Top Restaurants in Maui

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The Top Restaurants in Maui: Where to Eat on the Valley Isle

Maui isn’t just a paradise for beach lovers and adventure seekers—it’s also a dream destination for food lovers. From fresh seafood to local Hawaiian favorites, the island offers an incredible culinary scene that caters to all tastes and budgets.

I was so sad to see that the fires in Maui destroyed so many great restaurants, and I’m not sure some will ever rebuild. But there are still so many great restaurants in Maui. Whether you’re traveling with family, looking for a romantic dinner, or just want a casual bite after a long day of exploring, Maui has something for everyone. Here are some of the best restaurants on the island, along with what you can expect in terms of price and family-friendliness.

For more resources on your Maui vacation, be sure to check out my other popular Maui posts:

• Your Ideal 5-Day Maui Itinerary
• Best Family Resorts in Maui
• Best Maui Beaches for Families
• The Road to Hana: Best Stops Along the Way
• Visiting the Nakalele Blowhole
• What to Pack For Hawaii

1. Mama’s Fish House (Paia) – Best for a Special Occasion

📍 Paia | 💲💲💲💲 | 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly (but upscale)
Mama’s Fish House is the spot for a memorable meal in Maui. Known for its incredible ocean views, outstanding service, and the freshest seafood around, this iconic restaurant is a must-visit. The menu changes daily, featuring dishes like macadamia nut-crusted mahi-mahi and stuffed kanpachi. While the ambiance is family-friendly, the high price point makes it more suited for a special occasion rather than a casual meal. Reservations are essential—often weeks in advance!

2. The Gazebo (Napili) – One of the Best Restaurants in Maui for Breakfast

📍 Napili | 💲💲 | 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Very Family-Friendly
If you’re a fan of breakfast, The Gazebo is a must-visit. This small, open-air restaurant is famous for its macadamia nut pancakes, huge portions, and beautiful oceanfront views. It’s a casual and welcoming spot that’s perfect for families, though be prepared for a wait (it’s first come, first served). Pro tip: If the line is too long, you can order takeout and enjoy it on the nearby beach!

3. Star Noodle (Lahaina) – One of the Top Restaurants in Maui for Noodles and Shared Plates

📍 Lahaina | 💲💲💲 | 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly
Star Noodle is a fantastic spot for lovers of Asian-inspired cuisine. The menu features incredible noodle dishes, bao buns, and their famous garlic noodles. It’s a great place to share dishes, making it fun for families or groups. Prices are reasonable for the quality, and while it’s a casual setting, the food feels elevated. Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner.

4. Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop (Olowalu) – Best for Casual Dining & Desserts

📍 Olowalu | 💲💲 | 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Very Family-Friendly
Leoda’s is one of the top restaurants in Maui for comfort food and pies. In fact, they have some of the best pies on the island. From delicious sandwiches and burgers to the famous banana cream and coconut pies, everything here feels homemade and delicious. It’s a great spot for families looking for a quick, satisfying meal without breaking the bank. It’s counter-service, so expect a relaxed, no-fuss atmosphere.

5. Merriman’s Kapalua (Kapalua) – Best for Oceanfront Fine Dining

📍 Kapalua | 💲💲💲💲 | ❌ Not Ideal for Young Kids
For an unforgettable fine dining experience with breathtaking ocean views, Merriman’s Kapalua is a top choice. The restaurant emphasizes locally sourced, farm-to-table ingredients, offering exquisite dishes like macadamia nut-crusted fish and lamb prepared to perfection. Sunset dining here is particularly spectacular, making it ideal for a romantic night out or special occasions. Due to its upscale ambiance, it may not be the best choice for young children.

6. Paia Fish Market (Multiple Locations) – Best for Affordable Seafood

📍 Paia, Lahaina, Kihei | 💲💲 | 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Very Family-Friendly
Paia Fish Market is one the of the top restaurants in Maui for fresh seafood in a laid-back setting. They serve big portions of delicious fish tacos, grilled seafood plates, and fresh-cut fries at a fair price. It’s casual, counter-service dining, making it perfect for families who want a quick and tasty meal without the wait for a full-service restaurant.

7. Monkeypod Kitchen (Wailea & Ka’anapali) – One of the Best Restaurants in Maui for Happy Hour & Pizzas

📍 Wailea & Ka’anapali | 💲💲💲 | 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly
Monkeypod Kitchen is known for its craft cocktails, wood-fired pizzas, and delicious farm-to-table dishes. Their happy hour (which includes their famous Mai Tai with a honey-lilikoi foam) is a great way to enjoy high-quality food and drinks at a reasonable price. It’s a lively, fun atmosphere, making it one of our favorite places to visit with family and larger groups.

8. Tin Roof (Kahului) – One of the Top Restaurants in Maui for Local Comfort Food

📍 Kahului | 💲💲 | 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly (Takeout Only)
Owned by Chef Sheldon Simeon (a Top Chef alum), Tin Roof is a casual takeout spot offering incredible Hawaiian comfort food. Popular dishes include garlic shrimp, mochiko chicken, and poke bowls. Since it’s takeout only, it’s a great place to grab lunch before heading to the beach or back to your hotel.

Final Thoughts

Maui’s food scene has something for everyone, from high-end seafood to casual island-style comfort food. Whether you’re in the mood for a fine-dining experience, a quick grab-and-go meal, or a laid-back breakfast with an ocean view, you’ll find plenty of delicious options on the island. Be sure to make reservations when possible, as many of these are the top restaurants in Maui and they will fill up. Enjoy your time in Maui—and happy eating!

Which of these great restaurants in Maui are you most excited to try? Or do you have a favorite that I missed? Let me know in the comments!