The Ultimate 2025 Maui Restaurant Guide: Top Picks for Every Budget and Occasion

The Maui restaurant scene has never been more exciting. From the roadside plate lunch spots serving local favorites to acclaimed oceanfront restaurants perfect for a honeymoon splurge. The Valley Isle offers something for every palate and pocketbook. Whether you’re traveling on a budget, seeking a memorable midrange experience, or planning a special celebration, here’s what you need to know about the best places to eat on Maui in 2025.

I’ve sorted this guide by budget and experience type. Also, I included regional details so you can plug these picks into your itinerary without much fuss.

Budget-Friendly Eats ($–$$)

West Maui

Leoda’s Kitchen & Pie Shop (Olowalu)
Leoda’s is practically a required Maui resturant stop if you’re driving to or from Lahaina. Their sandwiches are hearty, but it’s the pies that steal the show. Try the macadamia nut or coconut cream for a true taste of Maui comfort food.

Aloha Mixed Plate (Lahaina)
This classic spot has long been a favorite for locals and visitors alike. The oceanfront tables and big portions of laulau, kalua pork, and fresh fish make it a satisfying lunch or dinner choice that won’t drain your wallet.

Miss Arepa (Lahaina)
Miss Arepa has quickly earned a following with Venezuelan arepas stuffed with flavorful fillings. It’s a fun twist if you need a break from typical Hawaiian plates but still want something affordable and unique.

South Maui

Kihei Café (Kihei)
This breakfast landmark opens early, and there’s almost always a line. Portions are huge, coffee is strong, and the banana macadamia nut pancakes are legendary.

Coconut’s Fish Cafe (Kihei)
Known for fish tacos piled high with fresh-caught fillets, Coconut’s offers casual, counter-service dining that’s ideal for a quick lunch between beach stops.

Nalu’s South Shore Grill (Kihei)
Nalu’s has built a reputation for fresh salads, sandwiches, and nightly live music. It’s a great brunch option or an easygoing dinner spot that consistently delivers.

Upcountry

Flatbread Company (Pāʻia)
Address: 89 Hana Hwy, Paia, HI 96779
Price Range: $–$$
If you’re exploring Upcountry or heading to Hana, Flatbread’s organic wood-fired pizzas make a satisfying stop. The casual vibe and kid-friendly menu keep families coming back.

Polli’s Mexican Restaurant (Makawao)
Address: 1202 Makawao Ave, Makawao, HI 96768
Price Range: $–$$
Polli’s has been serving up hearty plates of Mexican comfort food for decades. The colorful, laid-back setting feels right at home in Makawao’s paniolo town.

Pukalani Superette (Makawao)
Address: 15 Makawao Ave, Makawao, HI 96768
Price Range: $
This old-school market offers classic plate lunches, musubi, and grab-and-go Maui restaurant for snacks. It’s the perfect place to stock up before a day of adventure.

Central Maui

Tin Roof Maui (Kahului)
Address: 360 Papa Pl Ste 116, Kahului, HI 96732
Price Range: $
Chef Sheldon Simeon’s famous counter-service spot draws crowds for a reason. Don’t miss the mochiko chicken or the garlic noodles. Prices stay low, but the flavors are first-rate.

808 on Main (Wailuku)
Address: 2051 Main St, Wailuku, HI 96793
Price Range: $–$$
A convenient lunch option with fresh sandwiches, salads, and daily specials. You’ll get fast service and plenty of healthy options here.

East Maui

Thai Food by Pranee (Hāna)
Address: 5050 Uakea Rd, Hana, HI 96713
Price Range: $–$$
Hāna has limited dining options, but Pranee’s fresh Thai plates are worth planning around. Just remember it’s cash only.

Braddah Hutts BBQ Grill (Hāna)
Address: 5305 Hana Hwy, Hana, HI 96713
Price Range: $–$$
This food truck has earned a loyal following for generous barbecue platters and a welcoming vibe. After a long drive to Hāna, it’s exactly what you want.

---

Midrange Favorites ($$–$$$)

These restaurants balance quality with approachable pricing. They’re perfect for date nights, relaxed dinners, or treating yourself after a day of exploring.

West Maui

Monkeypod Kitchen (Kaʻanapali)
Address: 2435 Kaanapali Pkwy Bldg J, Lahaina, HI 96761
Price Range: $$–$$$
Monkeypod hits the sweet spot with craft cocktails, live music, and a farm-to-table menu. The hand-tossed pizzas and fresh fish specials are standouts.

Hula Grill Kaʻanapali
Address: 2435 Kaanapali Pkwy Bldg P, Lahaina, HI 96761
Price Range: $$–$$$
Steps from the sand, Hula Grill pairs beachfront views with consistently good seafood and Hawaiian staples. It’s lively but never too loud.

Merriman’s Kapalua (Lunch or Happy Hour)
Address: 1 Bay Club Pl, Lahaina, HI 96761
Price Range: $$–$$$
Merriman’s dinner can be a splurge, but their lunch and happy hour menus make this iconic spot more accessible. The view alone justifies a midday reservation.

Sea House Restaurant (Napili)
Address: 5900 Lower Honoapiilani Rd, Lahaina, HI 96761
Price Range: $$–$$$
Sea House is tucked right on Napili Bay, making it a popular choice for breakfast and sunset dinners. The setting is classic Maui—casual but beautiful.

South Maui

Three’s Bar & Grill (Kihei)
Address: 1945 S Kihei Rd Ste G, Kihei, HI 96753
Price Range: $$–$$$
You’ll find a blend of Hawaiian, Southwestern, and Pacific Rim flavors here. Their happy hour is one of the best on the island, and the menu has something for everyone.

Pita Paradise (Wailea)
Address: 34 Wailea Gateway Pl Ste A107, Wailea, HI 96753
Price Range: $$–$$$
Mediterranean food with a local twist. It’s a more casual alternative to the resort restaurants in Wailea, but still plenty refined.

Café O’Lei at the Mill House (Waikapū)
Address: 1670 Honoapiilani Hwy, Waikapu, HI 96793
Price Range: $$–$$$
Set on the grounds of the Maui Tropical Plantation, this spot offers sweeping views and a creative menu. It’s a great option for lunch or dinner after exploring the area.

Morimoto Maui (Wailea, Lunch)
Address: 3550 Wailea Alanui Dr, Wailea, HI 96753
Price Range: $$–$$$
Morimoto’s dinner menu can be pricey, but lunch offers more budget-friendly access to Iron Chef-quality sushi and Japanese plates.

Upcountry

Haliʻimaile General Store (Makawao)
Address: 900 Haliimaile Rd, Makawao, HI 96768
Price Range: $$–$$$
Chef Bev Gannon’s beloved restaurant has been a mainstay for decades. The Hawaiian regional cuisine here is always a treat, especially at lunch when pricing is more approachable.

Casanova Italian Restaurant (Makawao)
Address: 1188 Makawao Ave, Makawao, HI 96768
Price Range: $$–$$$
A charming space serving authentic Italian fare. They often host live music, creating a lively atmosphere in the evenings.

Marlow (Makawao)
Address: 30 Kupaoa St, Makawao, HI 96768
Price Range: $$–$$$
Neapolitan pizza done right in Upcountry Maui. The wood-fired oven and fresh toppings make Marlow a standout among Maui’s pizza spots.

Central Maui

Seascape Restauranhttps://mauioceancenter.com/dine/t (Wailuku)
Address: 192 Maalaea Rd, Wailuku, HI 96793
Price Range: $$–$$$
Located within the Maui Ocean Center, Seascape offers fresh seafood and harbor views. It’s a relaxing spot for lunch after a visit to the aquarium.