Local Cuisine You Must Not Miss When Visiting Maui

Foodie or not, Maui food never disappoints!

Maui, the Valley Isle, is not only renowned for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and dramatic volcanic landscapes, but also for its mouthwatering local cuisine. Whether you're a foodie or just looking to experience the authentic flavors of Hawaii, the island offers a variety of dishes and delicacies that will make your trip even more memorable. Here’s a guide to some of the must-try local foods when visiting Maui!

1. Poke

Arguably one of the most famous Hawaiian dishes, poke (pronounced "poh-keh") is a raw fish salad typically made with fresh ahi tuna, seaweed, onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, and a variety of other seasonings. The dish comes in several variations, with different marinades and mix-ins, but the fresh, high-quality fish is always the star. You'll find poke at many local fish markets and restaurants, and it’s a great way to taste the flavors of the ocean.

Where to try it:

• Aloha Mixed Plate in Lahaina
• Mama’s Fish House in Ku’au Bay

2. Loco Moco

This hearty comfort food is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Loco Moco consists of a bed of white rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and smothered in savory brown gravy. It's simple but satisfying, offering a perfect mix of savory and comforting flavors. It's often served as a breakfast or lunch dish, but you’ll see it on menus all day long.

Where to try it:

• Zippy’s (a popular Hawaiian chain)
• Kihei Caffe in Kihei

3. Huli Huli Chicken

Huli Huli chicken is a classic Hawaiian BBQ dish that features chicken marinated in a tangy, sweet, and savory sauce made of soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic. The chicken is grilled over an open flame, giving it a deliciously smoky flavor. "Huli" means "turn" in Hawaiian, which refers to the way the chicken is turned while grilling.

Where to try it:

• Huli Huli Chicken Stands (often found at farmers' markets and roadside stands)
• The Huli Huli Chicken Shack in Lahaina

4. Spam Musubi

This simple, yet delicious snack, is often referred to as the Hawaiian version of sushi. Spam Musubi consists of a slice of Spam (canned pork) that’s grilled and placed on a block of rice, wrapped together with a strip of nori (seaweed). It's a tasty treat that blends salty, savory, and slightly sweet flavors, making it perfect for a quick bite on the go.

Where to try it:

• Ono Gelato Company in Lahaina (they also offer Spam Musubi as a snack)
• Aloha ‘Aina Cafe in Kihei

5. Manapua

Manapua is Hawaii’s version of the Chinese bao, a steamed bun filled with various savory fillings such as pork, chicken, or even sweet fillings like red bean paste. These buns are incredibly popular as a snack or quick meal, and you can find them at bakeries, markets, and restaurants across Maui.

Where to try it:

• Napili Market in Lahaina
• Stella Blues Cafe in Kihei

6. Poi

Poi is a traditional Hawaiian dish made from taro root that’s boiled and mashed into a paste, then fermented. It's typically served as a side dish alongside fish, meats, and other local foods. Its taste can be somewhat neutral, which makes it a perfect complement to the more flavorful dishes. Many visitors may find poi an acquired taste, but it’s definitely a must-try for anyone looking to experience traditional Hawaiian flavors.

Where to try it:

• The Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center in Makawao (they often offer it during cultural events)
• Maui’s Upcountry Farmers Market in Kula

7. Shave Ice

On a hot day in Maui, there’s nothing more refreshing than a bowl of shave ice. This iconic Hawaiian treat features finely shaved ice topped with a variety of colorful and fruity syrups, often enhanced with condensed milk or sweet azuki beans. It's a perfect treat to cool off with while exploring the island.

Where to try it:

• Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice (a favorite spot in Lahaina and Kihei)
• Matsumoto Shave Ice (in Paia)

8. Fresh Seafood

Given Maui's proximity to the ocean, it’s no surprise that seafood is a major part of the local cuisine. From mahi-mahi and ono to lobster and shrimp, there’s an abundance of fresh fish served in a variety of ways: grilled, fried, in stews, or even raw as sashimi.

Where to try it:

• Mama’s Fish House (a Maui icon)
• Coconut’s Fish Cafe in Kihei (perfect for casual, delicious seafood)

9. Taro Chips

If you're craving a crunchy snack, taro chips are a popular local treat. Made from thinly sliced taro root, these chips are often fried to a perfect crisp and lightly salted. They offer a unique alternative to regular potato chips and are an excellent snack to munch on while exploring the island.

Where to try it:

• Maui’s Tropical Plantation (they often sell freshly made taro chips)
• Maui’s Farmers Markets (where you’ll find vendors selling them fresh)

10. Hawaiian Sweet Bread (Poi Bread)

If you're looking to indulge in something sweet, Hawaiian-style sweet bread (or Poi bread) is a fluffy, slightly sweet bread that's perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Some bakeries also offer a variety of sweet bread filled with flavors like coconut, guava, and pineapple.

Where to try it:

• Komoda Store & Bakery in Makawao (a classic local spot for sweet bread)
• The Bread Basket in Wailuku

11. Coconut Water and Fresh Fruit

Maui is blessed with an abundance of fresh, local fruit. From juicy pineapples and bananas to tropical papayas and guavas, you’ll find some of the most flavorful and refreshing fruit in the world. Coconut water, straight from a young coconut, is also a popular and hydrating beverage that you’ll want to enjoy as you explore the island.

Where to try it:

• The Upcountry Farmers Market in Kula
• Maui Tropical Plantation in Waikapu

Maui’s food scene is a true reflection of its rich history, blending native Hawaiian ingredients with influences from Polynesian, Asian, and American cuisines. From poke bowls and loco moco to fresh seafood and tropical fruit, there’s something for every palate on this beautiful island. Make sure to visit some of the local food spots, grab a bite from a food truck or roadside stand, and savor the island’s unique flavors. A trip to Maui is truly a feast for the senses!

Have you tried any of these dishes?

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