Maui, known as the “Valley Isle,” is a beautiful Hawaiian island that is not only famous for its stunning natural beauty but also for its delicious and diverse food scene. The island is home to a wide range of culinary delights, from fresh seafood and traditional Hawaiian dishes to international cuisine and farm-to-table fare. In this blog post, we’ll highlight some of the best food on Maui and provide a list of five must-visit restaurants.
The Best Food on Maui: A Breakdown
One dish that you absolutely must try while on Maui is laulau. Laulau is a traditional Hawaiian dish made of pork, chicken, or fish that is wrapped in taro leaves and steamed. It’s a delicious, savory meal that can be found at many local restaurants and food trucks on the island.
Another local favorite is poke, a dish made of diced raw fish (usually tuna) mixed with a variety of seasonings and sauces. On Maui, you’ll find poke at many markets and supermarkets, but for the freshest poke, head to a local fish market. There, you’ll be able to choose from a variety of freshly caught fish and customize your own poke bowl.
If you’re in the mood for something a little more upscale, Maui has no shortage of fine dining options. One restaurant that stands out is Merriman’s, which serves contemporary Hawaiian cuisine. The restaurant, which has locations in Kapalua and Wailea, has received numerous accolades and is a must-visit for any foodie visiting the island.
But Maui isn’t just about Hawaiian food. The island is home to a diverse population, which means you’ll also find a wide variety of international cuisine. For example, if you’re craving sushi, you can’t go wrong with Sansei, a popular sushi chain with locations in Kihei and Lahaina. Or, if you’re in the mood for Italian, check out Matteo’s Osteria, a high-end Italian restaurant in Wailea.
If you prefer a more casual dining experience, there are plenty of options for that as well. One popular choice is Paia Fish Market, a laid-back seafood restaurant with locations in Paia and Lahaina. Another local favorite is Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice, which serves some of the best shave ice on the island.
The Best Food on Maui: The Top Five!
- Mama’s Fish House – Mama’s Fish House is a Maui institution that has been serving up fresh seafood since 1973. The restaurant is located on a beautiful beach in Paia and has a rustic and charming ambiance. The menu features a variety of fresh fish and shellfish, including the famous mahi mahi stuffed with crab and lobster. The dishes are beautifully presented and incorporate local ingredients, such as coconut and macadamia nuts.
- Lahaina Grill – Lahaina Grill is a fine dining restaurant that has been a staple of the Maui food scene since it opened in 1990. The menu features modern American cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Some of the standout dishes include the ahi carpaccio, roasted beet salad, and the macadamia nut-crusted lamb chops. The restaurant has a sophisticated and elegant ambiance, making it a great choice for a special occasion.
- Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice – Ululani’s is a must-visit spot for anyone with a sweet tooth. The shave ice at Ululani’s is made with finely shaved ice and flavored with all-natural syrups made from fresh fruit. The menu features a variety of flavors, from classic favorites like cherry and blue raspberry to more unique flavors like guava and passion fruit. The shave ice is served in generous portions and is the perfect way to cool off on a hot day.
- Star Noodle – Star Noodle is a popular restaurant in Lahaina that serves up delicious and affordable Asian-inspired cuisine. The menu features a variety of noodle dishes, small plates, and family-style dishes. Some of the standout dishes include the garlic noodles, pork buns, and steamed manila clams. The restaurant has a casual and fun ambiance, with an open kitchen and communal seating.
- Farmacy Health Bar – For those looking for healthy and delicious options, Farmacy Health Bar is a great choice. The menu features a variety of fresh and organic juices, smoothies, salads, and bowls. The dishes are made with locally sourced and organic ingredients and are perfect for a post-beach meal or a refreshing snack. Some of the standout dishes include the green smoothie bowl, the acai bowl, and the Buddha bowl.
Honorable Mentions:
- Gazebo Restaurant – Gazebo is a casual breakfast and lunch spot located in Napili that serves up delicious pancakes, omelets, and sandwiches. The restaurant is famous for its macadamia nut pancakes, which are a must-try.
- Tin Roof Maui – Tin Roof is a popular lunch spot in Kahului that serves up delicious and affordable Hawaiian-inspired cuisine. The menu features a variety of rice bowls, noodle dishes, and sandwiches. Some of the standout dishes include the garlic shrimp plate, the pho french dip, and the fried chicken katsu.
Scott Sweeney is the creator of Virtual Hawaii 360. Scott is a professional marketer and a lifelong Hawaii enthusiast. Scott splits time between Oahu and Dayton, Ohio. In addition to his marketing endevours, he is also a published Ukulele musician.
