of the food served at Eating Local. Here, the focus is on fresh seafood and Hawaiian flavors, creating dishes that are both satisfying and made with high-quality ingredients.
For an upscale dining experience, I would recommend a visit to Lahaina Grill, an award-winning restaurant ranked among the top places to eat in the United States by TripAdvisor. Located in Lahaina on Maui’s west side, this contemporary bistro offers a fantastic fusion of Hawaiian flavors and gourmet cooking techniques.
Vegan and Vegetarian Friendly
During my trip to Maui, I discovered quite a few vegan and vegetarian-friendly restaurants that cater to different tastes and preferences. To help you find the best dining options, I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorites.
One of the standout vegan-friendly spots is Choice Health Bar. I found their menu to be filled with diverse, healthy options like delicious smoothie bowls and nutrient-packed salads.
For a cozy breakfast experience, I would recommend Paia Bay Coffee Bar. This coffee spot offers a laid-back island vibe, complemented by their tasty breakfast offerings and great coffee.
When it comes to vegetarian options, I thoroughly enjoyed the selection at Flatbread Company. This restaurant serves Italian and American cuisine with delicious vegetarian-friendly pizzas on their menu.
Here are some other notable vegan and vegetarian restaurants I discovered during my stay in Maui:
I hope this list of vegan and vegetarian-friendly restaurants helps you plan your dining experiences in Maui. Keep in mind that this is not an exhaustive list, and there are many more hidden gems waiting to be discovered on this beautiful island.
Affordable Eats
During my trips to Maui, I’ve discovered some fantastic affordable places to eat without compromising on taste or quality. Here are a few of my favorite spots:
One eatery I can’t miss is Leoda’s Kitchen & Pie Shop in Lahaina. They offer delicious sandwiches, salads, and mouthwatering pies for under $18. My personal favorite is the chocolate haupia pie, which is absolutely incredible.
For dessert lovers like me, Island Cream Co. is a must-visit. With outstanding ice cream and shaved ice, it’s become a frequent stop during my trips to Maui. Their unique flavors leave me craving more every time.
If you’re a seafood fan, South Maui Fish Company is an excellent choice for fresh poke and affordable seafood dishes. With rave reviews, this popular spot has some of the best fish on the island.
For a taste of Hawaii, Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice is the perfect stop. With a wide variety of flavors and the finest shave ice on the island, it’s no wonder this place is a local favorite.
In addition to these options, Maui has plenty of inexpensive restaurants to choose from. While dining on a budget in Maui might be more expensive than back home, there are still numerous delicious, wallet-friendly choices available.
Beachfront Restaurants
One of my favorite beachfront restaurants on Maui is Mama’s Fish House. Known for its scenic ocean views, this restaurant serves an array of American and Hawaiian dishes. The setting is perfect for enjoying the beauty of the island, with delicious food and a warm atmosphere.
Another great option is Gazebo Restaurant at Napili Shores. This American-style cafe provides amazing views of both the ocean and the lush surroundings. Known for its friendly staff, fantastic food, and relaxed setting, you can expect a memorable experience here.
For seafood lovers, Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman is an excellent choice. Although not directly on the waterfront, it offers a wide range of American-style dishes and fresh seafood. The prices are reasonable, and the restaurant setting reflects the beauty of the island.
If you prefer a more casual dining experience, Hula Grill offers a spectacular view of Kaanapali Beach. Here, you can enjoy the open-air setting and savor freshly caught fish and local produce. This beachfront restaurant is an excellent choice for those looking to relax and soak in the Maui vibes while savoring delectable dishes.
Conclusion
In my exploration of Maui’s dining scene, I’ve discovered that the island offers a diverse array of exceptional restaurants. From locally inspired cuisine to international flavors, there’s something for everyone on this beautiful island. I was particularly impressed by the quality of seafood available on Maui, as showcased by stellar establishments like Merriman’s and Mama’s Fish House.
Another highlight of my experience was exploring the rich and varied Asian culinary traditions brought to Maui, such as the delectable housemade noodles at Star Noodle. The island’s unique fusion of cultures and influence from its Indigenous peoples shines through in the dishes showcased at various eateries across Maui.
As a food-lover, I am extremely satisfied with the dining options available on the island. Whether dining in picturesque beachfront settings or discovering hidden gems frequented by locals, Maui’s culinary offerings have left a lasting impression on me. I look forward to returning to Maui in the future to further explore the island’s gastronomic delights, indulging in the flavors that make this destination truly exceptional.
