Maui, a gastronomic wonderland in the heart of the Pacific, is a hub of flavors waiting to be explored.
From the sweet tang of freshly caught poke to the mouth-watering melt of kalua pig, there is a symphony of tastes for every palate. Dishes steeped in tradition meet innovative culinary trends, creating an unparalleled food experience.
Pack your appetite and join me as we unearth the very best foods to eat in Maui and where you can find these local Hawaiian dishes while on the island.
In this post, you'll find...
1. Macadamia Nut Ice Cream
One of my absolute favorite treats to indulge in while in Maui is macadamia nut ice cream. Macadamia nuts are a staple in Hawaiian cuisine, and they’re used in a variety of dishes, including desserts. The creamy, nutty flavor of macadamia nut ice cream is a perfect representation of the island’s unique flavors and culture. It’s hard to resist – especially on a hot Hawaiian day.
There are several places to find macadamia nut ice cream in Maui, but my personal favorite is BanyanTreats. They offer a delicious macadamia nut ice cream that’s made with locally sourced ingredients. Another great place to try is Coconut Glen’s, which makes all their ice cream from the coconuts found in the Maui jungles.
While macadamia nut ice cream is delicious on its own, some places offer unique variations that are worth trying. At Hula Grill, you can indulge in a decadent brownie ice cream sandwich that’s made with macadamia nut ice cream. If you’re looking for something a little more exotic, try the coconut macadamia nut ice cream at Island Cream Co.
In addition to being a delicious dessert on its own, macadamia nut ice cream is also used in several other menu items. Leoda’s Kitchen & Pies offers a macadamia nut chocolate pie that’s to die for. And at Mama’s Fish House, you can enjoy a macadamia nut crusted mahi-mahi that’s out of this world!
2. Poke Tacos
If you’re looking for a delicious and unique twist on the classic poke dish, then you have to try poke tacos. Poke tacos are a popular food in Maui because they combine two of the island’s most beloved cuisines: Hawaiian and Mexican. The fresh, local ingredients and bold flavors make this dish a must-try for any foodie visiting the island.
I first tried poke tacos at Monkeypod Kitchen, and I was blown away by the combination of flavors and textures. The fresh, raw ahi tuna is combined with ginger, shoyu, and cabbage to create a refreshing and flavorful profile, while the avocado cream sauce adds a rich and creamy element to the dish. The crispy wonton shells provide the perfect crunch to complement the tender fish and creamy sauce.
Monkeypod Kitchen is just one of the many places in Maui where you can find poke tacos. Other popular spots include Coconut’s Fish Cafe and South Maui Fish Company. Each restaurant puts their unique spin on this delicious dish, so be sure to try them all to find your favorite.
If you’re looking for a tasty and unique way to experience the flavors of Maui, be sure to try poke tacos. These tasty treats are a fusion of traditional Hawaiian poke and Mexican street tacos, and they’re the perfect way to experience the best of both worlds.
3. Spam Musubi
Spam Musubi is a popular Hawaiian snack that is a must-try when you are in Maui. It is a simple dish made of a slice of grilled Spam on top of a block of rice, wrapped in nori seaweed. The dish originated during World War II when Spam was one of the few sources of meat available in Hawaii.
I first tried Spam Musubi at Da Kitchen, a local favorite restaurant in Maui. The Spam Musubi there was delicious, with perfectly grilled Spam and fluffy rice. The nori seaweed added a nice salty flavor to the dish. I also tried Spam Musubi from a gas station called Minit Stop, and it was equally delicious. This place had a different take on the dish, with a sweet sauce added to the Spam.
Spam Musubi is a popular snack in Maui, and you can find it in many restaurants and food trucks across the island. It’s a quick and easy snack to take to the beach or eating on the go. It’s filling, portable, and delicious! You can also make it at home with just a few ingredients.
4. Mochiko Chicken
One of my absolute favorite dishes in Maui is Mochiko Chicken. This dish is a local favorite, and it’s not hard to see why. The chicken is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, with a sweet and savory flavor that is simply irresistible.
Mochiko Chicken is made using a special blend of ingredients, including Mochiko flour, which is a type of glutinous rice flour. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and other seasonings, and then coated in the Mochiko flour before being fried to perfection.
One of the best places to try Mochiko Chicken in Maui is at Tin Roof. This restaurant is a local favorite and is known for its delicious Hawaiian comfort food. The Mochiko Chicken at Tin Roof is marinated overnight in ginger sake shoyu, then covered in a sweet mochiko batter and fried twice. It’s served topped with housemade su-miso sauce & gochujang aioli, which is the perfect sweet complement to the savory chicken.
5. Kalua Pork
If there is one dish that represents the flavors of Hawaii, it’s Kalua Pork. This slow-cooked, smoky, and tender pork is a staple in Hawaiian cuisine and is a must-try for anyone visiting Maui.
Traditionally, Kalua Pork was cooked in an underground oven called an imu, where the meat was wrapped in banana leaves and cooked over hot rocks. Nowadays, the pork is cooked in an oven, but the flavors remain the same. The pork is seasoned with Hawaiian sea salt and slow-cooked until it falls apart easily with a fork. The result is a juicy, smoky, and flavorful meat that is perfect for any occasion.
There’s no shortage of places to try Kalua Pork in Maui, but a few local favorites include Da Kitchen, Tin Roof Maui, and Hula Grill. At Da Kitchen, the Kalua Pork is served as part of their Hawaiian Plate, which includes lau lau, Kalua Pork, and lomi salmon. Tin Roof Maui offers a Kalua Pork plate that comes with rice, macaroni salad, and a side of their famous garlic noodles. Hula Grill serves their Kalua Pork with cabbage and rice, and it’s the perfect dish to enjoy while watching the sunset over the ocean.
Kalua Pork is a delicious and iconic dish in Hawaiian cuisine, and it’s hands down one of the best things to eat in Maui. The smoky and tender pork pairs perfectly with the flavors of the island, and it’s a great way to experience the local culture. Plus, with so many great places to try Kalua Pork in Maui, there’s no excuse not to give it a try!
6. Lomi Lomi Salmon
If you’re looking for a taste of traditional Hawaiian cuisine, then you must try Lomi Lomi Salmon. This side dish is a staple in Hawaiian culture and can be found in many local restaurants across Maui. Lomi Lomi Salmon is a local favorite in Maui because it’s a delicious and healthy dish that’s perfect for a hot day. The dish has a long history in Hawaiian culture and is often served at traditional Hawaiian events.
Lomi Lomi Salmon is a salad made with salted salmon, tomatoes, onions, and green onions. The salmon is massaged with the other ingredients, giving it a unique texture and flavor. The dish is served cold and is perfect for a hot day in Maui.
This was hands down one of my favorites out of all the foods I tried on Maui – The dish is a perfect balance of salty and tangy flavors, while the salmon was tender and paired well with the fresh tomatoes and onions. I highly recommend trying this dish if you’re looking for a taste of authentic Hawaiian cuisine!
7. Garlic Noodles
If you’re a fan of garlic and noodles, then you’re in for a treat with Garlic Noodles. This dish is a staple in many Asian cuisines, including Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese. Garlic Noodles are a simple yet delicious dish that consists of noodles, garlic, butter, and soy sauce.
I first tried Garlic Noodles at Holo Holo Garlic Noodles in Kahului. The restaurant is a small food truck that serves up some of the best Garlic Noodles on the island. The noodles were perfectly cooked and had just the right amount of garlic and butter. The soy sauce added a nice savory flavor to the dish.
Another great place to try Garlic Noodles is at Star Noodle in Lahaina. The restaurant is known for its Asian-inspired dishes, and the Garlic Noodles are a fan favorite. The noodles are cooked al dente and tossed in a garlic butter sauce. The dish is then topped with green onions and parmesan cheese, which adds a nice salty flavor to the dish.
Garlic Noodles are a popular dish in Maui because they are simple yet flavorful. The garlic and butter add a rich and savory flavor to the dish, while the soy sauce adds a nice umami flavor. The dish is also very versatile and can be served as a side dish or a main course.
And if you’re a fan of Garlic Shrimp, then you’ll love Garlic Noodles. The two dishes share many of the same flavors and are often served together at many restaurants in Maui.
8. Mai Tai
If you’re looking for a tropical drink to sip on while watching the sunset, you can’t go wrong with a Mai Tai. This classic cocktail is a staple in Hawaii and is a must-try when visiting Maui (or on any vacation, really).
The history of the Mai Tai is a bit disputed, but it’s widely believed to have been invented by Victor Jules Bergeron, also known as Trader Vic, in 1944. The cocktail typically consists of rum, lime juice, orange curaçao, and orgeat syrup, which is made from almonds. However, some places in Maui put their own twist on the classic recipe, adding different fruit juices or using macadamia nut orgeat instead.
One of my favorite places to grab a Mai Tai in Maui is Monkeypod Kitchen. They use a house-made macadamia nut orgeat in their Mai Tai, which gives it a unique and delicious flavor. Plus, they have a great happy hour where you can snag a Mai Tai for a discounted price.
Another spot to check out is the Tiki Bar at the Ka’anapali Beach Hotel. They serve up a classic Mai Tai that’s perfect for sipping on while lounging on the beach. And if you’re looking for a more upscale experience, head to the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea. Their Mai Tai is made with a blend of light and dark rum and is topped with a honey lilikoʻi (passion fruit) foam.
Whether you’re looking for a classic Mai Tai or something with a twist, Maui has plenty of options to choose from. And with happy hour specials at many of these spots, there’s no reason not to indulge in this tasty cocktail while on vacation, am I right?
9. Poke Bowls
If you’re looking for a taste of Hawaii, you can’t go wrong with the delicious poke bowls. Poke, which means “to slice” or “cut into pieces,” is a traditional Hawaiian dish made with fresh, raw fish that’s been marinated in a blend of sesame oil, soy sauce, green onions, furikake, chili pepper, wasabi, and other seasonings served over rice.
During my visit to Maui, I had the pleasure of trying some of the best poke bowls on the island. I was amazed by the variety of flavors and textures that each bowl had to offer. Here are some of my favorite places to try poke bowls in Maui:
South Maui Fish Company – This place is a must-visit for anyone looking for the best fresh fish on Maui. Their poke bowls are made with locally sourced ingredients, and the fish is always fresh and flavorful. I recommend trying their classic ahi poke bowl.
Monkeypod Kitchen – This restaurant serves up a unique take on the classic poke bowl. Their Ahi Poke Tacos are a must-try! The ginger, shoyu, and cabbage combine for a flavorful and refreshing profile, while the avocado cream sauce gives it that amazing richness.
Tobi’s Shave Ice and Poke – If you’re looking for an affordable meal on Maui, Tobi’s is the place to go. Their poke bowls are made with the freshest ingredients, and they offer a wide variety of dishes to choose from. I recommend trying their spicy tuna poke bowl.Poke bowls have become increasingly popular in Maui due to the abundance of fresh fish available on the island. The combination of fresh fish, local ingredients, and flavorful marinades make poke bowls a must-try dish when visiting Maui.
10. Mahi Mahi
If you’re looking for the freshest fish in Maui, you can’t go wrong with Mahi Mahi. This delicious fish is a staple of Hawaiian cuisine and is found on menus all over the island. I personally recommend trying it at one of the many restaurants in West Maui.
Mahi Mahi has a mild, sweet flavor and a firm, flaky texture. It’s often served grilled, blackened, or pan-seared, and pairs perfectly with tropical fruits like mango and pineapple. The fish is also incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from tacos to ceviche. Mahi Mahi is a must-try food in Maui for its fresh, delicious flavor and versatility.
One of the best places to try Mahi Mahi in Maui is at Mama’s Fish House. This iconic restaurant has been serving up fresh seafood for over 50 years and is known for its stunning ocean views and farm-to-table cuisine. Their Mahi Mahi is caught daily by local fishermen and is served with a macadamia nut crust and a side of coconut-ginger rice.
Another great spot to try Mahi Mahi is at Lahaina Grill. This award-winning restaurant is located in the heart of Lahaina and offers an upscale dining experience with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Their Mahi Mahi is served with a tropical fruit salsa and a side of garlic mashed potatoes.
11. Loco Moco
If you’re looking for a hearty breakfast that will keep you fueled up for a day of exploring the island, look no further than the Loco Moco. This local favorite is a must-try for anyone visiting Maui.
The Loco Moco is a dish that originated in Hawaii and has since become a popular breakfast item across the islands. It typically consists of a bed of white rice, topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy. Some variations include adding Spam, teriyaki beef, or kalua pork to the dish.
One of my favorite places to grab a Loco Moco is Kihei Caffe. This breakfast spot is a local favorite and serves up some of the best Loco Moco on the island. The restaurant opens at 5 a.m. and allows diners to order breakfast all day long. The Loco Moco here is served with two hamburger patties and is topped with a generous amount of gravy.
Another great spot to try is Da Kitchen Maui. This Hawaiian restaurant is known for its massive portions and delicious Loco Moco. The dish here is served with a choice of rice or fries and comes with a side of macaroni salad.
If you’re in search of a more upscale version of the Loco Moco, head over to The Mill House. This farm-to-table restaurant serves up a unique take on the dish, with a grilled beef patty, mushroom gravy, and a quail egg on top.
12. Fish Tacos
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious bite to eat in Maui, look no further than the fish taco. This popular dish is a staple of Hawaiian cuisine, and for good reason. Made with fresh fish, crunchy vegetables, and a variety of flavorful sauces, fish tacos are the perfect combination of healthy and delicious.
One of my favorite places to grab a fish taco in Maui is Coconut’s Fish Cafe. This family-friendly restaurant is known for its outstanding fish and chips and fish tacos. The fish is always fresh and cooked to perfection, and the toppings are always flavorful and inventive. I love the crunch of the cabbage and the tanginess of the lime sauce.
Another great spot for fish tacos is the Paia Fish Market. This local Maui favorite serves up fresh catch and authentic recipes in a casual atmosphere. The fish tacos here are always a hit, with large pieces of perfectly cooked fish and a variety of toppings to choose from.
For those looking for a more laid-back vibe, the South Maui Fish Company is a must-visit. This casual eatery offers some of the freshest fish on Maui, and their fish tacos are simply amazing. The flavors are always bright and bold, and the fish is always perfectly cooked.
With so many great places to choose from, you’re sure to find a spot that serves up the perfect combination of fresh fish, flavorful toppings, and delicious sauces. So whether you’re a local or a visitor, be sure to add fish tacos to your list of must-try foods in Maui.
13. Pork Belly
If you’re a pork lover, then you cannot miss trying pork belly in Maui. This dish is a staple in Hawaiian cuisine and is served in most restaurants. I remember trying it for the first time at Tin Roof Maui, and it was love at first bite.
Pork belly is made by slow-cooking a slab of pork belly until it becomes tender and juicy. The meat is then sliced into thin pieces and served with a side of rice and vegetables. The dish is savory, sweet, and has a melt-in-your-mouth texture that will leave you craving for more. I’m drooling just thinking about it!
Apart from Tin Roof Maui, you can also try pork belly at My Thai Maui. They serve a delicious Thai-style pork belly that’s packed with flavor and comes with a side of rice and veggies.
Pork belly is a popular dish in Maui because it’s a fusion of Hawaiian and Asian cuisine. The dish has its roots in Korean cuisine, but it has been adapted to suit Hawaiian tastes. It’s also a great option for people who want to try something new and exciting.
If you’re visiting Maui, you must try pork belly. It’s a dish that’s worth every penny, and you won’t regret it.
