Maui is known for a lot of great things, including a vibrant, thriving food scene. This Hawaiian island is home to some of the most talented chefs in the world. Luckily, we’ve narrowed down your restaurant choices for you. This list has something for everyone – local cuisine, affordable eats, and restaurants with unbelievable views.
1. Mama’s Fish House
Established in 1973, Mama’s Fish House has become a staple among locals and visitors in Maui. The restaurant has over 6,000 reviews on Google. Additionally, it was named the second most popular restaurant in the US by OpenTable and Trip Advisor’s Top 10 Fine Dining Restaurants in the US.
Most importantly, Mama’s Fish House has built a reputation for serving some of the freshest seafood on the island. Local fishers sell their catch to the restaurant every day, and the restaurant always serving the catch within 24 hours.
Mama’s Fish House wanted to bring delicious Polynesia cuisine to Hawaii, and the response has been overwhelming. Everyone knows and loves Mama’s Fish House. The menu is full of vibrant dishes full of flavor and color. Our current favorite dish is Mama’s Fish Curry with Ahi, Mahi-Mahi, and Salmon.
2. Star Noodle
Star Noodle has opened in Maui in 2010 and has quickly grown a reputation on the island for serving fantastic Asian-inspired dishes and cocktails. Recently, the restaurant recently changed venues so guests can now enjoy an ocean view as they eat dinner.
Top Chef star Sheldon Simeon used to cook for Star Noodle. Unfortunately, Simeon has moved onto new opportunities, but his delicious menu is still there for everyone to enjoy.
The restaurant specializes in family-style dinner, so come here with a group and enjoy the unique flavors of several dishes. We highly recommend trying the Vietnamese Crepe, Adobo Ribs, and the Lahaina Fried Soup.
As Star Noodle is incredibly popular, we highly recommend you book a reservation in advance.
3. Down the Hatch
Down the Hatch serves fresh seafood cuisine in a “Southern Aloha” style. After opening in 2015, the restaurant became an immediate hit. Just two years after opening, Down the Hatch was featured on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives on the Food Network.
Everyone in Maui loves this restaurant for serving delicious food in big portions. Our top dish here is the Lobster and Crab Stuffed Grilled Cheese on Hawaiian Sweet Bread. Trust us – you’ll have dreams about this decadent sandwich!
4. Kihei Caffe
Kihei Caffe is a “diner done Hawaiin style.” This casual restaurant offers big portions, great food, and friendly service. The diner is popular among Maui locals for its breakfast menu. In fact, it’s so popular that if you come between 8-10 am, you’ll probably have to wait in line before getting a table. Luckily, breakfast is served all day, so if you want to come a bit later to skip the line, you can!
If you go to Kihei Caffe, we recommend ordering the Pork Fried Rice and Eggs and the Pineapple and Coconut French Toast.
5. Morimoto Maui
If you’re looking for an elegant meal, we can’t recommend Morimoto Maui enough. Run by Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto, this restaurant has both fantastic food and great views. In fact, Morimoto offers 180-degree views of the ocean.
We can say for certain that Morimoto will offer you some of the best sushi you’ve had in your life. All of the fish is fresh, the plates are beautifully presented, and the cocktail menu is unbeatable. Come here for a special occasion or a romantic date night.
6. Sale Pepe
When you think of Hawaii, Italian cuisine is probably not the first thing to come to mind. Still, Sale Pepe is bringing authentic and delicious Italian food to Maui finally. A talented husband-and-wife team runs the restaurant. Qiana is from Brooklyn and Michele is from Milan, and they bring both of their backgrounds to Sale Pepe’s menu.
And, Maui has taken notice of Sale Pepe. The restaurant has won “Best Italian Restaurant” every year from 2016-2019.
When you visit Sale Pepe, you’ll want to try everything on the menu. We recommend one appetizer, one pasta dish (spaghetti carbonara), and one pizza (Tomato, Fior di Latte, Pancetta, Pecorino and Poached Egg) for the perfect meal.
7. Café o Lei at the Mill House
Café o Lei is located on the Maui Tropical Plantation, which also features a tram, 60-acres of grounds you can tour, and a shop. This family-owned and operated restaurant serves terrific food in a picturesque setting. Eat your meal on the patio overlooking a pond and a view of stunning mountains.
Enjoy complex, delicious plates such as the Blackened Shrimp with Homemade Parparadele or the Slow Cooked Lamb Shank. The menu conveniently marks which items are gluten-free and vegan too!
Have the ultimate Maui trip and visit all seven of these amazing restaurants!
Summary:
Explore the culinary wonders of Maui through this guide, where we've uncovered seven exceptional dining destinations. From the delectable seafood delights of Mama's Fish House to the mouthwatering pies at Leoda's Kitchen and Pie Shop, Maui boasts a diverse range of culinary experiences. Whether you're craving farm-to-table cuisine with breathtaking vistas, Asian-inspired dishes, authentic Hawaiian flavors, or charming local fare, Maui has it all. Dive into the island's food scene and savor the unique flavors that make dining in Maui a delightful adventure.
