Authentic local Maui food and plate lunch

Authentic Local Grindz

Where locals eat - the best authentic island flavors and traditional favorites

Jade Kawanui, local food expert and author

Written by a Local Expert

Authentic Local Grindz

🍗 4. Tin Roof - Kahului

Sheldon Simeon's takeout spot revolutionized local comfort food. These aren't your typical plate lunches, they're elevated versions served in "kau kau tins" that you can grab and go or enjoy at the few picnic tables outside.

The mochiko chicken is legendary for good reason. The rice flour coating creates an impossibly crispy exterior while keeping the meat incredibly juicy. Each bite delivers layers of flavor from the marinade that's been perfected over years.

The pork belly bowl showcases how traditional local ingredients can be transformed into something extraordinary. Tender, fatty pork sits atop rice with pickled vegetables and a soft-cooked egg that brings everything together.

Pro Tip: Order online to skip the line, and don't leave without a "dime bag" of their housemade furikake to take home.

🍜 5. Sam Sato's - Wailuku

This Wailuku institution has been family-owned since 1933, serving the same recipes to three generations of local families. The yellow building looks unassuming, but inside you'll find some of the most authentic local food on the island.

Their dry mein is unlike anything you'll find elsewhere, noodles served with broth on the side for dipping or pouring. The noodles have a perfect chew, and the broth is rich with pork and shiitake flavors that have been developing since the early morning.

The sweet lima bean manju for dessert is a local tradition. These soft, slightly sweet buns filled with smooth lima bean paste might sound unusual, but they're the perfect end to a satisfying meal.

Important: Cash only, and they close in the early afternoon, so plan accordingly.

🍽️ 6. Da Kitchen - Kihei

When locals talk about massive portions, they're talking about Da Kitchen. This isn't a place for light eaters, plates here are designed to satisfy the biggest appetites with generous helpings of local favorites.

The Notorious B.I.G. Moco is exactly what it sounds like, a regular loco moco buried under chili, cheese, Portuguese sausage, and bacon. It's more food challenge than meal, but somehow every bite works together.

Their deep-fried spam musubi takes the beloved local snack and turns it into something indulgent and crispy. The spam stays tender inside while the rice gets golden and crunchy.

Pro Tip: One plate easily feeds two adults, so come hungry or ready to share.

🥞 7. Kihei Caffe - Kihei

Those colorful umbrellas and roaming chickens tell you everything you need to know about this place, it's pure, unpretentious Maui breakfast culture. Lines snake out the door every morning because locals know this is where you get the real deal.

The banana macadamia nut pancakes with coconut syrup taste like the island itself. Light, fluffy pancakes studded with local nuts and bananas, drizzled with syrup that carries hints of tropical sweetness.

Their loco moco variations are creative without being gimmicky. Each one starts with the classic foundation but adds local touches that make every bite interesting.

Pro Tip: The original location at 1945 S. Kihei Road is where you want to go. Grab a menu while waiting in line so you're ready to order at the counter.

🍝 8. Star Noodle - Lahaina

After the devastating Lahaina fires, Star Noodle's reopening in their stunning new oceanfront location felt like a symbol of the community's resilience. This Asian-inspired restaurant serves creative share plates and house-made noodles that have become local legends.

The garlic noodles are simple perfection, fresh pasta tossed with roasted garlic, butter, and parmesan, finished with scallions and a soft egg. It sounds basic, but the execution elevates it to something magical.

The steamed pork buns showcase how traditional techniques can create modern comfort food. Fluffy buns filled with tender pork belly, pickled vegetables, and herbs that brighten every bite.

Their pohole (fern shoot) salad connects you directly to Hawaii's native ingredients, crisp, slightly mineral fiddleheads dressed simply to let their unique flavor shine.

Important: Reservations are essential and should be made weeks in advance.