Maui, HI ~ Our favorite Maui Grinds!

There are hundreds of places to eat on Maui. Some are super touristy, but there are some very special locals spots that we will show you. Check out our favorite Maui grinds at some secret spots off the beaten path.

Tamura fine wines and is a hidden gem and local favorite hiden under the guise of a liquor store, but actually features some of the best Poke on the Island. Their poke/deli counter features over 30 types of poke. The line at the counter consists of local workers and fishermen. Our favorites are the spicy sesame poke and the wasabi poke. It is the perfect place to pick up a couple of small deli containers of poke to put in the cooler and enjoy while exploring the Island. There is a location near the airport and this is always our first stop when we arrive on the Island.

Lahaina Grinds

Since 1977, Kimos’ has been serving up classic Hawaiian cuisine as well as their World-Famous Hula pie. Grab a table on the deck, overlooking Lahaina bay and enjoy their signature prime rib or classic Kimo’s style fresh fish. Here you’ll taste the original aloha of Old Lahaina Town. Kimo’s has live entertainment on the weekends and is the quintessential Maui grinds restaurant.

One of the most popular restaurants in Lahaina is Cheeseburger in Paradise. This ocean front Jimmy Buffet styled restaurant is home of the legendary 5-napkin Cheeseburger. Since 1989 they have been serving up a unique brand of Aloha in this amazing location. Although a more touristy restaurant, the view of the ocean in front of Lahaina and the beach walk-up make it a must.

Off the beaten path

This family owned business located in an old Hawaiian fishing village called Kahakuloa between mile markers 14 – 15 (ask for Aunty Jan or Pam), and directly across of mile marker 38 if you’re driving from the Kapalua area. Kahakuloa Head (Pu’u Koa’e) is located in a very remote area in West Maui (on the island’s north shore) near the sleepy village Kahakuloa. The 636-foot (194 m) hill is a scenic landmark, but not many people make it here. The main reason is because the only road that leads here, Kahekili Highway (Route 340) isn’t really a “highway.” Many people consider it hazardous and one of the spookiest roads they have ever driven.

The road hugs the sea cliffs and is very narrow (often just one lane), with many blind curves and no guard rails. So not many people visit this part of Maui. But, if you’re feeling adventurous, the reward is worth the trip. The views along the road are spectacular and pass by the Nakalele blow hole. The lilikoi lemonade is one of the best things we’ve ever drank and the banana bread & lilikoi butter are deeerrricious! 

Hana Ono Grinds

Visiting Hana is a special treat. The Hawaiians say that “only the truly blessed make it to Hana.” Some visitors whole-heartedly agree after making the long and winding trip on the Road to Hana. But once you’ve reached Hana, Braddah Hutts BBQ Grill is truly another gift if you arrive before 2 pm. Just about a mile past the world famous Hasegawa market you’ll lfind a food truck with picnic tables and pop up tents. They feature tacos, bbq chicken nad one of the best Kalua pork plate lunches we’ve ever had. The Hawaiian style mac salad is spot on and the pork, slow cooked for hours is scrumptious, this is easily the best Maui grind meals we have on the Island, seriously better than some of the expensive restaurants here. 

These are our top 5 favorite Maui grinds places. Check out our other blogs of our favorite beaches, places to stay and sight-seeing opportunities on Maui.