1 Follower
From Maui, With Love
Places I'd definitely check out when on the island of Maui, Hawaii.
- 546
- 1119
44 Places
-
Jason’s 5-star review: Downright the best shaved ice I have ever had the pleasure of trying. There's always a nice drawaing of people, so be sure to join the bandwagon because this is one place you don't want to miss. Although this is only a small shack that could go unnoticed since it's right beside a few other flea-market type vendors, look for the long lines. What makes Ululani's, named after his wife, stand out is that Dave always presents himself with professionalism, respect, and friendliness, making the long waits pleasurable. He takes pride in his work, making sure the block of ice is rock-solid cold, and changing it ocassionally when it's not to his standards. He also feels the shaved ice as it comes out of the machine for each customer to make sure it's up to his standards. I believe he does this to check to see that the ice is cold without a lot of moisture (wetness). That is an essential piece of what makes his shaved ice so good one step above everyone else's on the island. Since it's such a process to prepare each customer's shaved ice, taking roughly 2-3 minutes each, Dave constantly thanks everyone for waiting, and makes chit chat with each customer. He also informs each customer to come to the front of the line if they need any extra flavoring as sometimes it's a bit difficult to flavor all of the shaved ice. He takes care of his clientele, recognizing and greeting each newcomer, Maui local, or revisiting customer alike. For my first experience, I tried a small Sunset Beach ($4.00), which consists of Passion Orange, Guava, and Mango, with a scoop of Macadamia Nut Ice Cream (additional $1.00) for $5.00 + tax = $5.21. This was one behemoth of a shaved ice, served two-fold heaping out of a colorful plastic flower shaped cone. I was surprised at the sheer size of this, which could probably serve two people. Since the small was already pretty decently sized, I was a bit curious what the large size would look like. After taking a bite into the shaved ice, I was in heaven. The shaved ice was so light, without the stickiness and density of other establishments. And I didn't even get to the syrup flavors yet, which were amazing, tasting almost natural. Mmmmmm. After finishing the shaved ice, I finally got to the bottom where a scoop of the Macadamia Nut ice cream was located. It was pretty good, but not out-of-this-world. Maybe my expectations were just too high, but I could have easily gone without the ice cream to enjoy more of the shaved ice bliss. What surprises me the most is that Ululani's has only been open for about 18 months (~November 2008) and he seems to be the most popular shaved ice vendor on the block compared to the abundant would-be competitors. And I can't agree enough that his success is well-deserved. When visiting Maui, these are one of the places that every Yelper needs to put on their must-try list. A few things to note: 80% of the approximate 40 flavors are home made with C&H Pure Cane Sugar and filtered water. New syrup flavors are consistently being developed and can be checked out on the board to the right. If you're still a bit confused after looking at the flavor menu and can't decide between making your own flavor combination or trying one of the pre-set combinations, one helpful recommendation is that Ululani's two bestsellers are the Sunset Beach and Haleakala (coconut with cream & fresh shredded coconut). and while you're on your way out to Kahului Airport, a new location has opened right in Kahului @ 333 Dairy Road. If you'd also like to meet Dave, come during the evening hours as he usually hires help during the morning and afternoon hours. I wish Ululani's opened one back up in my hometown in New York City. Mmmmmm, I never knew shaved ice could be that good!!
-
Jason’s 5-star review: Between Mile Marker 28 - 29 on State Hwy 360, or better known as the Road to Hana or Hana Hwy, is a small row of non-structural shops on the makai (ocean) side of the road referred to as the Nahiku Marketplace. The shops vary from Shrimp, Chinese, tacos, BBQ, a souvenir shop, and a cafe selling a variety of drinks. We were a bit reserved at stopping here, but it was nearing lunch time and we had heard there were no good restaurants in Hana, so we decided to stop by and check out the local stands. Most people come here for the fresh fish tacos or the Kalua Pork at the vendor with the BBQ setup, I believe that is referred as "Up In Smoke BBQ". But being a little bit more adventurous, we decided to check out the vendor to the left of "Island Style Tacos" with the large sign that says "Coconut & Beer Battered Shrimp & Chips". After perusing the menu of differently prepared shrimp/fish and Chinese dishes, there is a counter top with a friendly woman who will take your order. We weren't too hungry so we ordered the coconut shrimp and french fries for $12.00. Orders are made to order so it took a couple minutes to be prepped. We grabbed a seat at one of the three picnic tables beside the cashier. Finally the woman brought out our lunch: 6 coconut battered shrimp on a bed of french fries and a piece of pineapple were served on a typical red plastic basket that you find at many bars and restaurants across America. The coconut on the shrimp was so fresh, it tasted like the coconut was carved right before being deep-fried. Heck, this is Hawaii and I do see coconut trees, so I expect it to be pretty darn fresh. The shrimp was also very fresh making this place an "OMG. If there were one thing to do if I come back to Hana, this is the one place I need to revisit." For all the awards and rave reviews that Aloha Mixed Plate has received for their Coconut Prawns, this place blows theirs out of the ocean. I could keep eating this day's on end. This is downright the best coconut shrimp I've ever had in my life. Each bite just kept getting better and better. (Okay, I think I've gotten my point across.) The fries were also steaming hot and freshly fried, crisp on the outside and potatoey on the inside. For $12.00, I actually felt like I was getting a bargain, especially for an overpriced economy that Maui is known for. I would love to come back here again. I just wish they were closer to town. But if you're one of the fellow Yelpers looking for a place to stop along the Road to Hana, this is definitely the place!!! -
Jason’s 5-star review: Forget Mama's Fish House. If there's one place you have to go to, it's Merriman's. Yes, we did have our wedding here, but putting all biased feelings aside, Merriman's was beyond exceptional. The first thing when you walk in is the openness of the restaurant, with all the doors around the whole restaurant opening to the outside balcony and cool breeze. And then for a second you will be speechless, just beyond the balcony is the lanai and an amazing view of the beach, ocean, and Molokai in the distance. It's the most gorgeous view I've experienced at any restaurant and once you see it for yourself, I'm more than sure you'll agree. After you take in the view, take note of the cozy ambiance, semi-tiki yet semi-upscale modern. It's not tacky, it's not pretentious, somehow it all works together to make a very enjoyable experience. Check out the photos to see what I'm talking about. The food served during the reception was extraordinary. Our first course was the Handcrafted Cavatelli Pasta which consisted of Anuhea Asparagus, Hamakua Mushrooms, and a dollop of Homemade Ricotta. Woah, this raised more than just an eyebrow, it really had my palate intrigued as well as quite a few of the guests. I was interested of what was to come. The second course was the Kalua Pig and Swet Onion Quesadilla with House-Made Kim Chee, Mango Chili Sauce. OMG, the juicy kalua pig was so tender and flavorful and complimented with sweet onions. The quesdilla was crisp to give the pork and onions a nice crunchy texture. The mango chili sauce and kim chee really took it over the top balancing the flavors out with a hint of sweet and spiciness. The third course was a choice between: - Macadamia Nut Crusted Ono with Spicy Garlic Broccoli, Roasted Mushroom Sake Reduction. The fresh ono was perfectly cooked and succulent. It was complimented with a a macadamia nut crust, or shall I say, topped off with a generous sprinkle of macadamia nuts to add a nice crunchy texture. - Grilled Maui Cattle Grass-Fed Filet of Beef with Creamed Kula Corn, Chili-Peppered Green Beans, House Whipped Potato, Hamakua Mushroom Sauce. The beef was so tender that it almost melted in your mouth. Is that even possible? You have got to try this dish for yourself, and experience the joy that I have in one of the most tender and flavorful cuts of beef ever. I wouldn't expect beef to taste so delicious on an island when seafood is the primary attraction, but this is definitely a dish to try. - Lemongrass Scented Natural Chicken with Coconut and Potato Purée, Shaved Aina Lani Farms Carrot and Young Coconut, Cilantro, Kaffir Lime, Green Curry. The chicken was tender and moist. It was not a dish that disappointed. Although I can't remember much about the flavor profile of this dish, there was nothing to dislike. Yes, it was my wedding, but I truly have to say it was one of only a handful of weddings where I enjoyed every single dish, the ambiance, and all around had a great time. Of course the guests made the party, and I have to say whether you're planning a wedding or looking for a romantic place to eat, Merriman's is my top recommendation on Maui. (Okay so maybe I am a little biased.) To Danielle, the events manager, and Merriman's staff: Thank you for a fantastic wedding that did not, for one second, cease to amaze myself and all our guests. We had no regrets and would do it all over again. For all our future visits to Maui, Merriman's will always stay close to our hearts for both sentimental reasons and one of the most extraordinary all-around dining experiences ever. -
Jason’s 5-star review: Last year, when we came to Gazebo, the line was very long. Because of our schedule, we had to skip out without having the chance to try it. We vowed that next time we come here, we'll have to stick it out. This time, we got to Gazebo at 8:10am. There were already 40-50 people waiting in line, ending at just about the top of the stairs from the pool area. It took us exactly an hour, to which we were seated at 9:10 AM. We knew exactly what we wanted, the White Chocolate Macadamia Nut (Short Stack - $7.75) and a Half Order of the Fried Rice ($6.50). We were worried that was not enough food but were assured it would be plenty. We had our wedding rehearsal at 10:00 AM just down the block, so we let our waitress know. She said we had plenty of time. I was a bit worried, being that Hawaii operates very slow, but was surprised when our food came out in about 5 minutes. Boy oh boy, those pancakes were just heavenly, literally. I'm not a big fan of pancakes at all, but these were airy and fluffy, yet had substance to it. It was topped off with a dallop of whipped cream, then sprinkled with crushed macadamia nuts and white chocolate chip morsels. The morsels were melting on the pancake from the heat, which made them nice and soft, some of them even gooey. And I have to say, the flavor combination of the fluffy pancake, to the crunchy texture of the macadamia nut, to the sweet white chocolate, to the yummy whipped cream, produced one of the most simple yet best prepared pancakes I've ever had. This would make anyone into a pancake lover. And then came the fried rice, a mixture of fried rice with bacon, ham, scallions, green peppers, onions, and topped with a scrambled egg. Again, it looked quite ordinary, but this was a definite sleeper that is sure to please. It's what one would dream of fried rice to be. And Gazebo got it right, a perfect melding of saltiness from the bacon and ham, then a nice firmness to the rice (soggy fried rice is a big no-no), and to the fresh vegetables adding a crispness to this extraordinary dish. OMG, I really am in heaven. And sure enough, it was plenty of food for two. We even had a decent amount of our fried rice that we were eager to take home and brag to our family and friends about how good it was. And if you need something to wash it all down, the POG juice ($2.95) is also worth trying. It is a blend of Pasion, Orange, and Guava which is very refreshing. Our waitress was very amiable, she came by to check up on us several times and made sure we were well tended. We even had a chance to talk and learned that she came from a few towns over from us in New York. It's a small world after all. If there's only one chance to grab breakfast, Gazebo is the place for its charm, beautiful view overlooking the ocean, friendly table service, cheap prices, big portions, and quick turnaround. The only reason why it takes so long is that its soooo small, with probably about 15 tables. Other than that, don't let this place sway you from checking this place out. You'll be bragging to everyone about how good it is. You just might even convince yourself to come again before you leave. Also, a few quick words of advice, get here early!! Even before it opens so you can be in and out in a jippy without having to wait on the long lines. In order to get to Gazebo, you have to pull into the Napili Shores condos. The driveway splits to the left and right. Stay to your left and follow the parking lot all the way to the back. Most of the signs say towaway and for residents and guests only, but it should be fine for Gazebo patrons to park there (we also confirmed this with a Napili Shores maid). P.S. - And for those wondering if we made it to our wedding rehearsal? Yes, we did make it out of Gazebo around 9:50 AM, with time to spare to just go down the road for our wedding rehearsal. -
Jason’s 5-star review: Geste serves up some delicious shrimp that is a must try. It's located just off the road on Kahului Beach Road, less than a 1/2 mile from W Kaahumanu Ave. along a dirt shoulder on the Kahului Bay side. There are a handful of trucks here, but you'll know which one is Geste's because most of the locals frequent this truck. I like to add a little heat to my dish, so I ordered the Spicy Pineapple Shrimp ($12.00) which includes 12 pieces of shrimp, crab mac salad, and rice. It took about 8-10 minutes to prepare (or maybe my impatience got the better half of me this time), but it was well worth the wait. The crab mac salad actually had noticeable pieces of crab in it and it was very fresh. It was not heavily creamy but enough to make it thick and tasty. The shrimp was split laterally on both sides, so it was slightly butterflied open. The shrimp skin was intact but it was crisp, so taking off the skin and legs were an easy task. The flavors were superb, spicy yet sweet from the pineapple, complimented with sauteed garlic and scallion. Mmmm, delicious!! If all that flavor gets to you, there is a healthy mound of white rice to soak up all that sweet and spicy sauce. I found myself trying to absorb every last bit of the yummy sauce. I was a bit hesitant at first trying this Geste and paying $12 for a meal from a food truck, especially when I come from the city of New York, filled with food trucks and carts on every block averaging $5-$8 meals, but I had to have it. And it was worth every penny. Experience it, you won't regret it!!! -
Jason’s 5-star review: The Road to Hana can be a daunting task, especially if you don't know where to go. With all the winding roads and hidden spots, you really have to know where to pull over. You can be in the know by purchasing one of many traveler's guides, talk with the locals, or from fellow Yelpers like myself. Otherwise, you'll be driving on a fairly curvy road with 600+ turns at 15 mph that can be both boring and nauseating. Some of my favorite spots along the Road to Hana are the bamboo forest with 4 waterfalls (Mile 5 on Hwy 360), Nahiku Road, Wai'anapanapa (Black Sand) Beach, Koki/Hamoa Beach for some great body surfing, and lastly the Pipiwai Trail & Seven Sacred Pools. Before beginning your journey on the Road to Hana, make sure to pass Kahalui no later than 8:00 AM, otherwise the crowds and tour buses will start jamming the roads. Also, the majority of waterfalls are best viewed before 11:00 AM. Right before the Road to Hana is the town of Paia. In Paia is Anthony's Coffee Company (90 Hana Hwy) which is a great place to stop for breakfast, since there aren't many stopovers with good places to eat. There isn't much when you start on Hwy 36. The only place I'd stop is probably at Mile 10 marker, which is Maliko Gulch, where an old bridge and train trestle used to be. Shortly thereafter, it will turn into Highway 360. Below are some of the places I like to pull over, some more memorable than others. Mile marker + X miles are as designated: - Mile 2: series of roads & trails lead to Twin Falls. Most people and tour buses stop here as it is one of the first touristy waterfalls. There isn't much to this one, but if you want to be one of those who do everything, check it out. Otherwise, skip the crowds. - Mile 3: Kaulanapueo Church, may be locked, built in 1853 - Mile 6 + 6/10: There are several openings along the side of the road into the bamboo forest. If you are parked near the front, by a metal pole gate, you will want to walk backwards. The 3rd or 4th opening is where you want to drop into. You'll have to follow down the trail, cross a small plank over a river, veer to the left at the fork just after, go down a small hill then hop across big boulders along a river. Follow the path and you'll see a waterfall with a small watering hole. There's a rope along the far side that you can climb to get to another waterfall. I believe there are two more waterfalls thereafter. - Mile 10: Garden of Eden which I believe is about $10/person. - Mile 10 + 8/10: on ocean side is a road with a telephone pole. You may have to climb in between an opening in the fance. Take the path for a couple minutes to Lower Puohokamoa Falls (200 ft.). - Mile 11: Upper Puohokamoa Falls, path on far side of wall that takes you to falls - Mile 11 + 1/2: small turnout on far side of bridge, about a 30 second trail to Haipua'ena Falls - Mile 12 + 3/4: Great view to take pictures of Ke'anae Peninsula. - Mile 13 + 1/4: tiny turnout on the far side of the white 1911 bridge. Walk on dry stream bouldering for 25 min. to Punalau Falls - Mile 17 + 1/3: stock up on food at food stand "Halfway to Hana". You can grab their famous banana bread, but I like to stop here for their fresh Maui Gold pineapple. Yum! - Mile 17 + 2/3: pull over and walk to white concrete bridge (ocean side), you'll see water gushing out of the mountain & flowers that have bloomed - Btw Mile 19 & 20: At far side of bridge, short path to Upper Waikani Falls - Btw Mile 22 & 23: A market and good place to stop for restrooms. - Mile 25: Turn onto Nahiku Rd. and follow for about 2.5 miles. Near bottom, go past the rickety bridge. If you're afraid to drive over it, there's a small opening on the left you can park and walk. Cross the bridge, follow the road for about 1/2 mile through a lush green forest, to be treated to a nice ocean view at the bottom. - Mile 32: Wai'anapanapa Park - Pa'iloa Beach (black sand beach) In Hana: - Hana Bay - black sand beach - Near Hana Pier - 200 yard trail, go over Ka'uiki Hill to the small but cool Red Sand Beach Hwy 31 (markers go down) - Koki Beach - between Mile 51 & 50 marker, great for body surfing - Hamoa Beach - between Mile 50 & 49 marker. Local surf spot. - Mile 42 marker - Seven Sacred Pools - $10 per car. Use the same pass at Haleakala Summit (free within 24 hrs). Pipiwai Trail is a great hike to do. 2/3 mile into hike is Makahiku Falls (200 ft.) overlook. Shortly past is a path on the right of main trail for nice photos of infinity pool. Back on trail, pass a metal gate. Then check out banyan tree (sign your initials). Pass a pair of bridges then through bamboo forest. At the end is the 400 ft. Waimoku Falls. - Mile 41 marker + 1/10 - Palapala Ho'omau Church. Charles Lindbergh is buried. For waterfall shots, take it at about 1/10 shutter speed, so the water looks in motion rather than still. So I hope that you have as much fun as I did. The Road to Hana is very rewarding for those looking for a little adventure. -
Jason’s 4-star review: Everyone talks about Mama's Fish House when they visit Maui. On our first vacation to Maui, we opted to skip out on Mama's, but after friend after friend who had visited Maui and raved about Mama's Fish House, we had to check it out for ourselves. We made reservations for 11:30 AM. Upon arriving, the valet driver rushed to our car to greet us and park our car. We made our journey down the stairs and along the pathway, all while enjoying the view of the adjacent beach and palm tree grass area. It was a very beautiful view, and I'd probably have to say it has the 2nd best view of any restaurant, followed by Merriman's in Kapalua. When we finally arrived to the hostess kiosk, we informed her of our reservations, which she promptly seated us. And boy oh boy, I think we got the best seat in the house, right smack dab in the middle along the perimeter of the tables by the window. The open windows were along two sides of our table, carrying a nice breeze and providing a beautiful view. Yes, 11:30 AM may be early, but it will ensure you get a table by the window. By 12:00 PM, tables started to fill up, and by 12:30 PM, patrons were seated in the inner area of the restaurant. To begin, they provide you with the drinks only menu. I'm guessing they are hoping that you will buy one of their cocktails which average around $16 each, and $10 for the non-alcoholic versions. Since it was early in the morning, we ordered the alcohol free version of the Strawberry Guava Fuzz ($9) which is a mixture of strawberry guava, lemonade and a splash of soda. It was very refreshing, however I don't know if $9 was worth the price tag. After putting your drink orders in, they will take away the cocktail menu and provide you with the lunch menu. To begin with, we were provided with complimentary whole wheat bread with poppyseed and cold/firm butter, followed by a small shot of their soup of the day, a flavorful asparagus and ginger soup. For starters, we ordered the Macadamia Nut Crab Cakes ($21.00) complimented with a side of fire & ice relish and a lemon wedge. The crab cakes were perfectly seared on the outside, moist inside. It actually had a noticeable amount of crab meat as compared to the typical crab cakes filled with mostly breading. The fire & ice relish was a very nice addition adding a nice crunchy texture and refreshing taste. For lunch, I ordered the Sandwich of Grilled Mahimahi with Applewood Smoked Bacon ($28.00) which was placed in a Vermont cheddar cheese focaccia, and complimented with a homemade pickle slice, a small serving of fruit salad, Molokai sweet potato fries, and a side of ketchup and mayo. The fish was perfectly cooked with a very nice moistness, added to the crunchy and salty bacon. The saltiness from the bacon really brought out the flavor of the fish accentuated with an herby and cheesy flavor from the focaccia. It was a very enjoyable sandwich as well as the crispy sweet potato fries. My only gripe with the fries were that some were overcooked to crispness while others felt texturally soggy. I also tried the Tristan Island Lobster Sandwich ($34.00) with avocado and mango lemon aioli, sweet potato fries and taro chips. You could tell the lobster was fresh and it was perfectly cooked to a nice firmness without being overcooked to a dry rubbery texture. It was a good sandwich, but I felt like it was an ordinary lobster sandwich that didn't really seem to do a lot for me. Maybe my taste buds were so overwhelmed from my mahimahi sandwich. For dessert, we were provided with a complimentary coconut-flavored cube of jello and warm damp towels to clean our hands. It was an unexpected treat that was gladly received Our waitress was very friendly, taking the time to explain dishes in a very enthusiastic manner, and consistently checking up on us throughout our meal. I really had no qualms with table service and have to say she was attentive and above the norm. Prices were evidently high, as you should know before visiting this restaurant which is catered towards mostly, if not all, tourists. So don't plan on coming here for a cheap meal, but expect to spend at least $100 for two. Dinner prices are slightly higher than lunch, so if you do have Mama's Fish House on your radar, I'd highly advise coming to Mama's Fish House for lunch before the crowds at around 11:30 AM. Not only will you enjoy the best seats in the house with a beautiful view, but you will receive very attentive service as your waitress will not have to tend as many tables. Mama's Fish House is an experience in its own and you will either learn to love it or hate it, with the deciding factor being heavily weighed on the steep prices. If you're prepared, you will have a much more enjoyable experience. -
Jason’s 4-star review: Although Kaanapali Beach is heavily populated by hotels, condos, and shopping, I believe that it is one of the nicer beaches in Maui. We went during early May and crowds were almost nonexistent on both the beach and in the water. Most of the other beaches on the west side of Maui are either very narrow or inconvenient to get to, especially if you're not staying along the shoreline. Some may claim that Kaanapali Beach can also be a pain to find parking but here's a little tidbit of info: There are 2-3 beach access parking lots, located on Kaanapali Pkwy. and Nohea Kai Dr. that are free. Each has about 10-15 spaces so plan to get here in the morning hours if you want to get a spot. Usually the locals are in the know of these small, barely noticeable parking lots, but if you keep your eyes open, you'll see the blue shoreline access signs adjacent to the parking lots. If you don't get here early enough, there is also validated parking near Whaler's Village. If you purchase something at Whaler's Village you can get your ticket validated, otherwise the hourly parking lot rates are pretty expensive. Kaanapali Beach stretches across the west side of Maui running parallel with the Sheraton, The Whaler, Whaler's Village (shopping area), Westin, Kaanapali Alii, Marriott, and Hyatt. It is pretty expansive, about 60 ft. wide (near the Marriott and Kaanapali Alii) of clean sand to lay on and stretches for about 1.5 miles. The beach can get a little narrow by the Sheraton, so I'd recommend venturing a little further south for more space. Some areas of the shoreline, such as near the Sheraton (near Black Rock) can be a little rocky in the water also. Other areas of the water are free of rocks, which will lead to a much more enjoyable time when swimming in the water. If you're a beginner surfer and looking for small waves, there is a nice break by the Marriott. You'll know you're there when you see a 2-3 ft. drop in the sand near the water. The break is about 40 ft. out from the shore which gives you a decent ride time when starting as a beginner. -
Jason’s 5-star review: DT Fleming is a beautiful beach that is spans about 1500 feet long and 50 feet wide. There is a decent sized free parking lot that is directly on the beach which makes for bringing items on and off the beach very easily. The white sand beach is perfect for sunbathing or just hanging out with some friends. The sand is mostly clean and smooth with the exception of twigs and some other things mostly fallen from the trees. There are also picnic tables, restrooms, and lifeguards. I wish I had found this beach earlier in my vacation so I could have spent more time here, but I will definitely put it on my list of beaches to hang out at during my next visit to Maui. -
Jason’s 4-star review: A beautiful must-stop store located beside Sacred Hearts Church. You can shop around for souvenirs, but the real reason to come here is for the delicious food that is prepared here. The layout of the store is partitioned into 3 rooms, railroad style. The first room is the shop for souvenirs; the second room for groceries, coffee and beverages; and the third room for ordering food and such. Peruse the menu and realize how cheap most of the offerings are. We came here for breakfast. After putting your order and providing a name, you can shop around the store and grab your drink of choice. Come back in a few minutes for your name to be called and a number will be written on the top of the platter. Paying is a breeze, because when you go to the cashier in the front, all she has to do is enter the order number and all your food items will ring up automatically and any drink items are added. Grab a seat outside on the cozy porch and eat as you enjoy the weather. For my breakfast (served daily 6:00 am - 10:00 am), I ordered the Hobo ($5.25) which includes 2 eggs, choice of meat, and rice. I went with sunnyside, corned beef hash, and fried rice. All the contents were packed in a burger-sized recycled paper platter, stacked on top of each other: rice, corned beef hash, and then eggs. This was a perfect morning concoction, crack the eggs and the runny yolk simply ran down into the corned beef hash and eggs. Yum!! Fairly standard dish, but there was nothing not to like. I also tried their Coffee of the Day which was Vanilla Mac Nut Coffee (Regular - $1.75). If you happen to visit Honolua Store on a day they are brewing it, I highly recommend it. Although you won't get table service here as everything is order at the counter and pay up front, you will sacrifice service for price. Honolua Store is the only place you can get a fairly cheap meal in Kapalua. And definitely good eats! You may actually find yourself coming here more than once as many of the locals do. That's gotta say something. -
Jason’s 4-star review: After checking in, you are directed towards the waiting area, where you can shop at a small souvenir kiosk or talk to other fellow tourists. Otherwise, you can stand in line by the waiting area located on the right, where mixed drinks are served as soon as they open the gates to the premises. Admission tickets are taken, as you get lei'ed (No, don't even say it! A lei is a necklace of flowers) and one of the luau crew walks you to your table while giving you a warm Hawaiian welcome and a run-down of the grounds including the bar area, restrooms, and buffet table stations. The tables are laid out in a U-shaped format around the center stage. The first row are Japanese style seats (sitting on a pillow on the floor with no backrest, which is not recommended for the older folk), followed by 3-4 rows of 8-person tables/chairs. Most seats have a good view of the center stage, with the exception of the outermost tables on each end which get side views of the stage. Seats are pre-assigned so make sure to get good seats when you pre-purchase your tickets for the luau. You can then walk around, and go to the different vendors making and selling either carved wooden statues, necklaces, ornaments made from leaves, or listen to a storyteller telling about the history of Hawaii. There are also a couple of no-frill photographers who will take your photo for later purchase at the end of the luau. Overall, the grounds are pretty intimate with enough to keep you entertained until dinner time. Otherwise, you can stick by the bar area or have your waiter serve you drinks. About 10 different mixed drinks are available, all of which are premixed and spit out through a soda machine with the exception of the liquers which are poured in separately. Drinks range from Mai Tais, Pina Coladas, Chi Chi, Lava Flow, Blue Hawaii, Green Passion, Hawaiian Sunset, Margarita, Honey Girl, Little Tita, Long Island, Long Beach, Nalu Special, and Island Warrior. I found the drinks to be a bit harsh on the palate. I'm not really sure if it was attributed to cheap liquor because my first taste of each mixed drink (besides the mai tais) seemed to be a bit repulsive before my palate adjusted. I guess you can't really complain for drinks that need to be made quick by 3-4 bartenders catering to the couple hundred or so people thirsty for liquor. At approximately 6:20 PM, you can watch as they pull the pig out of the imu. Promptly thereafter, you can return to your seat where additional drinks are served by your waiter, and you wait as each table is summoned to go up to one of the several buffet table stations. I've been to other luaus where they have everyone just go up to a single buffet station, causing enormous lines and a bit of chaos. At Old Lahaina Luau, each buffet table is a bit more intimate as they only allow about 10-15 people at each station to go up at a time. Items at the buffet table include Kalua Pua'a, Laulau, Poi, Ahi Poke, He'e Poke, Sweet Potato, PUlehu Steak, Chicken Long Rice, Island Style Chicken, Maui Style Mahimahi, Stir Fry Vegetables, Local Style Fried Rice, Island Crab Salad, Taro Salad, Pohole Salad, and Lomilomi Salmon. As you are eating, you are treated to several simple Hawaiian hula dances on the center stage. You are then free to go up to get seconds and thirds, but it feels a bit rushed because before you can sit down to eat again, a tray of tiny desserts are then served to each table along with coffee. Before you know it, the real show begins as a story of the history of Hawaii is told intermixed with a variety of hawaiian dances. The dances may seem to get a bit repetitive by night's end, unless you take note of the little intracies in their movements and the different cultural uniforms they are dressed in. But don't surprised if you do not see any Samoan fire dancers as Old Lahaina Luau is a tribute to the traditional Hawaiian culture. As the show nears to an end, last call on drinks are given by your server shortly before all newly weds, honeymooners, and anniversary people, and anyone with a significant other are called upon to go to the Moon Dancing floor (located just behind the center stage) to dance to a traditional song. A few more traditional dances are performed to conclude the show, and in the blink of an eye, the luau is over in a quick 3 hours. Overall, I enjoyed Old Lahaina Luau. The food was pretty delicious, some of my favorites being the Kalua Pua'a (Pork), Ahi Poke, He'e (Octopus) Poke, Laulau, Chicken Long Rice, Local Style Fried Rice, and Sweet Potato. Drinks were a bit of a let-down but the free lei was a nice treat for a luau that costs close to $100. The luau crew was exceptional, taking pride in what they do, making the experience that more enjoyable. Although the dancing could get a bit mundane and there are no fire dancers, you will get to experience the true Hawaiian culture. -
Jason’s 5-star review: If you're in the mood to splurge a little in Maui, Lahaina Grill is definitely the place to do it. Although walk-ins are accepted, the restaurant can get pretty busy, so call in to make reservations. Dress attire is resort casual, which I'd say at the very least is flip-flops, a pair of nice shorts, and a non-logo T-shirt although most of the diners tend to dress a lot nicer than that, in dresses or polos shirts/khaki shorts. Definitely don't come here if you just came off the beach and are looking for a casual place to hang out. Consider this as one of the places when you're looking to have a nice night out in town. Service was impeccable from beginning to end. Our waitress was very friendly and courteous, taking the time to explain items on the menu with genuine enthusiasm. She made it a point to ensure we were happy throughout our meal, dropping by several times to see how things were going. Glasses of water were refilled consistently. Complimentary steaming hot bread buns were brought out with whipped garlic butter that was out of this world. The butter was so light and fluffy, and it melted immediately putting on the bread. Notes of garlic with a subtle saltiness was the perfect spread for the bread. For my entree, I ordered the Macadamia Nut Smoked Kurobuta Pork Chop ($39.00) which is all natural, organic american pork, Poblano chile, Dungeness crab golden potato hash, pickled red cabbage and apples, and pomegranate demi-glace. I don't think I've ever had a better cut of pork chop, tender and juicy pork. The pork was great in itself, but the sweet and sourness of the cooked julienned red cabbage and apples complimented the pork chop perfectly. I made sure to eat a little of it with each piece of an already delicious pork chop. The potato hash, creamy in texture, was also very delicious. There was nothing to dislike about this dish. I also tried the Seared Lion paw scallops ($41.00) which includes 4 large sea scallops, celery root mash, roasted corn relish, lobster champagne essence, crisp pancetta chips. The sea scallops were cooked to perfection, a nice brown crust on the outside, with a melt-in-your-mouth inside. Yum!!! Although slightly on the pricey side, Lahaina Grill was well worth the money. I'd highly recommend to check this place out, but just be ready to spend more than you would expect, especially if you get appetizers and drinks. But through it all, the prices of the food speak for the quality of the food and your experience will be a memorable one. Also a useful tidbit: Currently, if you go to Ululani's Shaved Ice which is just around the corner on Front St., you can get a $10 off coupon for your meal at Lahaina Grill. -
Jason’s 5-star review: You may be hesitating to come to Mulligan's on the Blue, for one, because it is on a golf course and because it is an Irish bar in the middle of Hawaii. But don't let that scare you away. What this place has that many other places in the Kihei/Wailea area don't have, is quality food at very affordable prices. I asked myself countless times how they offer all their entrees for $9.00 on Tuesdays. Additionally, a live band is present everyday from 7:00 - 10:00 PM. During our visit, we were able to listen to Murray Thorne, who is a part of Mulligan's house band. And Murray sure does play some exceptional music. The layout is pretty large, with a square shaped bar that can seat 10-15 people, an indoor seating area that is covered in white tablecloths during the evening hours, and an outside lanai (balcony) that runs along the perimeter of the restaurant on two sides. The outside lanai holds another 30-40 tables, and is catered more towards the clientele who want to casually kick back and relax. The food is exceptional here, which I have to recommend if you're in the Kihei/Wailea area. Again, quality food at affordable prices. Come on Tuesdays, and it's a steal with their $9.00 entrees!! Our party of 2 ordered: - Paddy Malone's Ocean Chowder (Cup $5.00) which includes clams, mahimahi and rock shrimp New England style chowder, topped with crab meat. This chowder was the real deal with hearty pieces of clam bits, just how I like it. Creamy, and very tasty with enough seafood and pieces of potato to make you giggle with joy. - Pan Seared Fresh Catch of the Day ($24.00) - Pan seared catch of the day topped with pineapple salsa and lemon beurre blanc served with jasmine rice and seasonal vegetables. The catch of the day was opa, which is a thicker fish. The opa was well-prepared: moist and flaky. The lemon beurre blanc added a nice touch of citrus flavor to the fish, as lemon always does with seafood. The pineapple salsa accentuate the fish even more, adding a layer of refreshing pineapple bits. Even the seasoned vegetables, which included broccoli, zucchini, and carrots was a big hit. - I also had the chance to try the Four Cheese Ravioli ($22.00) which included 4 large ravioli, and 5-6 large pieces of grilled breast of chicken, organic tomato sauce, mushrooms, zucchini and fresh herbs. The chicken breast was amazing, grilled to perfection, tender and moist, and marinated with a lemon pepper based sauce. - Jimmy's Flanagan Pie ($8.00) which is a layered Ice Cream Pie with Oreo Cookie Crust, Peanut Butter, and Fudge Topping. Abosolutely divine and not heavy at all. This was an excellent way to end our meal. We found ourselves in a state of bliss, and I have to say that I absolutely adore this dessert. Service was top notch. Our waitress, Stephania, who recently moved from Santa Cruz, California, treated us like ohana. She is very laid back and personable. Sort of a surfer-chick that was the perfect addition to Mulligan's. She was a prime example of how people in Hawaii should be, carefree and laid back, yet with a warming personality. She always came by to check up on us, always enthusiastic and attentive to whatever our needs were. Dave, the manager, was also very accomodating. If you're ever interested in planning an event, bachelor party, greeting party, rehearsal dinner, reception, group dinners. You name it, he'll make sure to get what you need at a moment's notice and make sure it is exactly how you want it. That is service and the true Hawaiian aloha, where everyone is ohana. I really wish my stay in Maui was longer, because I absolutely would love to come back, especially for the Paddy Malone's Ocean Chowder and Jimmy's Flanagan Pie. Add that to the great service, live music, affordable meal, what isn't there to love about this place? Truly, a hidden gem in Wailea that all fellow Yelpers should check out. -
Jason’s 5-star review: Kahaialii Productions provides a variety of entertainment services, ranging from musicians, hula dancers, DJ's, and multimedia services. They cater to private events, weddings, as well as larger events. We used Kahaialii Productions for our wedding and were amazed by their talent. The owner, Wilmont Kamaunu Kahaialii, and his cousin, are two superb musicians playing on their guitars as well as great singers. We did not know a lot about Hawaiian music, but knew we wanted a mix of Hawaiian and alternative, such as Izrael Kamakawiwoole, Jason Mraz, John Mayer, Shania Twain, Jack Johnson, Nora Jones, Train, Michael Buble, Luther Vandross, and tons more. All our guests loved them and let us know it. Wilmont even had us do a Hawaiian quasi-line dance. I was afraid at first of it being tacky like an electric line dance, but he made everyone very comfortable and made sure everyone had a great time. And we did!! Along with many laughs. If you're looking for a musician for your private event, I highly recommend Kahaialii Productions. Not that I'm biased that they did my wedding, but I genuinely was very happy with their work and would hire them again in a heartbeat. -
Jason’s 4-star review: We came during their Chef's Tasting Menu - Pre-Fixe Menu for $25.00 which is available 5:00 - 6:00 PM daily in the Main Dining Room, adjacent to the Barefoot Bar where live music is played. Included is a pupu, entree, and dessert served at half-sized portions. The attire in the dining area desires resort wear (polo, nice shorts or khaki pants). For those in beachwear, the barefoot bar is the place to be. This is a lovely place to eat dinner and to watch the sunset over Kaanapali Beach. Our server, Jeff, was very friendly and enthusiastic, taking the time to explain almost every seafood dish and what fish was prepared with each (the menu just states fish for most of the items, and the type of fish can differ depending on the catches of the day). Our server came over multiple times to check up on us, making small chit chat, and making us feel like we were not just being waited on, but actual customers. - Hand-Wrapped Pot Stickers - Kalua pork with ponzu sauce, lobster and scallop with guava plum sauce - Kalua pork pot sticker was out of this world. This is a must-try. - Lobster and scallop pot sticker was rather boring. Lobster? Did they say there was supposed to be lobster in here? *cough* - Macadamia Nut Crusted Fish (today's fish was MahiMahi) - Baked, lemon beurre blanc - This dish didn't have a lot of pop, although visually, it looked appetizing. - Coconut Creme Brulee - served in 2 ceramic (Chinese-like) soup spoons. - Caramelized on top with a semi-rich custard underneath. Small portions but yum!! - Jumbo Lump Crab Cake - Lime-cilantro aioli, tropical fruit salsa - Fair portion of crab meat vs. breading. Neither amazing nor disappointing. - Shrimp and Macadamia Nut Pesto - Penne pasta, fire roasted tomatoes - GREAT dish. The pasta was al dente, the shrimp firm though not overcooked, pesto was spot on and complimented with the acidity of the sweet fire roasted tomatoes. - Hula Grill's Famous Petite Ice Cream Sandwich - Macadami nut brownie, vanilla ice cream - I wouldn't call this ice cream sandwich so petite. Indeed an understatement, and I found myself loving this dish. You have to try it for yourself. With Hula Grill serving such tasty dishes at quite an affordable price, I wouldn't mine coming back here to try some of their main entrees. The nice view of the sunset with the live band definitely adds to the Hawaiian atmosphere. Whether you choose to sit in the dining room or barefoot bar, your experience will be an enjoyable one. -
Jason’s 4-star review: LuLu's is located just beside Safeway in the Lahaina Cannery Mall. It somewhat resembles a chain restaurant (i.e. TGIF's, Applebee's), but has an expansive layout. When you enter, there is seating running along the perimeter of the restaurant, with large sliding windows that can open to let in the nice Hawaiian breeze. In the center is a large rectangular shaped bar that could seat about 15 people, and several LCD's showing surfing videos and sports. There are several tables in the outdoor seating area which is situated on the very right. In the rear is another room with additional tables and 2 pool tables. The rear room can be partitioned with a slidable curtain for a private gathering/party. The walls were decorated with surfboards and other random surfing-related items. When we got there, there was a 5-person live band setting up on the very left under some tiki huts. The restaurant was fairly empty at 9:00 PM on a Wednesday night, with about 3-4 tables occupied, but a good amount of people started to flow in around 9:30 PM, which is about the time the live band started to play salsa and chacha music. A few people got up to dance in a small dance area beside the bar. I was a bit hesitant to come here because of the multiple Yelp reviews commenting about the bad service, but I was a bit surprised that I had received the total opposite end of the spectrum. As soon as I was seated, our waiter, Seth, brought over two glasses of water and asked us if we wanted to order drinks. We asked for a couple minutes, which he gladly nodded and came back to take our drinks and food orders. The non-alcoholic drinks came to the table in a moment's notice, but the beer took a couple minutes, which he came by 1-2 times to let us know that he was still waiting on the bartender. I call that good service. Throughout our meal, I never found our glasses of water more than halfway empty, before he came over to refill them and to check up on us if we needed anything else. He was pretty attentive which I wouldn't usually expect in a restaurant of this caliber. For my entree, I ordered the Magnum P.I. ($11.95) which is a 1/2 lb. seasoned black Angus beef burger layered with crisp smoked applewood bacon, cheddar cheese and chunky guacamole. Included on the side is a quarter-slice of a dill pickle and choice of classic fries, cajun or garlic fries. Being that I love putting garlic on everything I eat, I had to go with the garlic fries. It only took 8-10 minutes before our entrees were brought out. The burger was pretty sizable, slightly larger than the bun. On the top half of the bun were sauteed onions, tomato, and lettuce. I don't know how a burger with such simple ingredients could taste so darn delicious. The burger meat was cooked without any pinkness to it, but it was sooooo juicy and flavorful!! I attribute it to the top-grade Angus beef that they used. Add the mouth-watering burger to some kickass garlic fries, and I was in heaven. The fries were crisp yet potatoey, with a healthy dose of minced garlic and just the right amount of garlic/salt seasoning. Yum!!!! LuLu's is a bit secluded from all the other restaurants on Front Street. Because of that, it may not draw the large crowds but is a nice getaway from the crowds. The burger was very delicious and the beers were fairly cheap (I believe their most expensive was $5.50), with their signature LuLu's pints starting at $3. Service was superb, and the live band, although they did one too many sound checks for 30 minutes, was a nice added touch. -
Jason’s 4-star review: We were able to negotiate an excellent rate directly with a private owner for a studio coop (with a mountainside view) through http://www.homeaway.com/. The room had an open layout, with a king size bed and cable TV. Adjacent to the bedroom quarters is the kitchen with all the amenities, including a stove, microwave, refrigerator, pots/pans, island countertop with 3 bar stools, and a dining table for seating 2. Just beyond that was a modern marble/stone-like bathroom, with a stand-in shower running the length of a standard sized bathtub. The central air conditioner worked very well, almost too well as we found ourselves waking up every morning in an icebox. The balcony has a semi-decent although not too attractive view, showing the dry mountainside of Lahaina. This is attributed to the clouds not being able to pass over Haleakala Summit/Crater which is 10,000+ feet in elevation. Therefore, rain does not hit the west side of Maui too often causing for very dry land and frequent brush fire but very good beach weather. Although the grounds are a little outdated, they are well-kept. On the oceanside of the hotel, at the rear of the lobby, was a standard-sized swimming pool that was very clean and a hot tub that could probably fit 4-6. There is a locked black gate, where you will have to use one of the keys provided by the resort, in order to get beach access. The strip of beach just behind the resort is fairly narrow, with the waves usually riding all the way up the shore, not really giving you any space to lay down on the sand. You can either sit by the brushline or use several of the beachchairs to avoid getting wet. Beyond that, there is a concierge who is usually there during the day to help you with planning any excursions, and coined laundry machines. Parking is also available for $3.65 dollars a day (I believe the rates are different with each owner) at an underground parking lot adjacent to the resort, or a 30-40 car parking lot located just in front. The resort staff are very friendly here and will always greet you with a smile. This is definitely one of the cheaper coop/condo rentals in Lahaina, but some may find it far from the life of Lahaina (downtown Front St. or Kaanapali Beach area). We didn't mind as we had a car rental, and were only a 2-minute drive to downtown and 10-minute drive to Kaanapali Beach. -
Jason’s 3-star review: Betty's is a bit secluded, further south on Front St. in a part of Lahaina that not as many people visit. If you happen to make it to this tiny shopping area of restaurants such as iO, and Pacifico, as well as many surf/scuba shops, you'll find Betty's. It's more of a bar than a cafe, but disregarding that, Betty's has a nice view of the beach and ocean overlooking Lanai. The decor is simple, poster frames plastered on the walls, and several LCD TV's throughout the restaurant showing mostly sporting events. Because of our large party of 13, we were seated by the cutesy Tiki Bar, which gave us a bit of seclusion from the rest of the diners For my entree, I ordered Betty's Fish and Chips ($15.95), lightly seasoned and breaded mahi mahi, fried crispy golden. Also served with a side of french fries and Betty's fresh slaw. The mahi mahi had a decent breading, similar to what you might expect on fried chicken. It was nice and crispy with a moist inside. The fries were standard, crispy on the outside, semi-moist on the inside with a noticeable seasoning of salt. The slaw was fresh and not too thick, complimented with a small slice of pineapple. I also split the Betty's Most Tasty Nachos (10.95) with Kalua Pork (additional $5.95, or grilled chicken can also be added for $5.95). It was freshly made with crispy tortilla chips topped with pinto chili beans, melted cheese, green onions, diced tomatoes, chilies, black olives, and jalapenos. Served on the side were a small of container of salsa and sour cream. These nachos were delicious!! The chips were not too soggy, signifying they didn't just leave it sitting around with all the toppings placed on top. The kalua pork was tender adding some flavor to an already good nacho dish. I would have easily gotten this over my Fish and Chips. Table service was the norm, our waitress was friendly and attentive to our needs. Portions were decent, but I found prices to be a little high. Betty's offers a satisfying meal that won't leave many disappointed. It's a nice place to visit and to get away from the crowds. I would definitely come back for its relaxing ambiance, but if you're in for some jaw-dropping food, I'd visit elsewhere. -
Jason’s 3-star review: Just across the highway from the Westin Ka'anapali Ocean Resort Villas is Kaanapali Plantation Condos. You can rent units here from private owners. When you're not looking to spend a lot on a prime estate hotel room, this is a very good alternative as you can get some very good rates that are negotiable. It is a bit difficult to find, especially at night, but when you're driving up Puukolii Rd. from Honoapiilani Highway, it's about 1/4 mile on the right hand side of the road. The parking lots are very dark so just watch where you walk, especially when walking down the stairs. The decor of the rooms are a bit old-fashioned, the palm tree/tropical couches to the wicker-like wooden seats, but it all fits into the theme when you're on the island of Hawaii. The grounds and rooms were kept very clean. The view from the rear balconies are beautiful, overlooking the ocean and the islands of Lanai and Molokai. If you so choose, you can walk to Kaanapali Beach, which is just across the highway, taking about 20 minutes to walk. You can check out availability here as well as additional information on the units and accommodations: http://www.mauicondohomes.com/KaanapaliPlantation.htm#kaanapaliplantationcondorental -
Jason’s 4-star review: A small establishment across the parking lot from Foodland. Enter the deli and you'll realize how small this place is: two counters to order from and no seating. There is seating available outside just around the corner, although a group of construction workers are usually hanging out there around lunchtime. After looking through the glass window at the steam table offerings, we decided to go for the Breaded Thin Fried Beef Teriyaki ($6.99 + tax = $7.28) with rice, and choice of mac salad or veggies. Since there was no seating, we went to Puamana Park which is just 5 minutes south (towards Kahului) on Honoapiilani Highway, which has several picnic tables under the shade. A lot of local surfers come here to hang out, so you'll have some entertainment while you eat. Opening the styrofoam tray, we were treated to 2 large pieces of thinly sliced beef, one scoop of rice, and string beans and corn for our veggie side. And oh boy, those pieces of tender sliced beef were so darn tasty soaked in a delicious semi salty/sweet teriyaki marinade. I couldn't stop myself from engulfing this, meanwhile trying to enjoy every bite. The veggies and rice were standard-fare, equaling for a well-balanced meal, meat, veggies, and carbs. Yum! -
Jason’s 5-star review: We came here when John Shryock and Chris Blackmore were featured. A fantastic experience worth checking out when coming to Maui. Okay, you might be asking yourself that it has nothing to do with Hawaii, but spend a couple hours on an evening out with intriguing magic tricks and laughter at Warren & Annabelle's. It's well worth it. If you opted for the Royal Flush Package (which includes dinner and the show), you will be invited to come at 5:00 PM. Otherwise, if you just come for the show, you will arrive at 6:00 PM. You first check in at the counter. And then you are taken to a room where you have to find the secret passage to escape. It's fairly easy before the person on the speakers begins to talk, but you can play along and try to open the purported doors. When you finally figure it out, a trap door opens to Annabelle's Parlor. Once in Annabelle's Parlor, you will be seated at your designated area separate from other groups. The decor borders on old-fashioned, yet classy and cozy. At times I found it a bit eerily calm, almost weird, with the clientele mostly in the 40+ age group, with the exception of honeymooners. But once you settle in, the hostess will give a little background of the place while the waiter will take your orders. You can enjoy cocktails, gourmet appetizers and dessert. If you come in just for the show, like we did, you will have about 45 minutes to an hour to enjoy a drink and/or a quick dessert, a la carte. We noticed most customers came for the full dining experience, though I can't say for sure if it is worth it. While in here, you can try to shout different songs to Annabelle, the imaginary ghost playing the piano who will surprisingly play the song. After, you are brought into the theater, where your drinks are transferred from stem glassware into more friendly short-height bar glassware since you are seated in a movie-like theater. The air condition is on high throughout the show, so make sure you bring a jacket if you easily get cold! The show will run about 2 hours that will run until about 9:15 PM. And I have to say, every minute was very entertaining. John Shyrock does a lot of magic tricks, each unique in its own way. He will repeat some of the tricks a couple times just in case you missed it the first time. With his arsenal of magic tricks, he will also drop in some humor. Chris Blackmore, on the other hand, did not do as many magic tricks, but went more on the route of entertaining the crowd with a mix of comedy and magic. Between the two, I found John Shyrock much more entertaining with his magic and humor that just seamlessly flowed back and forth. As you exit, you will walk through Annabelle's Parlor, to which you can visit their open kiosk souvenir table as well as buy their DVD's that they promote at the end of each performers act. If there is a second showing, you will also see the 2nd group of guests seated in there drinking and eating. Overall, we all had a great time at Warren & Annabelle's. The magic is fresh, not the tacky magic tricks you are accustomed to seeing on TV nor in elementary school. It was well worth it, and I would definitely come back to see the other performers acts. P.S. - Also, don't forget about the free 4 hours of parking in the Old Lahaina Center which is adjacent to Warren & Annabelle's. When you check in, you can get your parking ticket validated, so you won't be charged upon leaving the parking lot. -
Jason’s 4-star review: In a small shopping strip is a small almost unnoticed deli. Inside, there is a small counter to the right to order from, and along the left are several stools to sit at a bar-like table. There are also 2-3 tables outside to sit at, or you can can choose to take it to go, as many of the customers seemed to be doing. The lines sometimes went out the door, mostly consisting of locals, so we had to see what all the excitement was about. The menu is small, serving mostly sandwiches, burgers, pasta, rice bowls, salads, and a few main entree-like items. I ordered the Teriyaki Steak, 6 oz. ($11.95), marinated in what they claim to be their world famous secret teriyaki sauce. It is served with your average run-of-the-mill white rice and choice of macaroni salad or stir fried vegetables. I chose the macaroni salad which didn't seem to do much for me. The steak had nice grill marks, was very tender and flavorful with a well-balanced teriyaki sauce that was neither too light nor too sweet. For a steak, it was average, but for a steak teriyaki, it did impress but it didn't warrant me to come back for seconds. I also tried the Panko Fried Mahi Mahi ($14.95), fresh island mahi coated with japanese panko breadcrumbs with home-made tartar sauce. The mahi mahi was moist with a very nice crispness from the panko breading. A solid choice that is very likable, though nothing to rave about. Everyone seemed to enjoy their dishes here, without any disappointments. For their decent prices, sizable portions, and better than the norm flavors, I would definitely keep Okazuya & Deli Honokowai on the radar. But if you're strapped for time on the island of Maui, there are much better places to check out. -
Jason’s 4-star review: Before heading on the Road to Hana, we were looking for an early breakfast in the Lahaina area. We found out that Java Jazz & Soup Nutz opened at 6am, so we decided to check it out. It's a bit dark inside, but as soon as your eyes adjust, you'll notice the quirky and eclectic ambiance. The most random things would be on the walls and countertops ranging from hundreds of Polaroid photos, Star Wars figures (Boba Fett, Yoda), random paintings, art, chatckis, and signs. There is no real theme. And then comes the hip reggae/jazz music already pumping at 6 AM, which will really get your blood going. They had a really good Early Bird Special (offered between 6-7 AM) that includes 2 scrambled eggs, 1 pancake, 3 strips of bacon for $4.99. It sounded like a great deal, so I had to check it out. What I got was a very large dinner plate-sized fluffy pancake with delicious melted whipped butter and powdered sugar. Yummy!! The 2 scrambled eggs were semi fluffy and the 3 bacon strips were fatty yet crunchy. For $4.99 and a cup of coffee, my engines were ignited and I was ready to start the day. If you're up early in the morning, I definitely recommend checking this place out for good cheap breakfast. -
Jason’s 4-star review: It's a bit pricey at $65 per person, but it's one of the last pineapple companies in the US that do tours through the factory and plantation fields. It's worth the experience, and Maui Gold does have the best pineapples in the world, mainly because of the perfect climate and they let them grow longer and get sweeter from the nutrient-high red volcanic dirt. Their size is attributed to the fact that they only let them regrow once for a total of two generations, before re-cultivating the land. The free large-sized pineapple will definitely help offset the price, and Steve will also let you take extra pineapples from the field as long as you are discreet about it. A brief description of what the tour entails: You park in a lot or in the shed, then proceed to board a small bus which Steve, the tour guide, takes you about a 1-minute drive down to the sorting factory where pineapples are sized and then boxed into different boxes ranging from 3, 4, 5, 6, 8. The numbers equate to the number of pineapples in a box, which means, the smaller the number, the larger the pineapple. The 6 and 8 boxes go to the local vineyard to make wine, since the pineapples are so small. Otherwise, the others are shipped mostly locally with a few places on the West Coast. After he takes you through the sort and packaging plant, you pick up your free pineapple box, then proceed to the storage facility where the pineapples are stored in a very cool temperature-controlled room. You then board the bus and take a short drive to the plantation, all while Steve gives you a background of how the many trees along the road were imported from various countries to bring moisture to what was once arid land. This can be attributed to the agricultuerist David Thomas Fleming. You then arrive at the plantation where he will make several stops, explaining how the workers are paid by the number of pineapples they plant by the hour, and to another location to explain how pineapples are harvested and placed into a huge truck. He will then stop and let you get out, and explain the 3 (or 4) different stages of pineapple ripening/fermenting: green, green/yellow, and yellow (ripe) pineapples, and how each other has a different softness to the pineapple and sweetness/sourness. He will then show you how to take the pineapples off the plant and let you choose your own, so that he can cut it up with his huge machete and let everyone try it out. Steve will keep cutting pineapples until everyone is content, provide some wetnaps, and then drive back to parking lot. The whole tour takes about 1.5 hours and can be reserved at http://mauipineappletour.com/. Also keep note, as we were informed by our tour guide: Most street vendors sell cheap Maui Golds because they were stolen from the fields. You'll notice that most if not all are smaller and fully ripened to yellow, so they will only last a day or two before going bad. -
Jason’s 4-star review: Located next to Starbucks in the Lahaina Cannery Mall, this Honolua Surf Co. store is one of two stores that receive older merchandise from the other stores on the island and sell at a discount. The other location that sells marked-down merchandise is at The Shops at Wailea. Marked-down goods can be found in the back of the store, prices usually slashed in written in red ink. Sometimes they may have additional promotional offers such as Buy 1, Get 2nd 50% off, for all marked down merchandise. Why here and not the shops on Front St. or Whaler's Village? The main reason is that both locations are located in shopping malls that hardly anyone ever goes to. A good marketing strategy to try to draw customers, although poorly executed since there is no advertising whatsoever. But what that means is fellow Yelpers like yourself and me are in the know and get to reap in the benefits of more discounted merchandise to shop through. The staff are extremely nice and laid back. A new manager has taken over this location and hopes to revamp the store with more recent merchandise (I just hope that doesn't reduce the sale inventory). Kick back and talk to them. It's pretty lonely there. Go Honolua!!! -
Jason’s 3-star review: Who would have thought there could be half-decent food in a shopping mall. For the most part, Lahaina Cannery Mall has been almost barren, but in the past year, things have been getting better. Besides L&L, there is Ba-Le that serves decent bahn mi's and the like. You order at the counter, and wait for about 5 minutes for your order to be called. Ba-Le's Pork Sandwich (Bahn Mi) for $5.50 contains Vietnamese style cold cuts of thinly sliced pork, pickle, daikon, carrot, onion, parsley, cucumber, and homemade mayonnaise. You can order it on French bread, which is similar to the typical bahn mi bread, or a Croissant (add an additional $0.75 to price for Croissant). I got it on a French baguette-like bread. Although the bread was not as airy and crisp as bahn mi bread, it was pretty close. The bread is just a bit denser. All the vegetables were crisp and fresh. For the price, it's on the high side, but if you're craving a bahn mi, it'll get the job done, but don't expect to be amazed. It's worth checking out if you want a quick bite, but don't plan on a lunch or dinner here if you're only visiting the island. There are much better places to try in the short period of time you're spending in Maui. -
Jason’s 3-star review: If you're visiting Kaanapali Beach, check out Whaler's Village for your shopping needs. This outdoor shopping mall is home to many tasty restaurants and shops. Shops range from ABC Store, Honolulu Cookie Company (you can sample all their cookies for free), Pacific Sunwear, Roxy, Quiksilver, Billabong, Volcom, Honolua Surf Co. (x3 locations), Coach, Louis Vuitton, as well as a variety of local shops. A few restaurants in the area that are also worth checking out either for a drink or sunset dinner are Hula Grill and Leilani's On The Beach. The grounds are kept fairly clean with workers constantly sweeping the area of any garbage and leaves. A security guard also walks the property for any strange activity. Although the mix of stores is not as vast as The Shops at Wailea, you can get a decent amount of local fare shopping done here. Avoid the big name stores (Coach, Louis Vuitton, etc.) as you can hit these up when you get back to the states. But if you must, they are here for your convenience or plan on going to The Shops at Wailea if you are the more serious shopaholic. Also, don't forget to get your parking ticket validated if you parked in the adjacent hourly lot. -
Jason’s 3-star review: Turn onto Keawe St. Just past Walgreen's and the railroad tracks, you will make a right onto Kupuohi St. Drive up the road for about a minute (it may appear you're in an industrial area, and you may question why would there be a restaurant up here), but you'll know when you see it. As of this review, there is nothing around Star Noodle, so it is easy to spot, with it's bright lights and modern/chic floor to ceiling glass windows allowing you to peer into their own little world. Star Noodle has only been open since Feb. 2010, but it definitely has a lot of potential. This up and coming restaurant serves a variety of pupu's (shared appetizers), noodles, and soups. There are three areas of seating: you can choose to sit by the bar-like area, in the main area which has ~15 tables, and 3-4 tables behind a wall which can be perfect for a semi-private dining experience. Service was on and off. During the first half of our meal, our waitress never came by. But during the latter half, she came over a few times to check up on us and refill our glasses of water. I may attribute that to the fact that it was a lot busier when we got there and they may have been short-staffed. Regardless, our waitress was very friendly and cheery. One thing I didn't like though, is when she took our orders, she insisted on getting 3-4 appetizers, and she kept recommending the higher-priced apps and entrees ($20+) which are far and few on the menu. I'm assuming the higher-priced items were probably very good, but there were only 2 of us. One appetizer and For appetizers, we ordered the Chicken Yakitori ($6.00), which includes 2 very generous sticks of skewered chicken topped with teriyaki glaze, scallions and sesame seeds. Oh boy, were these mighty tasty morsels of tender and juicy chicken with the perfect balance of saltiness to the teriyaki marinade. For my entree, I ordered the Star Ramen which includes roast pork, a poached egg, sliced bamboo shoots, rice cakes, and chopped scallions in a pork broth. The broth was ever so slightly bland and I would have preferred for it to be a bit more flavorful and cloudy (call me picky but I come from New York City were there are dozens of ramen shops). The noodles were cooked al dente, yum. Those pink/white rice cakes were slightly salty but very tasty. Three slices of pork were included which I found a bit dry and chewy. It didn't seem to add much depth to the dish and stood out as an oucast. It sort of felt like it were just randomly there. Bathrooms are very chic, one for men and one for women. The doors are large wooden sliding doors with an interesting lock contraption, where you swing a lever across a lever. Although I don't usually promote bathrooms, this is one bathroom you should check out. -
Jason’s 4-star review: Located on the lower level at The Shops at Wailea, next to similar stores (Quiksilver, Roxy, Honolua Wahine), this Honolua Surf Co. store is one of two stores that receive older merchandise from the other stores on the island and sell at a discount. The other location that sells marked-down merchandise is at the Lahaina Cannery Mall. Marked-down goods can be found in the back of the store, prices usually slashed and written in red ink. The marked-down inventory may not be as good as the store located in the Lahaina, but you never know. You may just find something that the other store didn't have. The main reason is these two locations received older marked-down merchandise is because they are located in shopping malls that hardly anyone ever goes to. A good marketing strategy to try to draw customers, although poorly executed since there is no advertising whatsoever. But what that means is fellow Yelpers like yourself and me are in the know and get to reap in the benefits of more discounted merchandise to shop through. -
Jason’s 4-star review: The Window is exactly that, a semi-shack with an ordering window. After you place your order, you give your name and grab a seat at one of the outdoor tables and wait for your name to be shouted and food brought to you. I met up with some family and friends for a pre-celebration and welcoming on the beautiful island of Maui. The Window was the perfect spot for an evening out in casual wear. Because we had such a large party, I basically tried everything on the menu: - Grilled Mahi Mahi Taco ($3.95) - Hand-cut cabbage, fresh chopped pineapple, capers, red bell peppers and herbs. The mahi mahi was cut in strips, was moist, though erring to the ever so slightly overcooked side, but luckily it was somewhat flaky. The mahi mahi was nicely seasoned and good all on its own, but when combined with the pineapple, capers and this green-like salsa, all the flavors seemed to get muddled and nothing really seemed to accentuate the other. Capers on its own are usually salty, but I couldn't even really notice the saltiness in these. - Grilled Shrimp Taco ($4.25) - Hand-cut cabbage, fresh chopped pineapple, fresh mint, clover (which looked more like baby bean sprouts) with Thai coconut sauce, and topped with black sesame seeds. This taco was a step up from the grilled mahi mahi. The shrimp were cooked firm and flavorful, and the sweetness from the coconut sauce and pineapple added an extra level of Hawaiian flavor. Very good but the kalua pork was the probably the star of the 3 tacos. - BBQ Kalua Pork Taco ($3.95) - Hand-cut cabbage, local spices with fresh chopped pineapple. The shredded kalua pork was not incredibly saucy, but its tenderness and full bbq flavor profile made this a delicious treat. There was also a healthy serving, adding to the bang for the buck. This taco is definitely worth trying. - BBQ Pork Sandwich ($5.25) - Slow cooked Kalua pork on top of locally baked Hawaiian sweet bread toasted with fresh herbs, pineapples, with a not too tangy homemade BBQ sauce. The pork was prepared in the same fashion as the taco but the BBQ sauce did add a subtle tanginess along with the not too sweet bread to make this an alternative to those who don't like handling tacos. - Maui Classic Burger ($6.25) - 100% grass-fed island raised beef, lettuce, all natural white american cheese, grilled onions, and homemade 8 island dressing. This burger was just released three days ago (6/27/11). The burger was mediocre, the beef was slightly overcooked and didn't have that juiciness to the meat. The flavors didn't really seem to carry through the meat all the way, leaving it a bit plain. If I had to improve, I would probably grill it at a higher temp to get the outside of the burger a little more grilled, yet keep the inside moist. The marinade could also be tweaked to amplify the flavor a bit more, not only making the burger that much tastier but also bringing out the flavor of the beef. Two squeeze bottle compliments were also available. The yellow (a sweet pineapple sauce) and red (spicy pineapple sauce) were both very tasty. I found myself squeezing the red bottle on almost everything to give some added oomph. It has just the right amount of heat to not make you fire breathing. Service here is superb. The chef constantly came out to talk with us, and all around made us feel at home. We joked around with him, and he was just a very enjoyable man to talk with. A few of our party members informed him that we were getting married, so he was very generous by bringing over a few bottles of soda and couple bottles of water. A few moments later, he also brought over a whole basket of pound cake, to which he gave to several other tables and announced my upcoming marriage. Thanks!!! I will definitely come back here as the service is top-notch, prices very fair, and portions very generous. As far as flavor profile goes, there needs some improvement, but The Window definitely has some great potential to be a rising star for tourists and locals alike. I'm rooting for you!!
About
Discover
Languages
Countries
Copyright © 2004–2024 Yelp Inc. Yelp, 
, 
and related marks are registered trademarks of Yelp.