15 Best Restaurants in Kihei You Need to Try

Are you looking for the perfect place to enjoy some delicious cuisine? Kihei is the answer!

From fresh seafood to local favorites, this beautiful beach town is filled with a variety of restaurants to explore.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a fun night out with friends, these 15 best restaurants in Kihei will help you find the perfect spot.

1. Sansei

If you’re in the mood for a night out that is as vibrant as your taste buds, then Sansei is the place to be.

With trendy Japanese-Pacific Rim fare and creative sushi rolls, this classy sushi bar is the perfect destination for foodies who are looking for something special.

Don’t forget to try the Nobu-Style Miso Butter Sablefish – and make sure to wash it down with some saké!

But one of the real treats here is the Sansei Special Roll with Spicy Crab, Cilantro, Cucumber & Avocado; a delicious bite unlike any other.

Of course, if sashimi isn’t your style, then go all out with a mouthwatering dry aged 22 oz bone-in ribeye steak.

Address: 1819 S Kihei Rd Building “A, Kihei, HI 96753, United States

Sansei Kihei Maui Hawaii
Photo by Sansei Kihei Maui Hawaii

2. Gannon’s

Why settle for just dinner and a movie when you can experience a truly romantic night out at Gannon’s?

With its inviting ambiance, contemporary menu using fresh Hawaii ingredients, outdoor seating with amazing views, and live music to set the mood – it’s no wonder Gannon’s is held in high regard.

Treat yourself and your special one to Chef Gannon’s fine dishes like Blackened Citrus Ahi or Hoisin Glazed Short Ribs.

Don’t worry if you forget until the last minute – Gannon’s has options for everyone with its limited lunch menu, full dinner menu and generous happy hour. Get ready for an unforgettable evening!

Gannon’s is also one of the best happy hour spots on Maui, so make sure you visit between 3-5pm!

Address: 100 Wailea Golf Club Dr, Kihei, HI 96753, United States

3. Lava Rock Bar & Grill

If you’re a fan of Hawaiian-style food and breathtaking ocean views, then you’ll love Lava Rock Bar and Grill.

With pub grub, DJs and plenty of screens for sports lovers, it’s the perfect stopover for a great meal.

Their signature Loco Moco dish will have you licking your plate clean!

Whether you love kicking back and watching the sunset over the waves or catching up on your favorite sports team, Lava Rock Bar and Grill has you covered.

Address: 1945 S Kihei Rd H, Kihei, HI 96753, United States

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4. Cafe O’Lei Kihei

With its warm ambiance, Café O’ Lei Kihei is an absolute gem for a casual meal any time of the day.

Indulge in the freshest of seafood dishes or steak to satisfy that passion for local cuisine.

Their secret must-try item? The Asian Braised Short Ribs smothered in a ginger shoyu glaze and served with steamed rice, plus local veggies – this dish is sure to have your mouth watering for more!

So make sure to add Café O’ Lei Kihei to your dining itinerary when you’re in town, or else you’ll be missing out on a truly delicious experience.

Address: 2439 S Kihei Rd #201a, Kihei, HI 96753, United States

5. Eskimo Candy

The surrounding area of Kihei is an oasis full of hidden gems, and it seems like every corner you take offers something delicious. One such delight can be found at Eskimo Candy.

Although it may be implied by the shop’s name, you won’t find traditional sweets here – instead, it’s all about the seafood!

It’s a very casual, counter-service joint with plenty of ocean decor that adds to the charm.

Don’t miss out on their poke bowls – they’ve got four different types of Ahi on the menu.

If that’s not your thing, try their signature shrimp and chips; battered and then partnered with fries and coleslaw – now that’s delicious!

Or if you really want an eclectic seafood feast, then order the Captain’s Platter; it includes all sorts of scrumptious goodies like scallops, calamari, fish, and oysters.

Address: 2665 Wai Wai Pl, Kihei, HI 96753, United States

6. Da Kitchen

Da Kitchen is a hidden gem in Maui that’s become increasingly popular over the years from its appearance on Diners Drive-Ins and Dives.

From sumptuous plate lunches to delicious breakfasts, you won’t be disappointed at this spot.

But the one thing to truly try is their famous loco moco; it’s the perfect marriage of texture and flavor!

Da Kitchen definitely deserves all its prestige as the best place to go for traditional Hawaiian comfort food.

Address: 1215 S Kihei Rd suite e, Kihei, HI 96753, United States

7. Nalu’s South Shore Grill

You won’t feel guilty indulging in some mouthwatering grub at Nalu’s South Shore Grill.

Eccentric would be an understatement; take a step inside and you’ll find the walls adorned with colorful beach photographs, a live band playing in the corner, and of course, an old wooden canoe swaying from the ceiling – it’s not your typical restaurant experience!

All their ingredients are sourced as locally and organically as possible, like the grass-fed beef from Makaweli Ranch on Kauai.

Delicious house specialties include Island Style Ribs and Black & Blue Ahi Benedict, while vegetarians can be just as satisfied with their covetable loco moco (made with tofu, spinach and quinoa).

Address: 1280 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753, United States

Chicken and Waffle by Nalus South Shore Grill Kihei
Chicken and Waffle Photo by Nalu's South Shore Grill Kihei

8. Ohana Seafood Bar and Grill

If you’re looking for an unbeatable good time in Kihei, then Ohana Seafood Bar and Grill is the place to be.

Everyone raves about the amazing calamari, so don’t forget to order that while you sip on a Mai Tai.

Ohana’s happy hour is legendary: the long drinks list and food specials will definitely leave your wallet satisfied. But leave room for some live music when happy hour ends!

Address: 1945 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753, United States

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9. Fabiani’s Pizzeria & Bakery

If you’re left wondering what to do when hunger strikes, head on over to Fabiani’s. Everyone knows this is the place to go for an Italian-food feast!

Not just because of the warm atmosphere and excellent service, but because the menu is full of delicious delights.

Take for instance, the Lorenzo Pizza: fresh mozzarella, mushrooms, prosciutto & arugula – finished off with a drizzle of truffle oil.

Whether you’re looking for some hearty classics or just a snack, like a warm croissant, you’ll be sure to find something good.

With its wide selection of dishes made with fresh and local ingredients, Fabiani’s will answer your call for all your Italian grub fixes.

Address: 95 E Lipoa St, Kihei, HI 96753, United States

10. Nutcharee’s Authentic Thai Food

Don’t miss an opportunity to satisfy your Thai food cravings by heading down to Nutcharee’s in the Akeza Shopping Center.

This is not just any ordinary Thai cuisine, oh no – this is Asian fusion at its finest! Be prepared for a journey of flavors that will have you wanting more.

We recommend checking out their drunken noodles and drool-inducing Pad Thai, while they also offer fresh catch specials that rotate daily if you fancy something new.

Still hankering for more? Check out our full guide on the best Thai food in Maui.

Address: 1280 S Kihei Rd #124, Kihei, HI 96753, United States

11. Three’s Bar & Grill

Three’s Bar & Grill takes the phrase ‘happy hour’ to a whole new level, which some say could be because they pair their delicious grub with a full bar of adult beverages.

Fancy a fusion-style feast? With a smorgasbord of sushi, sandwiches, entrees, and seafood delights, how can you resist!

Seems like everyone is raving about this spot, so why not join the fun?

Address: 1945 S Kihei Rd Suite G, Kihei, HI 96753, United States

12. Koiso Sushi Bar

Visiting Koiso Sushi Bar is an experience unlike any other – they take their sushi seriously!

With seating for just 15 lucky customers and one highly skilled sushi chef, meal preparation is going to take some time. But trust us, it’s worth the wait.

Feeling adventurous? You can’t go wrong with leaving it up to Chef Hiro’s amazing creativity by ordering the Omakase.

Locally caught seafood combined with the chef’s expert technique makes Koiso a must-try if you’re looking for an undeniably authentic dining experience!

Address: 2395 S Kihei Rd #113, Kihei, HI 96753, United States

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13. Tanpopo

If you’re feeling peckish in Kihei, check out Tanpopo. They have it all; an endless variety of culinary delights!

From bowls of delicious ramen and Japanese-style chicken curry to sashimi, sushi, and burgers, there’s something for every palate.

Plus, if you’re feeling like something different, there’s even pasta on the menu.

Address: 1215 S Kihei Rd unit F, Kihei, HI 96753, United States

14. Miso Phat Sushi

It’s no wonder Miso Phat Sushi is renowned as one of the best restaurants around Kihei – their fresh fish is handpicked daily and tastes, quite frankly, superb!

Delight your palate with value-for-money combo platters, delicious nigiri and sashimi options or even crafty specialty sushi rolls.

But what’s really got people talking? Their famous Miso Phat and Spicy Salmon rolls – it’s these bad boys that elevate your taste buds to another level!

Gather your crew and head on down for a scrumptious runaround at Miso Phat Sushi – happiness awaits your arrival.

Address: 1279 S Kihei Rd #108, Kihei, HI 96753, United States

15. Roasted Chiles

At Roasted Chiles, you’ll find a cozy atmosphere and tacos that will knock your socks off.

But it doesn’t stop there: the menu emphasizes creativity with dishes full of bold flavors, making it one of the standouts on Maui’s Mexican restaurant scene.

And no visit is complete without guac and chips, plus the signature hibiscus margarita to wash it all down.

Feeling adventurous? The elusive mole dish packs some serious spice.

Address: 1279 S Kihei Rd #122, Kihei, HI 96753, United States