Dining

Best Drive-Thru Coffee

Kraken Coffee is a cult favorite thanks to quick and friendly service, specialized coffee drinks their "Coffee Cubes"—frozen espresso blocks that keep your drink strong as they melt in the Maui sun.Akamai Coffee Co. is the local heavyweight, famous for their 100% Maui-grown beans and the "Honey Bee Latte," which uses local honey and cinnamon. For an icy treat, Kraken Coffee is a cult favorite thanks to their "Coffee Cubes"—frozen espresso blocks that keep your drink strong as they melt in the Maui sun. Bad Ass Coffee rounds out the list with their punchy "Kick in the Da Kine" espresso and signature frozen "Maniacs."

Food truck with black exterior and Kraken Coffee Maui logo, menu display, palm trees and blue sky in background.

Kraken Coffee

Best Coffee Shop

Akamai’s Wailea location offers a sleek, modern vibe with expert baristas. If you want a "boho-chic" atmosphere, Belle Surf Cafe in Kihei feels like a hidden Parisian courtyard serving crepes and lavender lattes. Upcountry, Vida by Sip Me is a visual masterpiece, known for its "Vida Rosa" (formerly Rose Gold) lattes and high-end, organic grab-and-go treats.

A cozy outdoor cafe with pink chairs, wooden tables, hanging purple flowers, and lush green plants, with two women standing and chatting.

Belle Surf Cafe

Best Bagel

The buzz right now is all about PopUp Bagels at the Grand Wailea, which has brought its viral "Rip and Dip" concept to the island. For a more traditional experience, Westside Bagel is the local hero for authentic, boiled-then-baked bagels that finally gave Maui a "New York" standard. Kalia Cafe is the classic choice for a hearty bagel breakfast sandwich before a day at the beach.

Exterior of a shop called 'Westside Bagel' with a window displaying the name, and a sign above the door with the same name, in a strip mall.

Westside Bagel

Best Bakery

Leoda’s is a Maui institution where the line is always out the door for their mini pies (the Banana Cream is legendary). In Wailuku, Paukūkalo Sweets is the place for traditional local treats like warm malasadas. For a historical experience, Komoda Store in Makawao has been serving their famous cream puffs and stick donuts since 1916—arrive early, as they sell out fast!

Exterior of Leah's Kitchen and Pie Shop, with two people sitting at a table on the front porch. The shop has a green facade, large windows, and a sign above the entrance. There are potted plants and hanging baskets outside.

Leoda’s

Best Brunch Spot

Mala Ocean Tavern was recently named one of the top brunch spots in the U.S. by OpenTable; their Lemon Ricotta Pancakes paired with a view of turtles in the surf is unbeatable. Ka’ana Kitchen offers the island's most luxurious breakfast buffet, while Kula Bistro is the Upcountry favorite for its massive "pasture-to-table" omelets and cozy Italian-cafe vibe.

A storefront with a sign that reads 'Kate Baker,' with large glass windows and a door, and trees visible in the background.

Kula Bistro

Best Burger

Cool Cat Café is the perennial "Best of Maui" winner, serving retro diner-style burgers like the avocado-heavy "Luna" burger. Teddy’s Bigger Burgers is beloved for its "Special Sauce" and high-quality flame-broiled patties. For something more elevated, the burger at Monkeypod Kitchen features local beef and vine-ripened tomatoes, making it a surprisingly gourmet standout.

A classic car show outside a café named 'Cool Cat Café' with vintage cars parked in front and people walking around.

Cool Cat Cafe

Best Catering Service

Celebrations by Bev Gannon is the gold standard for high-end events, bringing the culinary excellence of Haliʻimaile General Store to any location. Sugar Beach Events offers a stunning private venue with a professional culinary team, while Mala Ocean Tavern specializes in bringing their signature oceanfront flavors to private gatherings

People dining at an outdoor restaurant by the water during sunset.

Mala Ocean Tavern

Best Chinese Restaurant

Lineage in Wailea has redefined Chinese-Filipino fusion with upscale dishes like their famous Garlic Szechuan Noodles and Crispy Cauliflower. For traditional Cantonese, Fu Lin is the West Side’s reliable favorite. Happy Garden in Wailuku is the local choice for authentic Dim Sum and large "family-style" party platters.

Outdoor deck with a dining table set for a meal, surrounded by lush greenery and trees, with a view of a park or garden area.

Lineage

Best Donut

Purve Donut Stop is the newcomer making waves with hilarious names and wild flavors like "Unicorn Butt Sneeze" (lemon and Fruity Pebbles). Komoda’s stick donuts remain the timeless king of Maui pastries, while Donut Dynamite elevates the craft with artisanal brioche donuts that look like edible art.

Various decorated donuts on display at a bakery, with signs above them indicating flavors or names such as 'Unicorn' and 'Ala Wai Tea Bag'.

Purve Donut Stop

Best Ethiopian/Spice-Forward

While Maui doesn't have a dedicated Ethiopian storefront, Satrang in Haiku captures those vibrant spice profiles with their organic Indian/Global fusion. Mediterranean Grill is the go-to for savory, spice-heavy lentils, and Moku Roots often features African-inspired "earth bowls" that satisfy that specific craving for complex, plant-based flavors.

Food truck with menu sign, featuring Indian cuisine and vegetarian options, parked outdoors.

Satrang

Best Family-Friendly Restaurant

Monkeypod Kitchen is perfect for families, offering live music, a great kids' menu, and a high-energy vibe that welcomes a bit of noise. Flatbread Company is a hit with kids who love watching pizzas go into the wood-fired clay oven. Slappy Cakes is a unique interactive experience where you cook your own pancakes on griddles built right into the table.

Outdoor restaurant with tables and chairs, some set with napkins and plates, overlooking the ocean with boats, trees, and a blue sky.

Monkeypod Kitchen

Best Food Cart/Truck

Thai Mee Up is a local phenomenon located behind the Kahului Costco; it consistently beats out sit-down restaurants for the best Thai on the island. Kitoko in Kihei offers "fine dining from a truck" with beautifully plated bento boxes. Geste Shrimp Truck is the legendary stop for Hawaiian-style garlic shrimp near the harbor.

A small restaurant stand with a chef preparing food inside. The stand has signs advertising plant-based, sorbets, sweets, bentos, and sandwiches, and an 'OPEN' sign. The menu features Hawaiian fish, seafood, vegan salads, tofu bento, and sweet potato dishes.

Kitoko

Best French Restaurant

La Provence in Kula offers a slice of the French countryside with a panoramic view of Maui, specializing in authentic croissants and pâtisserie. Gerard’s in Lahaina is the island’s bastion of traditional French fine dining, while Casitas in Wailea offers a modern, breezy take on coastal European flavors.

People dining inside a cozy restaurant with large glass windows and an outdoor patio area.

La Provence

Best Gluten-Free Restaurant

Moku Roots is a haven for those with dietary restrictions, offering creative GF breads and meals in a zero-waste environment. Maui Sugar Shop is a 100% gluten-free and paleo-friendly bakery that makes incredible lilikoi bars. Coconut’s Fish Cafe is famous for their GF fish tacos, which use a massive stack of 17 ingredients.

Sign for Codnut's Fish Cafe with opening hours 11AM-9PM and a 'Now Open' banner, storefront with windows and door.

Coconuts Fish Cafe

Best Ice Cream

Reefs Real Fruit Icecream is tucked away in the food pod next to Maui Gardens and it might be one of the islands best kept secrets. Lappert’s Hawaii is the classic choice; their "Heavenly Hana" (dark chocolate and marshmallows) is a must-try. Island Cream Co. in Lahaina offers a staggering 150 handmade flavors and "Glacier Ice." For a decadent local touch, Ghelfi’s in Kihei creates incredible handmade gelato and chocolate-dipped treats.

Interior of a restaurant filled with people dining and socializing during sunset, large windows showing purple and pink sky with mountains and palm trees in the background.

Monsoon Bar & Grill

Best Indian Restaurant

Monsoon Bar & Grill offers authentic North Indian curries with the best view of any Indian restaurant in the world—right on the Kihei oceanfront. Kamana Kitchen is the local's choice for traditional Tandoori, while Satrang offers a modern, farm-to-table take on Indian street food.

A pink ice cream truck named 'Reef's Real Fruit Ice Cream' with a menu board listing flavors and options, serving ice cream through two open windows, surrounded by plants and a chalkboard sign.

Reefs

Best Italian Restaurant

Sale Pepe in Lahaina is widely considered the best for authentic, artisanal pasta and thin-crust pizza. Olivine at the Grand Wailea provides an upscale, coastal Italian experience featuring Sale Pepe’s handmade pastas. Fabiani’s is the beloved family-run spot in Kihei, famous for their lasagna and "Vittorio’s" cakes.

Interior of a cozy restaurant with a bar area, wooden tables and chairs set for dining, a chalkboard menu on the wall, and warm lighting.

Sale Pepe

Best Late-Night Eats

Zippy’s in Kahului is the 24/7 (or late-night) heart of Hawaii, where a bowl of Saimin or "Zip Pac" solves any midnight hunger. And The Local Bread Co. in Wailuku offers a super solid pizzas and sandwiches into the wee hours of the morning long after everything else has closed.

Local Bread Co.

Best Ramen

Star Noodle is world-famous; their Hapa Ramen and Garlic Noodles are legendary, now served with a stunning ocean view. Ichiban Okazuya is a "locals only" secret in Wailuku for traditional saimin and ramen. Ramen Ya offers a consistent, family-friendly experience that hits the spot every time.

People dining at an outdoor restaurant with a view of the water and boats

Star Noodle

Best Mediterranean Restaurant

Mediterranean Grill is a Haiku food truck that arguably serves the best gyros and falafel in the state. Pita Paradise in Wailea uses fresh-caught fish from their own boat for their Mediterranean fusion dishes. Cafe Des Amis in Paia is a North Shore staple, famous for Mediterranean crepes and savory curries.

Sign reading 'Mediterranean and Indian Food' outside a restaurant with warm lighting and outdoor seating.

Cafe Des Amis

Best Mexican Restaurant

Roasted Chiles in Kihei is exceptional for its sophisticated, regional Mexican dishes like Mole and Chile Rellenos. Amigo’s provides the classic, high-energy "tacos and margaritas" experience. Milagros in Paia is the place to see and be seen while enjoying "island-style" Mexican fusion on their famous outdoor patio.

Inside a colorful restaurant with yellow walls, decorated with Mexican-themed items. Several people are sitting at tables and the bar, some wearing hats, with TVs mounted on the walls.

Amigos

Best Pizza

Flatbread Company in Paia is the gold standard for its local, organic ingredients and massive clay oven. Point Break pizza is ridiculously good if a little bit out of the way, the only thing its missing is a portrait of Patrick Swayze. Pizza Paradiso in West Maui is an award-winner known for its Mediterranean toppings and consistent quality. And don’t forget to hit up the hidden gem that is South Shore Tiki Lounge for some of the most surprisingly good pizza on the island.

Interior of a restaurant with a wood-fired oven and staff preparing food at a counter.

Flatbread Company

Best Sandwich shop

808 on Main is the king of the "creative" sandwich, using high-end ingredients for their paninis. Leoda’s seared ahi sandwich is a must-try for seafood lovers. Home Maid Bakery in Wailuku is famous for its simple, delicious "local style" sandwiches served on buns they bake fresh every morning.

808 on Main

Best Soul Food and BBQ

Fat Daddy’s brings a soul-food sensibility to their BBQ with items like truffle mac & cheese and slow-smoked meats. Beach Bums offers the classic Southern BBQ experience with big platters and harbor views. Bearded BBQ is a food truck with filling plates at fair prices with cornbread that is absolutely to die for.

A food truck with a logo of a chef in a hat, serving customers. The truck displays a menu board and has an illuminated 'Open' sign.

Bearded BBQ

Best South Asian Restaurant

Kamana Kitchen is the premier destination for traditional Indian flavors across the island. Satrang offers a more experimental, South Asian fusion that focuses on local Maui produce. Monsoon Bar & Grill provides a high-end, fine-dining take on South Asian classics with an oceanfront bar.

Exterior front of Kamana Indian Cuisine restaurant with signage and windows

Kamana Kitchen

Best Sushi

Nuka in Haiku is the a great choice for top-tier, intimate sushi. Mama's Fish House serves excellent sashimi, including ahi and other local fish, but it's not a traditional sushi restaurant with rolls. Sensei by Nobu offers the highest level of sushi craftsmanship available in the region.

Outdoor patio of a restaurant with wooden tables set with plates, glasses, and silverware, surrounded by black chairs. String lights hang above, and there is a tree with green leaves in the background.

Nuka

Best Poke

Like Poke? is the chef-driven food truck that locals flock to for fresh-cut ginger and shoyu poke. Tobi's Poke & Shave Ice in Paia is a great option that also has shave ice. South Maui Fish Co. is exceptional for its "boat-to-bowl" freshness, serving only what was caught that day. And don’t forget Foodland which remains the "people's choice" for its massive variety and convenience.

Outdoor scene of Tobi's Deli & Cafe with a pink sign, people sitting at tables, and a parking lot in front with floral decorations.

Tobi’s Poke & Shave Ice

Best Shave Ice

Ululani’s is the undisputed world champion of shave ice, known for its "micro-shaved" texture and 100% cane sugar syrups. Wailua Shave Ice offers a modern twist by using fresh fruit foams and purees. Breakwall in Lahaina is the place for "adult shave ice," which includes a splash of spirits for a boozy beach treat.

Hawaiian shave ice cart with a sign reading 'Hawaiian Shave Ice' and a logo featuring a cone with a smiley face.

Ululani’s

Best Sweet Shop/Chocloatier

Maui Specialty Chocolates is famous for their "Mochi Truffles" which are a local obsession. Maui Ku'ia Estate in Lahaina is an award-winning "farm-to-bar" chocolate factory where you can do tastings overlooking the cacao trees. Island Press Coffee is the boutique stop for locally made truffles and artisan pastries.

Display case with assorted pastries and desserts at a cafe counter, with bags of coffee and other items on the wooden counter behind it.

Maui Specialty Coffee

Best Taco

Ono Tacos is the real deal for street-style tacos—simple, fast, and incredibly flavorful. Coconut’s Fish Cafe changed the game with their 17-ingredient fish taco that has been featured in national food magazines. El Taco Borracho is the late-night hero of Kihei, serving authentic tacos from a truck.

A food truck with a tropical theme featuring green leaves and a smiling cartoon Tiki figure holding a sign that says 'ONO TACOS LAHAINA.' The truck's slogan reads 'Enjoy Our Authentic Sonora Flavor,' with a menu board on the side. The window has a small counter with condiments and a water bottle.

Ono Tacos

Best Thai Restaurant

Thai Mee Up is a "can't miss" for their Garlic Salmon and perfectly spiced Pad Thai. A Saigon Cafe bridges Thai and Vietnamese flavors beautifully in a sit-down setting. Nalu’s in Kihei offers a Thai-inspired "island grill" menu that features some of the best curry dishes on the South Side.

Sign on a train that reads "Thai Mee Up" with a phone number, next to windows and a wooden exterior.

Thai Mee Up

Best Vergetarian/Vegan Restarant

Moku Roots is the island's plant-based leader, known for their "Taro Burger" and zero-waste mission. Choice Health Bar is the ultimate stop for Acai bowls and superfood smoothies. A’a Roots in Napili offers beautiful, health-conscious bowls that are as Instagrammable as they are delicious.

Interior of a cozy restaurant or cafe with tables, chairs, and a counter area with a menu board.

Moku Roots

Best Vietnamese Restaurant -

A Saigon Cafe is the long-standing king of Pho on Maui; the owner is a local legend. Ba-Le Sandwiches is the place for a quick, crunchy, and authentic Banh Mi. Hoopiilani Vietnamese is a rising star in the food truck scene, offering incredibly fresh spring rolls and noodle bowls.

Close-up of a sandwich with lettuce, onion, and other ingredients, held up in front of a French sandwich shop sign.

Ba-Le- Sandwiches

Best Wings -

Nalu’s wings are a local obsession—extra crispy and perfectly seasoned. Monkeypod Kitchen offers a sophisticated take with their wood-fired wings tossed in chili lime and cilantro. Maui Brewing Co. serves high-quality wings that are designed to pair perfectly with their "Bikini Blonde" or "Big Swell" beers.

Exterior of Nalu's restaurant with tropical plants and people waiting outside under a pink umbrella.

Nalu ‘s