When you're in Maui, the abundance of delicious eateries can make deciding where to eat a tough choice! From local favorites to renowned establishments, here's a guide to some of the best spots to satisfy your cravings in each area of Maui.

Central Maui (Kahului, Wailuku, Airport)

1. My Thai - Arguably the best Thai food I've ever had! Even if you're not a fan of Thai cuisine, this place will change your mind.

2. Las Pinatas of Maui - Close to the airport and perfect for an easy, delicious Mexican meal.

3. Food Trucks Next to Costco - A variety of food trucks offering great local flavors.

4. Tin Roof Maui - Known for their incredible poke bowls, brought to you by the famous Chef Sheldon.

5. 62 Market - A go-to spot for excellent burgers and great service.

6. Cafe O’lei @ The Maui Tropical Plantation - Enjoy your meal surrounded by beautiful scenery. Don’t forget to buy some duck feed from the gift shop or, if you're feeling adventurous, try the zipline before eating!

7. A Saigon Cafe - A well-loved spot for authentic Vietnamese cuisine in a no-frills setting.

8. Tiffany’s Bar & Grill - A casual local hangout offering a mix of Asian and American comfort food.

9. Sam Sato's - Famous for its dry mein noodles and local-style plate lunches, this is a hidden gem in Wailuku.

10. Geste Shrimp Truck - Often found near Kahului Harbor, known for its mouth-watering shrimp plates.

11. Da Kitchen (Airport Location) - Another great spot for local comfort food, featuring Hawaiian classics like loco moco and plate lunches.

12. Bistro Casanova - A relaxed spot with Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, great for lunch or dinner.

13. Tasaka Guri Guri Shop - An old-school, family-run dessert shop famous for its unique "Guri Guri," a refreshing cross between ice cream and sherbet.

North Shore (Paia, Haiku)

1. Paia Fish Market - A popular, bustling spot perfect for a great lunch.

2. Mana Foods - Not a restaurant, but a local favorite grocery store offering a great selection of fresh, organic, and local produce, prepared foods, and an incredible deli section.

3. Island Fresh Cafe - Located in Paia, this spot offers farm-to-table dishes and a variety of healthy options, including vegan and gluten-free choices.

4. Paia Bay Coffee & Bar - A cozy, relaxing place to enjoy coffee and treats.

5. Belle Surf Cafe & Lounge - Open for breakfast and lunch; great vibes and delicious offerings.

6. Mama's Fish House - The most popular and hardest-to-get reservation on the island, for a good reason!

7. Cafe Des Amis - Known for their mouth-watering crepes.

8. Cafe Mambo - A casual spot with a laid-back vibe.

9. Flatbread - A pizzeria with creative, flavorful pizzas, including gluten-free and vegan options.

10. Nuka - My personal favorite sushi spot, known for its fresh fish and intimate setting.

Upcountry (Makawao, Kula)

1. Casanovas - Delicious Italian cuisine in a charming setting.

2. Makawao Public House - A new steakhouse in town that's a must-try for dinner.

3. Freshies - The ultimate breakfast spot offering traditional American breakfast with vegan options.

4. Marlow - A coffee shop by day and a delightful restaurant by night.

5. Grandma’s Coffee House - A beloved breakfast spot with a cozy, homey feel.

6. Kula Lodge - Breathtaking views paired with lodge-style vibes and a warm fireplace.

7. Kula Bistro - A local favorite for fresh, flavorful dishes.

8. La Provence - A hidden gem in Kula known for its authentic French pastries, quiches, and crepes. Perfect for a relaxed breakfast or brunch.

9. O’o Farm - Offers an amazing farm-to-table dining experience. You can also take a tour of the farm and enjoy a gourmet lunch prepared with ingredients harvested on-site.

10. Serpico’s Pizzeria - In Pukalani, known for delicious pizzas and Italian dishes in a family-friendly environment.

11. Kalei’s Lunchbox - A great option for local food in a takeout setting with seating available.

South Maui (Kihei, Wailea)

1. Kihei Caffe - Busy for a reason! Affordable, delicious breakfast, but get there early or after the rush.

2. Nalus South Shore Grill - Another popular breakfast destination with good reason; it's fantastic!

3. Maui Food Trucks of Kihei - A great place to explore various food truck offerings.

4. South Maui Gardens - A unique setting with lots of greenery.

5. Paia Fish Market (South Side Locations) - A great lunch spot.

6. Kinaole Grill Food Truck - Excellent seafood served fresh.

7. Da Kitchen - Perfect for a taste of local Hawaiian comfort food.

8. Three's Bar and Grill - A local favorite for a reason; great food and atmosphere.

9. Coconut's Fish Cafe - Renowned for its fish tacos!

10. Monkeypod - A busy but worthwhile location in Wailea, especially for happy hour – try their famous Mai Tai.

11. Fabiani's Bakery and Pizzeria - Great Italian food and baked goods.

12. Fred’s Mexican Cafe & Cantina - Offers a lively atmosphere, tasty margaritas, and classic Mexican dishes with a beach view.

13. Sansei Seafood Restaurant & Sushi Bar - Another excellent choice for sushi lovers.

14. Maui Brewing Company - Locally brewed beer and great food.

15. Manoli's Pizza Company - An upscale pizza experience.

16. Nutcharee's Authentic Thai Food - My favorite Thai place in Kihei, with a food truck location in Hana.

17. Lineage - A fine dining twist on local favorites by Chef Sheldon.

18. Cafe O'lei Kihei - Another solid option for a good meal.

19. Spago @ The Four Seasons Resort - Upscale dining with spectacular views.

20. Ferraro's @ The Four Seasons Resort - Italian cuisine with oceanfront dining.

21. Morimoto Maui @ The Andaz Resort - A high-end spot with incredible sushi.

22. Ka’ana Kitchen @ The Andaz Resort - Known for their brunch; we absolutely love it!

23. Duo Steak & Seafood - A prime spot for steak and seafood lovers.

24. Ko Restaurant - A celebration of local flavors.

25. Nicks Fishmarket @ The Fairmont Kealani Resort - An elegant option for fresh seafood.

26. Humble Market Kitchen @ The Marriott Wailea - A great place to try a variety of dishes.

27. 808 Deli - A great place in Kihei for gourmet sandwiches, salads, and wraps, right across from the beach.

28. Wow Wow Hawaiian Lemonade - A must-stop for refreshing and creative lemonade drinks, located in Kihei.

29. The Pint & Cork - A popular gastropub in Wailea with an extensive beer selection and hearty pub fare.

30. Sarento's on the Beach - An upscale dining option offering stunning oceanfront views, seafood, and Italian-inspired dishes.

31. Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice - Not just a treat, but an experience! Some of the best shave ice on the island, with a location in Kihei.

West Maui (Ka'anapali, Napili, Honokawai, Kapalua)

1. Leoda's Kitchen and Pie Shop - Famous for their pies, this is a must-stop on your way to the west side, located in Oluwalu.

2. Moku Roots - A waste-free, plant-based vegan restaurant that's both unique and delicious.

3. Slappy Cakes - A fun breakfast experience where you can make your own pancakes at the table. Arrive early to grab a spot!

4. Kimo's Maui - A staple on the West Side for great food and views.

5. Hula Grill Ka'anapali - Fantastic food with live music and a beach view.

6. Duke's Beach House - Named after the legendary Duke Kahanamoku, this spot is a favorite for both tourists and locals.

7. Leilani's on the Beach - Another beachfront option that's always a hit.

8. Monkeypod - Known for its happy hour and great food, with locations on both sides of the island.

9. Merriman's Kapalua - A stunning sunset dinner spot. Make sure to book ahead!

10. The Plantation House - A fine dining experience with beautiful views.

11. Sea House Restaurant - A great option for oceanfront dining.

12. Fuego Argentinean Steakhouse - Offers a unique flavor with their Argentinian steak.

13. Roy’s - A Hawaiian fusion restaurant with fantastic seafood.

14. A’A Roots - A great choice for plant-based foodies.

15. Taverna Maui - A stylish Italian eatery with a cozy atmosphere.

16. Kihei Cafe Lahaina - A sister location to the popular Kihei Cafe.

17. Star Noodle - A must-try for noodle lovers, known for its creative takes on Asian cuisine.

18. The Gazebo - Famous for its breakfast and incredible ocean views, located in Napili. Be prepared to wait, but it’s worth it!

Hana

1. Hana Ranch Restaurant - Offering farm-to-table dining with beautiful views, it’s one of the few options in this remote area.

2. Huli Huli Chicken - If you're lucky enough to catch them open, their BBQ chicken is legendary among locals and visitors alike.

General Maui Tips

• Maui Food Truck Parks - In addition to the specific locations listed, keep an eye out for the various food truck parks scattered around Maui. These parks feature a rotating array of trucks, so there's always something new and delicious to try.

• Farmers' Markets - Great spots to pick up fresh, local produce and artisanal goods. Look out for popular farmers' markets like Upcountry Farmers Market in Pukalani, Maui Nui Farmers Market in Kahului, and the Maui Sunday Market in Kahului.

Whether you're a resident or a visitor, Maui offers a wide array of dining experiences that cater to every palate. Make sure to explore these local gems and indulge in the island's diverse culinary delights!