The best part of any vacation is getting to explore a new place. From the culture to the local hangouts, finding ways to immerse yourself in authentic experiences is what most of us crave. If you’re planning a trip to Maui, one of the best ways to indulge your senses and get to know the area is by enjoying some of the incredible food on the island. This month, we’re bringing you our foodie’s guide to the best local restaurants in Kihei so you can easily navigate to all the top spots during your trip. From food trucks to unique Hawaiian specialties, it’s all here. Let’s dig in!
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Best Kihei Breakfast
For the best breakfast in Maui, some will say Gazebo, but honestly, 2-hour lines for $20 dollar omelets is a bit much (though it does offer incredible views). Others will rave about SixtyTwo MarcKet, a place with exceptional food, a fun on-site shop, and a commitment to locally sourced ingredients, but… it’s a bit out of the way if you’re staying near the beach. If you ask us, though, the best breakfast on the island is found at the charming and unassuming Kihei Caffe.
Located right off South Kihei Road, this Maui staple has been serving up classic Hawaiian fare since 1998. With a dedication to simple dishes done right, every bite is a made-to-perfection experience. From their decadent French toast and fluffy pancakes to the unique Kalua Pork Eggs Benedict, each item on the menu is a winner. If you’re staying in one of our Bello Realty, Inc. vacation rentals, take advantage of the short drive and pay a visit to this exceptional Kiehi breakfast spot during your vacation. You won’t regret it!
- Hours: Monday – Sunday | 6AM – 2PM
- Location: 1945 South Kihei Road | Kihei, HI. 96753
- Recommended Item: Fresh Fruit Bowls or the Loco Moco
Best Spot for Lunch in Kiehi
It’s fair to guess that a lot of your time in Maui will be spent at the beach. Naturally, when you’re making the most of the surf and sun, packing a cooler and hunkering down for the day is the way to go. But, if after a few days, you decide to explore beyond the shore, be sure to add Havens to your list of must-visit lunch spots in Kihei.
The goal at Havens is simple: create delicious foods from the freshest ingredients available, and that’s exactly what they do with their made-from-scratch specialties. Featuring traditional Hawaiian dishes like saimin, a noodle soup served with roasted pork, egg, and dashi bone broth, and classics like smash burgers, there’s something to appeal to every tastebud. Don’t skip their tasty pies, too! They make for the perfect sweet treat to cap off your meal.
- Hours: Monday – Sunday | 10:30 AM – 8 PM
- Location: 30 Manao Kala St. Ste. 102 | Kihei, HI 96753
- Recommended Item: Any of the noodle dishes
Nalu's South Shore Grill in Kihei, HI., is another incredible lunch spot. Open seven days a week, it offers the perfect blend of comfort food and island freshness. Whether you're snacking on a bowl of volcano fries or savoring Sammy's Lobster Roll, you'll taste the love in every bite. They also have live music every day, so you can enjoy your meal and some local entertainment at the same time!
- Hours: Every day from 8 AM to 9 PM
- Location: 1280 South Kihei Road | Kihei, HI 96753
- Recommended Item: the Poke Bowl of the Day with fresh-caught fish
Best Kihei Maui Restaurants for Dinner
When it comes to dinner at Kihei, Hawaii restaurants, there are tons of places that serve fantastic meals—from high-end to uber casual and from island food to Mexican, even! If you want a true local favorite, though, it’s got to be the award-winning Three’s Bar & Grill. Born out of three friends’ love for cooking, their small-time catering company has grown into the beloved island gathering place it is today. You may have even seen them on the Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives!
Highlighting each chef’s specialty, the menu is a melting pot of Hawaiian, Southwestern, and Pacific Rim influences. The results of which are the mouth-watering delicacies you won't find anywhere else. The best thing about Three’s is the variety. Whether you want something simple like a burger or salad, something fresh like sushi, or an island take on a mainland jambalaya, you can find it here. They also have an incredible happy hour from 3-6 with deep discounts on food and drink. Bring the family and enjoy a fantastic dinner during your Maui vacation.
- Hours: Monday- Sunday | 11 AM – 9 PM
- Location: 1945 South Kihei Road Suite G | Kihei, HI 96753
- Recommended Item: Seared Ahi with Purple Sweet Potatoes
For something a bit more traditional, the family-owned Cafe O'Lei Kihei restaurant is another can't-miss treasure. Known for island-inspired cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere, this South Shore icon highlights locally sourced ingredients in its vibrant salads, signature sushi rolls, and fresh seafood dishes. Their inviting yet elevated setting pairs delicious food with stunning ocean views, making it a wonderful spot for a meal that celebrates every aspect of Hawaii.
- Hours: Every day but Monday: Lunch 11 AM to 3:30 PM | Dinner 4 PM Last seating at 8 PM *Reservations encouraged
- Location: 2439 South Kihei Road | Kihei, HI 96753
- Recommended Item: Grilled Lobster Risotto with local mushrooms and red wine balsamic
Book Your Culinary Getaway to Kihei Today
Now that we’ve whetted your appetite with our foodie’s guide to the best local restaurants in Kihei, the only thing standing between you and a delicious trip is booking your vacation rental! At Bello Realty, Inc., we have incredible Kihei private homes and condos that put you close to everything mentioned here and within driving distance of tons more. From food trucks to renowned restaurants, whatever is on your menu, you’ll find it in Kihei. Browse our oceanfront rentals, vacation rentals with a private pool, or all our rentals, and let our local team help you find the perfect place for your next adventure.
Interested in owning a vacation rental and need Maui rental property management? We can handle that too! Contact us to learn more.