Maui’s Best Restaurants and Bars
These are the top voted restaurants and bars on Maui. We asked you Maui, what restaurants were the best, and you responded. These top Maui Restaurants are the definitely the best on Maui, because you said so. Read on for the best places to have breakfast, where the best service is, who is Maui’s best bartender, where to get the best margarita and more!
DINING WITH A VIEW
The Seawatch Restaurant at Wailea
You might think the name sums it up, but it really doesn’t. Because you’re not just watching the sea, you’re watching an incredible stretch of coastline that, if you time it right, is lit up with eye-popping reds and oranges that don’t lose their magic even with multiple viewings. Add relaxing tropical decor, a large lanai, a chance to see whales when they’re in season and a menu honed over a decade-and-a-half and you’ve got more than just an awesome view. 100 Wailea Golf Club Dr., Wailea, 808-875-8080. [JS]
Runner up: Mala Ocean Tavern
LOCAL FOOD
Da Kitchen
Whether it’s ono plate lunches, tasty desserts or just friendly, laid-back service, Da Kitchen continues to serve what locals crave. Their huge Hawaiian plate is amazing (chicken long rice, lau lau, kalua pork, lomi-lomi served with two scoops rice and mac salad), but their chicken katsu is king. It’s like a whole chicken has been artfully breaded in crispy panko flakes and served with a signature Japanese BBQ sauce. Local or tourist, Da Kitchen will leave you satiated. Islandwide. [YT]
Runner up: Aloha Mixed Plate, Lahaina
FEMALE BARTENDER
Sarah Stern (South Shore Tiki Lounge, Kihei)
A well-placed spy tells me that not only is Sarah a friendly, efficient bartender who moonlights as a massage therapist, she’s easy on the eyes as well. Her signature drink is a Sarita (roll the “r”), a tequila and triple sec concoction that also goes by a more profane name, a slang term for a part of the female anatomy. Before landing at the Tiki Lounge, Stern slung beverages out at Charley’s, so it’s no surprise she’s got a big island following. [JS]
Runner up: Tara Weber (Lulu’s Lahaina)
MALE BARTENDER
Dave Bauss (Milagros, Paia)
This guy gets extra props from me due to the fact that he didn’t look at me with complete disdain when I spilled my water all over the place during a recent happy hour (at least my Maui Cruiser margarita was safe and sound). Obviously, to tend bar at a cantina like Milagros one’s margarita chops must be of the highest order. This is especially true if one’s place of work serves a large variety of supreme, jaw-droppingly expensive tequilas. In addition to concocting a mean margarita, Bauss is the epitome of Johnny-on-the-spot. He makes his way around the bar—no matter how packed—like it’s nothing, and thus helps ensure return visits (OK, his dreamy eyes don’t hurt, either). [KB]
Runner up: Jake Morris (South Shore Tiki Lounge, Kihei)
BBQ
Fat Daddy’s Smokehouse
Vegetarians look away. There is nothing more carnivorous than tearing the tender meat from the rib of a fleshy cow or pig, but the experience gets even more primal with the addition of lots of dripping barbeque sauce. While I’m sure local islanders have come up with many fine ways to cook a pig, it’s the Texas-style barbeque from this Kihei smokehouse shack that holds top honors in this new food category. 1913 South Kihei Rd.j, Kihei, 808-879-8711. [JA]
Runner up: Beach Bums Bar & Grill, Maalaea
SEAFOOD
Mama’s Fish House
A lot of places assure you their fish is fresh, but Mama’s takes things a step further. On the menu, they tell you the name of the fisherman who caught your prospective dinner and where he caught it. Of course, that would be less important if the fish weren’t expertly prepared, but, of course, it is. For an almost-too-rich treat, try the mac nut crusted mahi mahi stuffed with lobster, crab and Maui onion (whew!). Or go with mango chutney garnished ono, or ginger-seared deep water ahi, or…well, you get the idea. 799 Poho Pl., Paia, 808-579-8488. [JS]
Runner up: Sansei Seafood Restaurant and Sushi Bar, Kihei & Lahaina
STEAK
Ruth’s Chris Steak House
If there is a perfect way to serve steak it probably goes a little like this: choose the most succulent cut of Midwestern beef you can get your hands on, cook it to order in an 1,800-degree broiler and then serve it atop a puddle of melted butter on a plate warmed to 500 degrees. As you’ve surely surmised, this is how Ruth’s Chris serves their meat. For just $39.95, diners can enjoy an 8-ounce filet mignon with salad, choice of side and dessert. 900 Front Street, Lahaina, 808-661-8815. [HN]
Runner up: Outback Steak House, islandwide
FISH SANDWICH
Paia Fish Market
Some people gripe about the Fish Market’s picnic-table style seating—or, more to the point, that there’s not enough of it. But I like it: it lends itself to meeting new people and gives the place a backyard picnic vibe. As for the crowdedness? Well, that’s pretty much unavoidable given how damn good the food is. I’m partial to the fish and chips, to the point where I often ignore other options, but put the fish between sesame seed buns and garnish it with tarter sauce and other fixin’s and it’s still eat-every-bite-and-look-around-for-more delicious. (Note: They do, technically, call their fish sandwiches “burgers,” but whatever.) 2 Baldwin Ave., Paia, 808-579-8030. [JS]
Runner up: Alexander’s Fish & Chips, islandwide
PINT O’ GUINESS – Edit Pick
Mulligan’s on the Blue
When you can’t get a flight to Ireland to get your Guinness fix, the next best thing is to head over to Mulligan’s on the Blue. This is a beer that’s best on draft, and I even hear this rich dark brew is considered a health drink by the Irish. Drop by on Sunday at 6:30pm when the Celtic Tigers are playing and you’ll be in for a full-blown Irish experience. 100 Kaukahi St., Kihei, 808-874-1131. [JR]
VEGETARIAN
Fresh Mint
This is the poet laureate of vegetarian restaurants. The menu at this Vietnamese joint includes some of the tastiest and wildly imaginative vegan items I have seen on this island, or anywhere else, truthfully. I have even tried the fake fish here, and found it to be most tasty. My favorite dish is the golden soy chicken curry, which features seitan and tofu as well as a variety of veggies. The Vietnamese burrito is also must-try. But whatever you select, you can’t really go wrong at this little veggie eatery—and vegans need not fear anything on the menu. Also, despite the seemingly rare ingredients, prices are surprisingly low. Another tab-shrinking factor is the fact that this place is BYOB. 115 Baldwin Ave., Paia, 808-579-9144. [KB]
Runner up: Mana Foods, Paia
LOCAL SANDWICH
808 Deli
If you’re a fan of panini, dial up 808. They do non-grilled sandwiches too, and they’re plenty good, but you’d be doing yourself a disservice if you didn’t try the “porkie”: pork, mango salsa and pepper jack on rye with sweet chili dipping sauce. Or the “roast beast,” a wallop of meat, cheese, jalepenos and horseradish. Or, for non-meat eaters, the “rippie,” a combo of two cheeses plus avocado, tomato and pesto. I could keep listing options, but how ’bout you just go look, and eat, for yourself? 2511 S. Kihei Rd., Suite 102, Kihei, 808-879-1111. [JS]
Runner up: Paia Fish Market, Paia
DINNER
Moana Bakery & Cafe
There are some absolutely mouth watering delights at Moana Cafe, an eclectic bistro and bakery. I would venture to say some of the best lamb in the world is served here at dinner. Its called the lamb wahi wrap by day, and known as the rack of lamb at night. I also have to rave about the strudel that comes in either cherry or apple, it is fantastic. The atmosphere is old world and modern at the same time, and the food is always amazing. 71 Baldwin Ave., Paia, 808-579-9999. [JR]
Runner up: Pineapple Grill, Lahaina
MEXICAN FOOD
Amigo’s
When in need of a Mexican food fix, Maui Time readers head to Amigo’s. We are creatures of convenience and with locations in Kihei, Kahului and Lahaina you don’t have to go far to find them. My favorite item is the burrito al pastor, served traditional style with cilantro and onions. They make it fast and authentic.Islandwide, 808-872-9525. [JR]
Runner up: Fiesta Time, Wailuku & Paia
LUNCH
Cafe Mambo
It seems like eclecticism is the way to go if you’re shooting for Best of honors. Mambo is a case-in-point—the menu goes well beyond sandwiches and burgers. Yes, vegans like myself will dig the tofu-nori fajitas, the seven-vegetable tagine (morroccan stew) and the roasted vegetable salad. Carnivores can sink their teeth into steak and blue cheese, kalua duck fajitas and Tia Concha chicken tagine, to name a few. The atmosphere is decidedly sunny, a quality enhanced by the colorful artwork on the walls. Plus, any place that screens films like The Big Lebowski and Pan’s Labyrinth and has Maui Brewing Company beers on tap is worth checking out. 30 Baldwin Ave., Paia, 808-579-8021. [KB]
Runner up: Cafe O’Lei, Kihei & Wailuku
FISH TACOS
Jawz Tacos
I don’t think anyone will be surprised that Jawz took first place in this race once again. The tacos at Jawz are, quite simply, works of art, with all that fragrant cilantro rice, crunchy cabbage, shredded cheese and creamy salsa. And the options! With three kinds of fresh fish (mahi mahi, ono and ahi) and a salsa bar that just won’t quit, you could have Jawz tacos every day for a year and never taste the same thing twice. 1279 S. Kihei Rd., Kihei, 808-874-8226. [JA]
Runner up: Maui Tacos, islandwide
LOCAL ICE CREAM
Roselani Tropics Ice Cream
Local ice cream is important on Maui—as important as, say, coffee is up in Seattle or Botox is in Los Angeles. That’s because on a hot day we need the perfect scoop on the bottom of our shave ice to cool us down, and I’m so glad you readers picked Roselani, the company that has been operating locally for over 70 years and not some big box, Mainland chain store that has to ship their product halfway around the world to get it in your cone. The original haupia flavor is still the best. 918 Lower Main St., Wailuku, 808-244-7951. [JA]
Runner up: Ono Gelato Company, Paia
CORNED BEEK AND CABBAGE – Edit Pick
Dog & Duck
Corned beef and cabbage is the dish of St. Patty’s Day. But why only eat it once a year? Enjoy it often at the Dog and Duck where Chef Simon Jones serves home-cooked meals like his juicy seasoned slabs of corned beef with cooked wedges of cabbage in a cozy pub atmosphere. 1913 S Kihei Rd., Kihei, 808-875-9669. [JR]
SMOOTHIE
Jamba Juice
Jamba Juice’s smiling servers and cheery, mostly health-minded smoothies are only a cover for something more insidious: a secret menu. Surely you’ve heard of Pink Starburst? What about White Gummy Bear or Strawberry Shortcake? Other than delicious smoothies, what else could Jamba Juice be hiding in its colorful recesses? Are they plotting to take over the world with wheatgrass shots (served with orange slices) and acai cups? Joking aside (or is it?), Jamba Juice serves yummy, customizable smoothies at reasonable prices. And don’t forget your free boost. Islandwide. [YT]
Runner up: Hana Bay Juice Company, Paia
BREAKFAST
Kihei Caffe
What’s amazing about Kihei Caffe is that, as crowded as it gets—and it gets crowded, especially on weekends—a table always seems to open up right when you need one. Sure, sometimes it’s one of the little wobbly ones and you’ve got to rub elbows with your dining companions, but you won’t be worrying about that as you wolf down a stack of banana mac nut pancakes or a gooey bite of hollandaise-slathered eggs Benedict. The proximity of Kihei’s many beaches means you can hop in the water (after waiting the requisite half-hour, of course) for a little post-breakfast float. Sounds like a Saturday to me. 1945 S. Kihei Rd., Kihei, 808-879-2230. [JS]
Runner up: Gazebo Restaurant, Lahaina
SUSHI
Sansei Seafood Restaurant and Sushi Bar
The line that snakes out the door of Sansei most weekday evenings is impressive. Sure, people queue up for a much-needed bargain (half-price sushi), but also because the food they’re getting at that enticing discount is high quality. Whatever roll gets you rolling, you’ll find it on their expansive menu. A personal favorite: the spicy Japanese BLT roll—a crisp salmon skin wrapped around Kula greens, tomato and masago aioli. Add sake and enjoy. 1881 S. Kihei Rd., Kihei, 808-879-0004; 600 Office Rd., Lahaina, 808-669-6286. [JS]
Runner up: Kobe Japanese Steak House, Lahaina
FARMER’S MARKET
Maui Swap Meet
Bigger is decidedly better when it comes to farmer’s markets, and the Maui Swap Meet draws the most local vendors every weekend to sell their Earthly bounty. That means you’ll get the largest selection of fresh and local veggies and exotic fruits, berries and herbs available in one place. The only catch: you’ve got to get up a little early on the weekend. 310 Kaahumanu Avenue, Kahului. [JA]
Runner up: Honokowai Farmer’s Market
PLACE TO GET A PINATA WITH A MANDARIN JARRITO – Edit Pick
Las Pinatas
Every holiday party we have at my house is really just an excuse to get a pinata. Gathering the folks around a hollow paper mache icon you hit with a stick blindfolded creates unforgettable family memories (and hopefully no serious injuries). There’s no better place to pick them up than Las Pinatas. Their entire ceiling is covered! While there, don’t resist the urge to suck back one of their Jarritos that come in exotic flavors like mandarin and tamarind. And the food’s good, too. 395 Dairy Rd., Kahului, 808-877-8707. [JR]
PANCAKES
Tasty Crust Restaurant
There’s no better way to start the day than with a plate full of piping hot, fluffy pancakes. And when you’ve got a busy day at the beach (why yes, tanning and bodyboarding are very stressful, thank you very much), the best way to fuel up is at Tasty Crust. When a diner has “tasty” in the name, you know you’re on the right track. If you need further proof of Tasty Crust’s superiority, look no further than their sign advertising their “world famous pancakes” (yes, world famous). Tasty Crust has served Maui for over 50 years, and in that half-century has learned something magical about delicious breakfast food, especially flapjacks. 1770 Mill St., Wailuku, 808-244-0845. [YT]
Runner up: Gazebo Restaurant, Lahaina
PLATE LUNCH
Aloha Mixed Plate
Aloha Mixed Plate fulfills both of the key plate lunch requirements: 1) a yummy plate of assorted foods, traditionally supplemented with two scoops of rice and a scoop of mac salad; 2) it’s served at lunch time. Their most popular plate lunch is the Hawaiian Plate, which contains kalua pork and cabbage, lomi lomi, poi and haupia alongside the rice and mac salad. That isn’t even mentioning the amazing seaside view you’ll be treated to if you choose to dine in. 1285 Front St., Lahaina, 808-661-3322. [YT]
Runner up: Da Kitchen, islandwide
LOCAL PLACE TO BUY WINE
The Wine Corner
Buying your vino at a specialty store is much more gratifying than heading to the supermarket or the gas station, and Maui Time readers know it. The Wine Corner’s rows of top-shelf wine, liquor and hard-to-find beer will fill out your cocktail party must-have list. Bottoms up! 149 Hana Hwy., Paia, 808-579-8904. [JR]
Runner up: Aloha Discount Liquor, Kihei
HEALTH FOOD STORE
Mana Foods
Shopping at most natural food stores is not too different from spending the weekend in Waikiki, in that you might as well just turn your wallet upside down an pour its contents into the ocean. This is not so with Mana Foods. Numerous times, I have exited this mecca for the health conscious rather surprised at the comparatively low sum I had to fork over for my B complex, sprouted tofu and Molokai papayas. While price is a major factor in the place’s appeal, the variety they feature in all departments—especially produce and supplements—are also a draw. This is the only place on-island where you’ll find Indian dhoop, which are these tiny incense sticks that smell the way honey wishes it tasted—and at around 30 cents a box. 49 Baldwin Ave., Paia, 808-579-8078. [KB]
Runner up: Down to Earth Natural Foods, Kahului
VIETNAMESE
A Saigon Cafe
It’s easy to miss A Saigon Cafe. It doesn’t really advertise its location and is tucked under a busy bridge. But—with its yummy Vietnamese “burritos,” authentic, veggie-infused dishes and friendly staff—it’s worth seeking out. At Saigon, there’s something for everyone, be it the spring rolls, sweet and sour mahi mahi, crispy egg noodles, lemongrass chicken or hot clay pot dishes. If you’re tired of Vietnamese places that only serve pho, Saigon Cafe (and its extensive menu) is the place to go. 1792 Main St., Wailuku, 808-243-9560. [YT]
Runner up: Lemongrass Maui, Kahului
BURGER
Cool Cat Cafe
For six years in a row, Maui Time readers have overwhelmingly stated that Cool Cat dishes out the best burgers on-island. It’s no surprise these 6.5-ounce, hand-molded fresh beef patties win diners over. With 13 styles of burger to choose from—some topped with onion rings and barbecue sauce and others with bean chili and four cheeses—there’s something to suit all tastes. Plus: all kama‘aina get 20 percent off, all the time. 658 Front St. #160, Lahaina, 808-667-0908. [HN]
Runner up: Cafe Mambo, Paia
CHINESE
Dragon Dragon
Every special occasion, especially birthdays, finds me at Maui’s premiere Chinese restaurant. Why do birthdays have a special place in Dragon Dragon dining? According to some Asian customs, it’s good luck to eat long noodles on a birthday; it’s not scientific, but there’s supposed to be a correlation between a long life and long noodles. The fact that Dragon Dragon serves the birthday celebrant with lychee ice cream helps too. Anyway, if noodles aren’t your thing, Dragon Dragon also serves classic Chinese dishes like fried rice, kung pao chicken and occasionally dim sum on the weekends. 70 E. Kaahumanu Ave. # B12, Kahului, 808-893-1628. [YT]
Runner up: Fu Lin, Lahaina
FISH AND CHIPS
Alexander’s Fish & Chips
“Fish” and chips might be a little misleading; Alexander’s serves an array of seafood (ono, mahi-mahi, shrimp and even oysters) dipped in tempura and fried to golden perfection. Their deep fryer even extends to land-dwelling delicacies such as zucchini, mushrooms and yams. If deep fried isn’t your thing, Alexander’s also offers to grill their items. 1913 S. Kihei Rd., Kihei, 808-874-0788. [YT]
Runner up: Paia Fish Market, Paia
SPAM MUSUBI
Minit Stop
Minit Stop takes the prize yet again for the best Spam musubi on-island. With its balanced portion of rice, the width of the perfectly cooked spam and nori to keep it all snug, you’ve got one tasty treat. The best part is that Minit Stop locations can be found all over the island and open pretty late too, so you can snag this local favorite almost any time you work up an appetite. Islandwide. [CP]
Runner up: Nagasako Okazu-ya Deli, Lahaina
FINE DINING
Roy’s
You might think there are only so many ways to prepare fish, but Roy’s continues to surprise and amaze even the most avid seafood lovers. Perhaps Maui Time readers chose this restaurant as their favorite for upscale dining because Roy’s takes something as simple as Auntie’s tuna roll and turns it up a notch. The wine list is extensive and the entire meal ends on a high note with one of Roy’s to-die-for chocolate soufflés. 303 Piikea Ave., Building 1, Kihei, 808-891-1120. [HN]
Runner up: Lahaina Grill, Lahaina
JAPANESE
Tokyo Tei
For fast, friendly service and delicious Japanese food, Maui Time readers say Tokyo Tei’s cute corner restaurant in Wailuku is the place to be. I always get one of their teishoku trays, which give you smaller portions of three entrees such as sashimi, pork tofu and fried fish. A glimpse at the rest of the menu reveals tonkatsu, tempura and donburi. Wondering about the side dishes? Each plate comes with rice, miso soup, ko-ko and hot tea. 1063 Lower Main St. # C101, Wailuku, 808-242-9630. [CP]
Runner up: Sansei Seafood Restaurant and Sushi Bar, Kihei & Lahaina
FOOD BOOTH AT THE FAIR
Fried Ice Cream
Ah, the fair. The dusty paths that make you wish you had worn shoes instead of slippers, the petting zoo, which really makes you wish you had worn shoes instead of slippers and the rides filled to the brim with angst-filled tweens, eating junk food while complaining about their parents. But, the food! Oh, the food! I don’t know how Maui Time readers joined forces and voted for the fried ice cream, but bravo! The fried ice cream at the fair is a magical phenomenon, joining together two delicacies that would not have met in nature. Genius! [YT]
Runner up: Chow fun
SHAVE ICE
Aloha Island Shaved Ice
If a shave ice joint has blue vanilla on the menu, I’m happy; there’s nothing better than a cold shave ice on a hot island, which additionally turns your tongue an unnatural shade of blue. For the discerning aficionado, they’ve got a plethora of flavors, including the classics like strawberry, watermelon and bubble gum, plus more exotic options like mango, lilikoi and guava. If you want adzuki beans or ice cream with your heaping mass of fluffy flavored ice, Aloha can cater to your needs. Just watch out for brain freeze. 77 Hana Hwy. Paia, 808-579-8747. [YT]
Runner up: Tom’s Mini Mart, Wailuku
NEW RESTAURANT
Lulu’s Lahaina Surf Club & Grill
In a time when struggling restaurants are closing their doors, it’s good to see the new Lulu’s packed with happy patrons. I guess they just hit on the right combination of atmosphere and grinds, because even in a location that practically repels tourists it’s still one of the busiest restaurants in Lahaina. The abundance of flat screen TVs around the room and the two pool tables in the back certainly don’t hurt, but the tasty food and kama‘aina deals are what really set them apart from the pack. 221 Honoapiilani Hwy. # A1, Lahaina, 808-661-0808. [JA]
Runner up: Max, Haiku
BAR
South Shore Tiki Lounge
Every writer needs a reliable watering hole in every precinct of his or her coverage area. When I’m on the South side this tends to be Tiki Lounge. I have penned the equivalent of four and a half sonnets in honor of their mai-tais, their generous list of vegan options, their bloody Marys and their quasi-kitsch aesthetic. Owners Mikhail and Alma Tassi are about as cool and genuine as they come and some of the best, funniest bartenders I know work there. There’s usually a DJ spinning after dark if you’re into that sort of thing. 1913 S. Kihei Rd. # J, Kihei, 808-874-6444. [KB]
Runner up: The Dog & Duck Irish Pub, Kihei
RESTAURANT
Lahaina Grill
A good restaurant serves good food, but to be the best restaurant on Maui it’s got to have a little something more. Lahaina Grill not only offers fresh fine dining with impeccable service in a relaxed atmosphere, it’s a place to turn to when you want to celebrate happy occasions—birthdays, graduations, anniversaries. In fact, this West side eatery is so popular for celebrations that staff members take and e-mail photos of your party, as well as send you a personalized birthday card each year. Kama‘aina can reserve bar seats Monday-Thursday at 6pm for 50 percent off all entrees. 127 Lahainaluna Rd., Lahaina, 808-667-5117. [HN]
Runner up: Cafe O’Lei, islandwide
BURRITO
Maui Tacos
For the 7th year in a row, our readers declare that the best burrito on-island is at Maui Tacos. It’s easy to see why: the portions are generous—they stuff their burritos to capacity—plus each order comes with chips and a go at their extensive salsa bar, meaning you get your money’s worth. With a stacked menu to choose from that includes charbroiled chicken, slow cooked Hawaiian BBQ pork and charbroiled steak among others, you’re sure to find your favorite, whatever it may be. Islandwide. [CP]
Runner up: Las Pinatas, Kahului
PUPUS
Mala Ocean Tavern
This eclectic eatery has a starter menu that satiates on many fronts. Consider the unique twists they give items on their pupu menu: Pomegranate, ginger and chili accompany their chicken wings. Sugar snap peas are garnished with ginger, sambal and sesame. Seared ahi bruschetta comes with edamame puree. They even serve their hummus platter with flax seed lavash bread. The list goes on. Accompanying this globe-trotting pupu menu is their extensive cocktail list, which includes the ever refreshing mojito, Blue Moon on tap and a damned fine mango (yes, mango!) martini. 1307 Front St., Lahaina, 808-667-9394. [KB]
Runner up: Mama’s Fish House, Paia
BUSINESS LUNCH
Cafe O’Lei
When you have a hot business prospect or a make-or-break deal to close, Maui Time readers say head to Cafe O’Lei. I’ll bet it’s the quick and friendly service that won Cafe O’Lei second place in the Best Lunch category. But it’s the food that will impress your colleagues, and won’t break the mileage Visa, either. The daily fish specials—like the tasty macadamia nut crusted mahi or the seared ahi with wasabi cream served with Caesar salad—are a sure bet.2439 S. Kihei Rd., Kihei, 808-891-1368. [JR]
Runner up: Mala Ocean Tavern, Lahaina
CHEF
Jacques Pauvert (Jacques North Shore Restaurant, Paia)
If you’ve ever tasted the food at Jacques, you’ll agree that owner and executive Chef Pauvert is among the best on-island. To be Maui’s number one, a chef must be able to do more than just cook a good fish. Pauvert, a resident of Maui for more than 15 years and personal chef to the rich and famous, blends international and local cuisine with a deft hand and incorporates new, innovative flavors inspired by the diversity found on Maui’s windswept shores. He’s a lover of fresh local ingredients and big North Shore waves. And he not only cooks for Maui’s hardbodied windsurfer crowd, he surfs with them, too (and probably looks great with his shirt off!). 120 Hana Hwy., Paia, 808-579-8844. [JA]
Runner up: Joey Macadangdang (Roy’s, Kihei & Lahaina)
LOCAL COFFEE HOUSE
Anthony’s Coffee Co.
In today’s fast-paced, caffeine-infused world, it’s hard to find a laid back place to enjoy your coffee. Too often, we’re greeted by blaring techno music and androgynous, hipster baristas yelling out mind-altering substances like “venti-mocha-zen-double-foam-espresso-frappuccino,” that seem like they’ve never seen a coffee bean in their life. But not at Anthony’s. The atmosphere is welcoming, the service is friendly and the liquid they serve is definitely high quality. 90 Hana Hwy., Paia, 808-579-8340. [YT]
Runner up: Maui Coffee Company, Lahaina
PLACE TO GET YOUR CHILE FIX – Edit Pick
Santa Fe Cantina
This is the kind of place where you can have your chiles and eat them, too. I love chile—green, hot, mild, red, chipotle, all of them. At Santa Fe you can find an array of authentic, Southwestern-style dishes; I hear they use Mama’s old recipes. The chile relleno is awesome, especially with one of their margaritas. And Santa Fe offers a half-off kama’aina night, so you and your wallet can both stay full. 900 Front St., Lahaina, 808-667-7805. [JR]
LOCAL CHEAP EATS
Aloha Mixed Plate
Winner Aloha Mixed Plate and runner-up Da Kitchen were neck-and-neck in this category. Hey, I can’t quite decide which one I like better, either. I mean, both offer amazing plate lunches at amazing prices. I think the real winners here are the voters. Seriously, how lucky are we to have two places we can get ono grinds that don’t broke da wallet? 1285 Front St., Lahaina, 808-661-3322. [YT]
Runner up: Da Kitchen, islandwide
LUAU/DINNER SHOW
Old Lahaina Luau
It’s not just for tourists—going to the luau is a quintessential experience for anyone living on the islands. Maui Time readers have overwhelmingly voted the Old Lahaina Luau the best for their award winning combination of kahiko and ‘auana hula, imu, lau lau, poke and, of course, the bottomless mai-tais. 1251 Front St., Lahaina, 808-667-1998. [JR]
Runner up: Feast at Lele
NOODLE SHOP
Ramen-Ya
Ramen-Ya serves gargantuan bowls of ramen, saimin and udon. Seriously, they should grant prizes to the brave few who can finish their big bowl, which is basically a huge plate of food served atop a massive bowl of ramen. I have a friend who eats there before running marathons, so she can carb load. That isn’t to say that size is the only thing Ramen-Ya has going for it. The oodles of noodles are packed with plenty of flavor, and they’ve even got a gyoza happy hour. Be sure to try their rice dishes as well. 275 W. Kaahumanu Ave. # 1043, Kahului, 808-873-9688. [YT]
Runner up: Wok Star International Noodle Café, Kihei
PUPUS
Mala Ocean Tavern
This eclectic eatery has a starter menu that satiates on many fronts. Consider the unique twists they give items on their pupu menu: Pomegranate, ginger and chili accompany their chicken wings. Sugar snap peas are garnished with ginger, sambal and sesame. Seared ahi bruschetta comes with edamame puree. They even serve their hummus platter with flax seed lavash bread. The list goes on. Accompanying this globe-trotting pupu menu is their extensive cocktail list, which includes the ever refreshing mojito, Blue Moon on tap and a damned fine mango (yes, mango!) martini. 1307 Front St., Lahaina, 808-667-9394. [KB]
Runner up: Mama’s Fish House, Paia
LOCAL BOOZE/BEER/WINE
Maui Brewing Co., Beer
Maui Brewing Company’s dedication to sustainability and producing a truly local product has been well documented. So let’s focus on the beer: clearly, MBC is committed to honing the craft of beermaking, experimenting with different styles and techniques. You’ve seen the IPA, Bikini Blonde and Coconut Porter in the grocery store cooler, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg: confess your sins to the Father Damien Abbey Ale, a mix of fruit and malt flavors that packs a 9.6 percent alcohol punch; run through the Mana Wheat, a Belgian style brew augmented by fresh Maui pineapple; joust with the robust Dark Knight Lager—the list goes on. And if you still don’t know why they use cans instead of bottles, visit the Lahaina brewing facility and get the scoop. 4405 Honoapiilani Hwy. #217, Lahaina, 808-669-3474. [JS]
LOCAL PIZZA
Flatbread Company
I think, in general, Mauians are more adventurous than the Average Joe, and this proves it. We don’t just settle for some regular old round-shaped, meat-topped, cheesy cookie cutter pie. We want fresh, homemade, hand pressed dough topped with maple fennel sauce or sundried tomatoes and caramelized onions. Purists may say it’s not pizza, but we say it’s the best pizza on Maui. 89 Hana Hwy., Paia, 808-579-8989. [JA]
Runner up: BJ’s Chicago Pizzeria, Lahaina
ITALIAN FOOD
Casanova Italian Restaurant and Deli
Maui isn’t exactly bursting with Italian restaurants, but Casanova still totally deserves top honors. The food there has that special touch of authenticity, and while there may not be an old Italian grandmother in the kitchen pinching the fresh ravioli together, the food is fresh, delicious and reasonably priced. I just wish they would open one up on the West side to help me with my late night tiramisu cravings. 1188 Makawao Ave., Makawao, 808-572-0220. [JA]
Runner up: Penne Pasta Cafe, Lahaina
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