In the video “BEST FOOD ON MAUI | WITHOUT A RESERVATION!!” by BKR, you’ll get an insider’s guide to the best food places in Maui, Hawaii. With dinner reservations being difficult to secure, this video showcases various categories of food, including breakfast, burger, health food, shrimp burrito, local food, poke, fish, mai tai, upcountry food, donut, pizza, shave ice, banana bread, chicken, and pie. The content creator, affiliated with Amazon and Hawaii Activities, ensures that all recommendations are based on personal experience and doesn’t recommend anything they haven’t tried themselves. Maui’s diverse food scene, influenced by tourism and limited restaurant capacity due to COVID-19, offers great food options without the need for a reservation.
Maui, with its small size of just 48 miles long and 28 miles wide, boasts a remarkable culinary landscape. Despite the challenge of securing popular dinner reservations on the island, there are plenty of amazing food options available. In this video, Blake aka BKR, a local photographer and island resident, takes you on a mouthwatering journey through the best spots for breakfast, dinner, burgers, healthy and plant-based food, shrimp burritos, local cuisine, poke, fish, mai tais, upcountry dishes, donuts, pizza, shave ice, banana bread, chicken, and pies. From charming restaurants near the harbor to beachside locations and open-air settings with live music, this guide has got you covered. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to taste the culinary delights of Maui, where reservations are not required!
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Breakfast Spots
Papa Aina
Papa Aina is a charming restaurant located near the harbor in Maui. It is housed in an old whaling saloon and offers a unique and quaint atmosphere. Whether you’re going for breakfast or an afternoon boat ride, Papa Aina is a great option. They serve delicious breakfast dishes, and their bloody marys are a must-try. The restaurant’s proximity to the harbor makes it a convenient spot to grab a meal before or after a boat ride. The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere will make your breakfast experience at Papa Aina memorable.
Gazebos
Gazebos is a breakfast spot that should not be missed when visiting Maui. Located right on Pili Bay, it offers stunning beachside views while you enjoy your meal. Gazebos is known for serving the best breakfast on the island, and it is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The restaurant is fairly small, so be prepared for long lines. However, the wait is definitely worth it. If you don’t want to wait, you can always call for takeout and enjoy your meal on the beautiful beach right by Gazebos. Make sure to try their famous dishes like the pineapple macadamia nut pancakes or the fried rice.
Dinner Recommendations
Down the Hatch
If you’re looking for a restaurant that has it all, Down the Hatch is the place to go. Located in the wharf on Front Street, this restaurant offers a range of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The atmosphere is open-air, giving you a unique dining experience. Live music is often played at Down the Hatch, adding to the lively ambiance. Whether you’re in the mood for a delicious breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a satisfying dinner, Down the Hatch has something for everyone. Be sure to try their lobster grilled cheese or their popcorn shrimp for a truly memorable meal.
Cool Cats
Cool Cats is another great option for dinner, especially if you’re craving a burger. Located just above Down the Hatch, Cool Cats offers a great view of the Banyan tree on Front Street. The restaurant has a fun and nostalgic atmosphere, with a menu that includes burgers, sandwiches, and milkshakes. Even if you’re not a burger fan, there are plenty of other options to choose from. The laid-back vibe and delicious food make Cool Cats a must-visit when in Maui.
Plant-Based and Health Food
Moku Roots
If you’re looking for a plant-based and zero-waste eatery, look no further than Moku Roots. This award-winning health food restaurant is committed to providing sustainable and delicious meals. They source their ingredients from local farms and use organic produce whenever possible. Their menu offers a variety of options, including pineapple fried rice, vegan burgers, and fresh salads. What sets them apart is their zero-waste policy, utilizing tea leaves and banana leaves for their packaging. Moku Roots is not just for vegans, as they have something for everyone to enjoy.
Aloha Eats
Aloha Eats is a food truck with multiple locations in Maui, and it is a great option for those looking for plant-based and vegan meals. While they offer a variety of options, their chicken sandwich is a standout dish. It is made with plant-based ingredients but tastes just like real chicken. Whether you’re a vegan or not, this chicken sandwich is a must-try. Aloha Eats also offers other delicious options like pulled pork sandwiches and volcano fries. Don’t worry if you’re with someone who isn’t into health food, as there are other food trucks nearby offering different cuisines.
Shrimp Delights
Ono Tacos
Ono Tacos is a hidden gem located in Lahaina. This orange food truck serves the best shrimp burrito and shrimp torta on the island. If you’re a fan of shrimp, you won’t want to miss this spot. The shrimp burrito is flavorful and satisfying, while the shrimp torta offers a unique twist on a traditional sandwich. The food truck is situated just off the side of the road near the Lahaina Subway, making it a convenient stop for a quick and delicious meal. Ono Tacos is a must-visit for shrimp lovers.
Budget-Friendly Local Food
Okazuya
For those on a budget, Okazuya in Hana is the perfect place to enjoy local food at an affordable price. This small spot offers a variety of options for takeout, making it convenient for a quick and delicious meal. The menu includes local favorites like plate lunches, sushi, and Spam musubi. Okazuya is a favorite among locals, and its popularity is a testament to its tasty dishes. Whether you’re exploring Hana or just passing through, Okazuya is a great place to grab a budget-friendly meal.
Celebrity Chef’s Restaurant
Joey’s Kitchen
Owned by the famous chef Sheldon Simeon, Joey’s Kitchen is a must-visit for lunch or dinner. Located in Kaanapali, this restaurant offers a unique and delectable menu. Chef Sheldon Simeon brings his expertise and creativity to every dish, creating a dining experience like no other. The menu at Joey’s Kitchen showcases the chef’s culinary skills, featuring a combination of local and global flavors. From mouthwatering appetizers to savory main courses, every dish at Joey’s Kitchen is prepared with love and passion. Don’t miss out on this celebrity chef’s restaurant when in Maui.
Fresh Poke
Tamura’s
If you’re a fan of fresh poke, Tamura’s is the place to go. With multiple locations across Maui, Tamura’s offers a wide variety of poke options. From traditional ahi poke to unique flavors like kimchi ahi poke, their poke selection is extensive and delicious. The fish used in their poke is always fresh and of high quality. Tamura’s is a go-to spot for locals and tourists alike when craving fresh and flavorful poke.
Seafood Specialties
Poi by Fish Market
Located in Kihei, Poi by Fish Market is the perfect place to indulge in seafood specialties. This restaurant offers a range of dishes that showcase the flavors of the ocean. Their fish tacos are a must-try, as they are known for their delicious and fresh fish. Poi by Fish Market takes pride in sourcing their seafood from local fishermen, ensuring that every bite is of the highest quality. If you’re a seafood lover, Poi by Fish Market should be on your list of dining destinations.
Best Mai Tai
Monkeypod
When it comes to Mai Tais, Monkeypod is the place to go. With locations in Wailea and Kaanapali, Monkeypod offers a refreshing and flavorful Mai Tai that is sure to satisfy. They use high-quality ingredients and expertly mix their cocktails to create the perfect balance of flavors. Monkeypod is known for its dedication to craft beverages, and their Mai Tai is a testament to their expertise. Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or just looking for a refreshing drink, Monkeypod is the go-to spot for the best Mai Tai in Maui.
Conclusion
Maui, Hawaii, is a culinary paradise with a diverse food scene. While dinner reservations can be challenging to secure, there are plenty of amazing food options available without a reservation. From charming breakfast spots like Papa Aina and Gazebos to budget-friendly local food at Okazuya, Maui offers something for every taste and budget. Whether you’re a seafood lover or a plant-based enthusiast, there are restaurants like Poi by Fish Market, Ono Tacos, Moku Roots, and Aloha Eats that cater to your preferences. Don’t forget to indulge in the best mai tai at Monkeypod and discover the celebrity chef’s touch at Joey’s Kitchen. Maui truly has it all when it comes to food, and you don’t need a reservation to enjoy the island’s culinary delights. So explore the vibrant food scene of Maui, try out these recommended spots, and savor the flavors of this tropical paradise.