One of the best ways to experience Hawaiian culture is through food. If you’re planning a trip to Maui, one of the island’s biggest highlights is its diverse and delicious food scene. Whether you’re looking for beachfront dining with stunning views, casual food trucks serving local favorites, or upscale restaurants for a special night out, Maui has something for every taste. Here is our guide to must-eats that will ensure your family dinners are memorable.
MONKEYPOD KITCHEN
One of our family’s favorite spots in Maui and Oahu to eat is at Monkeypod Kitchen. The Monkeypod Mai Tais are a must have with their signature lilikoi foam on top (and yes, you can enjoy a virgin option of this too). Our families enjoyed poke tacos and a kalua pork and pineapple pizza to start out. We also enjoyed their Ahi Steak, Macadamia Nut Crusted Fresh Fish and Prime Ribeye Steak. Make sure to ask what the Chef’s Daily special is.
On the night that we were there, we enjoyed lobster tails and ahi. Monkeypod Kitchen’s desserts feature a variety of cream pies. We tried out Banana Creme pie and Coconut Creme pie, both were a fabulous way to end the meal. The Monkeypod Kitchen in Maui is located in Whalers Village in Ka’anapali Beach. Take in live music and a sunset ocean view while you enjoy your meal.
HULA GRILL
Every time we come to Maui, Hula Grill is an absolute must for dinner. We absolutely love the location with full oceanfront views and connected to the popular Whaler’s Village. The Barefoot Bar section allows for walk-up and is more casual as your feet are literally in the sand!
Since we are a larger party we made reservations and sat in the main dining area which is all open-air (including the kitchen!) and provides for breathtaking views, and amazing sunsets. We were so drawn we had to put our signature Mai Tai’s down and stand at water’s edge for a family photo.
At Hula Grill you get to experience the true flavors of Maui as local fisherman and farmers deliver food daily and it inspires the chef-driven meal creations. This means local. line-caught fresh fish, Maui grown produce, all-natural meats and more… it’s a unique culinary and cultural melting pot crafted and served with true aloha spirit. We wanted to indulge on it all and opted for the seafood platter, ceviche, the chef’s special, filet, mahi and of course the staple Hula Pie.
JAPENGO
If you are looking for a great spot to enjoy fresh sushi and take in ocean views, Japengo at Hyatt Regency Maui is a fabulous option. From sushi and premium steaks to locally sourced seafood, Japengo features a fusion of Asian and island-inspired cuisine. Situated along the Ka’anapali beachfront, our families enjoyed taking in the gorgeous views while eating some of our favorite dishes. We started with the curry-dusted calamari (don’t worry it is not spicy!) and steak bites. We love the sushi at Japengo. Our kids enjoyed avocado rolls and salmon rolls as well as some sashimi. For the adults, we always enjoy asking the server for their recommendations and we always try the Chirashi Don, which is the chef’s choice. The filet or rib eye are fabulous options too. Make sure to save room for dessert, the Ka’anapali pie and matcha cheesecake are too good to miss out on.
MALA
One of our favorite discoveries on this trip was Mala Ocean Tavern. It is located in Lahaina town right on the oceanfront and serves brunch and dinner. We found it to be a fabulous stop right after we got off the plane. We took in the ocean views and sea breeze, while enjoying the yummy food and watching sea turtles bob along close by. The staff and service were amazing.
We started our meal by sharing some of the appetizers including coconut shrimp and French toast topped with Ube Ice cream. The adults enjoyed Ube Coladas, Lava Flows and Pina Coladas too. These can be made without alcohol. For our entrees, we had to check out the chef’s special which was a yummy twist on egg’s Benedict. We also enjoyed the Mala Breakfast plate with fresh fish and traditional egg’s Benedict. Our kids enjoyed spotting sea turtles while they waited for their food and we loved feeling that ocean breeze after a long flight. Make sure to check out their dinner menu too and specials.
We loved that Mala Ocean Tavern is a beacon of resilience in the Lahaina area. Read more about their story here. We found it important prior to the trip to discuss as a family the importance of not asking about the fires to the workers at the restaurants or hotel as many have lost so much. Instead, we gave the kids time to ask their questions to us and we discussed it as a family.
UMALU
Retreat to this Maui poolside eatery, bar and lounge for local favorites and an island take on American cuisine with fresh local ingredients and of course views of the ocean. We enjoyed the Umalu most days by the pool and it usually included our favorite Lava Flow and Oo-Bae-Bae ube syrup swirl blended drinks. Enjoy live music series featuring local musicians every night from 6:00pm – 9:00pm and grab a poke bowl or delicious mahi mahi tacos at Umalu!
DUKE’S BEACH HOUSE
Duke’s Beach House honors renowned waterman and Hawaii’s most famous son, Duke Kahanamoku. He was an Olympic swimmer and the father of modern day surfing but he may be best known for sharing his genuine spirit of Aloha. Located at Honua Kai Resort & Spa on Kaanapali’s North Beach, you are just steps from the sand, with sweeping views of the Pacific framed by the islands of Molokai and Lanai along with a casual, nostalgic ambiance and a glimpse into the life of the restaurant’s namesake, Duke.
Of course, we had to start with a round of Duke’s Signature Mai Tai, made with aloha, fresh Hawaiian juices and two types of rum. The Crispy Coconut Shrimp, Poke Tacos and Calamari are mouth-watering and shareable — we want to bottle up the guava cocktail sauce, wow! Fresh fish, lobster and filets provided the most delicious main course and we had to finish off the evening with the showstopping Hula Pie.
Duke’s beach house sources ingredients from over twenty local farms on Maui. These are highlighted throughout the menus and the commitment to “farm to fork” dining allows for guests to experience a locally sourced meals and support local farmers and their families.
EAT LIKE A LOCAL
Stopping by the local grocery stores is a great way to have a great bite to eat on a budget. Foodland Hawaii sells exclusive snacks to the island. While grabbing sushi from the grocery store is taboo on the mainland, Foodland is Hawaii’s home for poke. Grab one of their famous poke bowls and enjoy it on the beach. You can also stop off at the grocery store to load up on snacks and water to keep you stocked throughout your trip.
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF HOTEL PERKS
Research your hotel perks. Lots of hotels on the island offer complimentary breakfast and happy hours. Taking advantage of these services can help your family save money in the long run. Enjoying a complimentary meal keeps you fueled for the day.
