When it comes to dining on Maui’s sunny south shore, the towns of Kīhei and Wailea offer a
feast for every kind of foodie. From oceanfront eateries with jaw-dropping views to hidden gems
serving the freshest island ingredients, these towns are home to some of Maui’s most beloved
restaurants. Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway or a casual beach day, these dining
spots promise an unforgettable culinary experience.
Monkeypod Kitchen – Wailea
10 Wailea Gateway Place, Wailea | $$
Created by renowned chef Peter Merriman, Monkeypod Kitchen is a must-visit. Known for its
wood-fired pizzas, garlic truffle fries, and legendary mai tais topped with honey-lilikoi foam, this
place buzzes with energy and local flair. Live music, happy hour deals, and sustainable
ingredients make this a Wailea staple for locals and tourists alike.
Must try: Pumpkin patch ravioli, garlic truffle fries, Monkeypod Mai Tai
Lineage – Wailea
3750 Wailea Alanui Drive, Wailea | $$$
Chef Sheldon Simeon, a “Top Chef” finalist and Hilo native, brings island-style family dining to a
new level at Lineage. The menu draws inspiration from traditional Hawaiian dishes and
Asian-American comfort food. Think pork & peas, crispy chicken skins, and ahi poke with a
twist. It’s inventive, soulful, and full of local heritage.
Must try: Mochiko chicken, charred tako (octopus), pipikaula
South Maui Fish Company – Kīhei
1794 S Kīhei Rd, Kīhei | $$
If you’re craving ultra-fresh, ocean-to-table seafood, this humble food truck is a local favorite.
Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives , South Maui Fish Company serves up poke bowls,
grilled fish plates, and tacos that are worth the wait (and yes, they often sell out early!).
Must try: Seared ahi plate, shoyu poke bowl, fish tacos
Kō – Wailea
4100 Wailea Alanui Drive, Wailea (Fairmont Kea Lani) | $$$$
Kō is a culinary homage to the plantation-era melting pot of Hawaiian cuisine, offering a refined
take on traditional island dishes. Located at the luxurious Fairmont Kea Lani, it’s the perfect spot
for a romantic dinner. The menu features flavors from China, Japan, the Philippines, Portugal,
and more—blended beautifully into local classics.
Must try: Lavender honey shrimp, Maui Cattle Co. short ribs, lemongrass calamari
Matteo’s Osteria – Wailea
161 Wailea Ike Place, Wailea | $$
For an intimate Italian dinner, Matteo’s is the go-to. Tucked away in a quieter part of Wailea, this
cozy osteria blends rustic Italian dishes with local Maui ingredients. The wine list is extensive,
the pasta is handmade, and the service is warm and personal.
Must try: Lamb pappardelle, beet salad, tiramisu
Isana – Kīhei
515 S Kīhei Rd, Kīhei | $$
Isana is a casual Korean and sushi bar with a loyal local following. It’s not flashy, but what it
lacks in hype, it makes up for in fresh sashimi, creative rolls, and savory Korean BBQ. It’s also
one of the better late-night spots in the area.
Must try: Chirashi bowl, spicy tuna roll, Korean BBQ short ribs
Kīhei and Wailea are more than just beach towns—they’re food-lovers’ havens that reflect the
diversity, history, and creativity of Hawaiian cuisine. Whether you’re enjoying poke by the ocean
or indulging in a fine dining feast, these restaurants capture the essence of Maui in every bite.