What is "Local Food" or "Hawaiian Food"?
"Local Food," or Hawaiian cooking, is best described as a hearty, East-Meets-West cuisine. The photo above is a classic plate lunch. The plate usually includes a scoop of macaroni salad, rice, and a savory item. The flavors of the cooked items tend to have a distinct Asian influence, with such items as soy sauce or "shoyu" chicken and grilled kalbi beef ribs.
A few classic Hawaiian dishes not to be missed include pork lau lau, which is pork steamed in wrapped taro and tea leaves. There is also lomi lomi salmon, which is a vinegared chopped raw salmon dish that looks like salsa and, truthfully, might be a little fishy for some palates. Then, there are takes on traditional items like chicken noodle soup, known as chicken long rice (rice noodles).
Hawaiian food is delicious and typically affordable. Be sure to explore the classics at least once while you are in the Islands.
Plate Lunch & Beyond
If this is your first visit to Maui, you're in for a real treat. We've outlined some of the best spots to find tasty local food and drinks on the island.
Whether you're here to relax or explore this beautiful island, this little guide will help you make the most of your Maui culinary experience.
Favorite local restaurants on Maui that are frequented by the locals and tourists alike are the perfect combination of price, quality, and atmosphere. Take a look below at some of the top spots for Maui best eats.
Maui Grab-And-Go Musts
Tin Roof
360 Papa Pl Ste 116, Kahului
Tel: (808) 868-0753
Born and raised in Hilo on the Big Island, Chef Sheldon Simeon decided he wanted to share a piece of his home with other communities. One great way to share his love was through food. Chef Sheldon built his definition of 'home' in his garage under the calming and gentle Hilo rain.
To provide honest and fresh farm-to-table local cuisine, Chef Sheldon continues to help other communities by working closely with local farmers, fishermen, ranchers, and artisans. This small casual lunch spot is centrally located in Kahului and offers ono (yummy) island cuisine, including Mochiko Chicken, Saimin aka Ramen, Pork Belly, Poke Bowl, and so much more.
This delicious lunch spot is recommended for on-the-go dining. If this is your first visit, you may either order your plates and dine in the nearby Costco food court or head to the nearest beach park for a nice picnic with the family.
Note: Tin Roof is no longer a secret, so expect a line!
Zippy’s
15 Ho'okele St, Kahului
Tel: 808-856-7599
Craving a late-night snack or craving a quick bite before you head to the airport? Well known for its chili, stews, Korean chicken, and other Hawaiian comfort dishes -- Zippy's in Kahului is a much-loved Hawaiian chain you won't want to miss!
"Islander Tip: Try anything and everything, it's island comfort food you'll love! Can't stay to eat? Try their bento boxes; they're great for taking on the go."
The Higa brothers opened their first restaurant in Honolulu, and through their hard work and vision, Zippy's has become an iconic Hawaiian restaurant throughout the Hawaiian Islands.
Maui Restaurants
Aloha Mixed Plate
1285 Front St, Lahaina
Tel: (808) 661-3322
Aloha Mixed Plate is back open on Front Street on Maui. Aloha Mixed Plate offers a beautiful oceanfront dining location next to the Old Lahaina Luau, which has also reopened, and classic Hawaiian plate lunch staples like shoyu chicken, kalbi beef, Kalua pig.
Mala Ocean Tavern
1307 Front St., Lahaina
Tel: (808) 667-9394
Another favorite local spot in Lahaina has reopened to the delight of residents and visitors alike. Mala Ocean Tavern sits right on the ocean and offers a relaxed upscale dining experience. The entrees are delicious, and we highly recommend the oyster shooters!
These favorite Lahaina dining spots are a sign of the beginning of the rebirth of Lahaina.
Paia Fish Market - Paia, Kihei
100 Hana Highway, Paia, HI 96779
1913 S. Kihei Road, Kihei, HI 96753
Located on Maui's North Shore and South Maui, you will find another great seafood and fish spot that offers reasonably priced fresh seafood dishes. This seafood spot however, comes with a slight twist.
Many of the dishes served at Paia Fish Market combine Hawaiian and Mexican cuisine. Fish tacos, fish burgers, and seafood pasta are local favorites. Spacious outdoor seating is also available for anyone who loves to sit outside and enjoy the sunshine while enjoying their meal.
Maui Brewing Company
Multiple Locations
For a location with some of the best brews on the island, it is worth heading to the Maui Brewing Company to try a wide range of Hawaiian beers, from Bikini Blonde Lager to the Big Swell IPA. The beers here will cost in the $6 to $8 range. They also offer fun brewery tours and are located in Kihei, Maui.
