This shop is located just across the street from Kihei's popular Kamaole Beach Park. You can literally wander in wearing a swimsuit and flip-flops, and when you do, chances are, you'll fit right in. There is a fairly extensive menu of specialty cocktails and alcohol-free juices. The burgers are delicious, if a little pricey considering the beach-shack atmosphere, but the live music is really the key here.
If you've never heard of Guri Guri, you are not alone. It can only be found at this particular location. However, this stand is a landmark on Maui and a legend among the islands. Guri Guri is a refreshing, frozen dairy product that tastes like a cross between sherbet and ice cream. It comes in two flavors: strawberry or pineapple. The recipe is a jealously guarded family secret. While some people don't find it to be anything special, some people become strangely addicted to it and stop by the stand daily.
Everything about Mama's, from the decor to the service to the amazing cuisine, is iconic. Locals and visitors consider it to be the ultimate special-occasion restaurant. The path leading up to the restaurant is lit by torches and lined with palm trees. Candles light the dining room, and most tables feature an ocean view. Appetizers include Tahitian Poisson Cru, Sashimi Salad, and Shrimp Won Tons with macadamia nut dipping sauce. The Mama's fishermen catch fish daily to offer an indulgent experience. The stuffed fish is known to be tender and flavorful. The wine list completes the dining experience with its elegant pairings.
Named "the best food and entertainment combo in Maui" by Zagat's Restaurant Survey, this lively eatery features energetic dancing and live music upcountry. The sprawling dining area with the bar at one end turns into one of Maui's hottest nightclubs after hours. A huge wooden sun-deck is great for lounging and people-watching in the daytime. The menu features a nice selection of salads (made with organic greens), wood-fired pizzas and delectable homemade pastas smothered in rich sauces and savory meats.
While the witty name is rather charming, it is a bit misleading. This place does not offer everyday cafe au lait, or anything close, but don't be disappointed. Cafe O'Lei has food critics and travel writers raving over its inexpensive, innovative food, made from fresh-as-can-be local ingredients. Sample delicacies such as Blackened Mahi-Mahi with Papaya Salsa. Vegetarians absolutely must try the grilled vegetable sandwich. The array of tempting dishes changes with the season.
The Asian Rock Shrimp Cake served here is an award winner, as is the Mango Crab Salad Roll with Kula greens. The full bar offers a number of Asian beers and sakes. The highly popular sushi bar offers specials almost daily (advance reservation required).
Located just a few minutes from the plantation town of Paia, this new age eatery resembles more of a permanently anchored food truck in charming Haiku than a restaurant. The menu appeals to a very narrow spectrum of those who insist on organic, vegetarian cuisine with an emphasis on macrobiotic selections. The menu includes a long list of vegetable and blended juice drinks including exotic items like daikon, acai berry and bee pollen. There is a great selection of sandwiches that change almost daily. There are also colorful umbrellas and picnic tables where one can relax and enjoy Haiku's wonderfully fresh, tropical air. -Lottie Tagupa
The Flatbread Pizza Company claims that their pizzas are much tastier because of their wood-fired ovens. Ingredients are organic and meats are free-range and/or nitrite-free, and they can also have toppings like pineapple, goat cheese and smoked free-range pork. The restaurant is extremely family friendly so feel free to bring the kids along. This is a particularly good place to stop for dinner on the way back from Hana if you're famished. The kalua pork flat bread with locally made Surfing Goat cheese is a must try.