Aloha Marci!

There are tons of great places to eat on Maui. And is it any wonder? 

The Valley Isle is blessed with some of the freshest fish on the planet, locally grown fruits and vegetables, and excellent local chefs. 

Next time you visit Maui, try these three local restaurants. They’re some of our favorites — and we think you’ll love them too. 



Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman 🐟

Monkeypod Kitchen is one of the most popular restaurants on the island – and for good reason. This bustling restaurant is known for its fantastic happy hour, live music, and expansive menu.

It’s also home to Maui’s most famous Mai Tai – celebrated for its delicious honey-lilikoi foam topping. (Beer lovers, rejoice. Monkeypod has over 20 craft beers on tap! And many of them are brewed right here in the islands.)

The menu features tasty delights from near and far – like saimin, bulgogi tacos, taro ravioli, and hand-tossed pizzas. There’s truly something for everyone at this Maui favorite! 

Many ingredients are sourced from local farmers, ranchers, and artisans, so dining here means supporting Maui’s restaurant industry and the farm-to-table movement. 

But the best part? Monkeypod Kitchen is a stone’s throw away from some of our favorite Wailea rentals like Wailea Ekolu Village and Wailea Grand Champions! 

Coconut's Fish Cafe 🌮

If you’re looking for a great fish taco, look no further than Coconut’s Fish Cafe. This restaurant is a favorite for both locals and visitors alike.

The tacos here are made with fresh fish and piled high with coleslaw and colorful mango salsa. It’s no wonder the cafe won ‘Best Fish Taco’ at the Maui ‘Aipono Awards for four years straight. 

Even if you’re not a fan of fish, the menu at Coconut’s has plenty of different options – including kalua pork sandwiches, burgers, and salads. And the always-friendly service and family atmosphere will keep you coming back for more.

Coconut’s has two Kihei locations, but their Kamaole location is the most convenient. Coconut’s Fish Cafe is a great dinner stop after a long day at one of the Kamaole Beach Parks, and it’s only a short walk or drive from Kamaole Nalu Resort and our other South Kihei rentals. 

Isana 🍣

Isana is one of the few restaurants in North Kihei – located only about a mile from Sugar Beach. And fortunately, it’s one of the best places for sushi and Japanese food on Maui.

We think you’ll love Isana for a few reasons – starting with the ocean view. This restaurant is located just steps from the surf. Diners seated near the window get excellent views, especially at sunset. Plus, you can’t beat the cold AC, friendly service, and great happy hour. 

And, of course, the food is excellent. A local fisherman owns Isana, so the fish is always fresh – and there are lots of fish options other restaurants don’t always have access to. Not to mention, the sushi rolls here are works of art. 

Not a fan of sushi? Never fear. Isana has a kitchen menu with many other Japanese dishes and island favorites. 

Is your mouth watering yet? Be sure to bookmark these restaurants for your next trip to Maui. We hope to see you here on the Valley Isle in 2024, enjoying the best food Maui has to offer. Happy travels! 

Warmest Aloha,

The Ali'i Resorts Ohana