How to Find the Best Local Food in Maui: Top Secret Spots

Let’s get right into the main topic of this guide, the best local food in Maui, and we’ll cover Hawaii’s diversity and how it applies to food, sweet treats, the comfort food, and much more, so make sure to read until the end.

Maui’s cultural heritage has delicious, rich flavors reflecting its Polynesian roots. You can try classics like the salty-sweet smell of kalua pig cooked in an underground oven. There’s nothing more local than digging into chunks of kalua pork with sides of poi.

This traditional Hawaiian dish features poi — a starchy paste made from taro root.

But the flavors don’t stop there. Chinese, Japanese, Filipino, and Portuguese influences are all part of the island’s culinary mix so get ready for a flavor adventure, trying traditional dishes and creations unique to the Valley Isle.

Don’t be afraid to pay a visit to a farmer’s market or farm stand. It’s the best way to find a local favorite.

If there’s one thing you must have, it’s the Hawaiian plate lunch. This island classic features a big scoop of protein — think kalua pig, teriyaki chicken, or juicy hamburger steak — piled on top of two scoops of white rice.

And to top it all off, you’ll get a big scoop of macaroni salad. It’s the perfect creamy counterbalance to the savory flavors.

Look for plate lunches at places like Kalei’s Lunchbox. Their breaded teriyaki chicken katsu will have you planning your next trip to Maui.

Maui is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and it’s no surprise that fresh fish is king. Local fishermen bring in an array of catches — mahi-mahi, ahi tuna, and ono.

Be sure to order some poke, which is the best way to experience Maui’s fresh fish. This iconic dish is bite-sized chunks of raw, marinated fish tossed with savory flavors, it’s an appetizer and a meal.

You can even get your poke bowl as a poke plate over rice. Find hidden gems like Tamura’s Fine Wine & Liquor. This is a liquor store but it’s also one of Maui’s best poke counters, known only to the true locals.

When it comes to comfort food that locals love, look no further than loco moco. This Maui staple checks all the boxes: a big hamburger patty on top of white rice, smothered in gravy.

And of course, an egg on top. One place to find a classic Loco Moco is Da Kitchen. They reopened in Kihei in 2021 and it’s back at the top of everyone’s Loco Moco list.

Maui’s bakeries are legendary, and you’ll never have enough. Start your day with malasadas. Maui’s bakeries are famous for these puffy Portuguese doughnuts, deep-fried to a golden brown and coated in granulated sugar.

They’re like an extra indulgent funnel cake. But malasadas get even better when filled with tropical flavors like guava or creamy haupia.

Don’t miss the selection at Sugar Beach Bake Shop in Kihei – Their ube flavor is to die for, and the cinnamon sugar is the perfect alternative!

Then when you’re in Upcountry Maui be sure to stop by the historic Pukalani Superette, affectionately known as “Puk Sup” by the locals.

It opened in 1955 and has been carrying on the family tradition since the days of the plantation era when Japanese immigrants Takeo and Kome Tanizaki started their Wailuku shop.

Start your day like a local with a cup of Maui-grown coffee. Maui’s volcanic soil produces some of the best coffee in Hawaii so it’s a popular souvenir.

Find Hawaiian coffee at quaint cafes in the Upcountry towns or along the North Shore. Grab a cup before you get some banana bread for a sweet treat.

Local markets give you a taste of Maui’s fresh fruits, vegetables, and spices, the foundation of true Hawaiian cuisine.

Look for Upcountry farmers’ markets or local farmers’ markets to find farm fresh produce. Talk to the vendors and try exotic fruits like sweet mangoes, juicy pineapples and even dragon fruit.

Look for signs that say “Grindz”, the local term for good food. “Grindz” usually means you’ll find something good.

Maui’s Global Flavors

You’ll find Filipino eateries serving savory dishes like pork adobo or pork belly. This dish is simmered in a garlicky, tangy sauce and served with steaming bowls of sinigang.

This comforting sour soup will chase away any chill you get from the Maui breeze.

Look for Joey’s Kitchen for Filipino favorites. Chef Joey came from the Philippines to Hawaii and his menu brings true island food to your table.

A Mix of Cultures and Flavors

The Hawaiian, Asian, and Polynesian influences create some amazing dishes found only in the Valley Isle.

So while you’re out and about, don’t be afraid to try the fusion food. Look for local versions of ramen or saimin. This hearty noodle soup is a Chinese and Japanese-inspired dish, noodles tossed in a savory broth.

You can even find restaurants like Tanpopo that combine Japanese with Italian. Their menu changes daily so it’s always fresh and new.

Maui goes beyond pineapple. Whether you find hidden gems like food truck lots or share plates with locals you’ll soon find there are as many dishes on this island as there are beaches.

There are other tips to eat like a local in Maui, so take a paper and a pen and write these down:

• Bring Cash: Cash is still king at many local eateries and even some markets. Be prepared so you can hit all the smaller spots.
• BYOB: You might be surprised to find many Maui restaurants, especially the more low-key ones without a license, allow you to bring your own beer and wine. They don’t always have a liquor license but a local tip: you’ll usually find a grocery store nearby.
• Ask for recommendations: Talk to locals and let them know what you’re looking for. This will not only point you to great spots but give you insider info.