LAHAINA STORE GRILLE & OYSTER BAR
Slurp fresh, raw oysters from around the world right out of the shell while sitting in the rooftop dining room, watching the sun slowly set behind Lanai. If you’re lucky, you might get a table right next to the waterfall. The wine selection is impressive and they make an amazing rack of lamb. 744 Front St., Lahaina, 661-9090. Open daily, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. $$
CHEZ PAUL
The cozy dining room and intimate tables make this a great spot to splurge on a romantic meal. Plus, French food is very sexy. Begin with foie gras or caviar appetizers, then move on to fresh island fish poached in champagne and served with leeks and capers. Save room for a major indulgence after dinner, like the Crepes Suzette with orange and Grand Marnier, prepared tableside for two. 820 Olowalu Village Rd., 661-3843 Open Sa-Su, 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Nightly 5:30-9 p.m. $$$
MAMA’S FISH HOUSE
This little but terribly pricey establishment offers Maui’s ultimate romantic dining experience. Mama’s is set right on a secluded North Shore beach where the swaying coconut palms and the sound of rolling waves accompany an intriguing menu based on the traditions of old Polynesia. Dine on macadamia nut crab cakes and mahi mahi stuffed with lobster and crab or go all out—loan applications processed while you eat!—and order the Tristan Island lobster tail and filet mignon with mushroom bordelaise sauce. 799 Poho Pl., Kuau, 579-8488. Open daily, 11 a.m.-25 p.m. & 4:30-9:30 p.m. $$$
I’O
Listen to the rhythm of the Tahitian drums from the neighboring luau while dining on silky Thai curry asparagus soup, scallops wrapped in jalapeno bacon with ponzu cream sauce or rare, panko-crusted ahi served atop a green papaya salad. Suggested wine pairings for each dish take the guess work out of ordering the right vino for your meal. 505 Front St., Lahaina, 661-8422. Open nightly, 5:30-10 p.m. $$$
PICNIC BLANKET ON A SECLUDED BEACH
Of course, a romantic evening doesn’t have to break your budget. Why not surprise your lover by choosing a private spot on a favorite beach and bring along a bottle of bubbly and a selection pupus from a local deli. Don’t forget the chocolate-covered strawberries. Bonus move: bring a guitar or ukulele and serenade your sweetie(s) while the sun dips beneath the waves. $
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