The Best places to eat in Maui now

After having some fun adventures exploring around Maui or having a cool beach day on the island, I’m sure any hungry mind will be thinking about what good food to eat around the island. So, I’ve asked a few travel writers and bloggers to help me out and suggest some of their favorite spots to eat some delicious Maui local foods that are a must for any visitor. Check out the best places to visit and eat in Maui below now.

** Please note with the closure of Lahaina town, please disregard the restaurants featured on this post that featured that place. We hope that a new Lahaina town will be built again with plenting of dining options to consider in the historic capital.

The best restaurants in Maui and some other cool venues

Monkeypod in Maui

Monkeypod Kitchen is a popular restaurant located in Maui, Hawaii, known for its farm-to-table cuisine and craft cocktails. The menu features a variety of dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including seafood, meat, and vegetarian options.

Some popular dishes at Monkeypod Kitchen include the Kiawe Wood Oven-Roasted Half Chicken, the Fish and Chips made with fresh-caught mahi-mahi, and the Lobster Deviled Eggs. They also have a selection of wood-fired pizzas, burgers, and salads.

For appetizers, the restaurant offers a range of options such as the Ahi Poke Tacos, Korean Fried Chicken Wings, and Truffle Fries. Desserts include their famous Cream Pie, a chocolate cake called the “Chocolate Diavolo,” and a Banana Cream Pie.

Overall, the food at Monkeypod Kitchen is known for its delicious flavors and high-quality ingredients, making it a popular dining spot for locals and visitors alike.

Noel with Visit California and Beyond

Maui Brewing Company

Maui Brewing Company is a popular craft brewery located in Kihei, Maui, Hawaii, known for its locally brewed beer and pub fare. The brewery offers a variety of year-round and seasonal beers, many of which feature locally sourced ingredients.

Some popular beers at Maui Brewing Company include the Bikini Blonde Lager, the Pineapple Mana Wheat, and the Coconut Hiwa Porter. They also offer a rotating selection of limited-release beers, barrel-aged beers, and collaborations with other breweries.

In addition to beer, the brewery also has a restaurant that serves a variety of pub fare made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Popular dishes include the Kiawe Wood Grilled Pork Chops, the Fish Tacos made with fresh-caught fish, and the Coconut Shrimp.

For appetizers, the restaurant offers a range of options such as the Beer Battered Onion Rings, the Ahi Poke Nachos, and the Fried Brussels Sprouts. They also have a selection of salads, sandwiches, and burgers.

Overall, the food and beer at Maui Brewing Company are known for their high quality and locally sourced ingredients, making it a popular spot for both beer lovers and foodies alike.

Check out the blog at USA Road trips Now

Try the Ka Haku Smoke Shake

If you’re looking for a change from the fancier Maui restaurants, the Hana highway is the place to be. It meanders through the most authentic part of the island, home to lush tropical foliage, fern-covered hills and mesmerizing waterfalls. A similar purity can be in the food. Several quaint food shacks dot the Road to Hana but only one is renowned for its perfectly barbecued meat and that’s the Ka Haku Smoke Shack.

This street-food-hotspot is located near mile marker 10, half a mile before the Garden of Eden. No frills, just a mouthwatering meal served on a biodegradable banana-leaves lined bamboo stalk. The meat of the day – pork ribs, pork belly and/or chicken – is roasted to perfection over an open wood fire. This tender and juice hero of the dish is served with coconut rice, grilled banana and a fern-onion-tomato salad. A flavor-packed plate is priced at $20 and is plenty for two. Just remember to bring cash and napkins. Seating is limited and consists of pallets or logs. This barbecue shack may be located a bit further away from the popular resorts that make this family-friendly Hawaiian island so well-loved but it’s an essential stop if you plan on driving the Road to Hana.

Sarah with Cosmopoliclan.com

Fleetwood’s on Front Street 

Fleetwood’s on Front Street is not only one of the best restaurants in Lahaina but it’s one of the best restaurants on Maui.   Located on Maui’s West Coast, Lahaina is a historic, surf town perched on the water’s edge.  

Fleetwood’s is a destination restaurant known for its hand-crafted cocktails, superior cuisine, live music and the views as it has the only rooftop bar in town.  If that wasn’t enough, the restaurant is owned by the legend himself, Mick Fleetwood from Fleetwood Mac.  And yes, Mick is known to pop in for some impromptu concerts.  

**Fleetwoods is burned and not operating

The best time to dine is at sunset on the rooftop as you’re greeted with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and the West Maui Mountains.  At 5:45 there is a nightly sunset ceremony where a Scottish piper or Kumu (Hawaiian for teacher) comes in, talks story and lights the tiki torches.  

Reservations open up 30 days in advance and fill up fast so a bit of preplanning is required if you want to dine at Fleetwoods.  Must try items include the Lahaina burger, lobster tacos and everyone’s favorite off-menu item, the ultimate surf n turf. 

Jess from I’m Jess Traveling 

The Fish Market Maui

A local small fish market in Lahaina that serves delicious catch of the day from local fishermen that bring in their fresh fish and serve up the best tasting fish dishes for lunch or dinner. At The Fish Market Maui, you can order from the fish market some of their local fish like Ahi, Ono, Mahi and delicious Opakapaka and try some of the fresh poke, fish salads and other fish inspired dishes. There’s a hot food and cold food side to order from and you can order dishes online for quick take out food.

Delicious food to try include their ahi tuna sashimi plate, fish and chips, local burrito style with shrimp or Kalua pork, poke or baja style fish tacos. Everything is fresh and so good to eat on the spot.

Noel with Travel Photo Discovery 

** The Fish Market in Lahaina is destroyed due to the fires.

Gazebo Restaurant

Located in the Napili area and known for its amazing and generous breakfast, brunch and lunch venue, Gazebo is the local favorite spot. Tourist and locals alike love it for the amazing and tasty breakfast food, great views and service. Of course everyone’s favorite pancake place to eat along with any time of the day to have breakfast food to local food favorites on the menu.

Things to try here include their macadamia pancakes or their combo pineapple and banana pancake, Big Kahuna omelete, Portuguese sausage, French toast – really almost everything on their menu you should try.

Leilani’s on the Beach at Kaanapali

If you’re looking for the best island in Hawaii, Maui will win you over due to all the delicious food! One of the best places to eat in all of Maui is Leilani’s on the Beach.

Located right in the heart of Kaanapali Beach is an ocean-front restaurant with the island’s best fish tacos. To sit on the patio, listening to the ocean waves and dining on delicious fish tacos is the best combination for a great vacation!

Of course, Leilani’s has a full menu of delicious foods. From island favorites like calamari strips and an ahi poke bowl to salads, burgers and even filet mignon, you can’t go wrong at Leilani’s. 

But perhaps one of the most notable things about this delicious restaurant is the dessert. While in Maui, you absolutely must try Kimo’s Original Hula Pie. It’s a delicious mix between pie and ice cream, the chocolate cookie crust invites you in while the toasted mac nuts and hot fudge top it off. 

Oh, and get there early if you want to grab a seat with a sunset view – it fills up fast and there’s almost always a wait at Leilani’s on the Beach!

Recommended by Nikki of She Saves She Travels

Mama’s Fish House

An iconic fish and seafood restaurant located just outside of Paia on a gorgeous beach area, Mama’s Fish House is very popular with visitors offering fresh caught fish and source seafood with inventive flare, delicious food and a luxury setting. Colorful food preparations, great drinks and over the top desserts make this one of the most sought after restaurants to visit in Maui.

If you want to splurge on a good experience while visiting the central area or on your way to Hana, make sure to book a reservation here. The place is always booked way in advanced so be prepared so you can dine at this wonderful venue.

Best Shave Ice on the island at Ululani’s

Ever local on the island will tell you that the best shave ice location on the island to try out is Ululani’s Shave Ice located both in Kihei and Lahaina area. Ululani’s makes their own juices, uses 100% pure cane sugar, the best fruit extracts and they come in some irresistible flavor combinations that you should try if you’re not to familiar with eating shave ice. The shave ice always starts with gourmet Maui made ice cream on the bottom, extra fine shave ice and then topped with their local favorite juices and other toppings you can choose from.

If you haven’t experienced shave ice on the islands then head for Ulualani’s shave ice for a piece of eating perfection and extra fine shave ice to die for.

Noel at Visit California and Beyond

Coconut’s Fish Cafe

Located in Kihei, this restaurant is a local favorite spot is casual and serves a variety of fresh seafood dishes. Popular favorite dishes to try here includes: Ahi poke, chowder and coconut shrimp for appetizers and for entrees try their fish tacos, mahi mahi, fish and chips and many other delicious dishes on their menu.

Coconut’s Fish Cafe is service is friendly fast and they also serve some delicious local style food to try on their menu and it won’t disappoint when you try them.

Noel with Oahu Travel Now

Lahaina Grill

A visit Lahaina Grill is a must for delicious Maui Island food experiences with the flavorful food. They use the freshest ingredients from local farms and producers and the food is distinctive  and well blended. Always voted as a top restaurant to eat from Help, TripAdvisor and Maui Magazine and Honolulu Magazine, the food really shines here.

Try their specials like Monkchong in risotto, Ossobuco, Wagyu beef ravioli, boneless short rib, Mahi mahi and some of their delicious craft cocktails to match. This is fine dining at its best in Lahaina. This is a fine dining establishment in Lahaina and done so well that you will love your experience here.

** the Lahaina Grill is burned down and not open

Cool Cat Cafe – Lahaina

Cool Cat Cafe is a popular restaurant located in Lahaina, Maui, known for its American-style diner fare and retro atmosphere. The menu features a variety of classic dishes made with high-quality ingredients.

Some popular dishes at Cool Cat Cafe include the burgers, which are made with fresh, hand-formed beef patties and a variety of toppings such as avocado, bacon, and cheese. They also offer sandwiches, salads, and a selection of appetizers such as onion rings and mozzarella sticks.

For those who prefer something other than burgers, Cool Cat Cafe also offers entrees such as fish and chips, baby back ribs, and chicken parmesan. They also have a selection of vegetarian and gluten-free options.

In addition to the food, Cool Cat Cafe is known for its retro atmosphere, with a decor that features vintage neon signs, classic cars, and jukeboxes. They also offer a selection of milkshakes and floats, as well as a variety of beers and cocktails.

** Cool Cat Cafe is burned down and not open

Merrimans – Maui

Located in beautiful Kapalua, chef Peter Merriman brings the unique Hawaiian regional cuisine to Maui and serving up Hawaiian, seafood using the best farm to table ingredients from local farmers, fishermen, beef and other meat products locally along with other sourced products around the islands to produce flavorful, gorgeous platings and inventive combinations of ingredients and presentation in a gorgeous environment.

Best things to try at Merrimans Kapalua with his signature dishes including:

prime rib, mahi mahi, Kalua pig quesadilla, Diver sea scallops and wild shrimp, Cioppino or their delicious prix fix menu. Top that with a Merriman’s Mai Tai with a sunset view and your going to have an amazing meal. Popular desserts to order include: Macadamia nut tart, chocolate mousse, Puna honey cheesecake or a yummy Maui pineapple bread pudding.

Noel with USA Road Trip Now

Paia Fish Market

A local dining spot and favorite for fresh fish served daily, the Paia Fish Market is popular and affordable food in the Maui dining scene for cafe style eats. Things to try at the Paia fish market includes all their fresh fish specialties, fish or chicken tacos, fish, fish and chips or other local favorites like beef burgers from the Maui Cattle Company. If you choose a fish dish, there are several options for how it is prepared and the sides you can choose from the menu.

Serving excellent food and quality ingredients, quality service and generous portions, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal here at a good price when you visit the Paia area.

Noel with Oahu Travel Now

Tommy Bahama Restaurant – Wailea

Tommy Bahama Restaurant, Bar & Store is a popular restaurant located in Wailea, Maui, known for its island-inspired cuisine and tropical cocktails. The menu features a variety of dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including seafood, meat, and vegetarian options.

Some popular dishes at Tommy Bahama Restaurant include the Coconut Crusted Crab Cakes, the Macadamia Nut Crusted Mahi Mahi, and the Kona Coffee Crusted Ribeye. They also offer a selection of pizzas, sandwiches, and salads.

For appetizers, the restaurant offers a range of options such as the Coconut Shrimp, the Ahi Poke Tacos, and the Blackened Fish Sliders. They also have a selection of desserts, including the Key Lime Pie and the Pina Colada Cake.

In addition to the food, Tommy Bahama Restaurant is known for its tropical cocktails, made with fresh juices, premium spirits, and creative ingredients. Some popular cocktails include the Coconut Cloud Martini, the Pineapple Paradiso, and the Mai Tai.

Overall, the food and drinks at Tommy Bahama Restaurant are known for their island-inspired flavors and high-quality ingredients, making it a popular dining spot for locals and visitors alike.

Check out Noel’s posts on visiting Hawaii

Food Truck Court – Costco Maui

Costco Maui is a popular shopping destination that also features a food court with several food truck vendors. The food trucks offer a variety of local and international cuisine at affordable prices.

Some of the food trucks at Costco Maui include:

1. Maui Tacos: This food truck serves a variety of Mexican-inspired dishes such as tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. They also offer vegetarian options and sides like chips and salsa.
2. Pizza Truck: This food truck serves pizzas made to order with a variety of toppings. They also offer garlic knots and salads.
3. Aloha Plate: This food truck serves Hawaiian-inspired dishes such as garlic shrimp, chicken katsu, and loco moco. They also offer sides like macaroni salad and garlic fries.
4. Da Nani Pirates: This food truck serves seafood dishes such as fish tacos, fish and chips, and shrimp scampi. They also offer sandwiches and sides like onion rings and hushpuppies.
5. Maui Crispy Chicken: This food truck serves crispy fried chicken and wings with a variety of sauces. They also offer sides like macaroni and cheese and coleslaw.

Overall, the food trucks at Costco Maui are known for their affordable prices and variety of local and international cuisine, making it a popular spot for a quick and tasty meal while shopping.

Sugar Beach Bake Shop

Located in Kihei, if you have a craving for some delicious baked goods that are the best in Maui, then head out to the Sugar Beach Bake Shop located in Maui. They make a variety of desserts and baked goods from cheesecake ,pies, banana breads, brownies, various breads, and gorgeous cakes all using the best locally sourced ingredients. Sugar Beach is best known for their delicious malasadas (Portuguese style donuts) which are just amazing and with a variety of filled favorites to include: Ube, coconut cream, Li Hing and favorite passionfruit. The malasadas are not greasy and overly sweet. Just perfect and hot, the way you want to eat them.

Prices are reasonable and they quickly run out of the best malasadas and desserts. You can also come in for a meal if you are more hungry to try so delicious local foods.

Noel with Oahu Travel Now

Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop

Leodas Kitchen and Pie Shop is a popular restaurant located in Lahaina, Maui, known for its homemade pies and farm-to-table cuisine. The menu features a variety of dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including seafood, meat, and vegetarian options.

Some popular dishes at Leodas Kitchen and Pie Shop include the Fried Chicken and Waffles, the Kalua Pork Eggs Benedict, and the Macadamia Nut Pancakes. They also offer a selection of sandwiches, salads, and burgers.

For appetizers, the restaurant offers a range of options such as the Fried Calamari, Pork and Shrimp Dumplings, and Crab Cakes. They are also well-known for their pies, which come in a variety of flavors such as Banana Cream, Chocolate Haupia, and Macadamia Nut.

Overall, the food at Leodas Kitchen and Pie Shop is known for its delicious flavors and homemade quality, making it a popular dining spot for locals and visitors alike.

Looking for more Maui inspiration?

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45 fantastic things to do in Maui

Tips to dining around Maui

Here are some tips for eating and booking at Maui restaurants:

1. Plan ahead: Maui can be a busy destination, especially during peak tourist season. To avoid disappointment, make reservations in advance to ensure a table at your desired restaurant.
2. Consider the time of day: Many Maui restaurants offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus. Consider the time of day you plan to eat and select a restaurant accordingly.
3. Check reviews: Before booking a restaurant, check online reviews to get an idea of the menu, service, and atmosphere. Websites such as Yelp, Tripadvisor, and OpenTable can be helpful for finding and booking restaurants.
4. Dress appropriately: Many Maui restaurants have dress codes, so be sure to check before you go. Some restaurants may require resort casual attire, while others may allow more relaxed dress.
5. Be aware of peak hours: Restaurants on Maui can get very busy during peak hours, especially for dinner. Consider eating earlier or later to avoid crowds and long wait times.
6. Ask for local recommendations: Don’t be afraid to ask locals for restaurant recommendations. They often have insider knowledge of the best places to eat on the island.
7. Try local cuisine: Maui has a diverse food scene, with many restaurants featuring local cuisine such as poke bowls, loco moco, and spam musubi. Be sure to try some of the local specialties during your visit.

Overall, planning ahead, checking reviews, and being aware of local customs can help you have a great dining experience while visiting Maui.

That’s it, now it’s your turn to share your favorite places to eat in Maui

Which of these fun places to eat have you been to or have we missed any locale favorites? Please share them it in the comments below.

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