Maui, Hawaii is one of the most visited vacation spots on the planet. Maui is known for its white sandy beaches, warm Hawaiian culture, and vibrant nightlife. The island lives up to its reputation as one of the premier destinations in the United States and the world. The following guide will identify some of the best places to eat on the magical island of Maui.
Dining options on Maui have a distinct Hawaiian flair. At nearly every restaurant on the island, you’ll find dishes at least partially influenced or inspired by native Hawaiian cuisine. This means plenty of pineapple, coconut, and other tropical flavors, along with loads of native pork and chicken. Most restaurants feature a combination of these ingredients, and the following establishments are no different.
Cheeseburger in Paradise
Cheeseburger in Paradise in Old Lahaina, Maui is an excellent example of this phenomenon. This world-renowned cheeseburger restaurant offers fantastic burgers and sandwiches and many menu items with a distinct Hawaiian influence. Along with things like traditional hamburgers and french fries, you can order pineapple teriyaki burgers and Hawaiian sweet potato fries. Maui sweet onions are also a very popular burger and sandwich topping, adding some sweet island flavor to every bite. Cheeseburger In Paradise is located right on the beach in picturesque Lahaina and is an absolute must-visit for any burger lover.
Kai-Wailea
For those seeking more exotic fare, there are a number of great Asian dining options on Maui due to its location in the Pacific Ocean and proximity to Asia. One standout Japanese restaurant on Maui is Kai-Wailea, located in the stunning Wailea Resort and Spa. Kai is renowned worldwide for their incredible fusion of Japanese-Hawaiian inspired cuisine and locally inspired sushi and sashimi. The red tuna rolls and saba shioyaki are particularly scrumptious if a bit pricey. Kai also has a great selection of local and imported sakes, which are sure to put a fire in your belly.
Fred’s Mexican Cafe
If you’re in the mood for a more festive atmosphere, Fred’s Mexican Cafe serves excellent Mexican food with a Maui twist and has a party-like atmosphere all day and night. Ahi fish tacos are made with local fish and these are unlike anything you can find on the mainland or anywhere else for that matter. The food at Fred’s is great, but the real stars of the show are the incredible cocktails. Most drinks at Fred’s come either with Tequila or rum and are chock full of fresh island fruit juices and garnishes. Fred’s Mexican Cafe offers a great experience on the island, with good food to boot.
Buzz’s Wharf
The service is decent, the atmosphere is decent, and the harbor view is stunning. Buzz’s Wharf is one of the best restaurants on Maui. Why is it among the best? I have one word – shrimp. Buzz’s Wharf is the only place on the island where you can get marka shrimp. These shrimp don’t actually taste like average shrimp from Thailand or the Gulf of Mexico, however. They trick your taste buds into thinking you’ve just eaten a lobster rather than a shrimp.
Big Wave Cafe
Big Wave Cafe is one of the best restaurants that defies Maui’s universal laws. The seats are outdoors, the food is excellent, and the coffee is hot and delicious. If you think breakfast is just breakfast, think again because Maui breakfast consists of waffles, biscuit trenches, and omelets. Big Wave Cafe has reasonable prices. If you eat before 9 a.m., you’ll be treated to a breakfast combo with eggs, meat, coffee, and even more for $3.99.