When you think of Maui bucket lists, you may first think of activities: the Road to Hana, snorkeling at Molokini, and watching the sunrise at Haleakala. But for many travelers, the top activity isn’t a typical excursion. In fact, it’s a meal. A meal at Mama’s Fish House Maui. 

This is one of the toughest reservations to get anywhere in Hawaii, and most people consider it the best food in Hawaii too. When I lived on Maui, I went to Mama’s Fish House a handful of times. I’ll share a little about my food today, but you can find reviews for the restaurant far and wide. I mostly wanted to talk about what to expect when you dine here. 

After all, this is likely a splurge meal during your Hawaii vacation, and you don’t want to go into it unprepared. So let’s learn all about this great Maui restaurant, and how to make sure it’s worth your time and money!

What Is Mama’s Fish House? 

Mama’s Fish House is a restaurant on Maui that primarily serves fish – fresh local fish. It’s a high-end restaurant with entrees running about $70 each (some are in the $90 range, but most land between $65 and $75). Add a $20 cocktail, split a $30 appetizer, and sample a $20 dessert, and a meal for two here will land at least $250 before tax and tip. 

But many people come to Maui ready to splurge on a meal or two. After all, a luau for two will likely be much higher, and many foodies would rather have a fresh, chef-created meal than a luau buffet. 

What’s most surprising about Mama’s Fish House is its location. Sure, it has a beautiful oceanfront setting you’d want from a Maui restaurant, but it’s quite isolated. In fact, it’s nearly an hour away from the Kaanapali resorts and about 40 minutes away from Wailea, where some of the island’s other upscale restaurants are. 

But people are more than willing to make the drive. The restaurant is tucked away in a quiet cove east of Paia, on Maui’s north shore. You’ll pass it if you embark on the Road to Hana, though a trip to the restaurant will be a separate outing. 

The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner. It’s pretty large, with lots of tables inside and a lawn outside while you wait for your seat. 

The restaurant is upscale but not uptight. Servers will explain menu items in simple terms; the decor is pretty old-school; and you’ll see a mix of diners from all kinds of backgrounds. I think it strikes the perfect balance for anyone who wants to enjoy a nice dinner without feeling out of place in a sleek, fancy restaurant. 

What to Expect For Your Trip to Mama’s Fish House Maui

So, you’ve decided you want to find out what all the fuss is about. You’re ready to eat at Mama’s Fish House. But such a coveted dining spot requires some planning. Lucky for you, I’ve been multiple times (it’s a sacrifice I was willing to make for the HAT blog), so I’ve got the full rundown. 

Ahead are the 7 things to plan for as you visit Mama’s Fish House on Maui.

#1 Reservations

Reservations are a must! Before you even visit Maui, you want to secure your reservations to Mama’s Fish House, especially if you dream of an oceanview seat at sunset. For these most coveted spots, you’ll want to make your reservation 4-6 months in advance. 

Reservations are available online, and they’re super easy to secure. You’ll pay a $50 deposit that’s refundable up to 24 hours before your reservation. 

But don’t give up hope if you’re planning a trip to Mama’s on shorter notice. I’ve gone twice with a same-day reservation! Here are some tips that will help you out:

• Keep checking online. Many people cancel or change reservations, so you may have luck securing a last-minute spot. 
• Consider booking a lounge seat. It’s the same menu but lacks an ocean view. You’ll still be able to enjoy the restaurant’s unique ambiance and great service.
• Choose an odd time for your meal. Mid afternoons and later at night tend to have more availability. 

#2 Dressing Up: What to Wear at Mama’s Fish House Maui

Mama’s Fish House requests a smart-casual or dress-to-impress attire. They don’t allow casual tank tops or swimsuits. 

This is a great chance to don any special resort wear you brought along on your vacation. Men often wear aloha shirts with slacks, while ladies wear light floral dresses or jumpsuits. 

When I’ve gone, I’ve seen lots of people in jeans, but they do dress them up with nicer shirts. And if you want to really dress up, that’s great too! Honestly, you could have a varied and interesting fashion show if you bring out all the outfits people wear to Mama’s Fish House. 

Just make sure that your attire is elevated and classy. Tropical is a big plus too!

#3 An Early Arrival

You’ll want to give yourself lots of extra time to arrive to Mama’s Fish House. Traffic can get backed up coming from West Maui. Plus, Paia traffic gets really slow during pau hana time (after work time, just as you arrive for dinner). 

Plus, you’ll want some time to enjoy the setting before settling in for dinner. The lawn outside the restaurant is beautiful, and there is also some seating near the hostess stand. 

#4 Parking & Check In

Hopefully, you arrive nice and early and aren’t stressing as you pull into the gorgeous property. The first rule of arrival (besides getting here early!) is NOT to park in the public beach parking. You’ll see it immediately to your right as you pull in, and it should be clearly marked. 

See, Mama’s is in front of a public beach, so they share their lot with beachgoers. Even if you plan to step on the sand while you wait for your table, this isn’t where you park. 

Instead, you proceed to the valet. Your only parking option at Mama’s Fish House Maui is valet parking. Every time I go, the valet is free (just be sure to tip them!). They’re speedy and kind and will direct you where to check in at the restaurant. 

Even if you’re early, you’ll want to go straight to check in and let them know you’re there. This helps them move efficiently. From there, you’ll be free to wander around the lawn and beach. There are beautiful swaying palm trees, tide pools, a traditional Hawaiian canoe, a few benches, and beautiful landscaping. 

#5 Being Seated

The time has finally arrived——you are ready to take your seat at Mama’s Fish House Maui. The restaurant will likely feel bustling yet not wild. People move about calmly, and tables are squeezed in as tightly as possible without being overbearing. 

In my experience, the hosts and serving staff are always phenomenal. They’ll share a welcome, a rundown of what to expect during your meal, explain any specials, and give you space to decide what you want. 

If you hate feeling rushed at restaurants, you’ll love your time at Mama’s Fish House. They offer a relaxed, full experience but move quickly enough that you don’t get tired of sitting there. I’ve been with a toddler, so achieving this balance is a big accomplishment. 

Once you’re seated, you receive a basket of bread and a small cup of soup, which is a lovely welcome and a tasty way to begin your meal. 

#6 Choosing What to Order at Mama’s Fish House Maui

Many people begin their Mama’s Fish House experience with a specialty cocktail. The restaurant offers a selection of hand-crafted drinks. In my experience, they are balanced and strong but nothing exceptional. If I were trying to keep costs down, I would skip the cocktail and instead focus on appetizers and dessert. 

One time, I went at dinnertime and chose two appetizers instead of an entree, just because they both sounded better at the time than the main entree options. On other trips, I’ve gotten different seafood options and they were all fine. 

Mama’s Fish House does have one beef option for meat-eaters who aren’t into seafood. They also can easily alter certain menu items for vegetarian or vegan diets. You can also ask your server for gluten-free options and accommodations, though they are sometimes a bit limited. 

#7 Dessert

Yes, Mama’s Fish House dessert gets its own section. It’s worthy of its own review. Honestly, dinners here are fine – probably worth the price, but nothing I dream about. 

The lilikoi crème brulée, on the other hand, is amazing (in my opinion). I’d say it’s the #1 can’t-miss item on the menu at Mama’s Fish House Maui. 

They also offer a show-stopping “Polynesian Black Pearl,” which looks too good to eat (but still eat it, it’s so yummy!). 

So don’t skip dessert if you go to Mama’s Fish House!

Tips for Visiting Mama’s Fish House Maui

So now you know what to expect when you visit this famed Maui restaurant – you’re ready to go! Before you take the scenic drive to Paia and settle in for a wonderful meal, here are a few tips to make sure you have the best time: 

• Kids are allowed, and the restaurant isn’t super stiff. However, it’s not a meal you want to rush through. So weigh the pros and cons before you visit Mama’s Fish House with kids. 
• Definitely ask your server if you have questions about any menu items or about the fish you’re ordering. This is a splurge meal, and you don’t want to risk ordering something you don’t care for. 
• This isn’t a fine dining restaurant that gives tiny portions – chances are you’ll leave full. 
• Mama’s Fish House on Maui doesn’t take reservations for more than 8 people, so this isn’t the place to host a big group meal. 

Planning Your Maui Vacation

Whether your ideal vacation involves high-octane adventures or relaxed and scenic dining (or a little bit of both), Maui is a great place to visit. And Hawaii Aloha Travel can help you have a great time!
Contact our team of local Hawaii travel agents to help plan your vacation, including hotel, activities, and dining. We can’t wait to see you wine, dine, relax, and thrive in Hawaii!