15 Top Restaurants in Maui & What to Order

Maui’s food scene is as vibrant as the island itself, with incredible restaurants that serve up fresh local flavors and creative dishes. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, classic Hawaiian cuisine, or something a little different, here are my top restaurant picks in Maui and what you have to order!

1. Mama’s Fish House

Location: Paia

Mama’s is iconic for a reason. Set right on the beach, it’s perfect for a special dinner with a view. Start with the Macadamia Nut Crusted Mahi Mahi – it’s served with a tropical fruit salsa that perfectly complements the fish. Fresh, flavorful, and so Maui!

2. Merriman’s

Location: Kapalua

Merriman’s combines incredible food with breathtaking views of Kapalua Bay. If you’re going, the Wok-Charred Ahi is a must. It’s perfectly seared and has a delicious ginger-soy glaze. Make sure to book around sunset – you’ll thank me later.

3. Star Noodle

Location: Lahaina

Star Noodle is a local favorite for Asian-inspired eats. Trust me, you need to try the Pork Buns. These are melt-in-your-mouth good with tender pork belly, hoisin sauce, and a bit of crunch from the pickled veggies.

4. Nalu’s South Shore Grill

Location: Kihei

For breakfast or brunch, Nalu’s is unbeatable. Order the Corn Flake French Toast – thick, crunchy, and topped with fresh fruit and coconut syrup. It’s a tropical twist on a breakfast classic!

5. Leilani’s on the Beach

Location: Lahaina

Right on Kaanapali Beach, Leilani’s has some amazing seafood. I recommend the Parmesan Crusted Mahi Mahi with lemon caper butter sauce. It’s rich, flavorful, and just perfect after a day on the beach.

6. Honu Oceanside

Location: Lahaina

If you’re looking for a waterfront view and tasty apps, Honu is your spot. Order the Ahi Bruschetta – it’s topped with wasabi aioli, and the ahi is perfectly seared. The perfect light bite!

7. Ko Restaurant

Location: Wailea

At the Fairmont Kea Lani, Ko is known for its plantation-inspired menu. You have to try the Lobster Tempura with a spicy sesame soy glaze. It’s crispy, tender, and perfectly seasoned. If you’re in Wailea, this is a must.

8. Ka’ana Kitchen

Location: Wailea

Located at Andaz Maui, Ka’ana Kitchen focuses on farm-to-table dining. The Ahi Tataki is my favorite – it’s served with avocado and ponzu sauce for a light, refreshing starter. Great spot for brunch, too!

9. The Restaurant at Hotel Wailea

Location: Wailea

For a romantic night out, this spot has it all – ambiance, views, and amazing food. Order the Maui Venison. The meat is tender, and the red wine reduction adds just the right richness.

10. Ferraro’s Bar e Ristorante

Location: Wailea

This Four Seasons spot is all about Italian classics with a Hawaiian twist. Try the Lobster Risotto – it’s rich, creamy, and the lobster is fresh and delicious. Perfect for a sunset dinner!

11. Japengo

Location: Lahaina

Japengo at the Hyatt Regency offers a unique fusion of Pacific Rim flavors. Their Miso Butterfish is a must – marinated to perfection and grilled just right. This dish melts in your mouth.

12. Nick’s Fishmarket Maui

Location: Wailea

For a truly Maui seafood experience, head to Nick’s Fishmarket. The Opakapaka (pink snapper) with lemon beurre blanc sauce is divine – flaky, flavorful, and a true taste of the islands.

13. Lineage

Location: Wailea

Lineage takes traditional Hawaiian flavors and presents them with a modern twist. You can’t go wrong with their Whole Fried Fish – it’s crispy, packed with flavor, and beautifully presented. The sauces and sides really make this dish shine, and it’s perfect for sharing with friends or family.

14. Humuhumunukunukuapua’a

Location: Wailea

This Polynesian-inspired restaurant, named after Hawaii’s state fish, is an experience in itself, with a stunning lagoon setting. The Hawaiian Snapper with Coconut Curry Sauce is a must-try – perfectly cooked and rich with tropical flavors. Plus, the view is unbeatable for a romantic dinner.