Welcome to the ultimate Maui culinary experience! Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for something new and exciting, this island has plenty of delicious options waiting for you. Here are some popular restaurants in Maui that you should definitely try:
1. The Mill House – This restaurant is known for its farm-to-table cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients. Try their famous roasted chicken or the fresh fish tacos.
2. Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman – Chef Peter Merriman offers modern Hawaiian cuisine at his flagship restaurant in Wailea. Don’t miss out on their signature dish, the lobster mac and cheese.
3. Honu Seafood & Pizza – Located right on the beach in Kihei, this restaurant serves up some of the best seafood pizzas around. You can also enjoy live music while you eat.
4. Fleetwood’s On Front Street – With two locations in Lahaina and Kaanapali, this restaurant is perfect if you want to try traditional American comfort food with a twist. Their famous garlic fries will have you coming back for more.
5. Paia Fish Market – For those who love seafood, this market is a must-visit. They offer fresh catches from local waters as well as cooked meals like poke bowls and fish tacos.
Must-Try Dishes in Maui
When it comes to trying new things, Maui doesn’t disappoint. Here are some dishes you shouldn’t leave without trying:
1. Poke Bowl – A classic Hawaiian dish made with raw fish, vegetables, and sauces. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner and can be customized to your liking.
2. Luau Plate – Traditional Hawaiian food served at luaus includes kalua pig (roast suckling pig), laulau (pork wrapped in ti leaves), poi (mashed kalo root) and haupia (coconut custard).
3. Shave Ice – Refreshing and sweet, shaved ice is a popular treat in Maui. Choose from a variety of flavors including mango, strawberry, and kiwi.
Traditional Food to Eat in Maui
If you’re interested in trying authentic Hawaiian cuisine, here are some traditional dishes you won’t want to miss:
1. Kalua Pig – As mentioned earlier, this slow-cooked pork dish is a staple of Hawaiian cuisine. It’s usually served alongside other traditional dishes like laulau and poi.
2. Laulau – Similar to kalua pig but made with beef instead. It’s also steamed in an imu (underground oven) before being served.
3. Poi – Made from the corm of the taro plant, poi is a starchy paste that’s been a part of Hawaiian culture for centuries. While it may not sound appetizing, many locals swear by its nutritional benefits.
Breakfast and Brunch Options in Maui
For those who prefer starting their day off with a hearty breakfast, there are plenty of great options available in Maui. Here are five recommendations:
1. Cafe O’Lei – Known for their huge portions and affordable prices, this cafe is located near the airport and open 24 hours a day.
2. Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop – If you’re craving pie, look no further than this charming bakery in Makawao. In addition to their famous pies, they serve up a mean breakfast menu too.
3. Pacific’O Restaurant – Overlooking the ocean in Maalaea Bay, this restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating along with a delicious breakfast menu featuring items like eggs benedict and huevos rancheros.
4. Aloha Mixed Plate – Serving up traditional Hawaiian food since 1986, this restaurant in Wailuku offers a breakfast plate consisting of scrambled eggs, Portuguese sausage, rice, and fruit.
5. Hula Grill Kaanapali – With three locations across Maui, this restaurant is perfect for brunch with friends. Enjoy tropical cocktails and dishes like loco moco (fried rice, egg, and hamburger patty) and banana macadamia nut pancakes.
