You likely have a long list of activities planned for your trip to Maui, but remember to take time to eat! Keeping yourself well-fueled is essential. A hearty and delicious lunch will provide the energy you need to continue hiking, snorkeling, surfing, and exploring our beautiful island.
Maui is filled with so many amazing restaurants that it was hard to choose just five to recommend, but we did it. Here is our list of the top five lunch places in all of Maui:
• Mama’s Fish House (Ku’au)
Naturally, we had to start with a seafood restaurant. When you’re surrounded by the ocean, the seafood couldn’t be fresher. Located practically on the beach in Ku‘au, Mama’s Fish House is world-renowned for its gourmet menu and stunning views. Since dinner reservations can be challenging to secure, opting for lunch is a safer bet. The rotating Polynesian/Pacific Rim menu is consistently filled with fresh offerings caught by local fishermen and features sustainably grown ingredients. Mama’s Fish House is also celebrated for its beautifully presented dishes. Your food will look so magnificent, it might be hard to take the first bite!
• Milagros (Paia)
If you’re in search of a lunch spot that’s both laid-back and tasty, Milagros in Pā‘ia Town is a superb choice. Located at the corner of Hāna Highway and Baldwin Avenue, this casual restaurant boasts a varied menu that caters to everyone, including picky eaters and families. You can choose from an array of dishes such as tacos, burritos, salads, burgers, and fish sandwiches. The seafood is caught daily, and Milagros makes an effort to use local, organic ingredients whenever possible. Additionally, this place is renowned for its excellent tequila selection. So, here’s to good food and good spirits—bottom’s up!
• Thai Me Up (Kihei, Kahului, Upcountry)
Maui doesn’t just offer Thai food; it offers really good Thai food, thanks to Thai Me Up. These charming food trucks are beloved for their delicious curries, Pad Thai, fried rice, spring rolls, fresh coconut milk, and seafood dishes. We find ourselves here once a week.
• Freshies (Makawao)
For the secret (or not-so-secret) foodie inside of you, there is Freshies, a restaurant tucked away and worth a visit. The menu of this Makawao gem is filled with locally grown ingredients and top-notch meat and produce. The lunch menu has many delicious dishes to choose from.
• Monkeypod (Wailea)
Monkeypod Kitchen offers a fusion menu brimming with diverse cultural flavors and local ingredients, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters find something to enjoy. Choices range from wood-fired pizzas and Pete’s classic burger to richly flavored salads, garlic truffle oil fries, poke (raw fish) tacos, and the much-loved coconut crème pie. This fun and casual spot also boasts a delightful drink menu and dramatic ocean views. Quickly becoming a favorite among both locals and visitors, Monkeypod Kitchen is a must-try during your stay in Wailea.
If only we could tell you about all of the amazing restaurants on Maui!
These five options are a fantastic start, but there are many more to explore. Reach out to our amazing on-island vacation experts and share your trip plans with us. We can provide you with recommendations for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner throughout your journey.
