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The best restaurants in Wailea Maui

This post is for you if you’re looking for the best restaurants in Wailea Maui. If you’ll be staying in one of the many beautiful Wailea Resorts and want great nearby dining, you’re in luck! 

Wailea has some of the best restaurants in Maui. If you’re interested in restaurants in Maui outside of Wailea, check out: The 40 best places to eat in Maui.

DO I NEED A RENTAL CAR IN Maui?

Before we talk more about the list of the best restaurants in Wailea Maui, let’s get to one of the most common questions I get as a Hawaii Travel Agent. When you plan a Maui vacation, getting a rental car is a must.

Even if you’re staying in Wailea, it would be a shame never to leave the area and explore the other beautiful areas of the island, such as the Road to Hana, upcountry Maui, and the beautiful Ka’anapali area.

I recommend Discount Hawaii Car Rental. They have the best rates and free cancellation. You can pick up your car at any of the airports in Hawaii. You won’t pay until you pick up your vehicle; the cancellation is free. 

If you want to find the best flights to Hawaii, I recommend signing up for free alerts with Going (Formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights). 

The best restaurants in Wailea Maui

Here are the 20 best restaurants in Wailea Maui, listed in no particular order. There are so many fantastic restaurants in Wailea Maui at any price point. 

1. Monkeypod Kitchen

One of the best Wailea restaurants is Monkeypod Kitchen. The featured items on the menu include locally-caught fish. The most popular item is the ahi poke tacos. They are the best poke tacos on the island. Although, all their poke bowls are phenomenal.

Whether you dine for dinner or grab a drink for happy hour, there is something to enjoy at this restaurant in south Maui, especially if you are interested in trying any of the 36 craft beers. Or the signature cocktails; they have a great Happy Hour!

Check out The Best Happy Hours in Maui for even more drink and dining deals if you don’t mind eating a bit early. 

Photo is property of MonkeyPod Kitchen.

2. Ka’ana Kitchen

You will find Ka’ana Kitchen on Wailea Alanui Dr. The menus at this Wailea restaurant change seasonally. This means new Hawaiian cuisine is always waiting for you to try.

I recommend arriving closer to sunset. This is a great spot to watch breathtaking sunset views at any time of the year.

At dinnertime, their most popular dishes include Maui fish with pork belly chorizo and grilled octopus salad.

Make sure you save room for dessert. You will savor every bite of their rum cream chocolate cake.

3. Lineage

Korean and Chinese flavors are added to all the dishes on the menu at Lineage. It is recommended that you make reservations to dine at this Wailea restaurant. It is one of the favorite restaurants on the island.

The locals love to order garlic szechuan noodles, as well as Korean fried chicken. Although, the fresh catch of the day is always a hit too.

4. Ferraro’s Bar e Restaurante

This is another restaurant in Wailea located at the Four Seasons. They serve Italian cuisine for lunch and dinner. Ferraro’s offers exceptional service and memorable dining experiences.

I definitely recommend ordering any of the pasta dishes. Although, the catch of the day is also a great option.

The best part about Ferraro’s is you can dine on their plate lunches early in the day and skip the dinner crowd.

5. Humuhumunukunukuapua’a

This restaurant is located at the Grand Wailea Resort. It is a signature seafood restaurant that uses fresh local ingredients.

Humuhumunukunukuapua’a is only open for dinner. Your table will overlook the lagoon near the beach.

I recommend starting with the pan-seared diver scallops or coconut shrimp. The miso butterfish is an excellent choice for seafood lovers. Although, you can’t go wrong with the huli huli chicken.

They offer a children’s menu for younger diners. And no one should skip ordering from the dessert menu, especially with options that include humu mud pie and liliko’i creme brulee.

6. Morimoto Maui

You can never go wrong when you eat Japanese cuisine created by Iron Chef Morimoto. You will find this Wailea restaurant at the Andaz Maui Resort. This resort, along with Morimoto Maui is on Wailea Ike Dr.

I recommend indulging in their 10-course Omakase dinner. If you don’t think you can eat 10 courses, stick to an order or two of sushi. The seared local fish, angry chicken, and seafood toban yaki are all excellent too.

By the way, Andaz Maui is one of my favorite Maui resorts for honeymoons! Also, as a bonus, the Feast at Mokapu at the Andaz Luau is technically not a restaurant, but this is one of my favorite luaus in Maui. 

7. The Restaurant at Hotel Wailea

Sunday brunches and romantic dinners are what it is all about at The Restaurant at Hotel Wailea. This is one of the popular restaurants for special occasions.

Photo is property of Hotel Wailea.

You can sit on the upper lanai to see views of the ocean. Or dine out in the lush gardens.

No matter where you sit, choose your three-course meal carefully. There are quite a few options, especially when it comes to the dessert menu.

Hotel Wailea is another favorite resort for honeymoons in Maui because it’s truly adults-only, which is a rarity in Hawaii.

8. Bistro Molokini

Many locally sourced fresh ingredients are used to make the dishes at Bistro Molokini. You can dine here for both lunch and dinner.

The full dinner menu includes Mediterranean flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Consider ordering the kurobuta pork milanese, roasted veggie pasta, or the aglio olio flatbread.

Dessert is even better with options like the Molokini brownie a la mode.

Speaking of Molokini, make sure that Snorkeling Molokini Crater is on your list of things to do in Maui.

9. Kō Restaurant at Fairmont Kea Lani

The menu at this Wailea restaurant features dishes that have been influenced by Hawaiian, Portuguese, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean heritages. The result is tasty dishes that will melt in your mouth.

The seafood lau lau, grilled lamb chops, and pork belly bao bun are all popular menu items at Ko Restaurant.

The Fairmont Kea Lani is one of the best resorts in Maui for families.

10. Spago by Wolfgang Puck

Spago Maui can be found within the Four Seasons Resort Maui. The culinary techniques the locals use are featured in many of the dishes prepared at Spago.

This restaurant is known for its specialty cocktail menu. While sitting in the dining room, you won’t be able to resist checking out the Asian-inspired contemporary decor. Although, you may prefer to sit on the lanai to see the panoramic ocean views.

The dinner menu offers a little of everything. Everyone in your group should be able to find something they want to eat amongst it all.

11. Ruth’s Chris Steak House

You won’t need to starve, as you do a little shopping at The Shops at Wailea. Ruth’s Chris Steak House offers the best happy hour on the island. Grab one of the Maui beers or a specialty cocktail.

When you are ready, dive into a signature steak or the Chilean sea bass. Save a little room for the white chocolate bread pudding for dessert.

12. KAPA Bar and Grill

Specialty cocktails are just what you’ll need after a day exploring the island of Maui. Pair your cocktail with a dish like blackened mahi mahi.

I recommend requesting a table that overlooks the ocean. This will allow you to enjoy the views while listening to live music.

13. Wailea Kitchen

Classic dishes fill the menu at Wailea Kitchen. Start by ordering a dragon fruit margarita. It is made with fresh-pressed juices.

Photo is property of Wailea Kitchen.

The head chef tries to use local ingredients when possible to make the dishes on the menu. You won’t be disappointed with the bolognese or the ginger mushroom salmon.

14. Gannon’s Restaurant

You will find Gannon’s Restaurant at the Emerald Golf Course. This Wailea golf course offers gorgeous views of the sunset each night. I have a post about the 15 best golf courses in Maui, so if you’re a golfer, you’ll want to check that out.

Chef Bev Gannon has taken this Wailea restaurant to the next level with her contemporary dishes. I recommend sitting out on the outdoor lanai for views of the ocean and the setting sun. Plus, it is the perfect place to listen to the live music that plays every night.

The most popular menu items include the hoisin glazed short ribs and the blackened citrus ahi.

15. Lobby Lounge at Four Seasons

Lobby Lounge can be found at the Four Seasons in Wailea. It is a bar that offers open-air seating and delicious food. I can’t forget to mention the specialty cocktails!

Watch the hula dancers welcoming the starry night as you dine on sushi. Or set your sights on the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

16. Matteo’s Osteria

The best Italian food in Wailea can be found at Matteo’s Osteria. This is one of the local restaurants that not many tourists know about.

Start your visit by ordering one of the more than 60 types of wine. Then take fine dining to the next level by ordering their specialty pasta dish of the night. The menu rotates, so you never know what delicious options may be available during your visit.

You will even find gluten-free options available. This is perfect if gluten is not part of your diet, but you love Italian food (like me!) 

17. Duo Steak and Seafood

Duo Steak and Seafood is another fantastic Wailea Restaurant located at the Four Seasons Maui. You don’t need a special occasion to dine here. But it is a local favorite for romantic dinners.

This is the best Maui restaurant for premium steaks aged to perfection. You won’t regret ordering one of their steaks to enjoy in an open-air setting.

If you don’t want steak, consider their panang curry lobster or wagyu and truffle burger.

18. Nick’s Fishmarket Maui

Nick’s Fishmarket Maui is a beautiful restaurant for a romantic dinner or time with the family. Their menu offers plenty of island-inspired dishes.

You will find many of the locals dining at this restaurant in Wailea. They love ordering the Hawaiian opakapaka and the mahi mahi.

Take a look at the wine list when you are ordering. There are quite a few fine wines to choose from on the list at Nick’s Fish Market Maui. 

19. Humble Market Kitchin

Most people will spell this restaurant “Humble Market Kitchen,” but it is definitely “Humble Market Kitchin” by Roy Yamaguchi. This is one of the best restaurants to dine at for amazing views of the coastline.

In fact, it is one of the restaurants everyone goes to when they want to see beautiful Wailea Beach up close.
It is all about the local culture, as well as the Hawaiian cuisine, at Humble Market. Their menus include dinner, vegetarian, happy hour, and a breakfast buffet.

If you are going to eat at this popular spot for dinner, order the misoyaki butterfish or Roy’s classic blackened island ahi.

20. Star Noodle

One of the best outdoor dining restaurants is Star Noodle. This restaurant is known for its menu items that are called Star’s Stars. They make a limited supply of steamed pork buns, ahi avo, and NY steak each day. Arrive early, or they may run out before you get to indulge in these most popular dishes.

21. Tommy Bahama Restaurant

There are a few different restaurants located on Wailea Alanui Drive, and Tommy Bahama is one of them. This is a must-visit when you want to eat the freshest seafood on the island.

Tommy Bahama is a casual restaurant that is open for dinner. If you aren’t in the mood for some of the best seafood, they also have salad, chicken, and tacos on their menu.

22. Pita Paradise

There aren’t too many places serving Greek cuisine on the Hawaiian Islands. This is what makes Pita Paradise a great place to go when you are craving Greek food.

This charming bistro uses its own local fishermen, its owner, to bring in fresh fish for the meals. The owner also works with the local farms for many of the other ingredients they use in their dishes.

You can easily go here to enjoy a casual lunch. It is also a great option for a nice dinner with family and friends.

23. Oao

Out of all the local businesses, Oao really stands out. Oao is a sushi bar, as well as a food truck. It is a family-owned business that is led by sushi expert Chef JR.

Oao has an extensive menu. In addition to sushi, they serve steak and other local seafood.

24. The Pint & Cork

The Pint & Cork can be found at the Shops at Wailea. By now, you probably realize that this mall isn’t just any strip mall. Instead, it is a mall that offers high-end stores and even better local restaurants in Wailea.

This pub offers a happy hour every afternoon. On Friday night, you must arrive early if you want to find a place to sit. They don’t take reservations.

25. Makana Market & Cafe

Makana Market & Cafe is located at the Fairmont Kea Lani. It is the perfect spot to go for local food.

This is the best of the island gourmet markets for artisan candies, fudge, and wine. When you decide to go on a picnic in Maui, skip the local grocery stores. Go to this market in Maui for all your food instead.

26. Akamai Coffee

You cannot vacation in Wailea and not find an amazing coffee shop! Akamai Coffee is one of the best places to grab a cup of coffee when you need some caffeine.

The food is also delicious if you decide you need a bite to eat with your coffee. Just don’t be afraid to show up and order your favorite cup of joe. Yes, it is that good.

This coffee shop is part of the Wailea Resort brand in Maui. Only the best of the best are included in this brand, so you know it must be worth a visit!

27. Kitoko

A food truck can easily get on the list of best restaurants in Maui if they offer some incredible food. Kitoko is a gourmet food truck that can usually be found in South Maui Garden. This food truck isn’t directly in Wailea, but it is close, in nearby Kihei.

It is an easy drive for those times you want to listen to live music while eating a great meal. The menu at this food truck rotates. So, you never know what will be available when you arrive. However, if they have the lobster benedict on the menu, order it. You won’t be disappointed.

28. Mama’s Fish House

The last two restaurants on this list of restaurants in Wailea are actually not in Wailea, but they are worth mentioning anyway since they are so popular!

You will need to drive for approximately 20 miles outside of Wailea to get to Mama’s Fish House. The drive will be worth every delicious bite.

Months before you arrive in Maui is when you will need to call and make a reservation to dine at this family-owned restaurant. They are currently booking between 4 and 6 months in advance. Keep that in mind if you want to eat dishes prepared with fresh island fish.

Executive chef Perry Bateman uses that fresh fish to prepare dishes like ahi Tahitian, macadamia nut crab cakes, and seared Maui octopus.

29. Hali’imaile General Store

Hali’imaile General Store may sound like a regular grocery store in Maui. However, it is a farm-to-table restaurant that serves locally sourced dishes. Hawaiian culture can be experienced while eating some of the best food on the island.

The culinary team works its magic so well that wait times at this restaurant are high. Therefore, reservations are highly recommended. It is not located in Wailea but in upcountry Maui. Check out the ultimate guide to Upcountry Maui and make a day of it.

The best restaurants in Wailea Maui

These are some of the best restaurants in Wailea Maui. Did I miss your favorite? If you have any other best Wailea restaurants, let me know in the comments!

If you’re wondering why popular Maui restaurants like Mama’s Fish House and Hali’imaile General Store aren’t on this list, that is because they are not in Wailea! 

More Maui travel ideas

For more Maui travel tips, check out some of my most popular blog posts:

• The best island to visit in Hawaii in December
• The best hikes in Maui
• Maui 5 day itinerary
• The 10 best places to snorkel in Maui
• The Ultimate Guide to Maui Whale Watching
• What is the best luau on Maui?

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