33 BEST Local Places to Eat in Maui
When you’re in Maui, you’re in for some of the BEST local food in the Hawaiian Islands. Some of our favorite local places to eat in Maui serve fresh fish, plate lunches, and other dishes that are uniquely Hawaiian. Here are 33 must-visit local restaurants in Maui!
Mama’s Fish House
Located on the North Shore, Mama’s Fish House is often hailed as the best restaurant on the island – and for a good reason.
This iconic restaurant sits right on the beach, serving up ultra-fresh seafood caught daily. It’s a perfect place for a special occasion, with menu items focusing on fresh seafood dishes sourced directly from local fishermen. The menu has everything from traditional Hawaiian lau lau to mouth-watering fish tacos.
We especially love the coconut-crusted fish or poke bowl!
If you’re after a unique dining experience, this open-air restaurant decked in vintage Polynesian decor is a must-visit Maui restaurant. Make sure to book in advance—this place is always in high demand.
Da Kitchen
If you want authentic Hawaiian food, Da Kitchen in Kahului and Kihei is the place to be.
Known for its huge portions and local favorites like kalua pork, loco moco, and chicken katsu, it’s the go-to order for both locals and visitors.
Don’t miss out on the famous pork belly plate or a classic Hawaiian plate lunch. They have friendly service and a casual eatery vibe – it’s one of the best local places to eat in Maui!
Tin Roof
Run by Chef Sheldon Simeon, a local celebrity chef who is a Top Chef alum, Tin Roof in Kahului serves up modern takes on local food in Maui.
Their menu items are a mix of traditional and contemporary, with standouts like mochiko chicken and dry mein. Their fried rice is also yummy! The counter service and strip mall location might seem unassuming, but the flavors packed into every dish make this a popular spot among locals.
The pork belly bowl is a local favorite, and the garlic shrimp is a must-try. Be sure to get there early, as this spot tends to sell out fast.
Paia Fish Market – Paia, Lahaina, & Kihei
With locations in Paia, Lahaina, and Kihei, Paia Fish Market is a go-to spot for all kinds of fresh fish dishes served in a casual atmosphere.
From fish burgers, fish plates, and fish tacos, everything here is mouthwateringly good and seasoned just right. The portions are generous too, so come hungry!
Sam Sato’s
If you’re exploring West Maui, a visit to Sam Sato’s in Wailuku is a must. Known for its dry mein—a noodle dish with bean sprouts and char siu pork—this family-owned restaurant has been a staple in the community for decades.
The original recipe has been passed down through generations and remains one of the best places to grab a comforting bowl of noodles. This spot is simple, affordable, and delicious!
Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread
This tiny stand along the Road to Hana is a must-stop!
Aunty Sandy’s banana bread is the best on the island—moist, dense, and full of flavor. Pair it with a cup of coffee or some fresh pineapple, and you’ve got the perfect road trip snack.
Geste Shrimp Truck
No trip to Maui would be complete without stopping by Geste Shrimp Truck in Kahului. Famous for their garlic shrimp, this food truck serves some of the best food truck fare across Maui.
Their menu is simple but full of flavor, with options like spicy pineapple shrimp and soy sauce-marinated shrimp. Grab a plate and enjoy your meal right in the parking lot!
808 Grindz Cafe
If you’re looking for a hearty breakfast in Lahaina, 808 Grindz Cafe is where it’s at. Famous for their macadamia nut pancakes with haupia (coconut) sauce, this place delivers on flavor. They also offer a mean loco moco—Hawaii’s ultimate comfort dish.
Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman
Over in Wailea, Monkeypod Kitchen is a great spot for those looking to enjoy live music, great food, and a lively happy hour.
The menu is a mix of Hawaii Regional Cuisine and American classics, with highlights like fish tacos, poke bowls, and their famous strawberry cream pie. This Maui restaurant is relaxed and welcoming, great for a casual Friday night out. Plus, they’re known for using local farmers’ produce.
Try their “Maui No Ka Oi” pizza and Mai Tai with honey-lilikoi foam!
Tasty Crust
Tasty Crust is another great local place to eat in Maui – specifically Wailuku. Here, breakfast menu reigns supreme. This diner-style spot is where locals flock for their famous pancakes, loco moco, saimin, and pork belly.
Their smash burgers are also a hit, and we loved its retro decor. The food here is hearty and comforting – it’s a great place to start your day before heading out to explore the island.
Joey’s Kitchen
Don’t let the strip mall location fool you—Joey’s Kitchen in Lahaina and Napili is one of the best local places to eat in Maui. From Hawaiian plate lunches to noodle bowls, the menu here is diverse and delicious.
The fish market-style approach allows you to get a variety of fresh seafood dishes, and their pork belly adobo is a standout. It’s a casual eatery that’s fantastic for a quick and satisfying meal.
Moku Roots
For those looking for a sustainable dining experience, Moku Roots in Lahaina offers a farm-to-table menu that’s both creative and eco-friendly. The restaurant offers unique dishes like vegan lau lau and taro burgers.
The menu is entirely plant-based, but the flavors are so rich and satisfying that even meat lovers will find something to enjoy.
Nalu’s South Shore Grill
This casual eatery in Kihei serves up fresh, healthy options. Nalu’s South Shore Grill is famous for its poke bowls, fresh salads, and epic breakfast burritos. With live music and a relaxed vibe, it’s a great spot to chill with friends or family.
Flatbread Company
Located in Paia, Flatbread Company is known for its wood-fired pizzas made with local ingredients. The open-air restaurant is laidback and great for families or groups looking for a casual dining experience.
With options like kalua pig and other Hawaiian flavors, their pizzas are a great way to enjoy the island’s local produce in a familiar format.
Kula Lodge
In Upcountry Maui, Kula Lodge is another great local place to eat in Maui – especially since you get a side of breathtaking views of the island!
This local Maui restaurant has a menu that features a mix of local and continental dishes, with highlights like kalua pork pizza and fresh fish. It’s a popular spot for breakfast and brunch.
Island Cream Co.
Island Cream Co. is one of our favorite Maui ice cream shops located in Lahaina. They dont’ just serve traditional ice cream, but a signature “Island Cream,” a combination of gelato, sorbet, and ice cream. With over 36 flavors to choose from, like Lilikoi Cheesecake and Pineapple Dole Whip, we keep coming back!!
The Fish Market Maui – Lahaina
For those looking to eat like a local in Maui, stop by The Fish Market Maui. This small, counter-service joint in Lahaina offers some of the freshest fish in Maui, from fish tacos to poke bowls. Their seafood chowder is a must-try.
A Saigon Cafe
A Saigon Cafe is a must-try in Wailuku. Don’t let the 1970s roadhouse look fool you – inside, you’ll find some of the best Vietnamese food on the island. They’ve won the Maui Aipono Restaurant Award many times and their pho is out-of-this-world delicious!
Home Maid Bakery
If you’re in the mood for something sweet, stop by Home Maid Bakery in Wailuku for some of their famous malasadas (Portuguese doughnuts) or manju (Japanese pastries). The bakery has been a local favorite for years and is known for its fresh and delicious treats.
South Maui Fish Company
South Maui Fish Company is perfect local place to eat in Maui for fresh seafood. It’s a food truck, but don’t let that fool you. The fish is caught daily and prepared right in front of you. Try the poke bowl or fish tacos.
Kihei Caffe
Kihei Caffe is one of Maui’s best local places to eat for breakfast. Get there early – there’s usually a line. But it’s worth the wait for their huge portions of local-style breakfast. The banana macadamia nut pancakes are a hit!
Cool Cat Cafe
Cool Cat Cafe in Lahaina is burger heaven. It’s got a fun 50s diner vibe and often has live music. Try the Don Ho burger – don’t worry about the pineapple, it works!
Aloha Mixed Plate
Aloha Mixed Plate serves up classic Hawaiian plate lunches. You get a main dish, two scoops of rice, and mac salad. It’s casual, affordable, and right on the beach. Perfect for a laid-back lunch or dinner.
Merriman’s Kapalua
For a more upscale dining experience, Merriman’s Kapalua offers farm-to-table dishes with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Their seafood options are top-notch, and the view of the sunset from their oceanfront patio is unbeatable.
Foodland
When it comes to affordable poke and musubi, you can’t overlook Foodland. This local grocery store chain is surprisingly known for serving some of the best poke on the island. Their poke counter is always stocked with fresh, marinated fish in a variety of flavors—from classic shoyu to spicy ahi. It’s affordable, delicious, and a favorite among locals. While you’re there, grab a Spam musubi for the perfect grab-and-go snack!
Paia Bay Coffee
You’ll love grabbing a quick bite at Maui’s charming cafes and food trucks. Stop by a local coffee shop for a morning pick-me-up and fresh pastry. Try Paia Bay Coffee for tasty acai bowls and sandwiches in a cozy garden setting.
Poke Bob’s
For lunch on the go, head to Poke Bob’s in Hana for delicious poke bowls, fish dishes, and steak kabobs. It’s a favorite spot for locals looking for fast, fresh food.
Star Noodle
Don’t miss Star Noodle in Lahaina for Asian-inspired small plates and house-made noodles. Their outdoor patio is great for a casual dinner with friends.
Coconut’s Fish Cafe
Coconut’s Fish Cafe is a great spot for fresh and flavorful fish tacos in Kihei. They also have healthy options like salads and grilled fish plates!
Morimoto Maui
Try Morimoto Maui for innovative Japanese fusion in a more upscale setting. Celebrity chef Masaharu Morimoto crafts dishes like wagyu beef carpaccio and whole roasted lobster – delicious!
Sansei Seafood Restaurant
Japanese food is big on Maui. You can get fresh sushi and sashimi at many spots. Try Sansei Seafood Restaurant for some of the best rolls around.
Hula Grill
Hula Grill offers a laid-back dining experience with oceanfront views in Ka’anapali. This spot is perfect for enjoying the sunset with your toes in the sand and a tropical drink in hand. Their menu features a mix of fresh seafood, island-style cuisine, and classic Hawaiian dishes.
Don’t miss their “Hula Pie” for dessert—which includes macadamia nut ice cream, hot fudge, and whipped cream.
T. Komoda Store & Bakery
Portuguese influence is strong on Maui. Don’t miss the malasadas (fried dough pastries) at T. Komoda Store & Bakery. They’re heavenly!
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Are there any other local places to eat in Maui that you recommend? Feel free to leave a comment below!
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