Maui has plenty of “we should’ve made a reservation” places, plus a bunch of casual spots that still hit like a special night. Here’s an updated lineup of restaurants that are currently operating, with menus posted online as of January 26, 2026, so you can plan with confidence.
Updated January 26, 2026
Breakfast and brunch you’ll actually wake up for
Nalu’s South Shore Grill (Kihei)
All-day comfort food, the kind of place that works for mixed groups where someone wants breakfast and someone wants a burger. If you’re staying in South Maui, it’s a reliable anchor. Try the loco moco.
Ulana Terrace (The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua)
This is the sit-down breakfast that’s open-air, breezy, and looks out over the gardens, pools, and a slice of ocean. It’s breakfast-only, which feels kind of perfect on Maui, you show up, eat well, then your day can go anywhere. Keep in mind, like at any resort, you’ll be paying for it!
The Gazebo Restaurant (Napili)
This is the early-morning move, show up hungry, expect a line, and plan your beach time around it. It’s a consistent win when you want good breaky that still feels like a Maui moment.
Happy hour and sunset dinners (aka, the “one more round” category)
Sea House Restaurant (Napili)
Napili Bay views, open-air seating, and a happy hour window that fits real vacation timing. This one’s great when your plan is basically “swim, shower, snacks, sunset.”
Monkeypod Kitchen (Wailea, plus West Maui)
If your crew has a standing request for a mai tai and something shareable, this is it. It’s lively without feeling chaotic, and it’s an easy pick for a first night in Wailea or Kihei.
Māla Ocean Tavern (Lahaina)
A favorite for oceanfront dining in Lahaina, with service that works for both “date night” and “we just came from the beach” energy. It’s also one of the spots people have been cheering for as West Maui continues rebuilding and reopening.
Big-night reservations (book first, then build your day around it)
Mama’s Fish House (Ku‘au, near Paia)
This is still the hardest reservation on many itineraries, and for good reason. If you only do one big dinner, this is the one most visitors remember years later. Be ready for a serious bill.
Merriman’s Kapalua
Ocean views, locally focused plates, and the kind of dinner that feels like an event, even if you’re wearing sandals. Ideal for a splurge night in West Maui.
Lineage (Wailea)
A great Wailea dinner when you want something fun and flavor-forward, with some items out of comfort zones. Solid for groups, also solid for couples, and usually a crowd-pleaser for the adventurous.
Havens Harborside Fish and Chophouse (Maalaea), date night
If you want a date night that feels Maui without feeling overdone, Havens is an easy yes. You’re right on Maalaea Harbor, so the view does a lot of the work, boats, water, and that golden light that makes you want to linger a little longer. And with Chef Zach as uncontested Chef of the Year, you won’t be disappointed.
Ka’ana Kitchen (Wailea, Andaz Maui)
A strong “order a bunch and share” menu, especially if you like the idea of seasonal ingredients and a kitchen that doesn’t play it safe.
Casual spots that still feel like you found the good stuff
Tin Roof (Kahului)
Perfect right after landing, or anytime you want fast, heavy, satisfying food. Get what sounds good, eat it in the car with the AC on, you’ll feel extremely Maui-core.
Flatbread Company (Paia)
Wood-fired pizza with a Maui feel. It’s a nice change-up if you’ve been doing seafood-heavy meals all week and want something easy that still tastes thoughtful. Great ambiance and fun to walk around before or after.
Star Noodle (Lahaina)
A long-time favorite that’s back in action, with dinner service and a weekend dim sum brunch that started in late 2025. If you’ve got noodle-lovers in the group, don’t skip it. Everything on the menu is truly ono.
Cafe O’Lei at the Mill House (Wailuku)
An easy add-on for a Central Maui day, especially if you’re already wandering Maui Tropical Plantation. Works well for a calmer meal between bigger adventures.
Paia Fish Market (Paia, plus other locations)
Counter service, quick turnaround, and a menu that keeps the focus where it should be, fresh fish done simply. Great when you’re in Paia and don’t want a long sit-down. Weird Personal Tip: I bring my own hot sauce for the tacos.
Quick planning tips (so you’re not hangry in the car)
Reserve the big ones early, especially Mama’s, and anything in Wailea during peak travel weeks.
- Use happy hour on purpose: It’s often the easiest way to get a great table and try more items. Plus before sunset is the best time to dine anyway.
- West Maui check-in: Lahaina is welcoming visitors, but it’s still a living community in recovery, be respectful, tip well, and be patient if staffing feels tight.
- Keep one “backup” spot per area: (Kihei, Wailea, West Maui), because plans change fast on Maui and many of these restaurants fill up QUICK!
