Yum for EVERYONE: Maui's Best Family-Friendly Restaurants!
Aloha and welcome to Maui, where the ono (delicious) food is as diverse as the island's beautiful landscapes. When it comes to eating with the ʻohana (family), finding a place that pleases both keiki (kids) and kūpuna (adults) can be a challenge. Luckily, Maui is home to many dining spots that offer a laid-back ambiance, mouthwatering grinds (food), and a welcoming atmosphere for the whole family. Here are our top ten picks for the best family-friendly eateries on Maui that will satisfy everyone's taste buds:
1 - Tasty Crust - Wailuku Address: 1770 Mill St, Wailuku, HI 96793 Price range: $5-$15
Tasty Crust is a charming, old-fashioned no frills diner that has been serving up delicious meals since 1940. This family-owned restaurant is known for its generous portions and affordable prices, making it an ideal spot for families with kids. Tasty Crust is particularly famous for its pancakes, which are light, fluffy, and come in a variety of flavors, including blueberry, banana, and macadamia nut. They also serve up hearty omelets, juicy burgers, and sandwiches. Don't forget to try their homemade pies and cakes, which are just like grandma used to make!
2- Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice - Kihei Address: 61 S Kihei Rd #104, Kihei, HI 96753 Price range: $4-$7
No trip to Maui is complete without trying Hawaiian shave ice, and Ululani’s is the place to go. This popular spot serves up some of the best shave ice on the island, with a range of unique flavors like tiger's blood and lychee. The ice is shaved so fine that it has a fluffy texture, and it's then topped with sweet syrups and condensed milk. Kids will love the colorful and refreshing treats, and parents will appreciate that they're made with all-natural ingredients.
3 - Flatbread Company - Paia Address: 89 Hana Hwy, Paia, HI 96779 Price range: $15-$25
Flatbread Company is a fun and family-friendly pizza joint located in the charming town of Paia. The restaurant has a laid-back vibe and a spacious outdoor patio that's perfect for families with kids. The pizzas are cooked in a wood-fired oven and feature a range of fresh and organic toppings, including local favorites like kalua pork and pineapple. Flatbread Company also offers gluten-free and vegan options. Be sure to save room for their homemade ice cream, which comes in flavors like coconut, chocolate, and lilikoi (that's passion fruit!).
4 - Hula Grill Kaanapali - Lahaina Address: 2435 Kaanapali Pkwy, Lahaina, HI 96761 Price range: $20-$40
Hula Grill Kaanapali is an upscale restaurant located in the heart of Kaanapali Beach, with stunning ocean views and a lively atmosphere. Despite its elegant setting, the restaurant is still family-friendly and offers a kids menu with options like mac and cheese, grilled chicken, and fish and chips. The main menu features fresh seafood and island-inspired cuisine, such as the "Kaanapali Seared Ahi," which is seared rare and served with wasabi soy sauce. Be sure to catch the restaurant's daily hula show during sunset for an unforgettable experience.
5 - Kihei Caffe - Kihei Address: 1945 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753 Price range: $10-$20
Kihei Caffe is a popular breakfast spot that serves up large portions of delicious comfort food. The restaurant has a casual and friendly vibe and is perfect for families with kids. The menu includes a variety of breakfast favorites, like omelets, pancakes, and french toast. Be sure to try their famous "Kalua Pork Benedict," which features two poached eggs served over tender kalua pork and an English muffin, topped with hollandaise sauce. The cafe also offers a range of smoothies and fresh juices, perfect for a hot day on Maui.
6 - Leoda's Kitchen and Pie Shop - Lahaina Address: 820 Olowalu Village Rd, Lahaina, HI 96761 Price range: $10-$20
If you're in the mood for comfort food, head to the ICONIC Leoda's in Lahaina. This cozy eatery serves up tasty sandwiches, salads, and savory pies, as well as their famous banana cream pie. The atmosphere is charming and family-friendly, and they even have a small gift shop with locally-made goods. This is a must visit!
7 - Maui Tacos - Lahaina, Kihei, and Kahului Address: Multiple locations Price range: $10-$20
Craving some Mexican food? Maui Tacos has got you! With locations in Lahaina, Kihei, and Kahului, this popular eatery offers a range of tacos, burritos, and bowls that are sure to satisfy. The portions are large and the prices are reasonable, making it a great option for families. Be sure to try their famous mango salsa!
8 - Coconut's Fish Cafe - Kihei and Kahului Address: Multiple locations Price range: $10-$20
Coconut's Fish Cafe is a great spot for families looking for fresh, delicious seafood. Their fish tacos are a must-try, and they also offer a range of salads, sandwiches, and bowls. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, with outdoor seating and a relaxed vibe.
9 - Island Cream Co. - Lahaina and Kihei Address: Multiple locations Price range: $5-$10
After a day in the sun, treat the keiki to some delicious ice cream at Island Cream Co. This local favorite offers a range of flavors, including some unique ones like lilikoi (passionfruit) and haupia (coconut). They also have vegan options and homemade waffle cones.
10 -Da Kitchen - The Kahului location can be found at 425 Koloa St, Kahului, HI 96732, while the Kihei location is located at 2439 S Kihei Rd #107A, Kihei, HI 96753. Price range: $10-$20
Da Kitchen is a local favorite for traditional Hawaiian and Filipino cuisine. Be sure to try their famous "Plate Lunch," which comes with rice, macaroni salad, and your choice of meat. The atmosphere is casual and laid-back, with picnic table seating and a welcoming vibe.
11 - South Maui Fish Company - 2201 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753. Price range: $10-$20
Located in Kihei, the South Maui Fish Company is a food truck that serves up some of the freshest fish on the island. The menu changes daily depending on what fish are available, but you can always expect to find delicious poke bowls and fish tacos. The portions are generous and the prices are affordable, making it a great option for families. Be sure to try their famous "Shoyu Ahi Poke Bowl," which is a local favorite. The food truck has outdoor seating with a view of the ocean, perfect for enjoying a family meal in a casual setting.
So there you have it, my ohana (family)! These are just a few of the best kid-friendly eateries on Maui that offer delicious food, a laid-back atmosphere, and a welcoming vibe for the whole family. Mahalo (thank you) for reading, and enjoy your time on beautiful Maui!