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Dive headfirst into the top eats and top restaurants of Maui in the foodie paradise of Lahaina, Hawaii.
A Hub of Culinary Gems
Nestled on Maui, Hawaii’s tropical island, Lahaina is a vibrant destination with stunning shores and rich culture. Its history and character permeate into its culinary scene, making the quest for the best food in Lahaina a captivating journey for foodies and travelers alike.
Fun Fact: Lahaina was once the capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom and was a major trading hub for whaling and merchant ships. This led to Lahaina becoming the diverse, enriched, and prominent culinary scene it’s known the world over today.
Case in point: poke bowls.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the top restaurants and must-try dishes in Lahaina. Dine solo or feast with friends and family – either way, this guide will help you experience the best of Maui’s gastronomic wonders and let you savor the many flavors of Hawaii bite by bite.
What to Eat: The Best Food in Lahaina
Before we venture to Lahaina’s top restaurants, we first have to get acquainted with the island’s most-loved cuisine. Here are some of the signature dishes to hunt down on your culinary adventure:
1. POKE BOWLS
Poke is a traditional Hawaiian dish made with raw fish, seasonings, and a variety of toppings. Lahaina is known for its fresh and delicious poke bowls, which can be found at places like Aloha Mixed Plate, Lahaina Fish Company, and Star Noodle.
2. PLATE LUNCHES
A plate lunch is a classic Hawaiian dish that typically includes a generous serving of rice, macaroni salad, and a main entree such as chicken katsu, teriyaki beef, or mahi-mahi. You can find these dishes at places like Aloha Mixed Plate and Da Kitchen.
3. SHAVE ICE
Shave ice is a popular dessert in Hawaii, made with finely shaved ice and a variety of sweet syrups and toppings. It’s a great reprieve for visitors looking to escape the heat. You can find some of the best servings in Lahaina at places like Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice and Island Snow.
4. MAI TAIS
A Mai Tai is a classic tropical cocktail made with rum, orange liqueur, lime juice, and syrup. Lahaina is known for its Mai Tais, which can be found at many of the town’s bars and restaurants, including Fleetwood’s on Front St. and Duke’s Beach House.
5. KALUA PIG
This slow-roasted dish is made with a whole pig that’s been seasoned with sea salt and Hawaiian herbs. You can try this classic Hawaiian dish at places like Aloha Mixed Plate and Duke’s Beach House.
Where to Eat: Lahaina’s Must-Visit Restaurants
When it comes to dining in Lahaina, the options are endless. From casual beachfront spots to fine dining establishments, there’s something to suit every taste and budget.
Here are some of the best restaurants in Lahaina – and in the whole of Maui – that are sure to impress:
1. STAR NOODLE
286 Kupuohi Street | (808) 667-5400
This hip and trendy spot is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. They specialize in Asian-inspired cuisine, including hand-pulled noodles, savory dumplings, and unique dishes like the miso butterfish.
Call ahead for reservations or to get your name on the waitlist! Get your social batteries charged as well because you could potentially dine at a communal table or bar during busy hours. We promise that the surrounding buzz will be easily drowned out by the amazing food in front of you.
2. ALOHA MIXED PLATE
1285 Front Street | (808) 661-3322
This casual spot is famous for its traditional Hawaiian plates, including lau lau (pork wrapped in taro leaves), kalua pork, and poke bowls. They also serve a range of local and international beers and cocktails for a perfect evening exotic of F&B.
3. DUKE’S BEACH HOUSE
130 Kai Malina Parkway | (808) 662-2900
Situated right on the beach, Duke’s offers stunning ocean views and a relaxed, tropical island-style atmosphere. Their menu features classic Hawaiian dishes like Kalua pig and poke bowls, as well as fresh seafood and salads to boot!
4. LAHAINA FISH COMPANY
831 Front Street | (808) 661-3472
This seafood restaurant is a great choice for fresh and flavorful dishes made with the best of the day’s catch. Their menu includes classic dishes like fish tacos, grilled mahi-mahi, and crab cakes, as well as a range of sushi and poke bowls. It no doubt has the best food in Lahaina if you’re looking for fresh meals!
5. FLEETWOOD’S ON FRONT ST.
744 Front Street | (808) 669-6425
This chic and upscale restaurant offers a stylish dining experience and a menu filled with contemporary cuisine. Their signature dishes include slow-roasted prime rib, pan-seared mahi-mahi, and grilled lamb chops that are truly to die for!
6. COOL CAT CAFÉ
658 Front Street | (808) 667-0908
At the Cool Cat Cafe, you’re in for a quirky dining experience. This place is famous for its vintage décor and classic American diner-style menu. It’s a great spot for a casual breakfast or lunch, with dishes like pancakes, omelettes, burgers, and milkshakes that will satisfy your comfort food cravings.
Where to Find More: Farmers Markets, Food Stalls & Food Trucks in Lahaina
Lahaina is also home to a variety of farmers’ markets and local food stalls, offering fresh, locally grown produce and traditional Hawaiian dishes.
Here are some of the must-visit markets and stalls in Lahaina:
1. LAHAINA FARMERS MARKET
The Lahaina Farmers Market is a weekly event that takes place on Saturdays and features local farmers, artisans, and food vendors. Here you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and other local goods, as well as delicious food stalls offering poke bowls, plate lunches, and other Hawaiian specialties.
2. MAUI SWAP MEET
The Maui Swap Meet is a weekly event that takes place on Saturdays and is a great place to pick up souvenirs, handmade goods, and local produce. Food vendors at the swap meet offer a variety of local dishes, including Hawaiian plates, fresh fruit smoothies, and traditional Hawaiian snacks like manapua (steamed buns filled with sweet or savory fillings).
3. FOOD TRUCK RALLIES
Local food trucks in Lahaina gather regularly to offer a variety of delicious street food. These rallies take place throughout the week and are a great way to try a variety of local dishes in one place.
Savor The Flavors of Lahaina With Rent By Owner!
Ready to taste the best food in Lahaina? Why stop there? Fully immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture by finding locally-owned stays with Rent By Owner!
On top of our travel guides, we list properties owned and managed by locals, so you can get the most authentic hospitality experience. Find & filter accommodations based on your budget, group size, and style, and experience stress-free travel planning to Lahiana’s wonders today!
TLDR
Embark on a food lover’s journey with this guide to the best food in Lahaina, Hawaii. Savor the diverse culinary scene, influenced by the town’s rich history, vibrant culture, and local ingredients. From iconic poke bowls and plate lunches to refreshing shave ice and Mai Tais, the town’s signature dishes are a must-try. Don’t miss the top restaurants including Star Noodle, Aloha Mixed Plate, Duke’s Beach House, Lahaina Fish Company, Fleetwood’s on Front St., and Cool Cat Café. For a local experience, visit the weekly Lahaina Farmers Market, Maui Swap Meet, and food truck rallies. Elevate your Hawaiian adventure by planning and finding a local stay with Rent by Owner.
