Top 10 Maui Lunch Spots

Lunch is busy, but don’t be afraid of the line out the door; it’s a quick line, and says a lot about how much this restaurant is loved by locals and visitors alike. Anyway, you’ll need the time in line to figure out what you’re going to order because there are just so many delicious options on their menu! Paia Fish Market has something for everyone, whether you are a seafood lover or not. The seafood is caught fresh, and the beef and chicken items are from local Maui farms. The casual atmosphere is tres cool, with a North Shore style, great music, and communal tables. When at the Paia Fish Market, guests can choose from tempting seafood plates like the Cajun Fish Plate, the Fish Quesadilla, or the Seafood Pasta, or go for items ala carte. The Mahi Mahi Fish & Chips and the Caesar Salad are crazy good, and so are all the burgers: Fish, Beef, and Chicken. The French Fries at Fish Market is more than memorable with the perfect amount of crispiness and seasonings, and there’s no comparison to their fresh coleslaw tossed in their homemade tartar sauce. If it doesn’t come with your meal, make sure to order it on the side! To top it all off, order a cold Maui beer on draft, or a refreshing glass of Pinot Grigio to make your Lunch all the more enjoyable.

Must-try Menu Items:

• Ono Burger with French Fries
• Ahi Sashimi
• Fish Tacos

Check out the Paia Fish Market Menu!

At Monkeypod, guests can choose from a tempting assortment of Lunch menu items. You may just find yourself ordering more than you need because every item is just so inviting! The Appetizer menu is great for starting off at this casual culinary haven. Definitely try the chicken wings, garlic truffle oil fries, and the poke tacos. Lunch brings gorgeous salad and sandwich options, and don’t sleep on the local style offerings like the Kalbi Chicken Banh Mi, Saimin and Dry Mein noodle dishes.

At Monkeypod, guests can enjoy one of the best casual meals in all of South Maui. In line with the perfection that Peter Merriman’s restaurants put out, all will love a chance to wine and dine for lunch at this top Maui eatery.

Besides offering a menu of locally infused Hawaii Regional Cuisine, you’ll see a full section of fusion food offerings that are a mix of Hawaii’s local food, California-style freshness and all the best locally sourced ingredients in Maui.

Monkeypod is also a trendy place to meet new people, enjoy a family birthday or celebration, or relax with a pau hana at their very impressive bar. If you’re headed to Monkeypod, make sure to order a side of the truffle fries, one of their yummy wood-fired pizzas, and definitely don’t forget to try their homemade pies- they have some of the best desserts on the island!

Must-try Menu Items:

• Wood-Fired Pizzas
• Pete’s Classic Burger, with Maui Beef, Umami Mushrooms, Gruyere, Arugula, and Horseradish Crema
• Coconut Creme Pie

Check out Monkeypod’s Wailea Menu or Ka’anapali Menu!

At Mama’s, guests will surely enjoy the rotating, Polynesian/Pacific Rim infused menu. All of their seafood offerings are caught fresh by local fishermen on a daily basis; island grown, sustainable ingredients are used throughout each dish, making each experience at Mama’s truly unique. Only the best ingredients are used at Mama’s Fish House, and the service is always impeccable.

If you haven’t yet eaten at Mama’s, you should know that it’s not just an ordinary fine dining experience. This restaurant provides a full on culinary tour de force, each presentation as beautiful and delectable as the next. Making reservations at Mama’s Fish House is a must do Maui activity. Eating at Mama’s should be on your vacation list like a Maui Whale Watching Tour or an adventurous Snorkel Trip in Maui. A meal at Mama’s is an unforgettable experience; a culinary gift that you will most definitely treasure for years to come.

Must-try Menu Items:

• Tahitian Ceviche, with Fresh Lime and Coconut
• Mahi Mahi, stuffed with Lobster and Crab, baked in a Macadamia Nut Crust
• Polynesian Black Pearl, a Lilikoi Chocolate Mousse in a delectable Pastry Shell

Check out the Mama’s Fish House menu!

Pranee doesn’t have a website, but the online reviews alone are astounding! The menu is rotating, and full of locally grown produce, fresh coconut milk, Maui grown meats, and seafood. Here, all guests will surely love the curries, fried rice dishes, Pad Thais and specials. There’s nothing like Thai home cooking, and here you’ll find the best and freshest offerings!

Thai Food By Pranee is located near the Hana-Maui Resort bungalows. If you’re feeling lost finding the location, just ask a local, or follow the scent of Thai Basil, Galanga, fresh mint and peanut sauce in the air.

Must-try Menu Items:

• Curries
• Deep-Fried Whole Fish Specials
• Thai Spring Rolls

Mala Ocean Tavern is a dream come true for food lovers, especially those who look forward to the impressive brunch menu. It features a tasty and creative range of options, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.

Start out with the Hood Canal Oyster Shooters, which pair perfectly with a Bloody Mary. For a taste of French Polynesia with a Maui twist, try the Poisson Cru. It is an incredible blend of cured fresh catch, coconut milk, Kula onion, cucumber, avocado, chili oil, and Molokai sweet potato. It’s so ono!

Other highlights are the crispy Coconut Shrimp, the savory Wagyu Burger, the Blackened Ahi Fish Sandwich, and one of the best Caesar Salads to be found on Maui. Mala Ocean Tavern also caters to younger guests with a fun Kids’ Menu. From Keiki French Toast and Flatbread Pizza to Fish & Chips and the Kids’ Chicken Caesar Salad, there is plenty here that will keep the little ones happy.

Mala Ocean Tavern also offers the delightful Build Your Own Mimosa. Choose from fresh juices like Orange, POG (Pineapple, Orange & Guava), Watermelon, Hibiscus, and Pineapple. For Bloody Marys, guests can take their drinks up a notch with add-ons such as Coconut Shrimp, a Lamb Meatball, Applewood Smoked Bacon, or even a Mini Ahi Bruschetta!

The restaurant’s warm and welcoming vibe is complemented by a friendly staff that makes each and every visit special. No matter if you’re a local or a visitor, Mala Ocean Tavern offers a lunch like no other, with stunning views, delicious food, and a family-friendly environment. As you will soon see, it’s no surprise that Mala Ocean Tavern is a top choice for lunch on Maui!

Must-try Menu Items:

• Poisson Cru
• Coconut Shrimp
• Caesar Salad
• Blackened Ahi Fish Sandwich

Check out the Mala Ocean Tavern menu!

The menu at Nalu’s is famous for its standout dishes. All of their Loco Mocos and the Nalu’s Chicken and Waffles are crowd-pleasers, while the Black and Blue Ahi Benedict is regarded as one of the best eggs benedicts on the island. Seafood lovers will appreciate the fresh-caught daily fish choices and the yummy Crab Cakes & Greens. For a sweet treat, their Pancakes are not to be missed. They are served with homemade citrus-rum syrup, pineapple, bananas, roasted mac nuts, and Nalu’s Devonshire cream. On the other hand, health-conscious guests will love the Acai Bowl, Pitaya Bowl, or a refreshing Breakfast Salad.

At Nalu’s, families are more than welcome. The unique Kids Menu has choices like Keiki Fish and Chips, Loaded Grilled Cheese, and a Smashed Meatball Teriyaki Bowl. Guests should make sure to try out the Volcano fries, as they pair perfectly with any meal. Nalu’s is also well known for offering the only Lobster Roll on Maui, as far as we’re aware. Its staff is beloved for their warm aloha spirit, and they always go above and beyond to make families feel at home. Beyond the creative menu, Nalu’s hosts live music every night, making it an excellent choice for happy hour or dinner.

Owner Ron Panzo was awarded the 2024 Hawaii Small Business Association (SBA) Person of the Year. This accolade was earned due to his outstanding achievements and contributions to the local economy. The SBA praised Nalu’s for embodying the grit and determination that drive the small businesses of Hawaiʻi.

With a lively atmosphere, delicious food, and a dedicated team full of aloha, Nalu’s South Shore Grill is one of the best places for lunch in South Maui.

Must-try Menu Items:

• Nalu’s Chicken & Waffle
• Black & Blue Ahi Benedict
• Korean Bulgogi Burger
• Poke Bowl of the Day

Check out Nalu’s menu!

Before opening her brick-and-mortar spot, Chef Sara Kleiven, lovingly known as “The Empanada Lady,” built up a loyal following with her savory empanadas. Today, her restaurant is renowned for its delicious Caribbean cuisine. Guests will love the unique blend of Puerto Rican, Jamaican, and Dominican flavors, all prepared with fresh, locally sourced foods.

The Empanada Lady’s menu celebrates bold and savory tastes fused with locally grown Maui ingredients. Some real standouts are the savory Ropa Vieja, aromatic Coconut Curry Chicken, and crispy Pollo Frito. Each dish combines traditional Caribbean recipes with the unique flavors of Maui. For those who like a flavorful punch, the Curry Pork Short Ribs and Snapper in Red Curry Sauce are sure to impress. Don’t miss the Jamaican Jerk Chicken Wings and Croquettas, as they are perfect for sharing with friends.

The vibrant atmosphere here is enhanced by the colorful decor and live music. It all blends together to create a lively and exciting space. With both indoor and outdoor seating, guests can vibe with the rhythms and melodies of Maui’s finest local musicians, and add a vibrant touch to their dining experience.

Beyond the amazing food, what truly sets The Empanada Lady apart is the warmth with which the staff greets each and every guest. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a meal at The Empanada Lady promises a comforting, home-like experience with a rich Caribbean twist. You will feel like a part of The Empanada Lady’s family from the moment you walk inside.

Must-try Menu Items:

• Empanadas
• Ropa Vieja
• Curry Pork Short Ribs
• Jamaican Jerk Chicken Wings

Check out The Empanada Lady’s menu!

Upon walking into Fork & Salad, you’ll immediately be greeted with positive aloha vibes, calming tunes and fresh scents of healthy home cooking and fresh Maui produce. It’s a chef-inspired locally owned company, so you’re guaranteed top-notch health food concoctions and the best Maui grown foods available.

When eating at Fork and Salad in Kihei, you can feel good knowing that you’re feeding your body nutritious goodness and supporting local Maui farmers at the same time. It’s a win-win.

The salad menu at Fork & Salad offers Signature Salads like a Caesar or a Greek, Chef Inspired Salads like the yummy Roasted Kabocha Squash and Strawberry Salad and Health Inspired Salads like their Super Salad (gluten-free and dairy free). We also love that they have a ‘Build-Your-Own’ salad bar; that’s an awesome perk for all of us that already have an idea of what kind of salad we want to eat. The salad ingredient offerings they have are amazing- full of local Maui produce and delicious additions like watermelon radishes, green papaya, fresh cilantro, Maui goat cheese and more.

Fork & Salad isn’t just a place for salads! They also make amazing sandwiches like the Lemon and Thyme Chicken Sandwich, Pastrami-Seasoned Seared Ahi Sandwich and other delectable options. In addition, Fork & Salad has a kids menu, cold-pressed coffee, Big Wave Organic Kombucha on tap and lots of edible surprises that will bring a smile to your face. Don’t forget to check them out on your next vacation in Maui.

Must-try Menu Items:

• Build Your Own Salad
• Lemon and Thyme Chicken Sandwich
• Big Wave Organic Kombucha

Check out the Fork & Salad menu!

There’s an abundance of tempting seafood choices, and they are all reasonably priced for the value that they serve up here. Some of the most popular items to order at Coconut’s in Kihei is the coconut shrimp, fish burgers, and most definitely any of their fish tacos. Coconut’s menu offers a unique opportunity to taste Maui’s local fish varieties; Opakapaka (Crimson Snapper), Ahi (Yellowfin Tuna), Mahi Mahi (Dolphin Fish), and Ono (Wahoo). All guests will love this family-friendly Kihei restaurant with sweet aloha vibes, surfboard tables, awesome music and the best some of the best food selections in Maui!

Must Try Menu Items:

• Local Style Grilled Ono Plate (your choice of seasonings)
• Taco Mountain
• Seared Ahi Salad

Check out the Coconut Fish Cafe menu!

The seafood at Milagros is a true testament to the freshness of the island’s bounty. All of the fish is caught daily and served up with pride. The commitment to local, organic (GMO-Free) ingredients can be seen and tasted in each dish. The menu has something for those of all tastes. Guests will find tacos, nachos, burritos, organic salads, homemade guacamole and chips, burgers, fresh fish sandwiches, and much more. Our personal favorites are the Loaded Black Bean Nachos, Taquitos, Hurricane Fries, Roasted Chilies Enchiladas, and the Shrimp Fajitas. The burgers are to die for, especially the Blackjack Burger. It’s made with pepper jack cheese, blackening seasoning and fire roasted chilis. What better way is there to enjoy your meal than with a refreshing House Margarita?

This spot is bustling with positive vibes, yummy southwest-Maui-style dishes, and a warm and friendly staff. Frequented by both locals and visitors, Milagros is sure to provide a good time. It’s a place you may find yourself coming back to for years to come. Milagros also has the largest Tequila selection in Maui, and they’re well-known for their signature Margaritas and tropical cocktails. Without a doubt, their Mai Tai, Ocean Vodka Limeade, and Lilikoi Martinis can hold their own with the best cocktails on the island.

This restaurant is also one of our top picks for the Best Places to Get a Drink on Maui, so check them out next time you’re on Maui’s North Shore.

Must-try Menu Items:

• Chicken or Pork Taquitos
• Shrimp & Mahi Mahi Fajitas
• Fire-Grilled Burgers (try the Blackjack Burger!)

Check out the Milagros Food Company menu!