Restaurants
- The Babylon Tree, Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua
- Merriman’s (Kapalua)
- Spago by Wolf Puck, Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
- Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman (Wailea or Ka’anapali)
- Mama’s Fish House (Paia)
The Restaurant at Hotel Wailea (Wailea)
Kō Restaurant (Fairmont Kea Lani, Wailea)
Star Noodle (Lahaina)
Hali’imaile General Store (Makawao)
The Gazebo (Kapalua)
Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop (Olowalu)
Nuka (Haiku)
- Hula Grill (Ka’anapali)
Gather on Maui (Wailea)
Mala Ocean Tavern (Lahaina)
Paia Fish Market (Paia)
Hotels
Drinks
Wailea / South Maui
Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman: With locations in both Wailea and Ka’anapali, Monkeypod is famous for its lively atmosphere and innovative cocktails. Their Mai Tai, topped with a delicious lilikoi (passionfruit) and honey foam, is a must-try and has been voted the best on the island by many. They also have an extensive list of craft beers.
The Grotto Bar at Grand Wailea: For a truly unique experience, this swim-up bar is nestled among the waterfalls and caves of the Grand Wailea’s pool. You can order a signature cocktail and enjoy it in the cool, shadowed grotto, making it a memorable and fun spot.
Tikehau Lounge: Located in Wailea, this is an intimate and stylish lounge with a focus on elevated tiki cocktails. They use local ingredients and spirits to create their unique drinks and often have live music, making for a sophisticated yet tropical vibe.
South Shore Tiki Lounge: If you’re looking for a more casual and quintessential tiki bar experience, this Kihei spot is a local favorite. With a lively atmosphere, nightly live music, and classic tiki decor, it’s a great place to get a good drink at a reasonable price.
Lahaina / West Maui
Kimo’s Maui: Situated on the water in Lahaina, Kimo’s offers a fantastic oceanfront setting with live Hawaiian music. They are known for their “Ali’i Mai Tai,” which is a must-try for any Mai Tai enthusiast.
Hula Grill Barefoot Bar: Located in Whalers Village on Ka’anapali Beach, this is a popular spot with a laid-back, toes-in-the-sand feel. You can enjoy a drink right on the water’s edge and take advantage of their “Aloha Hour” for specials on cocktails and appetizers.
North Shore / Upcountry
Mama’s Fish House: While it is one of Maui’s most celebrated restaurants, Mama’s Fish House also has an exceptional drink menu. Their Pau Hana cocktail is a fresh blend of local spirits and tropical juices, and the stunning oceanfront setting makes for a perfect dining and drinking experience.
Lima Cocina + Cantina: Located in the surf town of Paia, Lima stands out for its innovative Peruvian-inspired cocktails. The bar has a trendy atmosphere with a vertical fern garden and is a great spot for both drinks and a bite to eat.
Colleen’s Restaurant & Bar: Found in Haiku on the North Shore, this is a beloved local gem with a newly crafted cocktail bar. They focus on using fresh, local ingredients in their drinks and offer a welcoming, authentic Hawaiian bar experience away from the resort areas.
The Mill House: Located at the Maui Tropical Plantation, The Mill House is praised for its excellent cocktails and food, all in a beautiful setting with views of the plantation grounds.
Reviews of Hotels in Hawaii
Dack Patrick
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I travel for a living, a Delta 1 Million Miler 1MM, 10 years Diamond Medallion, 7 years straight Marriott Ambassador Elite, and oddly still Hilton Diamond (lame!). It’s the stories I collect along the way that truly fuel me.
From high-rise hotels in buzzing metropolises to quiet beachside cafés tucked between palm trees, my career takes me across the United States and beyond—and I take every opportunity to explore, taste, and soak up the local vibe. Whether I'm grabbing late-night bites in Belgium, sipping wine in Napa, or discovering rooftop gems in New York City, I always keep an eye out for the places and moments worth sharing.
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This site is my travel log and guidebook rolled into one—a place where you’ll find detailed insights into the restaurants, hotels, rooftops, beach spots, bars, and other hidden treasures that define each city. Whether you're chasing your next adventure or planning a weekend escape, I hope my posts help you travel smarter, eat better, and find magic in every stop.