15 Delicious Spots for the Best Cheap Eats in Maui
If you’re on a budget, eating out in Maui can be challenging. After all, what’s a vacation without delicious food? Fortunately, you can still eat like royalty and not make your wallet cry!
From inexpensive markets and food trucks to casual cafes, you won’t have to spend a fortune to get your fill of local flavors.
Check out these 15 amazing spots for cheap eats in Maui and get ready to chow down on some great grub.
1. Foodland
Looking for a delicious and inexpensive way to enjoy some of Maui’s best local food? Look no further than Foodland!
This grocery store is known for its excellent selection of fresh poke, and they’re always happy to let you sample the various flavors before you buy. Prices start at just $10-12 per pound, making it a great option for budget-minded travelers.
In addition to poke, Foodland also offers a wide variety of ready-to-eat meals, including bento boxes, musubis, and more.
So next time you’re on the hunt for a quick and tasty meal, be sure to swing by Foodland – you won’t be disappointed.
2. Komoda Store & Bakery
A must-stop on the Road to Hana, Komoda is an iconic bakery that’s been serving up fresh, Hawaiian-style baked goods since 1916.
They’re most well-known for their cream puffs, donuts on a stick, and long Johns; but their guava malasadas are definitely worth a try. Perfectly chewy on the inside with a buttery crust on the outside, these malasadas are simply irresistible.
Just be warned: many of these baked goods tend to sell out early, so if you’re planning on visiting, go early!
3. Coconut’s Fish Cafe
Treat yourself to a sumptuous meal at Coconut’s Fish Cafe, this restaurant has a neverending menu of mouthwatering seafood dishes that you’ll surely love.
Make sure to try their fish tacos! Packed with 17 ingredients, these amazing fish tacos are one of the best things you’ll eat on the island. The coconut shrimp is also pretty tasty and a must-try.
Coming in at around $30 for a meal for two, this eatery definitely deserves a spot on this cheap eats list.
4. Kalei’s Lunch Box
You’re in Maui, so of course you want to eat local. Kalei’s Lunch Box team makes sure your plate lunch is filled with wholesome Hawaiian ingredients and served with a generous side of aloha.
If you’re extra hungry, order Da Big Kahuna, their signature combo plate. It features the best of Hawaii: Mochiko chicken, hamburger steak & Asian-crusted Mahi. You can’t go wrong with this one!
While Da Big Kahuna edges a bit higher on price at $20, there are plenty of other items on the menu for $10-15.
5. Geste Shrimp Truck
Arguably better than the famous shrimp truck on Oahu’s North Shore? There’s no argument needed – Geste Shrimp Truck is the best shrimp truck in all of Hawaii, hands down.
Not only is the seafood mouth-wateringly delicious, but the aloha vibes are downright infectious. From the moment you step in line, you’re greeted with smiles and a friendly hello.
The ordering process is simple: just choose your flavor and enjoy. Whether you go for the traditional Hawaiian Scampi, Hot & Spicy, Pineapple, or Lemon Pepper, you’re guaranteed a plateful of goodness.
6. Cheeseburger in Paradise
We all love burgers, right? Cheeseburger in Paradise is all about easygoing food and drinks, where casual dining meets laidback Aloha-style hospitality.
In their signature blend of premium ground beef, rib-eye and beef chuck, you can expect nothing but perfection when it comes to burgers.
Order their famous Five Napkin Cheeseburger with Colby Jack cheese and mayo, or devour something new with their tangy BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger.
7. Leoda’s Kitchen & Pie Shop
One of the best cheap eats in Maui has got to be Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop. Whether you’re craving a homey meal or some yummy dessert, this little gem will surely satisfy your cravings.
From mini pies to sandwiches, you can’t go wrong with anything on their menu.
But if there’s one thing you simply must order, it’s Leoda’s famous haupia pie – it’ll have your mouth watering long after you’ve finished eating it!
8. Tasty Crust Restaurant
Tasty Crust Restaurant has been serving the island for more than 50 years, and is known far and wide for its world-famous pancakes.
But it’s not just pancakes that this cozy diner does well – the lunches and dinners here are also reasonably priced and hearty.
Plus they’re open early so you can get in and get out fast before the sun comes up. Don’t miss out on this Maui classic!
9. Paia Fish Market
Who says you have to dine at fancy restaurants for an amazing meal? Paia Fish Market is a casual eatery that will make your stomach growl with delight.
With three locations on Maui, you’ll find some of the freshest fish on their menu. Most dishes are under $16, so you can eat like a king without breaking the bank.
From shrimp and chips to ahi burgers, fish tacos, and so much more, you’ll find something on the menu that your whole crew will love.
10. Thai Mee Up
Wondering where to find authentic Thai food in the area? Thai Mee Up serves up delicious dishes right near the local Costco.
The long trailer is easy to spot, and there’s a reason why people flock to this truck all the time. From Pad Thai Noodles to Green Curry Shrimp, they have it all on the menu.
And with friendly staff and lightning-fast service, you’ll be sure to leave full-bellied and satisfied!
Note: the wait can be pretty long during dinnertime; call ahead to place an order if you’re tight on time.
If you want more options, you can check out this guide to the best Thai restaurants in Maui.
11. Pita Paradise
A Mediterranean bistro located in Wailea Gateway Center, Pita Paradise is a fantastic choice for a tasty and cheap lunch.
This bistro offers tasty pitas with many choices of fillings. Order the Lamb Gyro or go for something with a Hawaiian twist, like the Kalua Pork with sauteed onions, dill scallionaise, and Mediterranean slaw.
Don’t forget to add Pita Paradise to your list when next you’re hunting for your next meal!
12. Zippy’s
You know you’re in Hawaii when you go to Zippy’s. The plate lunches are legendary and the chili…well, you know it’s gonna be good!
Zippy’s is also home to Napoleon’s, one of the best bakeries on the island. You won’t regret walking in there, especially once you try their Napples – flaky pastry turnovers with delicious fruit fillings. These treats are perfect for breakfast, brunch or dessert!
A bakery and a restaurant with a cult following? It’s really no surprise that the chain is a popular choice for locals and visitors alike.
13. Ono Teppanyaki & Seafood
Cheap eats food truck that serves surf ‘n turf under $20? Ono Teppanyaki & Seafood is the real deal, Maui style.
Guests love the food, and the staff works fast and hard to keep up with the crowd’s needs.
Fair warning: be prepared to wait in line if you come during prime time!
14. South Maui Fish Company
South Maui Fish Company is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for some of the freshest seafood on the island.
The owners catch all of the fish themselves, so you can be confident that your meal will be delicious and fresh. The poke is especially popular – it’s so good that they often sell out!
Grab a seat at the outdoor seating area and enjoy your meal with views of the ocean. The downside is that the seating is first-come, first-serve, so you’ll want to get there early if you want to snag a spot.
15. 808 Plates Maui
808 Plates is a Maui classic when you’re hungry and your belly is in need of some nourishment. Their garlic shrimp plates are sumptuous, affordable, and packed with authentic Hawaiian flavors.
The perfect portion of two generous scoops of white rice, crunchy green salad, and 8 jumbo shrimp pairs the meal well with its price tag.
