From oceanfront fine dining to hidden local favorites
Discover the island's most unforgettable dining experiences, from world-famous oceanfront restaurants to the local plate lunch spots that locals swear by.
Mama's Fish House in Pa'ia has been the crown jewel of Maui dining for decades. Nestled on a secluded beach cove, every dish lists the fisherman who caught your meal and where it was hooked. Reservations fill up weeks in advance, so plan ahead.
Merriman's in Kapalua offers Pacific Rim cuisine with jaw-dropping sunset views over Kapalua Bay. Their macadamia nut-crusted mahi mahi is legendary. For a more contemporary take, Ka'ana Kitchen at the Andaz Wailea delivers a stunning farm-to-table breakfast and dinner experience.
Star Noodle serves incredible Asian-fusion dishes in a relaxed setting with panoramic ocean views. Their garlic noodles and steamed pork buns are must-orders. Monkeypod Kitchen, with locations in Wailea and Ka'anapali, pairs creative craft cocktails with wood-fired pizzas and a lively atmosphere.
For an authentic taste of local culture, Tin Roof in Kahului is chef Sheldon Simeon's love letter to Hawaiian plate lunch. The dry miso chicken and garlic noodles draw lines around the block. Arrive early for the best selection.
Hali'imaile General Store sits in a converted plantation store surrounded by pineapple fields in upcountry Maui. Chef Bev Gannon's Asian-influenced dishes showcase the bounty of Maui's fertile farmland. The sashimi napoleon is a signature not to miss.
Leoda's Kitchen and Pie Shop in Olowalu is a must-stop on the drive between Lahaina and south Maui. Their hand-crafted pies, both savory and sweet, are the stuff of island legend. Grab a banana cream pie for the road.
Reservations are essential at popular restaurants, especially during peak season from December through April. Many of Maui's best restaurants source ingredients from local farms, so menus change seasonally. Don't skip the food trucks clustered around Kahului and Pa'ia for some of the island's most creative and affordable eats.