A Few Places I’d Actually Send Friends to Eat & Have a Drink
Not a list of 50 restaurants. 😂 Just a handful of Maui places I’d genuinely mention to a friend for good food, cocktails or a fun local stop.
I’m not going to give you a list of 50 restaurants. 😂 These are a handful of places I’d actually mention to a friend — a mix of little local spots, good cocktails, coffee and fresh fish. I rechecked current reviews before keeping them on this list.
This would be my first pick if you asked me for a cool little Wailuku bar. Really good craft cocktails, tropical feel, local neighborhood vibe and not at all resort-y.
Good to know: Hours can change, so check the day you’re going.
A good local-style food and bar option. Chef Sheldon Simeon’s menu leans into the mix of flavors people actually grow up eating in Hawaiʻi, so this is a fun place to order a few things and share.
Coffee, breakfast/lunch and a very local little music/community feel. It’s one of those places that feels like people actually live here — because they do. 😊
If you want a really good cocktail without the big-resort-bar feel, I like this little spot at Wailea Village. It’s small, pretty and gets excellent reviews.
Yes, it’s popular and more touristy than the little local spots above, but it’s popular for a reason. Good cocktails, live music, a fun atmosphere and an easy option very close to Grand Champions.
Good to know: Reservations are a good idea for dinner, especially on busy nights.
On your Hāna day
I keep Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread and Huli Huli Chicken in the Road to Hāna guide instead of repeating all the directions here. Both are currently well-reviewed and they fit much better as part of that day than as a separate restaurant trip.
— Cindy
Where to stay for this
My homes closest to the places in this guide. Book direct and avoid third-party service fees.
