Story Ideas

Take your taste buds off the beaten path with the flavors of Maui. Explore reopened island favorites, the icons, and exciting new additions that are redefining Maui’s culinary scene.

The legacy of Hawai‘i Regional Cuisine thrives at iconic establishments, like Merriman’s Kapalua and Haliʻimaile General Store, where every dish highlights the best of local ingredients. For more iconic experiences, don’t miss the annual Kapalua & Hawaiʻi Food & Wine Festival, where Maui’s top chefs and global culinary talent gather to celebrate the island’s rich heritage and the regional flavors that have earned Hawaiʻi a place on the world culinary map.

Adding fresh energy to Maui’s culinary scene are recent newcomers, like Coco Deck Kitchen + Bar in Lahaina, The Parlay in Wailuku and Koholā Brewery’s Taproom in Wailea, each offering a unique take on island dining.

In Lahaina, the spirit of Front Street is being rekindled after the August 2023 fires. Iconic restaurants, like Māla Ocean Tavern, Aloha Mixed Plate, Star Noodle and Honu Oceanside, have reopened their doors. Adding to the revitalization, Coco Deck Lahaina has quickly become a new local favorite. Meanwhile, beloved Lahaina establishments have found new homes, such as Cool Cat Café—renowned for its award-winning burgers—now welcoming diners in Kīhei. As the community continues to rebuild, more beloved eateries are preparing for their highly anticipated return.

From time-honored favorites to new concepts, Maui’s dining scene celebrates the island’s culinary culture. Discover more of the island’s culinary gems in towns like Kāʻanapali, Kahului, Kapalua, Kīhei, Pāʻia, Wailea and Wailuku.

Journey up the misty slopes of Maui’s dormant volcano, Haleakalā, and you’ll find yourself in Maui’s Upcountry—a vibrant agricultural haven that captures the heart of farm-to-table living and celebrates the island’s farming heritage.

Since early times, Hawaiians have cultivated the rich volcanic soil of Upcountry fields, growing staples, like taro and sweet potato. Today, this fertile region continues to thrive, offering new treasures such as fresh strawberries, pineapple, coffee and Kula greens.

Wander through the charming towns of Makawao and Kula, each brimming with local character. In Makawao, an old paniolo (cowboy) town, browse through art galleries and boutique shops. Just up the road in Kula, you’ll find farm stands overflowing with fresh produce and handmade treasures. Along the way, uncover unexpected gems: stroll through a fragrant lavender farm, meet playful goats at a local dairy or savor Maui-made wines and spirits in rustic tasting rooms.

Upcountry Maui is more than a picturesque escape of rolling green pastures and sweeping ocean views—it’s an opportunity to connect with a community of growers, artisans, and craft producers who are deeply committed to sustaining the island’s vibrant agricultural hub.

Stroll through Wailuku Town to witness the meaningful art installations across town. Created by local artists, each work of art shares a story of the culture and history of Wailuku. Upon this experience, visit a local art gallery or take an art class at Hui Noʻeau Visual Arts Center. Each piece of art on Maui is more than something you admire and present, it holds cultural significance, stories and history behind them.