Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in Makawao

Absolutely delicious Italian food with all home made pasta and wood burning pizza. We had each ;) We took our 3 little children here for dinner last night for Valentine’s Day and it was loud and energetic, and we loved it!! It’s an Italian place, c’mon!! The service was the best we’ve had on island- as it always is, and the food came out piping HOT- the way we like it! There are no complaints! We didn’t have to worry about our kids being too loud bc it’s an energetic restaurant that had live music. Our night couldn’t have been any better. We will definitely return.

We were initially seated at a table right in front of the musician. I asked to be moved and was accommodated with a table on their lower patio. It was quiet and lovely with sparkling little white lights around the canopy poles. Our server, Robert, was excellent. He was very personable and helpful but never intrusive. His menu suggestions were terrific. The filet and mahi-mahi were perfectly cooked and served with yummy potatoes or rice and veggies. Salads are crisp and delicious as our their other starters. If you have room for dessert, they are decadent. My husband says their Mai tais are the best and the no Kai oi martini is my favorite. Merriman’s is pricey but worth it for the great drinks, food, and service. Be sure to make reservations ahead of time.

On Valentine’s Day, my wife and I had a late lunch at Duke’s. We were seated on the lower deck closest to the beach with a wonderful view. Our server, Keeley, did a superb job and delivered our salads, a mango BBQ chicken and a shrimp & crab. Both were excellent. We thoroughly enjoyed our meal and will go back again.

Just make the drive here. The locals and frequent travelers to Maui already know about this fabulous restaurant…but if you are a newbie, please “just do it”.. you will not regret it. We have been coming to HGS 1-2 times a year for decades. I cannot imagine traveling to Maui without at least one stop here for lunch or dinner. It’s no longer the original owner, however we’ve been back at least five times since the sale and the quality of food is still exemplary! The dining here far exceeds any other place on the island. The ribs have always been a favorite, along with the mahi mahi ….. and the appetizers are spectacular. We are not typically dessert foodies, however you cannot leave here without sharing the award winning Pineapple Upside down cake. Thank you, Franchesco, for stopping by our table to chat ! We appreciate the family friendly atmosphere! We will be back in April!

Monkeypod Kitchen was amazing. It surpassed my expectations, we had an amazing dinner. We ordered the seabass special and the ahi steak. Both were phenomenal. Mai tais and espresso martinis were delicious. Strawberry pie was to die for. We would definitely go back again. Also props to our amazing server, Ryan. He was attentive and gave great suggestions!