Maui, and Hawaii in general, are popular spots to head for vacation. It’s no wonder why. With the amazing tropical weather, beautiful scenery, delicious cookouts, and exciting activities, this is one of the most visited travel spots.
Maui is the second-largest island of Hawaii and has also been rated as the “best island in the U.S.” by the prestigious Condé Nast Traveler magazine. While traveling to Maui, of course, you’ll want to taste the best restaurants on the island.
Here are the five must-visit restaurants in Maui with a focus on the west side of the island.
5 Must Visit Restaurants in Maui
1. Star Noodle
Star Noodle is one of the most raved-about restaurants in Maui. The restaurant is situated right on the beach and you’ll be seated under a cute little terrace with twinkle lights strung up underneath. There’s nothing better than enjoying excellent food with even better views.
The food here is largely based on typical Hawaiian foods. The menu offers items like pohole salad, which features shrimp, squid, and miso salmon. Star Noodle also serves larger, shareable meals, so head there with your travel buddies to taste all of the exquisite flavors offered. You can’t beat the location of this restaurant.
2. Moku Roots
I love trying vegan and vegetarian spots when I visit tropical locations. Why? They often have the best methods of cooking the local produce. Don’t get me wrong; I love my meat dishes. However, having food items centered around fruits and vegetables from the nearby areas allows you to taste the best local ingredients.
Moku Roots was created to provide exciting vegan and vegetarian menu items to the island, which is known for meat-centered meals.
Try out items like their taro burgers and jerk mushroom tacos. They also have excellent alcoholic and non-alcoholic drink options.
3. Sale Pepe
If you’re craving Italian food – this is the spot. Sale Pepe is owned by a husband and wife team who met in New York. Here you’ll find authentic Italian food like house-made pasta and pizza.
This is absolutely a must visit restaurant in Maui. It has won multiple awards since 2016 and is the perfect eatery for when you just want some yummy comfort food. Plus, there’s an impressive wine list that pairs well with the Sale Pepe’s cuisine.
If I’m starting to feel homesick, I head here for a meal. I’m instantly comforted by an amazing pasta dish.
4. Papa’aina
Papa’aina is located at the Pioneer Inn in Maui, the oldest hotel on the island. It was built in 1901 and begins with a love story between an Englishman and a Hawaiian woman.
The menu revolves around both breakfast and lunch items like omelets, seafood, and ramen soups. The ramen here is the best ramen I have ever tasted!
It might seem like an odd combination of food offerings, but it will hit the spot whether you head here for breakfast or lunch. Once you visit, it’ll be clear why Papa’aina made it on our
5. Gerard’s Restaurant
You’ll want to head to Gerard’s Restaurant for special occasions as this spot is on the pricier side. However, the flavor combination of French-inspired food and Hawaiian tastes is worth the price.
The restaurant is run and owned by Chef Gerard Reversade, who has won multiple awards in Hawaii for his cooking and was featured on the Discovery Channel.
The food here is excellent. Make sure to save room for dessert as there are many options, and they all taste amazing.
Maui may be known for its beaches, but we can’t forget about all of the food offerings. Check out our top must visit restaurants in Maui for tasty treats during your trip!
Ready to start planning your next adventure? Check all our tips and tricks to make your next trip memorable!
