Top Eats and Treats While on Maui

If you've ever been to Hawaii you know how amazing the food scene is. If you haven't, you may have a hard time resisting the urge to Google flights by the end of this post. This was our third time visiting Maui and each time we visit we always like to try a variety of new places and also seek out the food and drinks we've been dreaming about ever since we left. Click here to read my other Maui posts.

The best part about being on an island is a majority of the ingredients are fresh and locally sourced. I have to admit I am not cut out to be a food blogger -- mainly because by the time the food comes I'm so excited to eat it that I forget to document it. But I did my best to capture some of our favorites from our trip. Let's dig in! 

---

Breakfast

---

The Gazebo

This may be the most popular breakfast spot on Maui and it's easy to see why. Located right along the shoreline at the Napali Shores hotel, you'll find parking in the spots designated at the hotel (they were all full when we arrived at 7:45a) there is also plenty of street parking nearby. I don't think it matters what time you arrive, there is likely to be a line that you'll have to wait in just to make it to the host stand. It's a small place but I thought it moved quickly (we waited around an hour). The banana Mac pancakes are specifically what I came for and we also ordered the fried rice at the suggestion of a local. 

The Plantation House

This was one of the stops we made on our honeymoon there was no question whether we were coming back for more. Located on the grounds of Kapalua Plantation course, the open-air views are stunning and a great way to start your morning. 

We came back specifically for their crab cake eggs Benedict but they had switched up the menu to feature soft shell crab instead which was surprisingly even better! If you love seafood like we do this is a must-try. We also ordered their pancake platter with eggs, bacon and fresh fruit. We've only ever visited for breakfast but they also serve lunch and dinner with island flare.

 Belle Surf Cafe

This insta-worthy coffee shop is located in downtown Lahaina and has such a fun vibe. In addition to delicious coffee drinks like this Mac nut latte, they also offer toast, smoothies, and bagels.

Betty's Beach Cafe

We stumbled upon this spot a bit by accident when looking for a breakfast spot that was close to our hotel our first morning on the island. However, we were pleasantly surprised by the open air views of the ocean, $3 POG mimosa special, and delicious breakfast classics like this bacon and egg sandwich. 

Lunch and Dinner

Down the Hatch

The lobster and crab grilled cheese was featured on an episode of Diners Drive-Ins and Dives and I didn't even have to look at the menu - I was dying to try it! It certainly didn't disappoint - so delicious. Nate ordered the shrimp po-boy which was equally as good and their shoestring fries were an added bonus (try them mermaid style for added yum!)

The restaurant is located in downtown Lahaina and definitely knows how to keep the party going. You'll order at the walk up counter and then find an open table in their open air patio. They also share a space with Breakwall Shave Ice which serves the only "adult" shave ice on the island. 

Hoopilani Food Truck Park

This collection of food trucks near Kaanapali serves up a little bit of everything from BBQ to Thai food and seafood. A few of the trucks weren't open when we were there but still worth the stop. Plenty of outdoor picnic table seating on site. 

Coconut's Fish Cafe

We spent a full day exploring Kihei and this restaurant came highly recommended. I have two words..fish tacos! They are famous for these bad boys and for good reason. Featuring 17 ingredients and 7 layers they are so big they each need their own plate. I've tried my fair share of fish tacos over the years and these are certainly top on the list. Super messy but that's half the fun -- just embrace it! 

Old Lahaina Luau 

Not only is this an amazing 5 course meal, it’s a can’t-miss experience. They tend to sell out nightly so book well in advance. All you can eat/drink with table service. The Hawaiian course allows you to sample local dishes you wouldn’t normally try. 

Maui Brewing Company

​Amazing outdoor beer garden with games and live music at Kihei location. Try one of their signature beers, new hard seltzers, or cocktails paired with pub style food. We loved the chicken bites with huli huli glaze and the nachos. You can also schedule a tour of the brewery.

Kimo's

We always make sure to go to one fancier dinner and Kimo's has easily become our go to each trip. Located right on Front Street in downtown Lahaina, we were able to sit on the rooftop deck and take in the amazing sunset views while listening to live music. It can get pretty busy around dinner time so I would suggest making a reservation. 

I highly suggest the fish here. They cook it in a variety of different styles including baked, lobster-topped, and coconut crusted. Paired with a Kimo's signature Mai Tai you will not leave disappointed. 

But wait...it gets better! You have to finish the night with a slice of the famous Hula pie. Oreo crust, macadamia nut ice cream, topped with fudge and whipped cream. Seriously out of this world - and the biggest slice of pie I've ever seen - definitely share with someone! 

Monkeypod Kitchen 

While we were in Kihei for the day we ended our night with these gorgeous views. Once again, my stomach got the best of me and I didn't capture the food but it was amazing. We started with the Kauai shrimp and Hamakua mushroom potstickers and then split one of their famous hand-tossed kiawe wood oven pizzas topped with big island lobster, wild mushroom, parmesan, thyme and a garlic white sauce. They are also famous for their Mai Tais which are topped with honey-lilikoi puree.  

Leoda's Pie Shop 

This place was recommended to us by one of my followers who lives on Maui so you know we had to stop. We actually had to stop twice because the first time they were sold out of basically all of their pies. The second time the line was out the door so we knew we were in for a treat. They are famous for their pies and they are the perfect size for trying more than one. We chose the pineapple mac nut and Olowalu lime. The chocolate mac nut is also a really popular flavor. We also split their pot pie which was topped with a heavenly foccacia-style crust. They are located in the same lot as Olowalu Juice Stand serving juices, smoothies, and fresh fruit. 

Lahaina Sushi Ko

Small outdoor patio in the middle of downtown Lahaina with only a few tables but has been named some of the best sushi on the island. Go earlier in the evening to avoid a wait or put your name on the list and walk around to some of the shops. They offer both classic and speciality rolls (the volcano roll was our favorite)

Hali’imaile General Store

Popular stop for those exploring upcountry. Don't let the name fool you, this is a more upscale farm to table experience located on a pineapple plantation. Highly suggest the crab pizza. You can make reservations online, however we didn't have any wait for lunch after finishing our tour with Maui Gold Pineapple (located across the street).

Huli Huli Chicken

If you’re traveling the Road to Hana this is a must visit for lunch. Outdoor food stand with seating right near the water and located next to Koki Beach. Amazing chicken and rib plates served with rice and salad. 

Flatbread Company

Located in the heart of the historic surf town of Paia this restaurant is cooking up mouth watering flatbread pizzas in a wood-fire stove. Their pies are served with fresh, local ingredients. You must try the famous Kalua pie with Kalua pork, goat cheese, pineapple, and onion. This makes a good stop after a long day on the Road to Hana or exploring Upcountry.

Tommy Bahama Marlin Bar

Signature cocktails, light fare, and sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean from the expansive patio. Connected to the retail shop and offers a photo op with lighted Aloha sign/wall. I wouldn't say I was blown away by the food here but it's a fun vibe and offers a few mainland style dishes (Nashville hot chicken sliders and tater tots) if you're missing that style of food.

Paia Fish Market

This is one of the best reviewed seafood restaurants in Maui - and one of the most affordable as well Their plates come with a side a coleslaw with their homemade tarter sauce. A very laid back vibe - you'll order at the counter and then find an open table. There are two locations on Maui - in Paia and downtown Lahaina. 

Sweets and Treats

Dole Whip

I should have my husband guest write this section. If I'm being honest he may love Dole Whip more than me (just kidding) but it is one of his favorites. We stopped for this delicious pineapple treat multiple times (like at least 4) after dinner. It's served in multiple places on the island but our favorite is at Lappert's Ice Cream on Front Street. Don't miss out on trying this at least once!  

​Coconut Glen's 

​Located along the Road to Hana this roadside stand serves up unique flavors of organic, vegan ice cream made with coconuts. It's definitely a different texture than normal ice cream but certainly worth trying. I had the Lilikoi which was sweet with edible seed pods. 

Ululani's Shave Ice

You can't go to Hawaii and not try the shave ice! This dessert resembles a snow cone but is made with shave ice instead of crushed and 100 times more delicious. There are so many places to try this treat but Ululani's is one of the best. Make sure you get it with a scoop of macadamia nut ice cream on the bottom and then your favorite combination of flavors on top. 

Wow Wow Lemonade 

Wow is right! We fell in love for the first time on the north shore of Oahu and have been dreaming about it ever since. I brought my signature Aloha mason jar all the way from Michigan to have it filled with this liquid goodness. Located right next to Coconut's Fish Cafe in Kihei you won't want to miss this adorable shop. My favorite is the strawberry pineapple lemonade and my hubby loves their classic but they have SO many choices. They also serve up instagram-worthy acai bowls. 

Manuela Malasada

Hawaii’s ultimate fried donut served hot and can be ordered with a variety of fillings and toppings. Don't let this shop's location in a gas station parking lot cause you to pass by - these fried balls of dough are insanely delicious. Get there early as there is always a line and they make them fresh so they do take a while. 

Halfway to Hana 

Another treat you can't leave Hawaii without trying at least once is their banana bread. You can find this at a variety of locations and road side stands, but my personal favorite is at Halfway to Hana while driving the Road to Hana.

Maui Pineapple Store 

This store on Front Street gives you all the Maui Gold feels. In addition to the cutest merchandise they also serve up fresh pineapple chunks, ice cream, and juice. This was their signature liquid gold drink and you can watch them blend it right in front of you and then sip it out of an adorable pineapple straw while strolling on the boardwalk.