MAUI - Let’s be honest, tourist or local, no matter who you are or where you’re from, delicious food is something that we all look forward to. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, a snack or dinner, the island of Maui has something for everyone. Being a foodie myself, I’m going to share a few of my favorite spots with you.

Let’s start things off with some tasty treats from my childhood. I still have vivid memories of the mouth watering tastes and smells of the doughnuts from Komoda Store & Bakery in the town of Makawao and the ice cream from Tasaka Guri Guri Shop in the town of Kahului. Both places are family owned and operated and have been since my father was a young boy. Everything is homemade from shhhhhh… secret family recipes. The doughnuts from Komoda Bakery are by far the best I’ve ever had. They are glazed, on a stick, light, fluffy, sweet (but not too sweet), and just melt-in-your-mouth delicious! The ice cream from Tasaka Guri Guri is deliciously light with an indescribable yummy flavor. A cross between ice cream and sherbert, it’s simply referred to as “guri guri” by the locals, and is a “must try”. I frequent these places as often as possible….makes me feel like a kid all over again.

If you want not just quality, but quantity as well, then Da Kitchen Café should definitely be your first choice. Located in Kahului, Da Kitchen has been serving up broke-da-mouth (very tasty) local favorites such as chicken katsu (deep fried, battered chicken fillet), loco moco (hamburger patty with a sunny-side up egg, onions, mushrooms and gravy on top, all over rice), beef teriyaki (thinly sliced & marinated grilled beef) and kalua pork (slow cooked, shredded pork) just to name a few. They also do their own twists on a few classics such as their kalua pork wonton and deep fried spam musubi. Everything is reasonably priced especially for the amount of food you get…and trust me, it’s a LOT of food!

Geste Shrimp Truck located in Kahului and the Makawao Sushi & Deli located in Makawao are newer to my taste buds, but always very welcome. If it’s shrimp you‘re craving, Gestes is the way to go. Located along the Kahului Harbor in an actual “truck”, Gestes serves up some of the most ono (delicious) shrimp I’ve ever tasted. No matter which flavor you choose, you’ll get a lot of shrimp and more. More, meaning Portuguese sausage, two scoops of rice and macaroni salad. These aren’t the typical manini (small) shrimp you‘d get at most places; these are large as are the portions!
Now that you’ve got that shrimp craving under wraps, it’s on to our next adventure! Don’t let the looks of this place fool you as looks can be deceiving. As you walk into the Makawao Sushi & Deli you’ll first notice that they serve sandwiches and ice cream in a cone. Look a bit closer and you’ll find that treasure your mouth is watering for…SUSHI! This place has some of the freshest and most onolicious sushi on the island. They don’t have a liquor license here, but are more than willing to heat up the sake and open the bottles of Asahi you brought yourself….yes, you can bring your own boos! This place can be a bit pricey, but is definitely worth a taste at least once. Just think of the money you’re saving by bringing your own libations!

Saimin. What is saimin you ask. Well, it’s Japanese noodles in a broth usually accompanied by char siu, green onions, spam, fish cake and vegetables. This tasty Hawaii staple is best eaten at Sam Sato’s located in Wailuku. Another family owned and operated business, Sam Sato’s has been in business for many years dishing out their handmade noodles to the masses. There can be a bit of a line sometimes, so get there early. Everything is very reasonably priced and delicious.

If you’re in the mood for some fine dining, check out Mama’s Fish House in Paia. Situated right on the ocean, Mama’s Fish House will treat you to a gorgeous view and delicious creations. For over 35 years, they’ve been serving up the freshest fish, seafood and dessert creations to locals and visitors alike. I do have to let you know, though, that Mama’s Fish House is expensive, so don’t be too surprised with your bill. My advice is to have a delicious meal, order another round of drinks, pay your bill and then stop thinking about it as you watch another beautiful Maui day come to a close with a gorgeous sunset from your table.

I truly hope you can try one or all of these wonderful places that have been with me throughout my life! A hui hou e malama pono!