I have to say that I love food and I love Paia. Besides those listed below, Paia is home to some of Maui’s most well known establishments like Charlie’s and Mama’s Fish House, as well as several other great eateries and coffee houses. I could probably write a book on all of the places and meals that I love in this town, but for the sake of time- and attention spans- I’ll try to keep it brief.
Paia Fish Market
2 Baldwin Ave 579-8030
My friends and I have made the drive to Paia just for an Ahi Burger on many, many occasions. From upcountry, Kihei, it doesn’t matter- it’s that good. Paia Fish Market is located on the bustling corner of Hana Hwy and Baldwin Ave in the heart of Paia. The casual vibe, communal bench seating and amazing food are all reasons that the line to order at the counter usually stretches to the door. It’s a great place to run into friends or meet new and interesting people sitting next to you. Come hungry, order anything, say hello and smile- you’re guaranteed to have a great experience.
Anthony’s Coffee Co.
90 Hana Hwy Unit C 579-8340
This local favorite serves up amazing coffee, tea and goodies. Step up to the counter, order your goods and take a seat to check out the day’s paper or the selection of gorgeous accessories for sale on the shelves. This specialty coffee house has high quality food, beverages and ambiance, making it a perfect place to start your Maui morning or recharge in the afternoon.
CafeMamb o& Picnics
30 Baldwin Ave 579-8021
Cafe Mambo has a special place in my heart since it was a regular stop for dinner before Salsa dancing in Haiku. The great food and mix of people was always the perfect start to the evening. Boasting an excellent selection of food at a fantastic price, this place always satisfies. There are plenty of delicious items to choose from for yourself or to share with a friend. Or pick up a boxed lunch and take it on the road for an afternoon at the beach or on the road to Hana- then come on back and enjoy happy hour or dinner.
Cafe Des Amis
42 Baldwin Ave 579-6323
This glorious cafe style restaurant used to hold just a few tables so you had to wait very patiently for your turn- and it was always worth it. A lovely al fresco seating area now joins the cozy dining room and the value is amazing at this place. Sweet and savory crepes, curry wraps, salads- all at prices you wouldn’t expect on Maui for such fresh and tasty food. An evening spent with good friends over great crepes under the soft light at Cafe Des Amis is pure magic.
Moana Bakery & Cafe
71 Baldwin Ave 579-8607
Regularly praised for great service, amazing food and a cool casual atmosphere, Moana Bakery & Cafe is a favorite with locals and visitors. Everything, yes everything, is good. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, pastries, sushi, indian, they do it all well. Moana also hosts live music on some evenings so you can really get it all here.
Mana Foods
49 Baldwin Ave 579-8607
Just like they say: Great foods with honest prices. Yes, Mana is a great place to get all of your groceries and household needs, but just in case you’ve missed it they also have an amazingly delicious selection of fresh made wraps, sandwiches, meats and pastries as well as an impressive salad and hot food bar. If you don’t want to deal with the time and cost of a sit down restaurant but are in need of some tasty nourishment then head to Mana Foods.
Milagros Food Company
3 Baldwin Ave 579-8755
Did somebody say margaritas? Across the street from Paia Fish Market in the Paia Town Center building, Milagros serves up amazing fish tacos, burritos and margaritas. Order up some chips and salsa, any one of their delicious meals and an icy beverage and take in the sights of Paia town from Milagros’ street front patio.
Flatbread Company
89 Hana Hwy 579-8989
Fresh, local, organic ingredients. Wood fired cauldron and hand built wood burning earthen oven. Local brews on tap. Community oriented and supportive. Relaxed atmosphere and friendly service. These are just a few of the things that make Flatbread Company the place to go time and time again. Heart, enthusiasm and dedication to honest good food and the community shines in the quality and is reflected in customer loyalty. Don’t miss it.
Ono Gelato Company
115 Hana Hwy 579-9021 m
And for dessert… Oh my, how do I describe how much I love Ono Gelato? Fresh made daily using local and organic ingredients whenever possible, Ono Gelato has a myriad of near addiction-inducing sorbettos and gelatos from which to choose. From fruits to chocolates, they are all heavenly. While you savor your cup of deliciousness check out the selection of local coffees, teas, jams and salts to take home as a reminder of the taste bud bliss that is Ono Gelato and all of Paia town.
And here’s a bonus … when you are visiting and going to various restaurants and places to eat, make sure you try some of these popular local dishes and food in Hawaii.
This post is written by our guest blogger: Justine Volk. Justine is a good friend of mine. I think she’s a very talented writer and a natural blogger. I keep on telling her that she should start her own blog. In the meantime, I am lucky to have her guest post regularly here on A Maui Blog. If you are in need of a writer and would like to contact Justine, please let me know (click the contact button up top).
