Food & Drink
Best Ramen Restaurant
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Ramen Ya
When you love noodles, just one noodle shop will do. Ramen Ya has incredible noodles, a rich broth and our readers decided that it’s the best. Their gyoza Happy Hour had nothing to do with it. Their set menu deals are great, too: bowls of noodles with sides of curry, eel or fried rice. Loud slurping is welcome here, so no shame. 275 W Ka‘ahumanu Ave, Kahului; 808 873-9688. @jenrusso
Ramen Ya 26%
Star Noodle 18%
Oritsu Ramen 16%
Other 40%
Best Burger
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Cool Cat Cafe
No surprise here–Cool Cat has won the Best Burger category for as long as I can remember. And why not? Their burgers taste great every time. The meat they use is delicious, their toppings and produce fresh and their buns are fluffy and perfect. They have a wide variety of specials and options. For our readers, there’s just no other possibility. 658 Front St., Lahaina; 808-667-0908; Coolcatcafe.com. @apignataro
Cool Cat Cafe 25%
Teddy’s Bigger Burgers 14%
Stewart’s Burgers 5%
Other 56%
Best Local Food
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Da Kitchen
It’s amazing that Da Kitchen’s customer base is purely through word of mouth because people all over the island, including our readers, know that Da Kitchen is the best place to go for some local grub. They were even invited to cook at President Barack Obama’s Inaugural Luau in Washington D.C., so it’s clear that Da Kitchen truly is something special. Their menu offers tons of plate lunch options including their famous chicken katsu that’s so good, you don’t even need the katsu sauce. Their fried spam musubi is another must-try that combines this island favorite with a very American style of cooking, perfect for a mid-afternoon snack. 425 Koloa St., Kahului; 808-871-7782 / 2439 S. Kihei Rd.; 808-875-7782; Da-kitchen.com. @ashprobsticle
Da Kitchen 41%
L&L 7%
King’s BBQ 3%
Other 49%
Best Mexican Food
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Amigos
Authentic Mexican food is hard to find, especially when Hawaii is known for having extremely lackluster Mexican cuisine. Here on Maui, we’re blessed to have Amigos which provides us with the very best Mexican food, it’s so good that it makes you forget about that ocean barrier between us and the mainland. Our readers have chosen Amigos as their favorite Mexican food for six years in a row because of the genuine taste of the food and the realistic atmosphere. Everything on the menu is made to order and comes in huge portions, but there’s no shame in asking for seconds! Located island-wide; Amigosmaui.com. @ashprobsticle
Amigos 22%
Pinatas 11%
Fernando’s 11%
Other 56%
Best Breakfast
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Kihei Caffe
The first time that I stepped into Kihei Caffe, I knew I was in for a treat. It was barely 7am and there was already a line out the door that consisted purely of eager and hungry locals. Whether you’re looking for a savory or sweet start to your day, Kihei Caffe has something you’re sure to love without having to spend more than $11. If you can’t decide between the cinnamon rolls that look so soft and delicious or the fried rice that’s always your go-to dish, the outgoing staff will readily share their passion for the food to help you pick your perfect meal. The best part about Kihei Caffe is that breakfast is served all day, so you can grab a bite whether you’re an early riser or a late sleeper. 1945 S. Kihei Rd.; 808-879-2230; Kiheicaffe.net. @ashprobsticle
Kihei Caffe 12%
Gazebo 7%
Charley’s 7%
Other 74%
Best Local Ice Cream
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Ono Gelato
Our readers love authenticity, so it comes as no surprise that they have consistently voted for Ono Gelato as serving the best local ice cream. Ono Gelato makes their tasty treats right here on Maui, using recipes that came straight from Italy. Not only do their creamy creations hit the spot on a hot summer’s day, they’re also a healthier alternative to typical American ice creams which contain 7.5 percent more butterfat content that Ono Gelato’s products. They can also accommodate to dietary restrictions towards gluten, dairy, egg, soy, corn syrup and nuts, so anyone and everyone can enjoy a taste of this delicious dessert. 815 Front St., Lahaina; 808-495-0203 / 115 Hana Hwy., Paia; 808-579-9201; Onogelatocompany.com. @ashprobsticle
Ono Gelato 29%
Lappert’s 25%
Roselani 22%
Other 24%
Best Pancakes
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Tasty Crust
After serving Maui for more than 50 years, Tasty Crust still lives up to their claim to fame of having world famous pancakes. For the ninth year in a row, our readers have chosen Tasty Crust as their top spot to get the best pancakes your taste buds have ever encountered. Locals and tourists alike flock to Tasty Crust for a stack of their original or banana pancakes. Personally, I don’t even like pancakes and my mouth is watering just thinking about the fluffy, buttery goodness that Tasty Crust serves hot out of the kitchen. A regular order has two pieces but that’s more than enough when one pancake is about the size of your face; they barely fit on the plates they’re served on! Nothing beats their prices either, only $3.50 for a regular order which is sure to leave you full and satisfied. 1770 Mill St., Wailuku; 808-244-0845; Tastycrust.com. @ashprobsticle
Tasty Crust 23%
Slappy Cakes 20%
Ihop 11%
Other 46%
Best Place to Buy Poke
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Foodland
Living on an island where almost everyone is obsessed with fish has made me appreciate quality seafood, especially poke which is known as a local favorite. At Foodland, they pride themselves with being “Hawaii’s Home for Poke” with perfectly garnished fish that’s made fresh every day. Foodland is so confident in their product that they are now offering a double money back guarantee if you don’t love it, but our readers know that you will never be disappointed. With eight different kinds of poke to choose from, there’s something for any mood you might be in. Ask for your poke on top of a bowl filled with steaming white rice to make it a meal that will satisfy even your most intense cravings. Located island-wide; Foodland.com. @ashprobsticle
Foodland 42%
Costco 24%
Safeway 7%
Other 27%
Best Service
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Mama’s Fish House
There are many reasons this restaurant, which first opened in 1973, is probably the most famous on the island. Sure, the prices are very high, but the fish is fresh, the atmosphere colorful and cozy and the location–right on the water in Kuau–is spectacular. But in our opinion, and those of our readers, Mama’s Fish House has stood so long because even though the place is nearly always crowded, the staff has a way of making everyone feel special. That kind of reputation is priceless. 799 Poho Pl., Kuau; 808 579-8488; Mamasfishhouse.com. @apignataro
Mama’s Fish House 14%
Nick’s Fishmarket 9%
Pineapple Grill 7%
Other 70%
Best Restaurant Kama‘aina Deal
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Ko
They’ve changed up their deal a bit over the last year or so, but right now it stands at something really substantial: Hawaii residents can buy one entree and get one entree free. Not half off–free. Given the fact that Ko serves some of the tastiest and most vibrant local cuisine found on Maui, this is a deal no one who lives here should pass. 4100 Wailea Alanui Dr.; 808-875-2210; Fairmont.com/kea-lani-maui/dining/ko. @apignataro
Ko 16%
Spago 10%
Cuatro 8%
Other 66%
Best Shave Ice
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Ululani’s
There are a lot of places on Maui to get shave ice, but Ululani’s does it different. What they sell is more like shaved snow. They have a ton of syrups available, and all the usual shave ice accoutrements like snow caps and li hing mui. Best of all, if you suddenly find your shave ice is all ice and no syrup, you can just head back to the counter for a free topping-off. 819 Front St., Lahaina; 808-877-3700; Ululanisshaveice.com. @apignataro
Ululani 51%
Local Boys 20%
Tom’s Mini Mart 8%
Other 21%
Best Plate Lunch
Honokowai Okazuya
This place is an institution. It’s tiny, family-owned and hidden away in a Westside strip mall, but it’s goooood. Regardless of whether you get their loco moco, chicken katsu, lemon caper ono, teri steak or whatever, you’re going to get a great meal served at a reasonable price. 3600 L. Honoapi‘ilani Rd., Honokowai; 808-665-0512. @apignataro
Honokowai Okazuya 16%
Ichiban 7%
Like Poke 2%
Other 75%
Best Smoothie
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Jamba Juice
Yeah, it’s a big Mainland chain where every shop is identical, but for our readers, they’re number one in the smoothie market. And hey, their smoothies are big and refreshing, and they have a wide variety of combinations to choose from. Plus, Hawaii Jamba Juices now have papaya-based smoothies and drinks. 270 Dairy Rd., Kahului; 808-871-1292; Jambajuice.com. @apignataro
Jamba Juice 33%
Alive & Well 4%
Rodeo General Store 3%
Other 60%
Best Steak
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Ruth’s Chris Steak House
What can I say, except that our readers like the way Ruth’s Chris grills a steak. The place is rather conservative inside, like the inside of some middle America private club, but it’s hard to criticize after that sizzling plate of perfectly prepared beef arrives at your table. Like any fine steak house, you can get a variety of cuts prepared your way. 3750 Wailea Alanui Dr.; 808-874-8880; Ruthschris.com. @apignataro
Ruth’s Chris 33%
Makawao Steak House 9%
Outback Steakhouse 7%
Other 51%
Best Local Sandwich
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
808 Deli
This is, by our count, the fifth time our readers have decided that 808 Deli has the island’s best sandwiches. You’d think a sandwich would be a simple thing to do, and yet many places do it poorly–too little protein, too much iceberg lettuce, soggy bread, etc. None of those sandwich horrors exist at 808. They have a huge selection of specialty sandwiches and paninis that are meaty, tangy, tasty–all the adjectives we usually associate with great sandwiches. 2511 S. Kihei Rd.; 808-879-1111; 808deli.com. @apignataro
808 Deli 36%
No Ka Oi Deli 13%
Leoda’s 5%
Other 46%
Best Best Kept Secret
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Cafe Des Amis
That Cafe Des Amis is a great little cafe with fantastic crepes, salads and Greek/Mediterranean food is certainly not a secret to our readers. There are worse ways to have breakfast than by digging into their chocolate crepe in the early morning hours. I mean, you probably shouldn’t do that every day, but now and then, a treat like that makes life just so much better. 42 Baldwin Ave., Paia; 808-579-6323; Cdamaui.com. @apignataro
Cafe Des Amis 5%
Leoda’s Pie Shop 2%
Maui Kombucha 1%
Other 92%
Best Local Pizza
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Pizza Madness
I still remember the first time my friend Ron Pitts and I ordered a pie at Pizza Madness. The place was brand new, and we went in for a pizza and a couple beers. And it was going great, until Pitts cut his lip on a napkin. Yes, a napkin. Kirk Anderson, the owner, was horrified, but it detracted nothing from the fantastic pizza we were rapidly consuming. Years later, we still go back, and have never once had a bad meal. 1455 S. Kihei Rd.; 808-270-9888; Pizzamadnessmaui.com. @apignataro
Pizza Madness 13%
Shaka Pizza 11%
Italian Delight 7%
Other 69%
Best BBQ
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Beach Bums
For our barbecue-loving readers, there’s no substitute for Beach Bums. Everything about this place just screams kiawe and guava wood smoked meat–brisket, ham, turkey, sausage, ribs and even Spam. They have entrees, sandwiches and all sorts of other items that involve grilled meat in some way. Slather on some of their barbecue sauce–regular or spicy–and you’ll be happy. 300 Ma‘alaea Rd.; 808-243-2286; Beachbumshawaii.com. @apignataro
Beach Bums 28%
Fat Daddy’s 21%
Iron Imu 11%
Other 40%
Best Fish & Chips
Mulligan’s on the Blue
Mulligan’s is famous on Maui for the fish & chips. They’re battered in Harp batter and fried crispy, then served with house-made Tartar sauce and Irish chips. These things are so popular that at Brewfest each year, the Mulligan’s tent serving up fish & chips always has the longest lines. Even in the heat of the afternoon, people will still stand in the sun for even just a sampler size of Mulligan’s fish & chips. 100 Kuakahi St., Wailea; 808-874-1131; Mulligansontheblue.com. @apignataro
Mulligan’s 20%
Eskimo Candy 5%
Captain Jacks 4%
Other 71%
Best Locally Made Beverage
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Maui Brewing Company Bikini Blonde
I was in Sacramento in 2009 or so when I first learned that Maui Brewing Co. had hit the big time. I was perusing the menu in a little East Sac cafe when I saw my old friend Bikini Blonde. It’s a great beer with a clean, refreshing taste, and it’s fermented and canned right here on Maui. And it’s slowly taking over the beer world, one little behemian cafe at a time. 4405 Honoapi‘ilani Hwy., Lahaina; 808-669-3474; Mauibrewingco.com. @apignataro
Maui Brewing Company Bikini Blonde 17%
Wow Wow Lemonade 16%
Ocean Vodka 9%
Other 58%
Best Server
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Jackie Frohrib, Honu
For the last three years, Wisconsin native Jackie Frohrib has been a server at Honu in Lahaina. To work there for any length of time means you’re a pro. Honu has a great reputation, and that means competition for jobs there can be pretty cutthroat. Long story short, Jackie knows how to make any meal at Honu a special occasion, and our readers appreciate it. 1295 Front St., Lahaina; 808-667-9390; Honumaui.com. @apignataro
Jackie Frohrib, Honu 7%
Renee Tyler 5%
Danielle Clark 3%
Other 87%
Best Local Cheap Eats
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Aloha Mixed Plate
The cheap eats here are a steal! Plus, they’ve been made by one of the most exclusive teams in town. They make it look easy, but this group is farming their own food, like the tomatoes in the lomi lomi salmon and the taro for the poi. Look forward to upcoming poke bowls that will feature their fresh poi. In fact, those of you who want to eat the best poi ever can buy it at AMP in two-pound tubs for $8 and they offer it to seniors for $6. 1285 Front St., Lahaina; 808-661-3322; Alohamixedplate.com. @jenrusso
Aloha Mixed Plate 5%
Sam Sato’s 3%
Home Maid Cafe 2%
Other 90%
Best Happy Hour
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Milagros
Aww yeah. It’s time for Happy Hour. The corner of Baldwin Avenue and Hana Highway in Paia is where its at. Sip on pint-size margaritas and Tecate or Modelo in the can, or get the draft beer on special. It’s just $3 and it starts when you’re ready: 1pm. 3 Baldwin Ave., Paia; 808-579-8755; Milagrosfoodcompany.com. @jenrusso
Milagros 10%
Three’s Bar & Grill 8%
Asian Cuisine 6%
Other 76%
Best Local Farm
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Kula Country Farms
Kula Country Farm has an excellent farm stand where you can pick your own strawberries, grab some tuberose, shop their tomatoes and other fresh grown fruits and veggies, or just do a photo op on the haystacks. Ahhhh, a day at Maui’s best Local farm. It seems so relaxing, but don’t forget that there are farmers there who work very hard. 375 Koheo Rd., Kula; 808 878-8381; Kulacountryfarmsmaui.com. @jenrusso
Kula Country Farms 18%
O’o Farms 11%
Kula Fields 7%
Other 64%
Best Local Food Product
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Adoboloco Sauce
What’s your flavor of Adoboloco? Tim Parson’s family has done such an incredible job on their hot sauce that I can’t eat anything without one of their great flavors sprinkled on top. It all started with a homeschooling gardening project, and their pepper plants really took off. Our readers say they’re Maui’s best local food product. You’ve got several flavors to choose from: hemajang, pineapple, Bankok, jalapeno and habenero. Adoboloco.com. @jenrusso
Adoboloco Sauce 6%
Life Foods Burger 3%
Kula Strawberries 1%
Other 90%
Best Restaurant
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Lahaina Grill
Open since 1990, Lahaina Grill has grown into a culinary powerhouse. Their ambiance is magnificent with bright Kasprzycki paintings on the walls, white paper covered tables, fine china and crystal settings. It says elegance before you take your first sip or bite. It doesn’t matter if you order something new or an old favorite, their dishes are perfected contemporary bistro fare. Or just sit at the bar for a pristine handcrafted cocktail experience. They’re open for dinner from 5:30pm seven days a week, and this 130-seat establishment sells out often. The 127 Lahainaluna Rd.; 808-667-5117; Lahainagrill.com. @jenrusso
Lahaina Grill 12%
Star Noodle 5%
Kimo’s 3%
Other 80%
Best New Restaurant
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Migrant
And we have Filipino fusion for the win. Maui was teeming with anticipation for Chef Sheldon Simeon’s next restaurant, and he delivered with a partnership with Chef Mark Ellman featuring Asian and local-influenced dishes, resulting his own “modern local cuisine.” They have remarkable pancit, fantastic pork tocino with guava jelly and hangar steak to die for. Nestled into the Mala Wailea location, Maui’s best new restaurant toutes a great sake list and inspired vegan and gluten-free desserts. 3700 Wailea Alanui Dr.; 808-875-9394; Migrantmaui.com. @jenrusso
Migrant 20%
Dazoo 15%
Morimoto’s 5%
Other 60%
Best Bar
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
South Shore Tiki Lounge
We don’t really know the secret that makes South Shore Tiki Lounge the best bar on the island. Live music starting at 4pm every day might be it. Hot booty shakin parties on their outdoor dance floor could also be a factor. Maybe it’s the food–terrific pizza, nachos, burgers, sandwiches, salads and fish tacos served from 11am till late. Or it could be their fabulous cocktails, to say nothing of their new Cocktails With A Cause menu that lets you donate cash to your favorite nonprofit with a sip. To each her own. 1913 S Kihei Rd.; 808-874-6444; Southshoretikilounge.com. @jenrusso
South Shore Tiki Lounge 17%
Diamond’s 7%
Dollie’s Pub & Cafe 5%
Other 71%
Best Female Bartender
Photo courtesy of Hard Rock Cafe
Allie Busby, Hard Rock Cafe
The best bartender hails from Hard Rock Cafe in Lahaina. Busby’s self proclaimed sassy and spastic sense of humor will liven up your day while you enjoy the sunset with signature Hurricanes and Mai Tais from their immense Front Street bar during Happy Hour. Busby’s a fan of Margaritas so you can feel safe on their Air Mexico flight: three mini Margaritas of your choice. 900 Front St., Lahaina; 808-667-7400; Hardrock.com. @jenrusso
Alli Busby, Hard Rock Cafe 10%
Trish Smith, Ambrosia 6%
Ginny Block, Spanky’s 4%
Other 80%
Best Male Bartender
Josh Curi, South Shore Tiki Lounge
Curi is more than just another pretty face behind the bar at the South Shore Tiki Lounge. If you order one of his concoctions like the Hana Slide (a delicious blended tipple of Sammy’s mac nut rum, Kahlua, ice cream, Creme de Cocoa, Coco Lopez, garnishes with choco drizzle and a cherry), the bar will donate money to the Kihei Youth Center. Whatever your pleasure behind the bar, Curi has you covered. And that’s why our readers voted him numero uno. 1913 S. Kihei Rd.; 808 874-6444; Southshoretikilounge.com. @jenrusso
Josh Curi 13%
William Sythes 5%
Jeff Felice 3%
Other 79%
Best Dining With A View
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Merriman’s
The panoramic view of Molokai from Merriman’s deck is stunning. Once it gets dark, the ocean breezes and fire pit on the deck still sets Merriman’s a step above the rest when it comes to breathtaking views. It’s an amazing spot to take in the views while you nibble on the fantastic localvore fare or sip from their incredible cocktail and wine list. 1 Bay Club Pl, Kapalua; 808-669-6400; Merrimanshawaii.com. @jenrusso
Merriman’s 10%
Five Palms 8%
Gannon’s 7%
Other 75%
Best Secret Wine Cellar [STAFF PICK]
Castaway Cafe
If I were marooned on an island, all I would require is a Castaway Cafe’s wine cellar. Gary Bush’s North Ka‘anapali restaurant is an epic but unassuming hideaway serving breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week. And they have an exceptional wine list. In fact, Bush’s hobby is collecting wines for his cellar, and Castaway has received the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for the last 15 years while growing his collection to more than 600 bottles. Bush has samplers for newbies to try, pages of pinots and rare wines, too. 45 Kai Ala Dr, Ka‘anapali; 808-661-9091; castawaycafe.com. @jenrusso
Best Burrito
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Maui Tacos
Chef Alfonso Navarro has a special way with burritos, he loves to make healthy fresh Mexican food, and their tortillas are specially made for Maui Tacos. The mighty surf burrito menu has six different life-changing burritos, all served with fresh chips and, if you so desire, wet sauce. Choose from grilled chicken, charbroiled steak, braised pork or fish, and they’re all wrapped with veggies, rice and your choice of beans. Navarro also has a selection of naked tortilla-less burritos he calls Mex Bowls for the carb conscious. 2411 S Kihei Rd.; 808 879-5005; Mauitacos.com. @jenrusso
Maui Tacos 21%
Taquiera Cruz 17%
Polly’s 14%
Other 48%
Best Farmers Market
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Honokowai
Our readers prefer shopping for their fresh fruits and veggies at Honokowai’s Farmer’s Market, which opens daily at 7am. Arrive after they close at 11am? Not a problem–just head inside their shop for more local fresh produce and natural foods. 3636 L. Honoapi’ilani Rd., Honokowai. 808-669-7004; @jenrusso
Honokowai 26%
Kula 19%
Kihei 10%
Other 45%
Best Chef
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Sheldon Simeon, Migrant
Sheldon Simeon is back as our readers’ top chef. Are these the same folks that voted him Food and Wine Magazine’s People’s New Best Chef of the Pacific Northwest? Perhaps. Either way, we know Simeon has the chops to take local food to the next level at his new restaurant Migrant. 3700 Wailea Alanui Dr.; 808-875-9394; Migrantmaui.com. @jenrusso
Sheldon Simeon 11%
Mark Ellman 5%
Bev Gannon 3%
Other 81%
Best Seafood
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Honu Seafood & Pizza
With several different seafood dishes on the menu, Honu lets the flavors of the sea speak for themselves.They offer ahi bruschetta, Spanish octopus, sashimi, chowder, mussels, whole fried fish, ahi sausage, Gulf shrimp pizza, Dungeness crab mac and cheese and Ahi Bolognese. The seafood options are endless, and our readers certainly noticed. 1295 Front St, Lahaina; 808 667-9390; Honumaui.com. @jenrusso
Honu 8%
Hali’imaile General Store 4%
Japengo 3%
Other 85%
Best Pupus
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Sea House
Pupus are a special genre of food for Hawaii. Nobody else on the planet serves pupus. Pupus can serve as a snack or as a meal. Readers voted with their stomachs and decided Sea House has the Holy Grail of pupu menus. From 2-5pm, you can choose from more than 30 pupus for only $5 to $7. Now that’s what a pupu Happy Hour should be like. 5900 L. Honoapi‘ilani Rd, Napili; 808 669-1500; Seahousemaui.com. @jenrusso
Seahouse 10%
Tiffany’s 6%
Five Palms 6%
Other 78%
Best Fish Sandwich
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Paia Fish Market
The fish sandwich at Paia Fish Market is technically a burger. But that didn’t stop our readers from voting it the best fish sandwich on this Sandwich Isle. It’s a big, fluffy bun with a slab of seasoned grilled fish–ahi, mahi, salmon or some other fish–piled high with their devastatingly good coleslaw, tomato and shredded cheese. When partnered with a stack of seasoned fries, none can match it. I feel you readers, this fish sando is leagues above the rest. 100 Baldwin Ave., Paia; 808-579-8030; Paiafishmarket.com. @jenrusso
Paia Fish Market 40%
Kimo’s 13%
Cafe Mambo 3%
Other 44%
Best Vegetarian
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Choice Health Bar
Here’s the cuisine that blows away the veggie genre and pleases many raw, vegan and hippie lovin’ gastro palates. From their acai bowl, super smoothies and elixers to their plate lunch, soups and salads, the menu at Choice get the most votes for vegetarian domination. They go the extra mile to keep it local–and carbon footprint friendly–which we like, too. 1087 Limahana Pl, Lahaina; 808 661-7711; Choicehealthbar.com. @jenrusso
Choice 22%
Down to Earth 10%
Fresh Mint 8%
Other 60%
Best Fish Tacos
Las Pinatas
That’s pescado tacos, Maui gabachos. They grill ‘em here just right in their cilantro jalapeno sauce, then put them in soft taco shells with cabbage. Mui bien! You can top it off with goodies from the salsa bar–like more jalapenos. Our voters consider them the best on the island, and we can’t argue with that. 395 Dairy Rd, Kahului; 808 877-8707; Pinatasmaui.com. @jenrusso
Pinatas 17%
Leilani’s 10%
Jawz 8%
Other 65%
Best Sushi
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Sansei
Seasoned rice rolled in nori seems simple enough, but what is inside is of paramount importance. Sansei has pushed the envelope on what people can even dream of in sushi, and our readers consider them the best, year after year. Raw, cooked, fried, exotic, humble–no matter what’s in their rolls or on their nigiri, it’s wonderful. 600 Office Rd., Kapalua; 808 669-6286; Sanseihawaii.com. @jenrusso
Sansei 46%
Nuka 9%
Isana 5%
Other 40%
Best Luau
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Old Lahaina Luau
They’ve got oceanfront luau grounds with a world class hula show outdoors in Lahaina. It really can’t get better. Did you know that they grow their own taro and make their own poi? Well, maybe our readers do because they voted them Best Luau Show. 1251 Front St, Lahaina; 808-667-1998; Oldlahainaluau.com. @jenrusso
Old Lahaina Luau 64%
Feast at Lele 14%
Drums of the Pacific 5%
Other 17%
Best Lunch
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Cafe O’Lei
Serious about lunch? The coveted noon hour spot is at Cafe o’Lei. The blackened mahi, Bill Eby burger, seared ahi and curry chicken salad are just a few of the favorites. Go to locations across the island to find yours. Located island-wide; Cafeoleirestaurants.com. @jenrusso
Cafe O’Lei 9%
Mala 5%
Pita Paradise 4%
Other 82%
Best Local Liquor Store
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Tamura’s
Just a few months of having Tamura’s on Maui and our readers have already found this emporium of fine distilled beverages, wine and beer that happens to have a great stash of poke and gourmet groceries to be the best. Lucky for the Westside, they just opened a new location in Lahaina’s Emerald Plaza. Hey, the money you save on gas can go towards booze! 199 Dairy Rd, Kahului; 808-873-8000; Tamurasfinewine.com. @jenrusso
Tamura’s 49%
Aloha Discount Liquor 6%
Wine Corner 6%
Other 39%
Best Local Coffee House
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Wailuku Coffee Co.
Wailuku Coffee Company seriously cares about your coffee. They brew a light, medium and dark roast daily and keep prices reasonable on their espresso. They have the hardest working oven on the block, where they bake their lots of their own pastries and desserts, and serve up breakfast and lunch. The cafe has a local art show every month, and on Wailuku First Fridays they party like its 1999. Okay, 1999 with no grog. What? Well, they still have caffeine. 26 N. Market St., Wailuku.; 808 495-0259; Wailukucoffeeco.com. @jenrusso
Wailuku Coffee Co 15%
Maui Coffee Roasters 14%
Java Jazz 9%
Other 62%
Best Mai Tai
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Monkeypod
This lilikoi foam-topped Mai Tai wins the tally, and I have to agree that it’s a damn good Mai Tai. It gets extra points for using Old Lahaina rum and Maui Dark rum because we know two rums are better than one. Then factor in the mac nut orgeat, lime juice, orange curacao and you have a really excellent buzz, I mean, cocktail. 10 Wailea Ike Dr.; 808-891-2322; Monkeypodkitchen.com. @jenrusso
Monkeypod 17%
Pailolo Bar & Grill 14%
Hula Grill 13%
Other 56%
Best Italian Food
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Casanova
The pasta dishes are brilliant, the wines delicious and the wood burning pizza oven hasn’t stopped making focaccia and pizza in the last 25 years. Casanova is synonymous with Italian food comfort on Maui. The next generation of fans is getting churned out, too–in fact, their make your own pizza menu where the kids can pat out their own pizza dough and choose toppings is a big hit. 1188 Makawao Ave.; 808-572-0220; Casanovamaui.com. @jenrusso
Casanova 16%
Fabiani’s 15%
Penne Pasta 10%
Other 59%
Best Health Food Store
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Mana Foods
Our readers will face the insanity of parking in Paia just to shop at Mana foods. The amount of whole food goodness packed into their building on Baldwin Avenue is so worth it. Their health foods are well selected, the produce locally sourced and the hot foods, bakery and body products are stellar, too. 49 Baldwin Ave., Paia; 808 579-8078; Manafoodsmaui.com. @jenrusso
Mana Foods 40%
Down to Earth 15%
Hawaiian Moons 11%
Other 34%
Best Business Lunch
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Bistro Casanova
Mixing business with pleasure can be dangerous, but we’re going to advocate it when it comes to the business lunch of Bistro Casanova. Deals can go down just as easily as their tapas, pastas and sandwiches. Now where do I sign? 33 Lono Ave, Kahului; 808 873-3650; Bistrocasanova.com. @jenrusso
Bistro Casanova 15%
Marco’s 14%
Main Street Bistro 5%
Other 66%
Best Fine Dining
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Capische
The inspired cuisine of Owner/Chef Brian Etheredge and Chef Christopher Kulis has not gone unnoticed, winning our readers’ choice of Maui’s best fine dining. Always upping the ante on their modern menu, now they’re growing their own ingredients in their Wailea Organics farm. Here, you can eat a completely honest, locally grown-on-the-premises meal. They take the same approach at the bar, where you can request seasonal beverages with fruit from the garden. If they could raise livestock at the hotel they would, but they’re not quite there yet. 555 Kaukahi St, Wailea; 808 879-2224; Capische.com. @jenrusso
Capische 7%
Duo 5%
Spago 5%
Other 83%
Best Local Late Night Food
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Zippy’s
Zippy’s is open 24 hours. If you’ve lived on Oahu you would know its serious late night dining there, but now it’s catching on for Maui. Their waffles are out of this world, chili and rice is legendary and they even have tofu burgers. You can order at their counter and take it to go or get sit down service inside. Their Napoleon’s bakery has delicious bread pudding to boot. 15 Ho‘okele St., Kahului; 808 856-7599; Zippys.com. @jenrusso
Zippy’s 19%
Lahaina Sports Bar 13%
Blackies Pit Stop 7%
Other 61%
Best Kid-Friendly
Ruby’s Diner
Kids are always on the best behavior at Ruby’s Diner because not only do they have the stuff kids really want to eat, but they have little soft serve ice cream cones that you can bribe them with. Birthdays are a snap here because the servers all get together and sing a song as they bring you a lighted candle to blow out. Kids eat that stuff up. Got a huge family? The staff is also easygoing and they have the large tables to accommodate you. The model airplanes arrayed around the restaurant help, too. 275 W. Ka‘ahumanu Ave., Kahului; 808 248-7829; Rubys.com. @jenrusso
Ruby’s Diner 7%
Koho’s 6%
Bubba Gumps 5%
Other 82%
Best Chinese
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
China Boat
When you get a craving for Szechwan and Mandarin cooking, our readers’ go to spot is China Boat. They have Singapore noodles, broccoli beef, candied walnut shrimp, sizzling rice soup and mouthwatering garlic eggplant. They serve up lunch and dinner seven days a week and never use MSG. Did we mention plates start at just $7.99? Well, they do. 4474 L. Honoapi‘ilani Rd., Kahana; 808 669-5089; Chinaboatkahana.com. @jenrusso
China Boat 15%
Fu Lin 12%
China Bowl 9%
Other 64%
Best Spam Musubi
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Nagasako
Nagasako Okazuya in Lahaina is legendary for their Spam musubi. Don’t consider it Spam and rice–it’s a special combination of secret flavors spices that go in the nori wrapped breakfast-to-brunch treat. Don’t ask what they are because they won’t tell. Just a couple bucks and you’re in. 845 Waine‘e St., Lahaina; 808-661-0985. @jenrusso
Nagasako 18%
Minit Stop 12%
Foodland 6%
Other 64%
Best Japanese
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Tokyo Tei
This restaurant originally opened in Kahului in 1934 in a building that doesn’t even exist anymore–it might have been wiped out by a tsunami or something. Anyway, they have fascinating old time photos of Kahului to prove it. Lucky for us, they’ve stuck around for three generations and are still serving their authentic Nihongo cuisine and ever popular Teishoku meals in lacquer boxes. 1063 L. Main St., Wailuku; 808 242-9630; Tokyotei.com. @jenrusso
Tokyo Tei 13%
Matsu 10%
Kai Sushi 3%
Other 74%
Best Food Truck
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Shark Pit
Seasonal gourmet truck food is what Chris Mahon’s “funked up farm food” is all about. The Shark Pit food truck has had a rough road as they got tossed off their Ka‘anapali Pu‘ukoli‘i location, and then fell into a new groove at their new Kahana spot, only to get kicked out by “county regulations,” according to Mahon. We can’t tell you where to grab your next bacon harvarti burger or funked up corn on the cob, but you can stay tuned on the Shark Pit Facebook site. 4482 L. Honoapi‘ilani Hwy., Kahana; Sharkpitmaui.com. @jenrusso
Shark Pit 15%
Like Poke? 12%
Horhitos 10%
Other 63%
Best Vietnamese
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
A Saigon Cafe
Jennifer Nguyen’s Vietnamese cuisine tops the rest with our readers. A Saigon Cafe in Wailuku has a huge menu and a lively dining room. Weekend evenings are full of busy social events and the helpful staff has their own comedy flavor, too. Must-try dishes are the roll-your-own Vietnamese burritos, fried shrimp, clay pots, whole fish and curries. 1792 Main St., Wailuku; 808 243-9560. @jenrusso
A Saigon Cafe 44%
BaLe 27%
Vietnamese Cuisine 5%
Other 24%
Best Baristas
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Team MCR
The Maui Coffee Roaster crew is a well-oiled machine. They get that you need your caffeine quick, but since you haven’t had it yet you might be a bit tongue-tied at the register. Team MCR will work you through it. They will even feed you if that’s what it takes. 444 Hana Hwy., Kahului; 808-877-2877; Mauicoffeeroasters.com. @jenrusso
Team MCR 19%
Kirby @ Lava Java 7%
Emily Ignacio 6%
Other 68%
Best Cocktail
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Dazoo (Jimmy Shoemaker)
Catch Jimmy Shoemaker’s most exclusive cocktail hours by paying attention to the Dazoo Facebook page, where you’ll find his themed events. Inspired cocktails by local ingredients like Maui Brewing Co. beers and Adoboloco open your mind to what’s possible with handcrafted drinks. Take a moment to peruse the cocktail menu and order the most exotic thing that’s out of your comfort zone. It will be worth it. 71 Baldwin Ave., Paia; 808 579-9999. @jenrusso
Dazoo 11%
Tommy Bahama 8%
Fleetwood’s on Front Street 6%
Other 75%
Best Pau Hana
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Dog & Duck
There’s always a cold drink for you at the end of your shift at the Dog and Duck. This South Maui Irish pub also offers a satisfying menu to keep you on your toes. Dog and Duck’s bartenders make great cocktails and its the kind of place where you’ll make new friends (not that there’s anything wrong with the ones you have…). 1913 S. Kihei Rd.; 808-875-9669. @jenrusso
Dog & Duck 26%
Ale House 6%
Spanky’s 5%
Other 63%
Best New Bar
Sangrita Grill and Cantina
Maui’s best new bar has a great Happy Hour (3-6pm) to get you warmed up. Their bar–complete with a mesmerizing mural–features more than 30 bottles of Mescal and tequila and they serve them with a traditional Sangrita back. You’ll also find plenty of small batch, organic spirits and an extensive margarita menu. 2580 Keka‘a Dr., Ka‘anapali; 808-662-6000; Sangritagrill.com. @jenrusso
Sangrita’s 24%
Rock & Brews 4%
Koa’s Seaside Grill 3%
Other 69%
