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Unforgettable Maui Food Experiences
Looking for something specific? Here's where to find the best of the best in each category
Written by a Local Food Expert
Jade KawanuiWhere to Find the Best Fresh Seafood
On an island, fresh seafood is essential. These places have direct lines to local fishermen, ensuring the fish on your plate was swimming in the Pacific that same morning.
Mama's Fish House
The ultimate for tracking the exact fisherman and location. Every fish is named with who caught it and where.
Paia Fish Market
Fresh fish in a casual setting. Huge portions of daily catch served with pure aloha vibes.
Merriman's Kapalua
Showcases local sustainable seafood in creative preparations with the best sunset view on the island.
Hula Grill
Quality fresh fish with an unbeatable beachfront location where you can have your toes in the sand.
Authentic Hawaiian Food You Can't Miss
It's important to understand the difference between "Local Food" and traditional "Hawaiian Food." Local food is the wonderful melting pot cuisine like plate lunches and saimin. Hawaiian food refers to dishes rooted in native culture like lau lau, kalua pork, and poi.
For the ultimate traditional feast: Old Lāhainā Lūʻau is the premier experience. They serve authentic kālua pig cooked in an imu (underground oven), savory lau lau, fresh poi, and more. It's all paired with authentic hula and storytelling that connects you to Hawaiian culture in a meaningful way.
Da Kitchen
Massive portions of authentic Hawaiian plate lunches in casual settings. The Kalua Pork is tender and smoky.
Aloha Mixed Plate
Top recommendation for delicious a la carte Hawaiian plates served in a casual beachside setting.
Best Restaurants for Breathtaking Ocean Views
A great meal on Maui becomes even better with a stunning view. For unforgettable dinners watching the waves, these are the top picks.
Merriman's Kapalua
The ultimate sunset view on the island. I will fight anyone who disagrees.
Mama's Fish House
Secluded North Shore beauty with waves crashing just steps away from your table.
Sea House Restaurant
Sits right on the sand of Napili Bay with views to Molokai. The sunset here is absolutely stunning.
Hula Grill
Classic Kaanapali beach vibe with barefoot dining and ocean views that never get old.
Must-Try Breakfast and Brunch Spots
Maui does breakfast right. These legendary spots are worth the inevitable wait.
Kīhei Caffe
Massive classic plates that fuel your whole morning. The macadamia nut French toast with coconut syrup is incredible.
The Gazebo
Famous for macadamia nut pancakes with an incredible view of Napili Bay. Always a line but absolutely worth it.
Nalu's South Shore Grill
More relaxed vibe with live music and generous portions at great prices.
Leoda's Kitchen and Pie Shop
In Olowalu - some of the best breakfast sandwiches and pies you'll ever have.
Where to Find the Best Shave Ice
Forget everything you think you know about snow cones. Real Hawaiian shave ice is delicate, fluffy, and delicious. Nobody does it better than Ululani's Hawaiian Shave Ice.
Ululani's Hawaiian Shave Ice - They're the undisputed champions on the island. The ice is shaved incredibly fine, like fresh snow. All their syrups are made in-house from real fruit purees and cane sugar. No artificial flavors or colors.
Pro Tip: Order it "with a snow cap," which means a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk over the top. Get a scoop of their creamy macadamia nut ice cream on the bottom. My favorite flavor combination is passion fruit (lilikoi), guava, and mango. The tropical flavors capture Maui in every bite.
ℹ️ Categories
- Fresh Seafood
- Hawaiian Food
- Ocean Views
- Breakfast & Brunch
- Shave Ice