My Favorite Places to Eat in Kihei & Wailea!
If you find yourself in the Kihei / Wailea area and are wondering where to grab a bite, you’re in for a treat. From casual food trucks to upscale dining, Kihei and Wailea offer a wide variety of delicious eats that cater to all tastes. They only make the list if I have been there a bunch of times over the years and offer great food and service.
You’ll notice that most places are on South Kihei Road and that’s our main drag that runs along the shoreline. Most shopping and food is along here but be sure to check out the places that are tucked away on side streets.
🥑= Vegan Veg options , ✅=Gluten Free options, = 🫰$pendy but worth it
Food Trucks at South Maui Gardens
So much to choose from here and a great place to hang out. The hula show here is top notch and authentic. https://www.southmauigardens.com/
La Poblana & La Poblana Taqueria
If you’re in the mood for authentic Mexican flavors, La Poblana and its taqueria counterpart are must-visits. Their tacos are packed with fresh, vibrant ingredients, and their homemade salsas add the perfect kick. Whether you go for their flavorful a pastor or classic carne asada, you won’t be disappointed. Their red sauce is smoky, spicy and delicious on their enchiladas or chilaquiles for breakfast (La Poblana only). Great place for an American style or Mexican breakfast.
✅GF & veggie options but not ideal for vegans.
2 locations: the Taqueria is across from Kamaole beaches 2395 S Kihei Rd La Poblana Restaurant is off the highway : 362 Huku Lii Pl Ste 101, Kihei
Nalu’s Southshore Grill
One of my favorite places in Kihei for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Live music every night and breakfast served all day. It’s hard to pick a favorite here so I go with my mood. There are non-gluten choices and a some tasty vegan options as well. https://naluskihei.com/.
✅🥑 GF and vegan options
Azeka Makai Shopping Center 1280 South Kihei Road, Kihei
808 Deli
This deli is a local favorite for a reason and it wins Best Sandwich every year! Offering a variety of gourmet sandwiches, salads, and house-made dressings, 808 Deli is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. My faves: Porkie sandwich, Kula Strawberry Salad, Chicken Mango Chutney sandwich and their spicy pasta salad. And try one of their puddings for dessert. You get dessert at lunch time while you are on vacation right?!
✅GF & veggie options but not ideal for vegans.
Gather On Maui
For a farm-to-table dining experience with breathtaking ocean views, Gather On Maui is the place to be. With a menu highlighting fresh, local ingredients, this spot offers everything from perfectly cooked seafood to delicious vegetarian options. The ambiance and flavors here make it a fantastic choice for a special night out. And happy hour is a treat! https://gatheronmaui.com/ A great spot for wedding & reception
✅🥑🫰 GF and vegan options on the spendy side tho
Address: 100 Wailea Golf Club Dr, Kihei, HI 96753
The Birdcage at Hotel Wailea
If you’re looking for a romantic or upscale dining experience, The Birdcage at Hotel Wailea is a must-visit. The stylish, open-air lounge setting pairs perfectly with handcrafted cocktails and artfully plated dishes, making for an unforgettable evening. https://www.hotelwailea.com/dining/the-birdcage/ 🫰
Address: Hotel Wailea 555 Kaukahi St, Wailea, HI 96753
South Maui Gardens
Food truck lovers will adore the lineup at South Maui Gardens. With a rotating selection of vendors serving everything from poke bowls to BBQ, this spot offers a little something for everyone. The lush garden setting makes it a great place to relax and enjoy a casual meal. The property spans an entire block with food trucks at either end as well as the side streets nearby. https://www.southmauigardens.com/foodtrucks ✅🥑
AND they have live music, craft fairs and the most authentic Hula Show on Maui! Skip the pricey luau and get a more authentic Polynesian experience with a show provided by my friends Manu Tea Nui E https://hula.southmauigardens.com/
Address: Behind the Island Surf building 35 Auhana Rd, Kihei, HI 96753
Earth Aloha Eats
For plant-based eats that are both healthy and delicious, Earth Aloha Eats is the spot to check out. Their vegan takes on classic comfort foods, like burgers and tacos, are packed with flavor and perfect for anyone looking for a fresh, nutritious meal. https://www.earthalohaeats.com/ ✅🥑
Address: By Foodland 1881 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753
Da Kitchen
A Maui staple, Da Kitchen is known for its hearty Hawaiian comfort food. Whether you go for the famous loco moco, crispy kalbi ribs, or their deep-fried Spam musubi, you’ll leave feeling fully satisfied. A must-try for those looking to experience local flavors! Not ideal for GF or Vegan options.
Address: 1215 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 9675
Maui Fish & Chips
For some of the best fish and chips on the island, head to Maui Fish & Chips. Their fresh, locally caught fish is fried to perfection and served with crispy fries and homemade tartar sauce. It’s a simple yet incredibly satisfying meal that hits the spot every time. Try locally caught Ono – my favorite! https://www.mauifishnchips.fish/. Some GF and but not much in the way of veggie or vegan options
Address: In Dolphin Plaza 2395 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753
Maui Bread Co
Bread lovers will be in heaven at Maui Bread Co. This charming bakery offers a variety of fresh-baked loaves, sweet pastries, and unique flavors like taro and guava. Stop by for a warm treat and a cup of coffee to start your day right. And they have some amazing German baked goods including the hard to believe but delicious Pretzel Croissant! Gluten free and vegan options available as well. https://www.mauibreadco.com/
✅🥑 A good amount of GF and vegan options
Address: In Dolphin Plaza 1280 S Kihei Rd #101, Kihei, HI 96753
Fabiani’s
If you’re craving Italian food, Fabiani’s is a great choice. This cozy eatery serves up delicious homemade pasta, gourmet pizzas, and incredible desserts. Their lasagna and tiramisu are local favorites, making it a fantastic spot for a comforting meal. Their breakfast on weekends is great too! https://fabianis.com/.
✅🥑 A good amount of GF and vegan options
Address: 95 Lipoa St, Kihei, HI 96753
Coconuts Fish Cafe
Coconut shrimp and their famous fish tacos are my go-to choices here. If you aren’t famished one order of each shared is just right. https://coconutsfishcafe.com/
✅GF but not too many vegan options.
2 locations: (The big one!) Kamaole Center 2463 S Kihei Road or Azeka Mauka 1279 S Kihei Road
Paia Fish Market
Another place to get great fresh fish! I love the simple menu here and the choices of tasty fresh fish prepared one of four ways. I love a good fish sandwich and Paia Fish Market delivers! https://paiafishmarket.com/
Not ideal for Vegans but OK for GF ✅
Address: 1913 South Kihei Road Kihei, HI 96753 plus their original location in Pā’ia.
No matter what you’re craving, South Maui has an abundance of delicious options waiting to be explored. Have you tried any of these spots? Let me know your favorites!
Rev Julienne 